Generation of prodigy's
Chapter 3: Chunin exam arc part 1
Naruto watched on as his team sparred, Sasuke was currently fighting both Konohamaru and Hanabi at the same time. He was doing well but it was clear he was on the losing end of the spar. Naruto let this go on for a few more minutes before he called an end to the combat. "That is enough gather round we have something important to discuss!" Team 7 made their way over to their Sensei clearly feeling the strain of the last spar. "Two weeks ago, the location and time for the Chunin exams were chosen." All three of his students looked at him wide eyed, "it will be taking place in our very own village in two weeks time." Naruto began to pace as he pulled out three scrolls, "these are registration forms for the Chunin exams. I asked the Hokage personally to allow the three of you to compete," the three genin began to get excited. "But I was not the only jonin sensei to ask, your fellow genin of team 3, 10, and 11 have also been put forward by their jonin." Naruto could see the conflict on their faces, he knew what it was like to be put against a fellow leaf ninja and it was not fun. "As for team 6 they were chosen to be representatives of the village." A flash of jealousy and anger flashed over Sasuke's eyes, "but I believe each one of you is their equal if not their superior. Over the next two weeks your training will get more intense to prepare you for the exams!" Naruto exclaimed as he threw each genin a scroll.
Their exhaustion gone the three genin of team 7 jumped to their feet, "hai sensei!"
At the same time at two other training grounds team 11 and team 3 were being told the same thing with varying responses.
Gai stood before his team, "It is time! last year you were yet too green to compete in the youthful Chunin exams! But this year I have put you into the fold! This way you can show your youthful strength!" The green clad jonin danced and posed as he made his announcement. Both Neji and TenTen were excited for the exams but embarrassed by their sensei while Lee was up and nearly copying their sensei in his posing. "If you thought this couldn't get better the Hokage himself has given all genin teams a youthful rival to test your strength against! He appointed team 6 himself as representatives of Konoha! But I want you my youthful students to prove why you three were better choices for the official representative team!" This seemed to light a fire in the hearts of team 3, "to prove your worth I will double your training schedule to get you into shape before the exams in two weeks!"
"Hai sensei!"
Hinata sat in a circle with team 11 the registration scrolls sitting between them. "I have watched the three of you grow over the last month's, and I believe you are ready for the next step. These scrolls are registration forms for the Chunin exams, they will be taking place in two weeks." The members of team 11 looked on in excitement. "I want each of you to think this over for the night before you decide to sign those papers. This is not a game but a deadly test, while there are precautions taken to limit unnecessary death it does not mean it is safe."
Tsuji looked at her sensei with a determined look, "do you know if Natsumi is entering?"
Hinata sighed she was hoping a question like this would not be asked, "yes... She and team 6 have been appointed as representatives of Konoha."
A smile spread across the Uchiha girls face, "I don't need time if Natsumi is entering then so am I, I can't let her get too far ahead of me!" Tsuji exclaimed as she stood gripping the hilt of her sword.
Hinata had been expecting this, the girl was definitely her father's daughter, "very well bring the consent forms tomorrow and we will begin your new training schedule." She said with a clap, indicating their meeting was over this had team 11 separating for the day.
Team 10 stood before the Hokage along side team 6. Natsumi and Shikamaru both glanced at the other when they had entered the room, both blushing at the sight of the other.
Minato scanned over the scroll before him with a slight smile on his face. "Today I have an important mission for the eight of you." He began as he held out the scroll to Itachi, "Itachi will be the lead on this mission, you will be traveling to the border of the land of rivers. There you will meet up with a convoy from the land of wind, they are sending dignitaries for the upcoming Chunin exams. And have requested escorts, this is a very important B rank diplomatic mission" Minato finished as he looked over the two teams.
"We will not let you down Hokage-sama" Itachi said with a bow.
"I expected nothing less" Minato said with a smile, "you are dismissed."
As they exited the Hokage's office building Itachi stopped the group, "let's go over some ground rules before I dismiss you to gather what supplies you will need." Both teams turned to the Uchiha heir, Sakura did so aswell with a light smirk on her face. "I will tolerate no arguing or in fighting while on this mission." He said while looking between Ino and Natsumi, Natsumi nodded while Ino just huffed and turned away. "Anyone who breaks this rule will be docked pay, next is if I order you to do something there is a reason for it even if you don't see it so just listen." Every genin nodded at this, "and finally I want you six to get to know the members of the other team, it will be a good opportunity to work with someone you may have to work with in the future. That is all you are dismissed pack for two weeks."
As they were about to leave Itachi stopped Shikamaru and Natsumi. "Shikamaru, Natsumi stay back for a second." Both paused in their stride before turning around, once the other members of team 6 and 10 were gone he spoke. "There are two things I want to go over with you two before we leave," Natsumi cocked her head to the side in curiosity and Shikamaru just grunted a troublesome. "First if we" he said pointing to himself and Sakura "ever get separated from the group you two are in charge." Both genin looked at the teen in shock, "second you two will not sneak away to be alone" he said in a knowing tone making the genin blush deeply while shaking their heads in the affirmative.
Both genin turned away to leave both still red as a tomato Itachi smiled. When they left sight Sakura looked to her boyfriend, "what the hell was that all about?"
Itachi turned to his fellow Jonin still smirking, "oh didn't Natsumi tell you?" He asked in a mocking tone, the narrowing of the Pinkette's eyes told him he was walking on thin ice. "Shikamaru took her out for a date last week, I don't know if I'd say they are dating but that blush that painted their faces sure was a good indication."
Sakura slapped her boyfriend on the arm lightly, "you are mean... You shouldn't tease them like that." She laughed with a smile on her face, "I've got to grab a few things see you at the gate, it will be nice to go on a mission together again it's been a while huh." She said as she kisses him quickly before jumping off not giving him a chance to respond.
"That woman is going to be the death of me I swear," he laughed as he headed towards the Uchiha compound. As he entered he saw some form of gathering of some of the lower ranked members of the police force. Passing them he overheard a woman say "how could this happen here of all places?" This caught the attention of the Uchiha heir, he turned to the group.
"What is going on here?" He asked as he approached.
One of the men turned to see Itachi approaching, "Itachi-sama! It's not good we found Mori Uchiha slain here about an hour ago. We have informed the sergeant and he has informed your father, we are here to protect the crime scene and make sure no children see the body."
"Good job I wish I could help with the investigation but my team was assigned a mission... I must talk to the Hokage I'll be back." With that Itachi shunshined away landing on the roof of the Hokage's office. As he did he was surrounded by Anbu.
"State your business Itachi" a man in a wolf mask demanded.
"I must speak with the Hokage it is important," as he said this the Anbu cleared. He made his way inside knocking on the door of the office.
"Come in." Was all he heard, opening the door he was met with the confused face of Minato Namikaze.
"I apologize for the intrusion Hokage-sama there was a murder in the Uchiha compound and I request leave from this mission to lead the investigation myself."
Minato cocked his head to the side, "may I ask why? Do you think the members of the police force are inadequate?"
"I believe there may be a greater plot brewing here... I do not believe it is a coincidence that this murder happened two weeks before the Chunin exams. I would like to catch this person before anything can happen while the dignitaries are here."
Minato paused seeing the logic behind what the boy was saying, "very well as a precaution I'll give you this leave. However I expect you to find this murderer. Inform Naruto he is to take your place on this mission he will lead team 10 in your place and you will take the lead of team 7 they are to help you find this criminal." Itachi nodded before disappearing in a swirl of leaves, Minato sighed as he looked at the pile of leaves in his office. "I should really make it a rule that you can't do that in here." He complained as he created a clone to clean the leaves.
Itachi landed outside training grounds 7. He walked into the training grounds to see Naruto training his students in taijutsu. "Naruto, you have orders from the Hokage." He announced as he approached the blonde. Naruto cocked his head to the side as he did he saw a scroll flying towards him, "you are taking my place on that mission, there has been a murder in the Uchiha compound I am to investigate and team 7 is to assist me while you join Sakura on the mission."
Naruto frowned but he knew Itachi would never joke about something like this, "okay... But make sure they keep up their training..." He grumbled as he jumped off.
Naruto sighed as he landed by the gate of the village, he saw Sakura looking confused at him standing next to Natsumi. "Yo Sakura, Natsumi!" He waved.
"What are you doing here Naruto where is Itachi?" Sakura asked irritation clear on her face.
Naruto looked at his long time friend with an apologetic look, "Sorry Sakura he had a change in his orders. I can tell you more later," the tone in his voice was serious. Sakura didn't seem happy but she did not voice her grievance.
It did not take long for the rest of team 6 and 10 to arrive, "where is Itachi-sensei?" Choji asked while still eating his chips.
"He had a change in mission, I will be taking his place for this mission." Naruto announced. This earned a shrug from both Shikamaru and Choji, Ino however was beaming. Natsumi always knew the blonde girl had a crush on her older brother since the time he helped her train in their early years of the academy. "Sakura do you mind taking the rear guard with Ino and Kumoharu?" Sakura simply nodded she was still unhappy that Itachi was not there but she was determined to not let it effect her work. "Choji, Ryujin and Natsumi take mid guard," he said while looking at the three genin.
"Hai Naruto-sensei!" Came from both Ryujin and Choji.
"Hai Baka-sensei" Natsumi smirked, Naruto growled before turning to Shikamaru.
"Shikamaru you are with me on front guard" Naruto almost barked, Shikamaru just grunted a "troublesome."
The trip at the front of the group was mostly quiet and Shikamaru couldn't help but be thankful for that he was expecting Naruto to give him a warning about Natsumi. However his luck did not last, "so Shikamaru..." Naruto spoke his tone dark, "I heard you took my little sister on a date." His eyes did not leave the path ahead making Shikamaru even more nervous than the statement had.
"Uh... Yeah... Don't tell her this but it was not intended that way to begin with..." This had Naruto turning to look at the boy, he eyed him with a quizzical but dangerous look. "What I mean by that is when I asked her to lunch it was originally just that a lunch between friends..." He said as he released a breath he didn't know he was holding. "But soon it was clear that she had taken it as a date..."
Naruto spoke, stopping the boy for the moment. "I only have one question... Do you care for my sister in the way she does for you?" His tone was level and no longer held the same danger to it.
Shikamaru steeled his face and looked the blonde in the eye, "I do." He responded simply earning a nod from the older boy.
"I'm sure you know what will happen to you if you break her heart right?" This time it was Shikamaru's turn to nod.
The group moved swiftly through the terrain, the trees of the Land of fire gradually giving way to the rocky paths of the Land of Rivers. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the ground as they continued their journey toward Konoha.
Shikamaru kept to himself for most of the journey, still mulling over his conversation with Naruto. He knew that Naruto's words had weight—being involved with Natsumi wasn't something to take lightly. Yet, despite the warning, he didn't feel deterred. If anything, he felt more determined to understand where this relationship would go.
The journey continued uneventfully, the two teams moving efficiently along the path toward the Land of Rivers. As they neared their rendezvous point, Naruto called for a short break. The genin took the opportunity to stretch, eat, and prepare for their meeting with the Land of Wind's delegation.
Natsumi stood near the edge of the clearing, her golden hair flowing in the wind as she scanned the horizon. She could feel them approaching. A smirk tugged at her lips. "They're here."
Moments later, the sound of shifting rocks filled the air, and from the path ahead, four figures emerged leading a caravan of three covered wagons. Leading them was a striking young woman with deep crimson hair and piercing teal eyes—Gaara of the Sand, Kazekage-in-training and Naruto's girlfriend.
Behind her were Kankuro, his signature face paint partially obscured by a desert scarf, Temari, her fan slung over her back, and a newcomer, Rai Yamanishi, a dark-haired boy with sharp brown eyes and a confident smirk.
As soon as Gaara saw Naruto, her stoic expression softened ever so slightly. "You're late," she said in her usual calm tone, though the small smirk on her lips betrayed her amusement.
Naruto grinned. "Sorry, had to make sure my kids didn't trip over their own feet before we got here."
Gaara raised a single brow, glancing at Team 10 and Natsumi. "I take it Itachi isn't leading this mission?"
Naruto's expression grew serious. "No. He had to stay behind. There was a murder" he said in a whisper to Gaara. She scowled in response, but did not question what the blonde had said. It did not take long for the three teams to fall into position around the caravan, Gaara and Naruto in the front. Shikamaru, Temari, Rai and Kankuro behind them. Natsumi, Ryujin and Ino behind them, with Sakura, Choji and Kumoharu at the back.
Shikamaru watched ahead of him, Naruto and Gaara walked side by side. Though neither spoke much, their presence together was enough to make a statement. The bond between them was strong, built over years of trust and understanding.
That night sitting around the camp fire Kankuro adjusted the straps of the puppet on his back, broke the silence. "So, what exactly happened with the murder?"
Naruto sighed, shaking his head. "It was a clan member, but Itachi said the details were... complicated. He didn't want to jump to conclusions."
Temari frowned. "And you don't think this could be connected to the exams? Maybe an attempt to stir unrest in Konoha?"
"It's possible," Naruto admitted. "But right now, our focus is getting you guys to the village safely. Itachi can handle the investigation."
Rai, who had been silent until now, let out a chuckle. "Man, this is starting to sound like some deep political mess. Gotta say, you Konoha guys sure know how to keep things interesting."
Ino, walking nearby, rolled her eyes. "Trust me, this is normal compared to some of the stuff we deal with."
Rai smirked, glancing at her. "That so? Guess I picked the right village to visit, then."
Ino blinked, caught off guard by his forwardness. "Uh... sure."
Natsumi, watching from the sidelines, nudged Shikamaru. "Looks like Ino's got an admirer."
Shikamaru sighed. "This is gonna be troublesome."
As night fell, the group found a safe clearing to rest. The guards took turns keeping watch, and a small campfire provided some warmth in the cool night air.
Naruto sat with Gaara, the flickering flames casting shadows over their faces. He could feel her gaze on him even as she remained silent.
"You're thinking about Itachi," she finally said.
Naruto nodded. "Yeah. Something about this whole situation doesn't sit right with me."
Gaara considered his words before responding. "You trust him, don't you?"
"Of course," Naruto said without hesitation. "But I also know that if something serious is happening in the Uchiha clan, it won't stay quiet for long."
Gaara reached out, placing her hand over his. It was a small, subtle gesture, but it grounded him.
"Then we'll face it together," she said simply as she pulled him into a kiss.
Naruto melted into the kiss he pulled the red head into his lap as he did earning a small "eep" from the jinchuriki.
A man clearing his throat had the couple breaking the embrace, "please keep that kind of public affection out of sight Namikaze." The current Kazekage said in a low tone, Naruto narrowed his eyes at the man.
"Don't mind us, why don't you go play with your golden sand Rasa-sama." Venom dripped from Naruto's response none of the people present save Gaara and Natsumi had ever seen Naruto like this. "Then you won't have to see it will you, this whole thing was your idea after all or did you forget?"
Rasa didn't respond he simply shot his hand forward causing Golden sand to spew forward from a gourd only to be met with standard sand from Gaara's own gourd. Her sand was also holding the blonde back, she had a scowl on her face and her eyes had shifted to a golden color with several black dots for pupils. "Enough both of you!" She yelled as she threw Naruto back and away from her father. Naruto huffed as he landed and walked away into the forest as soon as he got to his feet. Gaara glared at her father before following Naruto off.
Natsumi leaned over to Shikamaru, "and this is why dad likely did not initially send Naruto on this mission." She said only loud enough for the Nara to hear.
"What was that all about I've never seen Naruto react like that before... He is always so happy go lucky..." Shikamaru responded at the same level of whisper.
"They have a history... Not a good one," she said with a sigh. "Gaara was abused heavily by her father after the death of her mother during childbirth. She only survived because she is a jinchuriki," this surprised the Nara boy but he didn't say anything instead allowing Natsumi to finish. "Well one time when Naruto was five or so he went along with our dad on a diplomatic mission to Sunagakure. There he met Gaara, they became quick friends. But on the last day before Naruto and Dad were to leave. Gaara came to him asking him to save her," Natsumi's voice slightly cracked at the end of her sentence. "This is when she explained how her father treated her, this as you can imagine angered my brother to no end. He brought the information to our father, Dad confronted Rasa and gave him an ultimatum. I don't know what it was but it ended with Gaara and Naruto being arranged to be married."
To say Shikamaru was stunned would be an understatement, anger flicked across his face. "I can see where the hostility comes from then."
Itachi led Sasuke, Konohamaru, and Hanabi through the Uchiha compound toward the crime scene. The area was already cordoned off by the Uchiha Police Force, with several officers stationed to keep civilians away. The murder of Mori Uchiha had sent ripples of concern through the clan, especially so close to the Chunin Exams.
The body had been removed, but the bloodstains remained—a dark, ominous reminder of what had occurred. Itachi crouched down, examining the scene carefully.
"Sasuke, what do you see?" he asked without looking up.
Sasuke frowned as he scanned the area. "There's no sign of a struggle. Either Mori was taken by surprise, or he knew his attacker and didn't expect to be attacked." He pointed at the ground. "The blood pattern suggests he was killed quickly, probably by a precise strike to a vital point."
Hanabi activated her Byakugan, scanning the surrounding area. "There are faint chakra traces leading away from the compound, but they're scattered. Whoever did this either masked their presence well or wasn't using much chakra to begin with."
Konohamaru stood with his arms crossed. "Could it be an inside job? An Uchiha?"
Itachi's expression darkened slightly, but he kept his emotions in check. "We can't rule anything out yet." He turned to Hanabi. "Follow those chakra traces as far as you can. Sasuke, check in with the police force and see if they've gathered any witness statements. Konohamaru, go through Mori's records—see if he had any enemies or disputes in the past." The three genin nodded and split up to carry out their assignments. Itachi remained at the crime scene, deep in thought. This murder wasn't random it was calculated. And that meant there was a bigger picture they had yet to see.
Neji, Tenten, and Lee stood before Gai as he grinned at them. "My youthful students, today you shall take on a mission to protect a merchant caravan traveling to the neighboring town of Gensui!"
Neji crossed his arms. "Are there expected threats?"
Gai's grin widened. "Yes! Bandits have been harassing merchants along the route. Your task is to ensure their safe passage. It is a chance to prove your strength!"
As they escorted the caravan, Lee took up the vanguard, eyes sharp for any signs of attack. Tenten stayed near the merchants, ready to defend them, while Neji used his Byakugan to scout ahead.
About halfway through the journey, Neji tensed. "Three enemies, hiding in the trees ahead. They're preparing to ambush us."
"Finally, a chance to test my strength!" Lee exclaimed, clenching his fists.
The bandits leaped from the trees, weapons drawn, only to be met with swift retaliation. Lee dashed forward, his speed overwhelming them as he knocked one unconscious with a single kick. Tenten unleashed a barrage of kunai, forcing another to surrender, while Neji closed in on the last one with his Gentle Fist, disabling him instantly.
The merchants thanked them profusely as the mission was completed without a single casualty.
Hinata, Tsuji, and their teammates stood in front of their mission client, an elderly fisherman. "Some thieves stole my fishing equipment and my best catch from last night!" he lamented. "I need you young ones to get it back!"
Hinata nodded. "Did you see where they went?"
The old man pointed toward the riverside. "They ran off toward the cliffs by the water."Tsuji smirked. "Sounds like a simple track and recive job."
Following the trail, they found a small group of thieves feasting on stolen fish. The genin surrounded them before they could react.
"Give back what you stole, and we won't have to get rough," Hinata said, her Byakugan activated.
The thieves laughed until Tsuji unsheathed her sword and sliced a log in half with one precise strike. The thieves immediately surrendered, returning everything they had taken.
As they walked back, Tsuji smirked. "Easiest mission ever."
Hinata, however, remained thoughtful. "Perhaps, but we should remain cautious. There are always greater threats ahead." She led the captured criminals from behind.
With their mission complete, Team 11 returned to Konoha, ready for the real challenges ahead—the Chunin Exams.
Hanabi returned to Itachi first. "The chakra traces led to an abandoned house near the training fields, but they disappeared at the entrance. Whoever was there is long gone."
Sasuke arrived next. "The police force received reports of an argument between Mori and an unknown shinobi days before his death. No one got a clear description of the other person."
Finally, Konohamaru returned. "Mori had some disputes with other clans, but nothing serious. Nothing that would justify murder."
Itachi folded his arms, deep in thought. "This was planned, and the killer knew how to cover their tracks. But no crime is perfect."
He glanced at his team. "We need to find out who Mori was arguing with. We're getting closer to the truth."
Itachi led Sasuke, Hanabi, and Konohamaru through the winding streets of the Uchiha compound, each of them alert for any clues that could lead to Mori Uchiha's killer. The night air was heavy, filled with a tension that none of them could shake.
As they approached the Uchiha Archives, Itachi gestured for them to enter quietly. Inside, rows of ancient scrolls and records lined the walls, chronicling generations of the clan's history.
Hanabi activated her Byakugan, scanning the room. "There's no one here, but some of these scrolls have been disturbed recently."
Konohamaru rifled through a pile of documents. "Looks like someone was looking for something specific."
Sasuke picked up a half-burned scroll from the corner. The edges were singed, but the Uchiha crest was still visible. "They tried to destroy evidence. Whatever Mori was involved in, it's something worth killing over."
Itachi examined the scroll closely. "These are records of clan meetings. Mori was in contact with someone outside the village—someone who knew about our internal affairs."
Konohamaru clenched his fists. "So we have a traitor."
"No," Itachi corrected. "We have a spy."
Team 3 had been dispatched to the village of Torigawa to rescue a group of travelers stranded by rising river waters. Upon arrival, they found the situation more dire than expected. The waters had washed away parts of the village, leaving people trapped on rooftops.
Neji activated his Byakugan. "There are five people stranded across the river, two injured."
Tenten unrolled a scroll, summoning a series of ropes and grappling hooks. "We'll need to stabilize the area first."
Rock Lee clenched his fists, eyes blazing with determination. "I shall rescue them with the power of youth!"
As Lee leapt across the turbulent waters, Neji used ropes to reinforce the weakened bridge supports. Tenten coordinated the villagers, organizing supplies and setting up medical stations.
With their combined efforts, Team 3 successfully rescued the stranded villagers, earning their gratitude and admiration.
Team 11's mission was to retrieve stolen blueprints of a new defensive mechanism intended for Konoha. The thieves had taken refuge in an abandoned fort deep in the woods.
Sai summoned ink birds to scout the area. "Three guards at the entrance, more inside."
Haruta nodded, adjusting his grip on his kunai. "If we move fast, they won't have time to secure the blueprints."
Hinata activated her Byakugan, guiding Tsuji as they navigated the hidden traps leading into the fort.
Once inside, the team split up. Sai engaged the guards with his ink beasts, Haruta secured the exits, and Tsuji confronted the leader, her Sharingan blazing.
"Hand over the blueprints, and no one has to get hurt," Tsuji demanded, her katana gleaming in the dim light.
The leader sneered, but a swift strike from Tsuji disarmed him, and he surrendered immediately.
Hinata smiled proudly as they secured the blueprints. "Well done, everyone. Let's head back."
Returning to the Hokage's office, Itachi presented the half-burned scroll to Minato.
"These records indicate Mori was corresponding with someone outside Konoha, possibly feeding them information about the clan," Itachi explained.
Minato's expression hardened. "So the Chunin Exams might be a cover for something larger a coordinated effort to destabilize the village."
Hanabi stepped forward. "We also found chakra traces at an abandoned house near the training grounds."
Minato nodded thoughtfully. "Then that's your next stop. Investigate the area thoroughly and report back."
As Team 7 exited the office, Sasuke turned to Itachi. "You think this has anything to do with the old tensions in the clan?"
Itachi's eyes darkened. "If it does, then we're dealing with a threat from both inside and outside Konoha."
With the Chunin Exams approaching and danger lurking in the shadows, Team 7 pressed on, determined to uncover the truth before more lives were lost.
Under the pale moonlight, Team 7 moved swiftly toward the abandoned house Hanabi had detected chakra traces in. The old wooden structure stood at the edge of the village, partially hidden by overgrown foliage.
Hanabi activated her Byakugan, scanning the area. "No movement inside, but there are faint chakra remnants—someone was here recently."
Sasuke pushed the door open cautiously, his Sharingan flaring to life. The interior was sparse, with only a few broken chairs and a tattered rug covering the floor. Konohamaru swept his foot across the dust-laden ground, revealing disturbed patterns.
"It's been used as a meeting spot," he noted. "Someone tried to cover their tracks."
Itachi moved to the far wall, running his fingers across the wooden planks. "There's a hidden compartment here." With a swift push, a loose board gave way, revealing a small hollow. Inside lay a crumpled parchment, its edges burned like the one found in the Uchiha archives.
Sasuke took the document, scanning its contents. His eyes narrowed. "This… this is coded."
Itachi examined it. "It's a cipher—one commonly used by Otogakure."
The room fell silent. Otogakure, the Village Hidden in Sound, was an emerging power, and though it had no direct hostilities with Konoha, its leader, the enigmatic unknown man, had a reputation that put every ninja on edge.
Konohamaru frowned. "Are you saying Mori was in contact with Sound ninja?"
"It's a strong possibility," Itachi replied. "And if that's the case, then his murder might not have been personal it might have been a cover up."
Hanabi looked at her teammates. "If we want answers, we need to find out who Mori was communicating with and why."
Itachi pocketed the document. "Then we report this to the Hokage. We need to prepare for the possibility that this investigation leads us outside the village."
In a small village on the outskirts of Fire Country, people had begun disappearing without a trace. Team 11 was tasked with uncovering the cause.
Sai scouted ahead with his ink birds. "There's a trail leading into the woods. Someone has been moving through here recently."
Hinata activated her Byakugan, scanning the area. "There's a cave system beneath us. The missing villagers are inside."
Tsuji and Haruta exchanged glances. "Then we go in," Haruta said firmly.
Navigating the tunnels, they discovered a makeshift camp where villagers were being held by rogue mercenaries. The team launched a coordinated attack—Sai's ink beasts restrained the captors, Tsuji's Sharingan allowed her to predict and counter attacks, and Haruta disarmed the last man with a swift strike.
Hinata freed the captives. "You're safe now. Let's get you back home."
As they emerged from the cave, Tsuji frowned. "Something doesn't feel right. This was too easy."
Hinata nodded. "We'll report this to the Hokage—there may be more at play here than we realize."
Minato studied the coded document Team 7 recovered. His expression was unreadable.
"Otogakure…" he murmured. "This complicates things."
Sasuke crossed his arms. "If Sound ninja are involved, we need to act fast. We don't know what they were after, but Mori died for a reason."
Itachi nodded. "If we can decode this message, we might find our next lead."
Minato set the paper down. "Then I'll assign this case my full attention. For now, you're all dismissed but be ready. If Sound is moving in the shadows, we can't afford to be caught off guard."
As Team 7 left the office, a single thought lingered in all their minds.
Otogakure was watching, and the Chunin Exams were about to begin.
With the murder of Mori, the involvement of Otogakure, and the unheard of amount incoming missions. Minato had been running himself ragged, he had dark circles under his eyes and his hair was disheveled. Kushina was the only reason he stayed clean and fed, rubbing his hands over his face he called for his assistant. "Kiori!" He called out, seconds later the black haired woman stepped into the office.
"Yes Hokage-sama?" She asked her tone bright and cheery.
"I am calling a council meeting please inform both the civilian council and the military council aswell." Kiori's eyes widened, she nodded quickly before hurrying out of the office. He hated having to do this both councils never got along, but the events going on will affect everyone in the village if he is right.
As Kiori hurried out to summon the council, Minato exhaled slowly, rubbing his temples. His thoughts raced Otogakure's involvement in Mori's murder, the message Team 7 uncovered, and the flood of incoming missions all pointed to something bigger. The Chunin Exams were meant to showcase the next generation of shinobi, but now they felt like the perfect stage for something more sinister.
The door to his office creaked open, and Kushina stepped inside, holding a steaming cup of tea. She took one look at him and clicked her tongue.
"You look like hell, ya know?" she said, setting the tea on his desk.
Minato let out a tired chuckle. "I feel like it."
She crossed her arms. "You're running yourself into the ground, Minato. You can't protect the village if you collapse."
"I know," he admitted, taking a sip of the tea. The warmth steadied him. "But if I don't stay on top of this, we could be dealing with an attack on a higher level than anything we experienced in the third great war."
Kushina's eyes darkened at the memory. "Then we'll handle it before it gets that far."
A knock at the door interrupted them. Kiori peeked in. "Hokage-sama, the councils have been assembled in the main chamber."
Minato nodded, rising to his feet. "Let's get this over with."
The council chamber was already tense when Minato arrived. On one side sat the Civilian Council, merchants and noble families who had influence over the village's economy and daily affairs. On the other, the Military Council, composed of clan heads and high-ranking shinobi, including Hiruzen Sarutobi, Shikaku Nara, Hiashi Hyuga, and Tsume Inuzuka.
The moment Minato stepped inside, the room fell silent. He took his place at the head of the room, Kushina standing at his side.
"Thank you all for coming," Minato began, his voice firm despite his exhaustion. "I'll get straight to the point—Konoha is in danger."
Murmurs spread through the chamber.
Shikaku leaned forward, his sharp eyes locked onto Minato. "I assume this is about Mori's murder."
Minato nodded. "Yes. The investigation has uncovered a link to Otogakure. Team 7 and Itachi have been gathering intelligence, and we believe Orochimaru or his agents are planning something during the Chunin Exams."
Hiashi Hyuga's expression remained unreadable, but his posture stiffened. "Do you have proof?"
"Not yet," Minato admitted. "But the clues are piling up. And that's not the only problem."
He glanced at Kiori, who unrolled a scroll and placed it on the table. "In the past two weeks, Konoha has received nearly ten times the usual number of mission requests."
Hiruzen frowned. "That's… unnatural."
Shikaku sighed, rubbing his temple. "That many missions mean more shinobi will be spread thin. If an attack happens during the exams, we'll be vulnerable."
Tsume Inuzuka bared her teeth. "You think that's part of the plan?"
"I don't know," Minato admitted. "But I refuse to dismiss the possibility."
A civilian council member, a rotund merchant named Gensai, raised his hand. "If there's even a chance Konoha will be attacked, should we cancel the exams?"
"No," Minato said firmly. "That's exactly what they'd want. If Orochimaru is behind this, he wants us to be afraid. We won't give him that satisfaction."
"So what do we do?" Hiashi asked.
Minato's eyes hardened. "We prepare."
While the high-level shinobi handled the investigation, Minato knew the genin teams still needed to gain experience. With the flood of missions coming in, it was the perfect chance to assign some lower-stakes tasks to Team 3 and Team 11.
Might Guy grinned at his students as they stood before the mission desk.
"Alright, my youthful team! Our mission is to recover a stolen heirloom from a group of bandits outside the village. A merchant's family sword was taken, and it's our job to get it back!"
Neji, arms crossed, frowned. "A simple retrieval mission?"
Guy wagged his finger. "Neji, every mission is an opportunity to grow! Besides, these bandits aren't high-level threats. This will be a good test of your teamwork."
Rock Lee clenched his fists. "Then we shall retrieve the sword with the power of youth!"
Tenten smirked. "Let's just make sure we don't break it in the process."
With that, Team 3 set out, unaware that this simple mission might not be so simple after all…
Hinata stood before her team, her lavender eyes serious. "Our mission is to locate a missing courier from the Land of Fire. He was delivering an important message but never arrived at his destination."
Sai tilted his head. "Could he have been attacked?"
Tsuji Uchiha adjusted her katana. "If so, we'll need to track him quickly."
Haruta Takanobu, the tallest of the group, nodded. "Do we have any leads?"
Hinata activated her Byakugan. "Yes. His last known location was a village near the border. We'll start there."
As they moved out, the air was thick with tension. None of them knew it yet, but the missing courier's message was far more important than they had imagined…
As the council meeting concluded, Minato remained behind, staring at the village through his office window.
Kushina placed a hand on his shoulder. "We'll stop this, ya know?"
He sighed. "I just hope we're not already too late."
Meanwhile, Team 7 and Itachi had uncovered another lead one that pointed directly at an unknown Otogakure genin…
And in the shadows of Konoha, a pair of golden eyes watched. Waiting. The stage was set. The game had begun.
As Team 6 and Team 10 approached the gates of Konohagakure, the village was alive with activity. The Chunin Exams were drawing closer, and an unprecedented number of foreign shinobi were pouring into the village. The tension in the air was palpable, though Naruto, leading Team 10 in Itachi's absence, made sure to keep his usual grin in place. Gaara, walking beside him, was quieter than usual, her sharp green eyes scanning their surroundings as if expecting an ambush at any moment.
Behind them, the Land of Wind's Daimyo rode in a lavish carriage, accompanied by his personal guards. Sunagakure's Genin team, led by Gaara, followed closely, while Team 6 Natsumi, Ryujin, and Kumoharu remained vigilant. It had been a long journey, and though no serious threats had arisen, the weight of responsibility had been immense.
As they entered the gates, a squad of Konoha ANBU appeared, their masks impassive as they flanked the Daimyo's entourage. One of them, wearing a hawk mask, nodded to Naruto. "Hokage-sama requests your immediate presence for debriefing."
Naruto sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "Yeah, yeah, figures." He turned to Team 10. "Shikamaru, you're in charge of seeing the Daimyo safely to his quarters. Ino, Choji, you assist. I'll catch up after talking to Dad."
Shikamaru muttered something about "troublesome blondes" but nodded. "Got it."
Sakura turned to her team, "you three go get some rest, you will be getting back to training tomorrow."
Ryujin stretched, "yeah I'm tired I'm heading home see you guys around." He waved as he walked off.
"See ya!" Natsumi said with a wave. "I'm going to head out too, Shikamaru don't work too hard." She joked. "Gaara, Kankuro, Temari, and Rai you guys can come with me mum set up our guest rooms for you."
With that, the group split, each heading toward their next objective.
Minato Namikaze looked exhausted. Dark circles hung under his eyes, and his normally well-kept hair was a mess. Papers were stacked high on his desk, and a map of the Elemental Nations lay sprawled before him, marked with notes and battle reports.
Naruto entered, glancing at his father's disheveled state. "Dad, you look like you've been fighting a war with paperwork."
Minato gave him a tired smirk. "It's starting to feel that way." He gestured for Naruto to sit. "Report."
Naruto did, detailing everything about the escort mission—no major threats, some minor disturbances, and the overall state of the Land of Wind's security. Minato listened carefully, nodding along. When Naruto finished, Minato leaned back in his chair.
"There's more," Minato said. "The murder of Mori? We've confirmed he had dealings with ninja from Otogakure."
Naruto frowned, his casual demeanor slipping. "Oto? You sure?"
Minato nodded. "Itachi is still investigating, but all signs point to Otogakure having some hidden agenda here. And with the influx of missions lately, I can't shake the feeling that something bigger is at play."
Naruto crossed his arms. "So what's the plan?"
Minato sighed. "We continue as normal for now, but I want all of you on high alert. If Otogakure is moving, it's not just about one dead merchant."
Naruto nodded. "Got it."
The next morning, the village was alive with anticipation. The streets of Konoha bustled with shinobi from every major village, their headbands glinting in the sunlight. Excitement and tension filled the air this year's Chunin Exams were the largest in years, with many powerful genin teams participating.
Naruto stood at the entrance to the academy, arms crossed as he surveyed the gathered contestants. His students Sasuke, Konohamaru, and Hanabi stood nearby.
"Alright, brats," he said, a smirk on his face. "You know the drill. Work together, watch each other's backs, and don't get cocky."
Sasuke scoffed. "Tch. I don't need to team up to win."
Hanabi rolled her eyes. "That attitude is why you lost to Neji last time you fought."
Konohamaru grinned. "Hey, don't worry, sensei! We got this!"
Not far away, Team 10 and Team 6 were gathered, waiting for the announcement to begin. Shikamaru looked as bored as ever, while Ino kept glancing toward Naruto, trying (and failing) to be subtle. Ryujin and Natsumi stood side by side, chatting quietly, while Kumoharu adjusted the straps of his backpack. Sakura and Itachi talked casually to the side of the group.
The foreign teams were also making their presence known.
Team Gaara stood near the entrance, their leader's expression as unreadable as ever. Temari and Kankuro flanked her, while Rai Yamanishi watched the crowd from beneath their hood.
The Otogakure teams were nearby as well Kimimaro's gaze was steady and cold, while Kabuto's team stood back, observing rather than engaging.
From Iwagakure, Kurotsuchi and her teammates whispered among themselves.
The Kirigakure team, led by Zabuza, stood apart from the others, their expressions neutral. The girl in the flower kimono locked eyes with Natsumi, her head cocking to the side. Natsumi looked away for a second, and when she looked back the girl was walking towards her with her team flanking her. "You must be Natsumi Namikaze right?" She asked as she approached.
Natsumi's eyes narrowed at the Kirigakure genin, "do I know you?"
She laughed lightly, "oh no we don't know eachother. I know your brother he saved my father and I when he was on a mission in the land of waves. He told me lots about you while we were together," Ino's eyes widened at the girl 'what does she mean by that?' Ino thought in a panic, 'how well does she know Naruto-kun do I have another rival in love!?'
Natsumi smiled and hugged the girl, "oh you must be Haku! Naruto told me lots about you too, I'm guessing the constipated looking man over there in the mask is Zabuza then?" She asked as she broke the hug.
This made Haku laugh heartily, "yes that is my adoptive father Zabuza Momochi husband of Mei Terumi the fourth Mizukage." Shaking her head she continued, "these are my teammates, Chojuro, and Yagura Karatachi." Chojuro was a diminutive boy with blue grey hair and goggles that wrapped around into black ear coverings. He wore a blue shirt with a vest like Haiate and brown and white camo pants, but what stood out the most was the two handled wrapped sword on his back. The there as Yagura He had short, messy, grey hair, which fell over the right side of his face and spiked up on the left. He also had pupilless pink eyes and what seemed to be a stitch-like scar running from under his left eye, all the way down his cheek. His attire included a grey, sleeveless shirt with the Kiri forehead protector attached to the front, as well as a short-sleeved mesh armour, which he wore a green poncho over. He also wore a turquoise sash around his waist, paired with a matching green apron over his pants and a pair of brown boots. Along with it, he would carry a club with uneven sized hooks, which bared a green flower on the larger end.
"Nice to meet you all these are my teammates Ryujin and Kumoharu, and these three are team 10. Shikamaru, Ino and Choji." Natsumi pointed to each person as she introduced them, each of the genin giving a greeting of their own.
"Nice to meet you all aswell, but before I take my leave I have one last thing to say." Haku paused her smile fading, "I look forward to seeing you in the one on one fights Natsumi."
Natsumi smiled, "oh don't worry I wouldn't give up the chance to take on your kekkei genkai. I can't wait to see how you use it," a smirk crossed Haku's face as she turned around to return to Zabuza followed by her team.
Ryujin looked to his friend, "those three are immensely strong especially that Yagura guy he has a monstrous amount of Chakra."
"Yup these exams are going to be a blast, I think our training will be really put to the test..." The tension in the air was palpable. Everyone here knew one thing—this exam was going to be different.
Just as the anticipation reached its peak, an announcement rang through the courtyard.
"All participants, report to the examination hall immediately." The Chunin Exams had begun.
As the teams of genin filled the large exam hall, whispers of anticipation and tension spread among the participants. The usual written test was expected, but Konoha had decided on something far more intricate this time. At the front of the hall stood Ibiki Morino, the infamous head of Konoha's Torture and Interrogation Unit, his scars and piercing gaze enough to make even experienced shinobi uneasy.
Behind him, several proctors, including Sakura Haruno, lined the walls, ensuring discipline. She cast a brief glance at her team her expression unreadable.
Ibiki cleared his throat, immediately silencing the room. "This exam is called The Trial of Judgment," he began, voice calm yet foreboding. "You will not be answering questions on paper. Instead, this test will assess your ability to make critical choices under pressure. Because in the field, hesitation means death." He gestured behind him, where several doors stood, each marked with an unfamiliar kanji.
"The exam consists of three stages. First, each team will enter a room and receive a scenario-based challenge. You must make a decision based on the information given to you. Some decisions will carry consequences, others will be tests of your resolve and teamwork.
A murmur spread through the genin as they realized there would be no traditional written test.
Ibiki smirked slightly before continuing. "Fail to cooperate as a team? You fail. Make a selfish decision that dooms your comrades? You fail. Take too long to decide? You fail."
Several nervous glances were exchanged, but the more confident genin remained unfazed.
"The second stage of this test will be determined based on your choices in the first. And the third... well, if you survive that far, you'll find out."
With that, Ibiki waved his hand, and the proctors began calling teams one by one, leading them through the doors.
As Team 6 stepped into their assigned chamber, the door shut behind them with a clang. The room was dimly lit, with a single table in the center. Upon the table sat three scrolls, each sealed with different wax markings.
A voice echoed through the room—likely a genjutsu projection. "You and your allies are part of an ANBU team pursuing a rogue ninja who has stolen a dangerous forbidden scroll. However, you are intercepted by another squad claiming that the rogue is actually a spy working for Konoha. The rogue has been captured and is in your custody, but you must decide what to do."
"Each scroll represents a choice." Red Scroll: Execute the rogue on the spot no room for error. Blue Scroll: Take the rogue back to Konoha for interrogation but risk a possible escape. Green Scroll: Release the rogue and allow them to complete their mission—trusting that they truly serve Konoha.
A timer on the wall began counting down from five minutes. Ryujin, Natsumi, and Kumoharu exchanged glances. Ryujin folded his arms. "It's obvious we can't kill them outright. What if they really are on our side?"
Kumoharu adjusted his glasses, spiders shifting slightly beneath his sleeves. "And if they aren't, taking them back could be just as dangerous."
Natsumi bit her lip, eyes locked on the green scroll. "Trusting them blindly could get civilians killed. But… what if they were set up?" They were running out of time. Their answer would determine their next trial. What would they choose?
In another chamber, Shikamaru, Ino, and Choji faced a different challenge.
Before them was a large stone tablet, covered in shifting symbols. A single kunai was embedded in the center of the slab.
"You are deep behind enemy lines. One of you has been caught and is being forced to reveal Konoha's secrets. The only way to silence them before they break... is to kill them."
"If you pull the kunai, you agree to execute your captured comrade. If you leave it, the information is leaked, and Konoha suffers."
"Decide."
Shikamaru narrowed his eyes. "Troublesome..."
Ino and Choji looked at each other, unsure.
Would they be willing to sacrifice one of their own for the greater good? Or would they risk their village's safety?
Team Gaara had to choose between saving one ally or ten unknown civilians.
Team Zabuza had to decide whether to torture an enemy ninja for information or risk walking into an ambush.
Team Samui was forced to determine whether to abandon their mission to rescue a teammate.
Team 3 Was forced to choose between leaving a comrade behind or fight against incalculable odds.
Team 7 was faced with the betrayal of a teacher, being forced to choose to fight against a superior or join them and escape later.
Team 11 was faces three winding paths each with a civilian to save, each having a different time left before being executed.
The test was designed to shake the genin, forcing them to experience the cruel choices real shinobi had to make in the field. As time ticked down, the pressure mounted. Who would pass? Who would break? And what consequences awaited their choices?
The dimly lit alleyway smelled of damp stone and blood. The rogue shinobi, a Jonin-level opponent, sat bound against the wall, their eyes flickering with cunning intelligence.
Natsumi, Ryujin, and Kumoharu stood in a defensive formation, watching their surroundings. They had one objective: escort the rogue to a secure location while under attack.
A kunai whistled through the air, aimed straight for the rogue's throat.
Kumoharu's spiders surged forward, weaving a web barrier that caught the blade midair. At the same time, Ryujin reacted, flashing forward with his short sword to parry a second strike from an unseen assailant.
From the rooftops, three masked enemies made from shadows descended. One wielded a massive iron club. Another had a whip made with chakra-infused chains. The third was silent, his fingers forming seals rapidly.
Natsumi recognized the danger immediately. "They're trying to force us to abandon the rogue!"
Ryujin tightened his grip on his sword. "Then we hold the line."
The masked enemy with the club swung it downward with bone-crushing force. The ground cracked, sending a shockwave of rubble toward Team 6.
Kumoharu flicked his wrist, commanding his spiders to scatter and reweave. The rubble caught in the silk, slowing the impact.
Meanwhile, the chain-user lashed out. The glowing whip coiled toward Ryujin's legs, aiming to trap him.
Ryujin jumped at the last moment, flipping over the attack, but he wasn't fast enough to avoid the silent enemy's hand seals.
"Paralysis Jutsu!" Ryujin felt his body freeze as the Jutsu took effect.
Natsumi channeled her wind nature Chakra into her Katana, the seals on the side glowing lightly. Swinging the sword sent a powerful gust of wind at the man who paralyzed Ryujin breaking the man's concentration by throwing him into he wall making him disperse.
The rouge laughed "if you release me I can help you!"
"Shut it!" Ryu shouted as he dispersed his own adversary. Kumoharu grunted as he did the same. "We are getting you to the village asshole!" Natsumi smiled at her friend he seemed to be getting back to his old self.
Shikamaru sat on the ground staring at the timer, "this goes against everything we were taught in the academy... But I have an idea, we do nothing." Both of his teammates looked at him as if he had grown another head. "Look... We know eachother better than anyone..." He looked both Ino and Choji in the eye one by one. "None of us would ever give up information to the enemy... We take the consequences of our actions and we fight to save the other; this will likely mean when we move onto the next stage one of us will be separated and the remaining two will have to save whoever is taken."
"Fine but let it be known I don't like this plan!" Ino shouted as she sat down with a huff. While Choji simply smiled and watched the timer count down while eating a rice ball.
As the timer hit zero a voice announced, "you have chosen!" And a door began to open as shadows swirled around Choji.
"Shit, I thought they would take me!" He shouted as his friend was swallowed by the shadows.
Shikamaru and Ino rushed into the next room where they saw a man in the standard leaf jonin uniform he had brown hair and had a white sash around his waist he was also smoking a cigarette. "As expected of Ino Shika Cho, you chose the outside of the box option but as usual that was the hardest path. You must survive the next five minutes until reinforcements get here either that or get to Choji in that house behind me." He finished by taking a drag from his cigarette.
Shikamaru picked his ear pretending not to listen, "all I have to do is stall you for five minutes?" The man nodded, Shikamaru smirked. "Okay Ino leave this to me I can do this if I play it perfectly... If you can get to Choji" Ino looked at the boy before her long gone was the lazy Nara, instead the boy had a look of determination on his face. She was about to argue when he spoke again, "I get it this isn't like me..." He grumbled as he rubbed the back of his head, "but I can't let her get too far ahead not if I want to stand at her side." Ino was speechless, so she nodded and took a few steps back.
"Are you sure about this Shikamaru? I'm no bandit you can easily snare in your shadow."
"I know..." He said as his shadow began to work its way up his leg. "So that is why I made this Jutsu, it's incomplete but it should work fine for this test."
Asuma felt a shiver run up his spine, 'an ambitious Nara the world best be terrified.'
Team 6 was the first team that made it to the final step where Ibiki stood. The room the were in was plain but behind them were the same amount of doors as the room where they began the test.
"Before the next test begins, you must wait for the the other teams that are able to pass."
It took several minutes for the remaining teams to join team 6, first to join them was team 7 followed by team Gaara and team Zabuza after that. Everyone else filed in one by one, team 3, team 11. Teams Kabuto and Kimimaru came in at basically the same time. Team Samui and team Akatsuchi came in looking worse for wear.
Natsumi scowled as she looked for team 10, 'come on Shikamaru I know you wouldn't let some test beat you.'
At the last second team 10 came running through their door solidifying their place.
"Well done each of you I will now begin the final step of the first test, but I warn you if you get this next question wrong you will not be able to become a Chunin ever." His words paralyzed the whole group of genin, "this is your last chance to back out..." Several murmurs erupted through the room but no one moved. Ibiki waited for several moments before he spoke again, "you all pass!"