Chapter 12: The Tower
Tower, Forest of Death, Training Ground 44, Konohagakure no Sato
Naruto and Sayuri stood before the towering structure, its shadow stretching long and ominous under the faint moonlight. The air was thick with tension, exhaustion, and the faint remnants of chakra from their earlier battles. Both were battered and bruised, but their resolve carried them forward. Naruto glanced at Sayuri, who leaned slightly against a nearby rock, her breath steadying but her movements deliberate. She was pale, her dark hair falling messily around her face, but her onyx eyes were sharp, focused despite the ordeal she had endured.
"You sure you're okay to walk?" Naruto asked, his voice low but tinged with concern.
Sayuri nodded, though her movements were slower than usual. "I'll manage," she replied, her voice steadier than her body suggested. "We don't have time to waste."
Naruto hesitated, his eyes lingering on the faint scar of the curse mark peeking out from beneath her collar. The sight of it made his blood boil, a grim reminder of Orochimaru's attack and Sakura's death. He clenched his fists, forcing himself to focus. "Alright," he said finally. "Let's finish this."
The two walked cautiously toward the entrance of the tower, their footsteps crunching against the debris-strewn ground. The eerie silence of the Forest of Death had followed them here, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves or distant cries of wildlife. The weight of their journey hung heavily between them, unspoken but understood.
Naruto pulled out the scrolls they had collected—the Heaven Scroll and the Earth Scroll. He held them out for Sayuri to see. "You ready for this?" he asked.
Sayuri gave a faint smirk, though it didn't reach her eyes. "Do we have a choice?"
Naruto chuckled lightly despite the tension. "Not really."
With a steady hand, he opened the scrolls. As the parchment unfurled, the kanji inscribed on them began to glow faintly. The air around them shifted, growing heavier with chakra. Suddenly, a puff of smoke exploded in front of them, forcing Naruto to take a defensive stance. Sayuri instinctively reached for her kunai, her movements slower than usual but no less determined.
When the smoke cleared, Iruka Umino stood before them, dressed in his familiar chunin uniform, his warm smile a stark contrast to the grim surroundings. "Naruto! Sayuri!" he greeted, his voice filled with genuine relief and pride.
Naruto blinked, momentarily thrown off by the familiar sight. "Iruka-sensei?"
Sayuri lowered her weapon but remained guarded, her eyes scanning the area as if expecting another ambush.
Iruka chuckled at their reactions. "Relax, you two. I'm here because you've passed the second stage of the Chūnin Exams." He gestured to the scrolls in Naruto's hands. "The purpose of the scrolls is to test your teamwork and survival skills. Opening them here signals us to come and confirm your progress."
Naruto raised an eyebrow. "That's it? No more fighting, no traps? Just… open the scrolls, and you show up?"
Iruka laughed lightly. "That's the idea. But judging by the state of you two, it seems like you've been through enough already."
Naruto exchanged a glance with Sayuri, her expression unreadable. "You could say that," Naruto muttered.
Iruka's face softened, his eyes flickering with concern. "What happened out there?"
For a moment, neither of them spoke. Naruto's gaze dropped to the ground, his fists clenching. Sayuri looked away, her jaw tightening. The weight of Sakura's death hung heavily in the air, unspoken but palpable.
"Iruka-sensei," Naruto said finally, his voice low and strained. "We need to talk to the Hokage. Now."
Iruka's brow furrowed, his usually warm expression growing serious. "Naruto, what's going on?"
Naruto hesitated, his mind racing. He couldn't tell Iruka everything—not here, not now. But he needed to convey the urgency. "It's Orochimaru," he said, the name leaving his lips like a curse. "He attacked us in the forest. He… he killed Sakura."
Iruka's eyes widened in shock, his usual composure slipping. "Orochimaru? Here? During the exams?"
Sayuri stepped forward, her voice quiet but firm. "He marked me with some kind of curse seal," she said, pulling her collar aside to reveal the faint scar. "He's planning something. We don't know what, but it's big."
Iruka's gaze hardened, his mind clearly processing the gravity of their words. "We need to get this information to the Hokage immediately," he said, his tone resolute.
Naruto nodded. "That's what I've been saying."
Iruka placed a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "You've done well to make it this far, both of you. But you need to rest now. Leave the rest to the Hokage and the village."
Naruto opened his mouth to protest, but Iruka's firm gaze stopped him. "Naruto, you've been through enough. You've done your part. Trust in the Hokage to handle the rest."
As Iruka guided them toward the tower's entrance, Naruto glanced at Sayuri. She met his gaze briefly, her eyes filled with exhaustion but also determination.
The hall was eerily quiet as Naruto leaned against the stone wall, his eyes half-closed as he tried to calm the whirlwind of emotions swirling in his chest. Sayuri stood a short distance away, her pale face turned toward the floor, silent but tense. The stillness between them was oppressive, broken only by the faint echo of approaching footsteps.
Kakashi emerged from the shadows of the corridor, his usual calm demeanor replaced with a subtle urgency. His lone visible eye scanned the two genin, taking in Naruto's steady posture and Sayuri's withdrawn stance. For a moment, he seemed almost relieved to find them both alive and standing.
"Well," Kakashi began, his voice unusually tight, "you both look like you've had a rough time."
Naruto straightened slightly, his face grim but resolute. "You could say that."
Kakashi's gaze shifted between them, his focus narrowing when it landed on Sayuri. Her right hand hovered protectively over her shoulder, where the collar of her shirt hid the mark. His stomach churned as realization dawned.
"What happened?" Kakashi asked, his tone quieter now, almost hesitant.
Naruto exhaled sharply, his fists clenching at his sides. "Orochimaru happened," he said bitterly, spitting the name like venom. "He came after us in the forest."
Kakashi froze, his normally relaxed posture stiffening as the name sank in. His mind raced, trying to process the implications. "Orochimaru?" he repeated, his voice betraying his shock. "Are you absolutely certain?"
Naruto nodded sharply, his jaw tight. "It was him. No doubt about it."
Kakashi's eye darted to Sayuri again, his voice low and urgent. "Did he… did he mark either of you?"
Naruto hesitated, his lips pressing into a thin line. He glanced at Sayuri, who gave the faintest nod, her hand tightening over her shoulder. "Yeah," Naruto admitted, his voice thick with frustration. "He marked her."
Kakashi's breath hitched, his chest tightening as he processed the words. He turned his gaze back to Naruto, his eye dark with a mix of concern and barely contained anger. "And Sakura?" he asked cautiously, though part of him already knew the answer.
Naruto's expression faltered, and he looked away, the weight of the question dragging his shoulders down. "She's gone," he said quietly, the words heavy with guilt. "Orochimaru… he killed her."
The silence that followed was deafening. Kakashi's heart sank, his normally impassive demeanor cracking as the reality of the situation hit him. He inhaled sharply, but no words came. Instead, he closed his eye briefly, the devastation etched into the lines of his face.
When he finally spoke, his voice was low, almost a whisper. "I'm… sorry," he said, the words carrying the weight of his guilt. He looked at Naruto, then at Sayuri, and added, "Neither of you should have had to go through this."
Naruto shook his head, his expression hardening. "This isn't about me, Sensei. It's about Sayuri. That mark… whatever it is, it's dangerous. I need to know how to help her."
Kakashi hesitated, his thoughts a tangled mess of grief and responsibility. Finally, he nodded. "We need to inform the Hokage. He'll know what to do."
Naruto stepped forward, his voice firm. "Then let's go."
Before they could move, Kakashi raised a hand, gesturing for Sayuri to stay. "You're coming with me to the medical ward first," he said gently but firmly. "You need to get that mark examined. Afterward, head to the main hall and join the other teams. I'll meet you there once we're done."
Sayuri hesitated, her eyes darting toward Naruto as if seeking reassurance. He gave her a small nod, his expression softening. "You'll be okay," he said quietly. "Just do what Kakashi-sensei says."
Reluctantly, Sayuri nodded and stepped back, her footsteps retreating down the hall toward the medical ward. Kakashi watched her go, but before she could take another step, his hand gently landed on her shoulder—directly atop the mark.
Sayuri winced slightly, the cursed area still tender, and turned to face him. Kakashi's lone visible eye softened, though it couldn't hide the storm of emotions behind it. His voice was low, quiet, as if to keep the conversation between them. "Whatever he said, whatever he offered you, Sayuri… it will never be worth it. I hope you understand that."
Sayuri blinked, her lips pressing into a thin line. She nodded stiffly, but her gaze didn't quite meet his.
Kakashi hesitated for a moment before continuing, his tone growing heavier. "I've seen what this mark can do. I've heard the stories—stories no one should have to live through. You're strong, Sayuri. Stronger than you realize. But this… this thing doesn't make you stronger. It consumes you. And I'll do everything in my power to help you fight it. I've already lost too many people I care about. I refuse to lose you too."
His words hung in the air, heavy with meaning, and for a fleeting second, Sayuri felt the smallest pang of guilt. She nodded again, this time a little more firmly. "I understand, Sensei," she murmured.
Satisfied but still visibly concerned, Kakashi let his hand fall away. "Good. Go get yourself checked, then join the others in the main hall. I'll meet you there later."
Sayuri turned away, her footsteps soft against the cold stone floor. She didn't look back as she disappeared down the corridor, but her mind was far from quiet.
The weight of Kakashi's words lingered, but another part of her—the darker, hungrier part—couldn't let go of the power the mark had granted her. Her fingers ghosted over her shoulder, the faint ache reminding her of the surge of energy she'd felt during the battle. She could still picture the scene vividly.
Naruto had been strong—stronger than she had ever seen him before. But in that moment, with the mark burning through her veins, she'd overwhelmed him. The way he had staggered under her blows, the sound of her strikes echoing in the forest, it was intoxicating. She hadn't realized at the time that Naruto had held back, but even now, the memory of overpowering him made her blood sing.
Could she learn to control the mark? To harness it, to make it obey her instead of the other way around? The thought was dangerous, but it crept into her mind like a shadow. What if this power could help her achieve her goal? What if it could help her bring Itachi to his knees?
The image was vivid in her mind: Itachi's calm, infuriating smirk twisted into an expression of fear. The power to rip his arms from their sockets, to strike him down with enough force to shatter bone. To make him pay for everything he had taken from her.
Sayuri's lips curled into a faint smirk, the thought sending a dark thrill through her. The idea wasn't entirely unappealing.
But as quickly as the thought came, she shook her head, forcing it away. Kakashi's words echoed in her mind, grounding her: It consumes you.
Sayuri's steps quickened as she approached the medical ward, the conflicting emotions warring inside her.
Kakashi watched her go, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly once she was out of sight. He turned to Naruto, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "Come on. We need to report this immediately."
Together, they moved through the winding halls of the tower, the air between them heavy with unspoken words. Kakashi's mind raced with questions, but he forced himself to focus on the task at hand. He could process the rest later—after the Hokage was informed.
As they ascended the stairs to the Hokage's office, Kakashi finally broke the silence. "Naruto," he began carefully, "there's something I need to know. How did you hold up against Orochimaru?"
Naruto's jaw tightened, his gaze fixed ahead. "I held my ground," he said simply, but there was a fierceness in his tone that hinted at more.
Kakashi's eye narrowed. "That's not what I mean. You said you fought him, but you're standing here. That's no small feat. How did you manage it?"
Naruto hesitated, his thoughts flashing back to the fight, the raw power of the Nine-Tails surging through him. He glanced at Kakashi, but he didn't answer. Not yet.
Kakashi didn't press further, though his curiosity only deepened. By the time they reached the sixth floor, he had more questions than answers.
Naruto and Kakashi stood outside the steel door to the Hokage's office. The corridor was dim, lit only by sparse overhead lights. Naruto's face was a mix of exhaustion and determination, while Kakashi's typically lazy demeanor was replaced with grim focus.
The room they entered was spartan yet imposing, its simplicity emphasizing the seriousness of the matters discussed within. A single desk stood at the center, behind which Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, awaited them. His piercing eyes swept over them both, lingering briefly on Naruto's splinted arm and the tense expression on Kakashi's face.
"Report," Hiruzen said, his voice low but commanding.
Naruto glanced at Kakashi, who gave him a subtle nod. Taking a deep breath, Naruto stepped forward. "We were attacked by Orochimaru in the forest. He killed Sakura… and he put some kind of mark on Sayuri."
The Hokage's brows furrowed, his gaze sharpening. "Sayuri has been marked?" His tone carried a weight of concern that made Naruto's stomach tighten. "And Sakura…? I see." He exhaled heavily, his shoulders sinking under the burden of this news. "Start from the beginning, Naruto."
Naruto nodded, his throat tightening as he prepared to recount the harrowing events. "We were ambushed by a team from Kusagakure. At first, we thought they were just other genin, but then Orochimaru revealed himself. He… he killed Sakura. It wasn't even a fight. She tried to protect Sayuri, but she didn't stand a chance."
Naruto's voice cracked, and he clenched his fists tightly. "After that, he went after Sayuri. He overpowered her, and before I could stop him, he bit her neck and… and she collapsed. That's when I lost it. I used the Nine-Tails' chakra—everything I had—to try to stop him. I thought I had him, but…" He trailed off, his gaze falling to the floor.
Kakashi stepped in, his voice steady but grim. "Naruto forced Orochimaru into a corner. He was close to being defeated, but Orochimaru used Sayuri as leverage to escape. By the time I arrived, Naruto was nearly spent, and Orochimaru had already fled."
Hiruzen's expression darkened. "To think Orochimaru would take such a risk… What was his goal?"
Naruto hesitated, then looked up, his voice filled with frustration. "I don't know, but he kept saying he wanted to see what we were capable of—especially Sayuri. He called her his 'perfect candidate.' What does that mean?"
Hiruzen's fingers steepled as he leaned back in his chair, his gaze distant. "The mark Orochimaru placed on Sayuri is known as the Cursed Seal of Heaven. It's a powerful but dangerous technique he developed during his time in Konoha. The seal grants immense power to those who survive its application, but it comes at a cost—it corrupts the mind, bending the bearer to Orochimaru's will."
Naruto's fists trembled with anger. "So he marked her just to control her? Why her?"
Hiruzen's gaze met Naruto's, his voice heavy. "Orochimaru has always been drawn to those with unique abilities. Sayuri's potential, both as a shinobi and as someone deeply tied to the legacy of the Uchiha, makes her an ideal target for his ambitions."
"And Sakura…?" Kakashi's voice broke the silence, his tone uncharacteristically raw.
Hiruzen closed his eyes briefly, a flicker of sorrow crossing his face. "Her death is a tragedy, and one we will not let go unanswered. Orochimaru will pay for his actions."
Naruto's jaw tightened. "Then let me go after him. I can—"
"No," Hiruzen interrupted firmly. "You've done enough. Your actions saved Sayuri's life and forced Orochimaru to retreat. For now, we must focus on stabilizing her condition and preparing for the challenges ahead."
Naruto wanted to argue, but the weight of the Hokage's words held him back. He nodded reluctantly, his shoulders slumping under the weight of his emotions.
Hiruzen stood, his presence filling the room. "Kakashi, see to it that Sayuri is monitored closely. I will have my Anbu keep a watchful eye on her as well. As for you, Naruto," he said, turning to the young shinobi, "you've done well. Rest and recover. The battle is far from over."
Kakashi and Naruto both nodded, the gravity of the situation sinking in. As they turned to leave, Hiruzen's voice stopped them.
"Thank you," he said softly, his gaze lingering on Naruto. "For protecting her. You've proven yourself today."
Naruto hesitated just as he reached the door, his hand hovering over the cold steel handle. His thoughts churned, and a conflicted expression crossed his face. He glanced back at the Hokage, his gaze lingering for a moment. Something had been eating away at him, and he couldn't keep it to himself any longer.
"Wait," he said, his voice low but resolute.
Hiruzen and Kakashi both looked up, their eyes narrowing slightly at the shift in Naruto's tone. Hiruzen leaned forward, his hands resting on the desk as a faint frown creased his face. What now? the old man thought, his mind already reeling from the weight of Orochimaru's actions, Sakura's death, and Sayuri's marking. Yet, the seriousness in Naruto's tone forced him to focus.
"Is there something else, Naruto?" Hiruzen asked, carefully masking his growing apprehension.
Naruto turned fully, his jaw tight as though bracing himself for a blow. He glanced between the Hokage and Kakashi, his gaze lingering. "There's… there's something I need to tell you. Something I've been hiding."
Kakashi's visible eye widened slightly in curiosity, though his posture remained guarded. Hiding something? Now? After everything that's happened? The tension in the room thickened as both men waited for Naruto to continue.
"You've got my attention," Hiruzen said carefully, his voice tinged with curiosity and an undertone of dread. This day keeps getting worse. Please, let it not be another disaster.
Naruto exhaled shakily, his fists clenching at his sides. "It's about the Nine-Tails," he began, his voice steady despite the weight of his words. "I've… I've mastered its chakra."
Both men froze. Kakashi's hand tightened on his armrest as his visible eye widened in shock. Hiruzen's pipe clattered to the desk, forgotten. For a moment, the room was silent save for the faint hum of chakra-infused lighting.
"You've mastered it?" Hiruzen repeated, his voice laced with disbelief and concern. His mind whirred with calculations. The Nine-Tails' chakra… controlled by a genin? If true, this changes everything—and not in a good way. If the council hears of this, they'll demand oversight. Danzo… He suppressed a grimace.
Naruto nodded, his expression resolute. "Yeah. I can control the Nine-Tails' chakra now. I've been training in secret for a long time—learning how to harness it without losing myself. The fight with Orochimaru… it wasn't the first time I've used it, but it was the first time I used its full power."
Kakashi leaned forward slightly, his visible eye scrutinizing Naruto with intensity. How is this even possible? Mastering the Nine-Tails' chakra without help? Either he's a genius, or he's taking risks that could've gotten him killed. He forced himself to stay calm. "Naruto… mastering the Kyuubi's chakra is no small feat. Who trained you? How did you even start?"
Naruto hesitated, his gaze flickering to the floor. "I trained myself… mostly," he admitted. "But I had help. I don't know if I can trust everyone with the details, but I had to figure it out because I knew I couldn't rely on the seal forever. I didn't want to hurt anyone by losing control."
Hiruzen's hand unconsciously gripped the edge of his desk as he leaned back, trying to digest this revelation. This boy keeps defying expectations, but this is… too much. If he truly controls the Nine-Tails' chakra, he's both an incredible asset and a massive liability. His mind flashed to the Fourth Hokage. Minato… what would you say to this?
"This is… extraordinary, Naruto. But also dangerous," Hiruzen finally said, his tone measured. "Controlling the Nine-Tails is no small burden, even for a seasoned shinobi. And you're certain you've mastered it?"
Naruto nodded again, his gaze unwavering. "I've been able to draw on its chakra without losing control for a while now. In the fight with Orochimaru, I used everything I had. If I hadn't… I don't think Sayuri would have made it."
The Hokage's face softened slightly, but his headache intensified. Orochimaru's involvement, Sayuri's mark, Sakura's death, and now this? This is too much to handle all at once. He resisted the urge to rub his temples.
Kakashi shifted uncomfortably, his thoughts racing. How long has Naruto been hiding this? If Orochimaru knew, the fight could've been far worse. But what else is he not telling us?
Naruto's voice cut through the silence. "That's not all," he said quietly, his voice carrying an almost reluctant edge.
Hiruzen and Kakashi both stiffened. There's more? Hiruzen thought grimly. He steeled himself for the next revelation. "Go on, Naruto," he said, his voice betraying the weight of his expectation.
Naruto took a deep breath, his gaze flickering between them. "I have the Rinnegan."
The silence that followed was deafening. Hiruzen's hand slipped from the desk, falling limply to his side. Kakashi's eye widened in pure shock, his usually calm demeanor shattered. Neither man could process what they'd just heard.
"The… Rinnegan?" Hiruzen repeated, his voice barely above a whisper. No… it can't be. The Sage's eyes? In Naruto? His mind reeled, cycling through every known historical record. The implications were staggering—and terrifying. If word of this gets out… no, it must not. Not yet.
Naruto nodded, his expression grim. "I've had it for a while now. I didn't tell anyone because I didn't know how people would react. I've been trying to figure out what it means, how to use it. But after everything that happened in the forest, I can't keep it a secret anymore."
Kakashi rubbed his temple, his thoughts spiraling. This changes everything. The Rinnegan… in a jinchūriki. This explains why Orochimaru might've targeted him. But how?
"Show me," Hiruzen commanded, his voice firm despite the shock still evident in his eyes.
Naruto hesitated before closing his eyes. When he opened them again, the blue was gone, replaced by an orange colored swirling pattern of concentric rings. The faint glow from his Rinnegan seemed to fill the room with an otherworldly aura.
Hiruzen stared, his mind a storm of thoughts. This boy… Minato, Kushina, what have you left behind? A jinchūriki of the Nine-Tails and the bearer of the Rinnegan? This is beyond what any of us could have prepared for.
Kakashi's breath hitched. This power… if Naruto can't control it, it could destroy him. But if he can… what does this mean for the village? For the world?
"This is…" Hiruzen began, his voice trailing off. He stepped closer, studying Naruto's face. "This revelation changes everything, Naruto. The Rinnegan is both a gift and a curse. You must be cautious."
Naruto exhaled deeply, his Rinnegan still glowing faintly as he gauged the reactions of the two men before him. Hiruzen leaned back slightly in his chair, one hand on his desk as he processed everything. Kakashi remained motionless, though his visible eye betrayed the storm of thoughts running through his mind. The silence stretched uncomfortably, the weight of Naruto's revelations settling over the room like an oppressive fog.
Just as Naruto began to turn toward the door, Hiruzen leaned forward, his gaze sharp and probing. His tone was low and deliberate as he spoke:
"But that's not all you're hiding, is it, Naruto?"
The words froze Naruto mid-step. His hand, still resting on the door handle, tightened reflexively. He didn't turn around, his back stiffening as if bracing for a blow. Slowly, he turned to face them, his expression carefully neutral.
"I don't know what you mean, Jiji," Naruto replied evenly, though his tone lacked conviction.
Hiruzen's eyes narrowed, his sharp mind already working through the layers of deflection in Naruto's words. He's good at hiding things—too good for someone his age. Kakashi shifted slightly in his seat, his visible eye flicking between Naruto and the Hokage. Now? Is this really the time? Kakashi wondered silently, unsure whether pushing further would cause Naruto to retreat entirely.
"You've been keeping secrets for a long time, Naruto," Hiruzen continued, his voice calm but unyielding. "Mastering the Nine-Tails' chakra at your age isn't something you could have done alone. And the discipline you've shown… it's not something a typical genin picks up from casual training."
Naruto's jaw tightened, but he held his ground, his expression unreadable. "I told you, I've been training hard. I knew I had to get stronger. That's all."
Kakashi's gaze lingered on Naruto's splinted arm, a small frown tugging at his lips. He's not lying outright, but he's not telling the whole truth either. The veteran shinobi had seen enough in his years to recognize when someone was deflecting. This isn't the first time I've had suspicions about his training… or his possible connections.
Hiruzen leaned back slightly, his fingers steepled in front of him. "And this training of yours… was it always done under the watchful eyes of legitimate teachers? Or did you seek guidance elsewhere?"
Naruto's eyes flickered with something—irritation, perhaps, or unease—but he quickly masked it. "Does it matter where I trained?" he countered, his voice steady. "What matters is that I'm here now, doing everything I can to protect the village."
Hiruzen sighed, the weight of his years as Hokage evident in his expression. "It does matter, Naruto. Because the methods you've learned, the way you've honed your skills—it bears the hallmark of a particular… influence. One that concerns me deeply."
Naruto's fists clenched at his sides, his gaze hardening. "I don't know what you're talking about."
Kakashi shifted uncomfortably, glancing at Hiruzen before speaking cautiously. "Naruto… you've always been a bit of an enigma. Your growth over the past few years has been… remarkable. But it's also raised questions. Questions about how you've achieved so much, so quickly."
Naruto's expression remained defiant, but there was a flicker of something—perhaps guilt, or fear—beneath the surface. Hiruzen saw it and pressed further.
"Five years ago, you were just a boy struggling to pass at the Academy," Hiruzen said softly. "Now, you stand here, claiming mastery over the Nine-Tails' chakra and revealing the Rinnegan. Such a transformation doesn't happen in isolation. You've had guidance, Naruto. Guidance from someone… or somewhere. Am I wrong?"
Naruto didn't respond immediately, his mind racing. He could feel their eyes boring into him, searching for cracks in his armor. Damn it, he thought. They're too close to the truth. But I can't let them know about Danzo. Not yet.
"I've worked hard," Naruto said finally, his voice quieter but still firm. "I've trained every day, pushed myself beyond my limits. That's all there is to it."
Hiruzen exchanged a glance with Kakashi, who raised an eyebrow in silent question. Should we push him further? Or let it go for now? Hiruzen sighed internally. He's hiding something—no, a lot of things. But if we press too hard, he might shut down entirely.
The Hokage leaned forward, his expression softening slightly. "Naruto, whatever you've been through, whatever you've done to get here… I want you to know that I'm proud of you. You've accomplished things that few others could. But secrets have a way of festering, of becoming burdens too heavy to bear alone."
Naruto's shoulders relaxed slightly, though his guard remained up. "I appreciate that, Jiji. But… some things are better left unsaid. For now, at least."
Hiruzen nodded slowly, though his mind was still racing. He's deflecting again. But why? What is he so desperate to protect? Kakashi, too, felt the unease growing in his chest. This isn't over. Not by a long shot.
After a long silence, Hiruzen spoke again, his tone measured. "Very well. But know this, Naruto: whatever you're hiding, whatever you've been through… you don't have to carry it alone. We're here to help you, not judge you."
Naruto nodded curtly, his expression unreadable. "Thanks, Jiji. I'll keep that in mind."
As he turned to leave once more, Kakashi's gaze lingered on him, his thoughts heavy. He's hiding something big. And if Danzo's involved… this could be worse than we realize.
Hiruzen watched Naruto go, his heart heavy with a mix of pride and concern. The boy has grown stronger than I ever imagined. But at what cost? And under whose guidance?
The door clicked shut softly behind Naruto, the sound of the latch echoing through the heavy silence in the Hokage's office. Hiruzen Sarutobi leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply as he steepled his fingers under his chin, his thoughts dark and troubled. Kakashi stood nearby, his gaze fixed on the door, though his mind was clearly elsewhere. His visible eye flickered with emotion—worry, anger, and guilt—all fighting for dominance.
"Well," Kakashi broke the silence, his voice quieter than usual, "that was… a lot to unpack."
Hiruzen nodded slowly, his expression weary. "Naruto has grown in ways I didn't anticipate. His mastery of the Nine-Tails' chakra alone is astonishing, but the revelation of the Rinnegan… it raises more questions than answers."
Kakashi's brow furrowed, his frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "And yet, he's still holding back. There's something he's not telling us, but I can't put my finger on it. Do you think…?"
"Danzo," Hiruzen interrupted, his gaze hardening. "It's always a possibility. Danzo's interest in Naruto has been no secret. But without proof, we can't confront him—or Naruto—about it."
Kakashi let out a frustrated sigh, crossing his arms. "If Danzo's behind Naruto's training, it would explain a lot. But it also means Naruto's loyalty to the village may be… complicated. He's loyal, yes, but to whom?"
Hiruzen didn't reply immediately, his gaze shifting to the window. "Naruto's goals align with ours—for now. We tread carefully, Kakashi. Alienating him now would do more harm than good."
Kakashi bit back a response, knowing the Hokage was right. Instead, he shifted the topic to the matter weighing most heavily on his heart. "And then there's Sayuri. And Sakura."
The mention of Sakura's name hit like a gut punch, and Hiruzen's gaze dropped momentarily. "Yes. Sakura's death is a tragedy. One that will leave scars on all of us."
Kakashi's jaw tightened, his hands clenching into fists. "With all due respect, Lord Hokage, this is exactly why I didn't want my team in these exams. They weren't ready. I told you they weren't ready. But no—politics had to take precedence. The Council wanted to flaunt Sayuri Uchiha and Naruto as some kind of spectacle to the Feudal Lords and other nations. And now? One of my genin is dead, and another is marked by Orochimaru."
Hiruzen turned sharply to face him, his voice firm but tinged with regret. "You're out of line, Kakashi. No one could have predicted Orochimaru's presence here. The Chūnin Exams were supposed to be a controlled test of their abilities, not a battleground for one of our most dangerous traitors."
Kakashi's eye narrowed, his voice rising slightly. "Controlled? You sent them into the Forest of Death. That alone speaks volumes. And now Sayuri's marked. That seal is a threat not just to her but to the entire village."
Hiruzen held his ground, his voice remaining calm but resolute. "I understand your frustration, Kakashi. But hindsight is not foresight. Orochimaru's infiltration was not something anyone could have foreseen."
The weight of those words hung heavily in the air, and Kakashi's stance faltered slightly. His thoughts shifted to Sakura. The image of her lifeless body in the forest haunted him. "How are we supposed to tell her parents? They trusted us with her life, and we failed."
Hiruzen's shoulders sagged, the burden of leadership weighing him down. "We will tell them the truth. That she gave her life in service to the village. That she fought bravely, protecting her comrades. It's not the comfort they'll want, but it's the truth they deserve."
Kakashi's voice grew quieter, tinged with guilt. "She was just a child. Too young for this."
"They all are," Hiruzen replied, his voice heavy with sorrow. "But this is the life of a shinobi. We train them for this, knowing the risks. And knowing that some won't come back."
The room was silent for a long moment before Kakashi spoke again, his tone edged with desperation. "It's still not too late. We can pull Team 7 out of the exams. With Sakura gone, they're short a member anyway. An entire team is needed to pass the second stage."
Hiruzen shook his head slowly, his eyes filled with regret. "That won't be possible. Under the unique circumstances of Orochimaru's attack, Team 7 will be given a special exemption. They will advance to the next stage."
Kakashi's hands clenched, his frustration simmering just below the surface. "A special exemption," he echoed bitterly. "Is this about the circumstances, or is this about showcasing the last Uchiha and Naruto to the Feudal Lords and the other nations? Is this about politics?"
Hiruzen's gaze hardened, and his tone grew stern. "This is about doing what's best for the village. Orochimaru's presence has complicated things, but withdrawing Team 7 now would raise questions we can't afford to answer. This is not about politics, Kakashi."
Kakashi turned away, his expression dark. "Forgive me, Lord Hokage, but it feels like it is. And now, we're paying the price. Sayuri's marked, Sakura's dead, and Naruto… he's carrying burdens no one his age should have to bear."
Hiruzen exhaled deeply, his gaze softening. "You're right, Kakashi. Mistakes have been made. But we must move forward. Protect those who remain. And learn from this."
Kakashi nodded stiffly, though his frustration didn't abate. "I'll do what I can for Sayuri and Naruto. But I won't let this happen again."
The Hokage's gaze lingered on Kakashi for a moment before he spoke quietly. "None of us will."
The silence that followed was heavy, both men lost in their thoughts. The path ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: the trials of the Chūnin Exams were far from over.
Medical Ward
Naruto walked through the quiet hallways of the tower, his steps heavy with exhaustion but driven by a nagging worry. Sayuri had been cleared by the medics to resume activity, but something about her condition didn't sit right with him. Despite her physical recovery, the curse mark was still an ominous shadow hanging over her. He hadn't forgotten the look in her eyes back in the forest—the rage, the pain, the utter detachment. That wasn't the Sayuri he knew.
His fist tightened at his side as he remembered Orochimaru's smug grin, the way the mark spread across Sayuri's neck like a brand of ownership. The very thought made his stomach churn. He had to check on her, even if she didn't want to see him. She'd hate him for intruding, but he didn't care. If there was even a chance she was struggling, he needed to be there.
Naruto finally reached the room assigned to Team 7. He paused outside the door, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He wasn't sure what kind of mood she'd be in—or if she'd even speak to him—but he wasn't about to back down now. He raised his hand and knocked twice.
"Sayuri? It's me."
There was no response.
Naruto frowned and knocked again, louder this time. "Sayuri, I'm coming in, okay?"
When there was still no answer, he twisted the handle and pushed the door open. The room was dimly lit, the curtains drawn tightly shut, allowing only thin slivers of light to filter through. Sayuri sat on the edge of one of the beds, her back to the door. Her posture was tense, shoulders rigid, and her hands rested on her knees, clenched into fists. She didn't turn to acknowledge him.
Naruto closed the door quietly behind him, the sound of the latch clicking feeling deafening in the oppressive silence. "Hey," he said softly, stepping closer. "How're you feeling?"
Still, she didn't respond. Her head tilted slightly, as if she'd heard him, but she remained silent, her gaze fixed on the floor.
Naruto hesitated, then took another step forward. "The medics said you're cleared to resume, so… that's good news, right?"
Finally, Sayuri moved, but it wasn't what he expected. She stood abruptly, the chair scraping slightly against the floor, and turned to face him with a sharpness that made him flinch. Her dark eyes were cold, her expression unreadable. When she spoke, her tone was cutting.
"Why are you here, Naruto?"
Her voice was icy, and it cut through the tension like a blade. Naruto blinked, startled by her abruptness, but he quickly recovered. "I just wanted to check on you," he said earnestly. "Make sure you're okay."
Sayuri scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest. "I don't need a babysitter."
Naruto frowned, frustration bubbling to the surface. "That's not what I'm doing, Sayuri. I'm just worried about you. We've been through a lot, and—"
"And what?" she interrupted, her voice rising. "You think I can't handle it? That I'm weak?"
"No, that's not what I'm saying!" Naruto shot back, his voice firm but not angry. "I know you're strong, Sayuri. Stronger than anyone I know. But that doesn't mean you have to deal with this alone."
Sayuri's jaw tightened, and she looked away, her gaze hard and distant. "I don't need your pity, Naruto."
"It's not pity," he said, his tone softening. He took a cautious step closer, his hands at his sides in a gesture of openness. "It's not pity, Sayuri. It's… it's me being your teammate. Your friend. I care about what happens to you."
For a moment, her expression faltered, a flicker of something softer passing through her eyes. But it was gone as quickly as it came, replaced by the same cold mask she'd worn since he entered the room.
"I don't need anyone," she muttered, her voice quieter but no less sharp. "Not you. Not Kakashi. No one."
Naruto sighed, running a hand through his hair. He wasn't getting through to her, and it was tearing him apart. "Sayuri… you're not alone in this, okay? I'm here for you. Kakashi-sensei is here for you. We all are."
Sayuri shook her head, her lips pressing into a thin line. "You don't get it, do you? You didn't have that… thing burned into your skin. You didn't lose control. You didn't feel what I felt."
Naruto's heart ached at her words, but he didn't back down. "No, I didn't," he admitted. "But I saw what it did to you, and I'm not going to let Orochimaru win. That mark doesn't define you, Sayuri. You're stronger than that."
Her eyes snapped to his, anger flashing in them. "You don't know anything about what I'm going through! So just… just leave me alone!"
The outburst hung in the air, the silence that followed deafening. Naruto didn't move, didn't flinch. He met her gaze steadily, his own eyes filled with determination.
"I'm not going anywhere," he said firmly. "You can push me away all you want, but I'm still going to be here. That's what teammates do. That's what friends do."
Sayuri's breath hitched, and for a moment, Naruto thought she might break down. But instead, she turned away from him, her shoulders tense. "Just go, Naruto. Please."
Naruto hesitated, his chest tightening. He wanted to stay, to say more, but he knew when to give her space. "Alright," he said quietly.
With that, he turned and left the room, closing the door softly behind him.
Naruto had just stepped out of the room, the door clicking shut softly behind him, when he heard approaching footsteps. He glanced up to see Kakashi striding toward him, his visible eye scanning Naruto briefly before giving a small nod.
"Kakashi-sensei," Naruto said, his voice quiet. He didn't stop walking but turned his head slightly to acknowledge his teacher.
"We'll talk later," Kakashi said simply, his tone calm but carrying an underlying weight. Naruto nodded and continued down the hallway, leaving Kakashi to handle whatever was next.
Kakashi stood outside the door for a moment, his hand on the handle as he took a deep breath. He knew this conversation wouldn't be easy, but it was necessary. Pushing the door open, he stepped inside.
Sayuri was still sitting on the edge of the bed, her posture stiff, her face turned away as though she hadn't noticed him come in. Kakashi wasn't fooled. He could feel the tension radiating from her, the storm of emotions she was keeping locked away.
"Sayuri," he said, his tone gentle but firm.
She didn't respond immediately, her gaze fixed on the wall. Finally, she muttered, "What now?"
Kakashi didn't miss the sharpness in her voice, the way she bristled even at his presence. "I just came from the Hokage," he began, stepping closer. "There's been a decision regarding our team."
Sayuri's head snapped around, her dark eyes locking onto his with an intensity that caught him off guard. "Decision?" she asked, her voice sharper now. She straightened, the stiffness in her posture replaced with something more alert. "You mean… are we being disqualified?"
Her reaction made it clear that the thought of being removed from the exams was unacceptable to her. Kakashi could see the panic flicker in her eyes, quickly masked by defiance. He knew this wasn't just about the exams; it was about her pride, her drive, and her desperate need to prove herself.
"No," Kakashi said calmly, raising a hand to halt her growing agitation. "You're not being disqualified."
Sayuri let out a breath she didn't realize she'd been holding, but her posture remained rigid. "Then what's the decision?"
Kakashi hesitated for a moment, considering how to phrase it. "Given the… unique circumstances of what happened in the forest," he said carefully, "the Hokage has decided to grant Team 7 a special exemption. We'll be allowed to continue in the exams, despite being short a member."
Sayuri's eyes narrowed, her fists clenching on her lap. "A special exemption? Why? Because of me?"
Kakashi's gaze softened slightly. "It's not about you, Sayuri. The attack by Orochimaru was an extraordinary situation. It wasn't something any genin team could have prepared for."
Sayuri looked away, her jaw tightening. "So we're just being pitied."
"No," Kakashi said firmly, his voice sharper now. "This isn't pity. This is a recognition of the challenges you faced and the strength you showed in surviving them."
Sayuri's hands relaxed slightly, but her expression remained guarded. "And what about Sakura?" she asked, her voice quieter now.
Kakashi paused, his eye closing briefly. "Sakura's death was a tragedy, Sayuri. But it doesn't diminish what you and Naruto accomplished. You both fought through something most genin wouldn't have survived."
Sayuri turned her gaze back to him, her expression conflicted. "And what about the mark?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. "What if I lose control again?"
Kakashi stepped closer, his voice softening. "That's why we're here, Sayuri. To make sure you don't. The Hokage and I are already working on ways to suppress it. You won't face this alone."
She didn't respond immediately, her eyes dropping to the floor. Finally, she muttered, "Fine. What now?"
"For now," Kakashi said, straightening slightly, "you're to meet with the other teams in the main hall. Naruto will be there too."
Sayuri nodded stiffly, standing from the bed. She paused for a moment, as if she wanted to say something, but then thought better of it. Without another word, she moved toward the door, her footsteps heavy but purposeful.
Kakashi watched her go, his heart heavy with concern. He knew the road ahead would be difficult—for Sayuri, for Naruto, and for their team as a whole. But for now, all he could do was guide them forward, step by step.
Naruto and Sayuri entered the large, open room where the remaining teams had gathered, their footsteps echoing faintly against the polished stone floor. Naruto scanned the crowd, his gaze lingering on the clusters of genin scattered across the space. Most were Leaf shinobi, their headbands gleaming under the overhead lights. A sense of pride seemed to emanate from the Leaf sensei standing to the side, their expressions unreadable but tinged with satisfaction.
Naruto adjusted his headband, his earlier argument with Sayuri still fresh in his mind. He felt a pang of guilt but quickly shook it off, focusing on the room around him. This wasn't the time to dwell on their earlier exchange.
Sayuri walked silently beside him, her posture tense and her eyes cold. She didn't look at anyone, not even Naruto, her focus fixed straight ahead. Her presence, while composed, was a stark contrast to the nervous energy filling the room. Genin whispered among themselves, some stealing glances at their competitors, while others stood rigid, sizing up potential opponents.
Naruto felt the weight of the situation settle over him. The tension was palpable, a mix of anticipation and dread. He swallowed hard, his eyes drifting to Sayuri. She was like a coiled spring, her movements sharp and deliberate, as though she were barely holding herself together.
As they moved further into the room, Naruto caught sight of Zaku, one of the Sound genin, glaring at Sayuri. His arm was in a cast, his expression dark with barely concealed fury. Naruto's jaw tightened. He remembered the chaos of the forest, the raw, almost feral power Sayuri had unleashed. It was terrifying, even for him.
He stepped slightly closer to her, his protective instincts flaring. "You okay?" he asked quietly, not looking directly at her.
Sayuri's eyes flicked toward him for the briefest moment before returning to the crowd. "I'm fine," she said curtly.
Naruto sighed but didn't push further. He knew better than to press her when she was in this mood. Instead, he turned his attention to the front of the room, where the proctor stood. Hayate Gekko, with his sickly complexion and constant cough, addressed the gathered genin with a mixture of professionalism and weariness.
"Cough Before we move on to the final stage of the Chūnin Exams, we have a… cough preliminary round to conduct," Hayate began, his voice hoarse. "Due to the number of participants still remaining, we need to narrow down the field."
The murmurs among the genin grew louder, uncertainty rippling through the room. Naruto glanced at Sayuri, her expression unchanged, though he noticed her fists clench ever so slightly.
Hayate continued, "Cough If anyone feels unfit to continue… cough… you are free to step down now. Your team will not be penalized, but this is your last chance to back out."
Naruto scanned the room, noting the hesitation in some of the genin. A few exchanged nervous glances, but no one moved. The air grew heavier with unspoken challenges and unresolved rivalries.
Naruto felt a nudge of unease in his gut. He glanced at Sayuri again, his voice hesitant. "Hey, uh, you don't have to do this, you know. If you're not feeling up to it…"
Sayuri turned her head sharply, her eyes flashing. "Don't start, Naruto," she snapped. "I already told you—I'm fine."
"But—" Naruto began, only to be cut off by the cold finality in her voice.
"I said I'm fine," Sayuri repeated, her tone low but biting. "Drop it."
Naruto fell silent, his shoulders sagging slightly. He could feel the distance between them widening, an invisible wall she had built to keep him out. It stung, but he respected her resolve, even if it frustrated him.
Hayate coughed again, his voice cutting through the tension. "If there are no objections, we'll proceed with the preliminary matches. Cough Once the pairings are decided, the matches will begin immediately."
Sayuri's gaze remained fixed on the proctor, her body rigid with anticipation. Naruto, however, found his attention drifting back to her. He remembered the ferocity in her movements during their confrontation in the forest. She had been unstoppable, a force of nature—but she had also been reckless.
"You don't have to prove anything," Naruto said quietly, surprising even himself with the softness in his voice. "Not to me. Not to anyone."
Sayuri didn't respond right away. When she finally spoke, her voice was colder than he had expected. "This isn't about proving anything, Naruto. This is about becoming stronger."
Naruto opened his mouth to argue but stopped himself. He realized that no matter what he said, she wouldn't back down. She was determined to push forward, no matter the cost.
Before he could dwell on it further, Sayuri turned her head slightly, her voice softer but still firm. "And for what it's worth… you're one of the people I want to fight the most."
Naruto blinked, caught off guard by the admission. A faint blush crept across his cheeks, and he scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Heh… well, I guess I'll take that as a compliment."
Sayuri smirked faintly, the tension in her posture easing for just a moment. "You should. It means I see you as a real opponent."
Naruto's chest swelled with a mixture of pride and determination. Whatever was happening between them—whatever walls she had put up—this small acknowledgment was enough to remind him of their bond.
"I won't hold back if it comes to that," he said, his voice steady.
"Good," Sayuri replied, her smirk widening slightly. "I'd be disappointed if you did."
As the proctor began explaining the mechanics of the upcoming matches, Naruto couldn't help but glance at Sayuri one last time. She was focused, resolute, and entirely in her element. Despite everything, he knew one thing for certain: no matter what happened in the next round, they would face it together—even if it meant standing on opposite sides of the battlefield.