Yo,
I'm back with the next chapter of Change in Winds .
Before we dive into our newest chap, there is one thing I like to share-
I've made a new discord server where I'll keep on updating sneak peeks of the chapters, character designs, polls and where you can freely talk and ask things regarding my fics directly from me. I'm most active there:
It's a relatively new server, so please show some love 3
Link: discord . Gg / SPsSwAcq4b
Remove the spaces
Name: Black Dawn
Thank you for your continued love and support.
"Normal speech" people talking.
'Normal thought' people thinking.
'Memories'
"Bijuu/Summons" Bijuu or Summons Speaking.
'Bijuu/Summons' Bijuu or Summons thinking.
"Jutsu" is being used.
Enjoy.
Change in Winds
Chapter 14
Tangled Threads
The sun is on the descent as Team 7 found themselves seated at the welcoming bar of Ichiraku Ramen. Naruto's excitement was palpable as he scanned the menu, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"Sasuke, Sakura, you guys have to try the Miso Pork Ramen! It's the best!" He exclaimed, his voice filled with infectious energy. His love for ramen couldn't be hidden by any mask.
Sasuke rolled his eyes but couldn't suppress a slight smile. "We've been here before, Naruto. We know what to order."
Sakura laughed, her eyes dancing with amusement. "Let him have his moment, Sasuke-kun. He always looks forward to this." Her joyous tone couldn't be missed.
She many times wished Naruto to go back to the loud and obnoxious knuckleheaded kid he used to be instead of this cold, calculated and smart Naruto. This Naruto to some extent scared her.
His calm and calculative ceruleans painted a picture of a terrifying shinobi beneath who can kill her at a moment's notice. He doesn't even show that much emotion and always keeps things secretive from them.
But she knew he wouldn't harm her. His eyes always held a look of understanding for many things that were new to Sakura. He both inspired and demotivated her. It's because of him she managed to turn into a proper kunoichi. But it's also because of him she can't get close to her Sasuke-kun.
The last Uchiha always running off to train as soon as the team meetings or missions end. She could see his goal to surpass Naruto, but she couldn't understand if that's possible even if Sasuke awakened his Sharingan.
Kakashi has never encouraged team sparring. He always told them to develop in their own ways and not get jealous of others' growth, especially if the said person is in the same team as you. The words touched Team 7, as the man said them with rarely-seen emotion and a faraway look.
They took that to heart, not seriously sparring even once in their many months as a team. They always stop when things get heated and Sakura observed that even Sasuke's awakened Sharingan didn't make any difference when Sasuke faced Naruto.
It's as if the blonde knew what Sasuke was thinking and was always a step ahead of him and he wasn't even caught in a Genjutsu once to boot, even Kakashi's advanced ones. All these things instead of making Sasuke jealous, motivated him even harder to push himself and vanish from Sakura's persistent efforts to get a date.
She shook herself from her thoughts, as Naruto's face turned a shade redder, but he grinned nonetheless. "I just want you guys to enjoy ramen as much as I do." He said with a bright genuine smile. A rare smile these days.
Kakashi looked up from his book, his visible eye crinkling in a smile. "Alright, Team 7, order whatever you like. Consider this a pre-exam treat." His tone is full of mirth.
The 3 of them ordered, Naruto's order longer than all others combined. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and nervousness as they discussed the upcoming exams.
"Sasuke-kun, any thoughts on the competition?" Sakura asked, her eyes alight with curiosity.
Sasuke's gaze sharpened, his voice cool and measured. "We've trained hard, and we know our strengths. We'll assess our opponents and adapt as needed." He said in a confident tone.
The Uchiha, contrary to everyone's belief, is quite talkative if he knows you well and his teammates proved their worth to him by their rapid growth in strength and capabilities. All of them can perform 2 basic Jutsu of 2 elements and even more in the case of the boys. Not that either of them will say that aloud.
Naruto piped up. "Agreed. With our mission record, I'm sure we are the most high-ranked missions completed rookie team in Konoha."
Kakashi's eye twinkled with pride. "Just remember, teamwork is key. Trust in each other, and you'll find success."
Their ramen arrived, steaming and fragrant, and the conversation shifted to lighter topics as they savoured their meal.
Soon, empty bowls were pushed aside, a bigger pile in case of Naruto and satisfied sighs filled the air.
Naruto leaned back, patting his belly contentedly. "That's amazing. Thanks, Kakashi-sensei." He gave a broad smile.
Kakashi nodded his attention once again on his book. However, he did notice the sizable emptiness of his wallet. "Rest well tonight. Tomorrow will be a big day."
Sakura smiled warmly, her eyes filled with determination. "We're ready, sensei. We won't let you down," she said with confidence, her earlier doubt in herself and her team vanishing.
Sasuke's voice is firm, his resolve clear. "We'll give it our all."
With final words of encouragement and farewells, Team 7 dispersed, each member lost in thought, contemplating the challenge that awaited them.
They trained, they prepared, and now it is time to prove themselves. More significant in the case of Naruto and Sasuke for their own reasons.
Naruto sat at the store, happily chatting with his 2 favourite people in Konoha about the Chunin exams. The Chefs are too happy to shoo Naruto and the blonde spent a better part of an hour talking to them.
After talking to them to his satisfaction and eating a few more bowls of Ramen, Naruto joined the streets of Konoha in search of his little followers. The streets are bustling with activity, filled with vibrant energy as the village prepared for the upcoming Chunin exams. Excitement in the air, and among the crowd, a distinctive group caught the attention of many passersby.
Naruto found familiar faces and took in their appearances. Haku's elegant appearance and Zabuza's imposing presence made for an intriguing contrast with their shining Kiri headband and he laughed at the diversity in the group.
Deciding to surprise them, Naruto shunshined behind them and created a bucket of cold water, ready to pour on them. As the bucket is about to dump, a large cleaver tore through it with relative ease.
"It's you, gaki," Zabuza recognised in a gruff tone.
"Zabuza-sensei," Naruto replied in a sheepish tone.
"Naruto-Kun! It's been a while," Haku said, her voice filled with warmth, eyes sparkling with genuine affection.
"It has, Haku," Naruto replied enthusiastically, looking back at Haku and Zabuza. "But it looks like you are not alone."
Zabuza grunted, a smirk tugging at his lips. "We've been preparing, gaki. This Chunin exam is a chance to show what Kiri is made of and so Me-Mizukage-sama sent us to represent Kiri." The part 'to prove that Kiri has changed and is no longer the Blood Mist' is left alone.
Haku smiled, not wanting to go back to stressful topics. "How have you been, Naruto-kun? How's your training coming?" She asked curiously as Naruto joined them in their stroll. Rest of Kiri team forgotten.
"I'm good, Haku. And my training is going well. Though I'm not as proficient as you." He whispered the last part and Haku nodded in understanding.
"I'm more surprised to see it's successful. As for being proficient, with your hard work, I'm sure you'll surpass me one day." She said in a confident tone.
"Stop you. You are making me blush!" Naruto said, poking her. Haku has developed into a good-looking young girl and Naruto is sure she can't fool anyone claiming to be a boy anymore.
"Heh, the gaki can be embarrassed? Good to know." Zabuza chimed in with a mad cackle.
"Boo, you two are no fun. I'm leaving, you have fun roaming Konoha." Naruto left with his tongue out tauntingly to the Kiri duo and with amused smiles, they went on their way.
In Naruto's short list of friends, Haku and Zabuza are 2. Zabuza trained him while Haku sparred with him. Battle makes one understand their opponents well and the trio's understanding is deeper than any words as Naruto didn't open up to many after his Awakening.
Shaking himself out of his thoughts, Naruto renewed his search for his devout follower and his band of misfits.
"Hey, kid! What are you looking at?" A voice snapped, the voice dripping with condescension a few metres away from Naruto in his 3 o'clock.
"Who are you calling 'kid'? I'm a ninja too!" A younger and familiar voice retorted, his pride wounded. Naruto's head turned in that direction.
"A ninja? You? Don't make me laugh." The first voice's words are like daggers, intended to belittle and provoke.
Naruto can see Konohamaru's fists clenching, and his body trembling with a mix of anger and humiliation.
"Once my Onii-chan comes, he will kick your ass!" Konohamaru's voice quivered, both with rage and disappointment.
Naruto didn't want Konohamaru to be belittled anymore and he appeared in front of Kankuro in a gust of wind. "Let's stop right here, gentlema-" He stopped himself as his eyes landed on the person in front of him.
He had to pinch himself to stop himself from laughing as the make-gi-boy from Suna stood in front of him, his face boiling with rage as he filled in the gaps in Naruto's statement.
"Complete it!" Kankuro growled, his hands slowly going back to his back.
"I suggest checking your surroundings before you make any reckless moves," Naruto said, his demeanour a complete 180 from a second. Around them, Kankuro can see many Konoha chunin observing the confrontation in interest. He gulped.
"The 'kid' here is Sandaime's grandson. As a son of Kage, I'm sure you know how bad it is to threaten the current Kage's descendants?" Naruto asked in a calm tone. Kankuro swallowed.
"If you still feel like fighting, let's move to Training ground 9. It's free at this time. We can settle this there." Naruto said casually and Kankuro got a contemplating look at that, thinking of the idea.
"That won't be necessary. I apologise for his actions." Temari, standing to the side, said as she walked to them. Naruto observed her for a second.
Her posture though appeared to be relaxed didn't have any gaps and the confident and challenging look in her eyes told Naruto that she wouldn't back down from his suggestion of settling it in a training ground.
He turned to Konohamaru who is continuously tugging at his shirt in an attempt to get his attention. The scarfed kid nodded negatively and Naruto relented with a nod and walked off with Konohamaru and his gang in tow.
He was ready for the makeup boy to jump at his challenge and teach him a lesson. No one is going to hurt his cute little follower like that. But the girl is smart.
She observed the confrontation with a cool and calculated gaze. She noted the fire in Naruto's eyes, the conviction in his stance and acted when things are about to go out of control.
Temari got a victorious smirk. Something stirred within her as she saw the blonde defend the boy like that. She is sure the wind came from him when Gaara tried to kill them in Suna. 'This boy is different.' She thought of the sincerity in his words that resonated with her.
From a distance, shrouded in the shadows, Gaara's impassive eyes observed the entire encounter. Suna Shinobi are not swayed by trivial matters, he knew, but something about the boy from Konoha stood out.
Gaara's face is as stoic as ever, his thoughts guarded behind a mask of cold indifference. But within the depths of his mind, a flicker of curiosity is kindled. He remembered the blonde. He is the same one that agitated mother.
'Why did he intervene?' Gaara thought, his voice a soft murmur in the wind. 'Why risk a confrontation from someone strong for someone weak?' He didn't care if said kid is Hokage's son or grandson. If he wants to kill someone, he will kill them.
In Gaara's world, such concepts as friendship and loyalty have always been foreign. His own life has been a harsh, unrelenting struggle for survival, devoid of compassion or understanding. But here is a boy, not much older than himself, willing to face a stronger opponent for the sake of a weak kid.
Is it bravery? Foolishness? Or something else entirely?
Temari and Kankuro rejoined Gaara, their faces marked by the recent confrontation. Temari's eyes met Gaara's, a question in her gaze.
"He stood up to Kankuro," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of admiration.
Gaara's eyes narrowed slightly, his mind still grappling with the enigma that is Naruto Uzumaki. "Why?" his cold tone sent a shiver through his siblings' spines.
Temari shrugged, her expression thoughtful, trying to suppress her fear. "I think... he believes in something like protecting those he cares about." She slowly said.
"Do what's right?" Gaara's voice is a cold, emotionless whisper, the words foreign to his lips. "What does that even mean?" Understanding the underneath the underneath.
Temari looked at her younger brother, her eyes filled with a complex mixture of understanding and sorrow. She knew that Gaara's life had been devoid of warmth and compassion.
"It means standing up for others, Gaara," she finally said, her voice gentle. "Even when it's difficult. Especially when it's difficult."
Gaara's eyes lingered on the spot where Naruto and Konohamaru stood, a storm of conflicting emotions raging within him. He is the embodiment of fear and power, a weapon forged by his village. But this boy, this Naruto, seemed to represent something entirely different.
As they continued on their way, Gaara's mind remained fixed on the encounter. A seed has been planted, a question that would continue to gnaw at him as the days went by. In the eyes of Naruto Uzumaki, Gaara has glimpsed something unfamiliar, something that both intrigued and confused him.
The stage is set for a clash of ideals, a battle that will transcend mere physical conflict. The paths of Gaara and Naruto have crossed, and the wheels of destiny have begun to turn.
Their story is only just beginning.
Gaara's Mindscape
While on the outside, Gaara's mind is a whirlwind of emotion, something unsettling gnawing at his very core, inside his mindscape it's different.
It began as a whisper, a distant murmur that swelled into a roaring tide of fury. Shukaku, the one-tailed Tanuki, understood how Kyuubi was able to talk to him in Suna. It's that boy Naruto! Shukaku shook in primal rage.
"Naruto Uzumaki... Kyuubi's Jinchuuriki!" Shukaku's voice rumbled like thunder in Gaara's mind, filled with an anger that seemed to shake his very being.
Gaara's heart pounded, his thoughts consumed by the beast's rage. He closed his eyes, reaching inward, calling out to Shukaku, his voice calm but firm. "Mother, why are you angry?"
"The Kyuubi! That accursed nine-tailed fox got a Host and he showed off to me when he came to Suna. I want you to kill him!" Shukaku's voice is a tempest, his fury palpable.
Gaara's brows furrowed, his voice gentle but unyielding. "If Uzumaki is a jinchuuriki like me, then he is not our enemy. He has suffered, just like us, mother." Gaara reasoned.
"Suffered? Ha! He knows nothing of our pain! Of our isolation!" Shukaku's roar is almost deafening, a wild storm of resentment and anger.
Gaara's voice softened, tinged with a sadness that reached deep into his soul. "I've seen his eyes, Mother. They're filled with the same loneliness that I've known. We're not so different."
A heavy silence settled, the raging storm within Gaara's mind slowly subsiding. Shukaku's voice, though still filled with discontent, lost some of its ferocity.
"Watch him. Watch him closely. You'll learn the truth." Shukaku said in a growl and pushed Gaara out. Why can't the kid understand he needs to prove superior to the Kyuubi brat? Shukaku couldn't understand.
Gaara opened his eyes, the world coming back into focus. His siblings, Temari and Kankuro, watched him with concern, but he simply shook his head.
"We have important things to do," Gaara murmured, more to himself than to his siblings. 'Naruto Uzumaki, I will watch you.' he determined.
Team B
Perched on a rooftop with a clear view of the bustling streets below, Team B observed the vibrant activity of Konoha. Their eyes were particularly drawn to a colourful group that stood out among the crowd. Yugito Nii, their sensei, narrowed her eyes, focusing on the young ninja at the centre of the group, Uzumaki Naruto.
Omoi, ever thoughtful, leaned on his sword, chewing absently on a piece of straw. "That kid in the blue and greys sure stands out. He seems to have a way with people."
Karui, arms crossed, nodded, her eyes sharp. "He's got energy, I'll give him that. But what's he doing with the Sand Siblings? And why is that Temari girl looking so impressed?"
Yugito's gaze is unwavering, her mind working quickly. "There's more to that boy than meets the eye. His interaction with the Sand Siblings, especially with Gaara, is unusual. They're known to be cold and distant, yet they seem drawn to him."
Samui, the most composed of the team, added, "His confidence is remarkable. It's rare to see someone so young command the attention of those around him like that."
Omoi's expression grew more serious, his thoughts drifting. "Do you think we should be worried about him, Sensei? I mean, in the Chunin exams?"
Yugito considered the question, her eyes never leaving Naruto. "It's too soon to say. But he's worth keeping an eye on."
Karui huffed, a competitive glint in her eye. "Well, he won't be a match for us, no matter how impressive he seems now."
Samui's voice is calm, her words measured. "Underestimating an opponent is unwise. We should prepare for all possibilities."
Yugito finally turned to her team, her expression thoughtful. "You're both right. We shouldn't underestimate him, but we shouldn't fear him either. We are Team B; we'll face whatever comes our way."
The team nodded, unified in their resolve, their attention still drawn to the enigmatic boy in blue and grey and his intriguing interaction with the Sand Siblings.
As they continued to watch, Yugito's mind was filled with questions, her instincts telling her that Uzumaki Naruto is a puzzle, a mystery that held the potential to change the dynamics of the upcoming exams.
With a final glance, Team B retreated from their vantage point, their minds focused on their own preparations, yet still haunted by the captivating presence of the young ninja from Konoha.
As Team B moved away from their vantage point, a sense of restlessness stirred within Yugito. Something about the boy in blue and grey, Uzumaki Naruto, seemed to resonate with a deeper part of her. It is as if a connection has formed, unseen but palpable.
Upon reaching their temporary lodgings in Konoha, Yugito found a secluded spot and focused inward, seeking communion with Matatabi, the Two-Tails.
A deep, purring voice echoed in her mind, tinged with curiosity. "I sense something familiar in that boy, Yugi-chan. The chakra of the Nine-Tails, the Kyuubi. It's unmistakable."
Yugito's eyes widened, realization dawning. "So that's what it was. The Kyuubi's chakra... I felt something, but I couldn't place it."
Matatabi's voice rumbled thoughtfully. "He's an interesting one, that Naruto. The way he carries Kyuubi's power, it's different. Controlled, yet wild. Confident, but not arrogant. I'm sure he doesn't even know the way he is makes the Kyuubi proud." She mused.
Yugito pondered Matatabi's words, her mind whirling. "Could he be the Jinchuriki of the Kyuubi? That would explain the connection."
Matatabi seemed to nod within her mind, the sensation like a gentle brush of fur. "Indeed. But it's more than that, Yugi-chan. He's not burdened by it, not consumed. There's a balance, a harmony. He seems at peace as if he accepted that nothing changes even if he cries. It's fascinating."
A sense of pride welled up in Yugito, thinking of her own journey with Matatabi. "Could it be that he's found a way to coexist with the Kyuubi? To form a partnership rather than a struggle?"
Matatabi's voice is soft, almost reflective. "I can't imagine such a thing happening. It's Kyuubi we are talking about. The strongest and proudest of us all. There is a chance for Shukaku to form a bond, but not Kyuubi." The flaming cat said in sadness.
If only Kyuubi could see the merits of it like they did. Gyuuki and she tried to talk to the Nine-tails many times over the past century of his imprisonment but made no progress.
They agree that their brethren were mistreated over the millennia of their existence, but that doesn't mean they can shut off from the world and stick up to their old man's ideals. Even Son Goku relented and formed a partnership with his current Jinchūriki.
She tried making a connection to him when she sensed him around only to be brutally rejected. She then went to Shukaku, who was as miserable as ever, driving Gaara nuts with his maniacal thoughts. Disappointed, she returned to her Jinchuriki and in time as well, as the peachy-blonde-haired woman started thinking over the interactions of the day.
"Do you think he will join us if we approach him?" Yugito asked in uncertainty. The Jinchuriki are mistreated everywhere, no matter the land and place they live in.
"You can certainly try showing him your progress with my power." Matatabi agreed. Yugito shook negatively.
"I can't do that in Konoha. They will think Kumo is attacking them. I got enough work with taking care of B's team." She sighed. Not wanting to send his brother, Ay, the Raikage decided to send his second-best Jounin to lead the team.
Though a Jinchuriki, Yugito has enough control to escape any situation and get back to Kumo in case of any adverse situation and team B is almost Jounin with almost a year of experience under their belt.
Next Day
Chunin Exam Building
The sun is shining brightly over Konoha, casting a warm glow over the village as Team 7 made their way to the Chunin exam area. The streets are bustling with activity, filled with aspiring young shinobi and their senseis, all eager for the opportunity to prove themselves.
Naruto, the team's confident and mature de-facto leader, led the way, his cool-headed demeanour setting the tone for the journey. Sasuke, stoic and focused as ever, followed closely, while Sakura, bright and cheerful, brought up the rear.
They encountered various familiar faces along the way, each member of the rookie teams sharing nods and smiles, a result of the joint exercises they had all participated in. Developing a mutual respect for others.
"Look, there's Shino and his team," Sakura pointed out, spotting Team 8. "They seem really focused."
Naruto glanced in their direction, nodding. "Shino's always been a thinker. I bet he's already strategizing."
Sasuke's eyes narrowed, observing the other teams. "Don't underestimate anyone," he said, his voice firm. "This exam will bring out the best and worst in people."
Naruto agreed, his voice thoughtful. "Agreed. We've all trained together, but the exams will be different. Everyone's fighting for their future. I'm sure some deaths are inevitable." He said solemnly.
Sakura cringed at that while Sasuke got an unreadable expression. It's better than the shock or surprise that they used to get when Kakashi talked about death around them Naruto supposed.
As they continued on their way, they came across Team 10, with Choji munching on a bag of chips.
"Hey, Choji! Saving some snacks for the exam?" Naruto teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Choji grinned, patting his bag. "You bet! Gotta keep my energy up."
Shikamaru, lazily leaning against a wall, chimed in, "You guys look serious. This must be troublesome for you, Naruto."
Naruto's smile widened, his tone light. "Not at all, Shikamaru. We're ready for this."
Finally, they reached the Chunin exam area, the atmosphere thick with anticipation and excitement. Other teams are gathered, some chatting nervously, others focused and silent.
Kakashi, Team 7's sensei, handed them their numbers, his eyes crinkling in a smile. "Make sure you're ready for this. The Chunin exams are a big step."
"We're ready, Sensei," Naruto assured him, his voice firm and confident.
With their applications submitted, they took a moment to observe the room, taking in the faces of friends and rivals alike. It is a melting pot of talent and determination, all converging on a single goal.
Naruto turned to his teammates, his eyes filled with resolve. "This is our chance, guys. Let's show them what Team 7 is made of."
Sasuke's eyes met Naruto's, a spark of determination in them. "Hn."
Sakura's face is set, her voice filled with conviction. "We're in this together." With determined nods and a sense of purpose, Team 7 walked into the waiting area.
As the hustle and bustle of the Chunin exam waiting area grew, the rookies from Konoha found themselves clustered together, a sense of camaraderie emerging among them. They are the new generation, young and untested, aware that many will see them as the underdogs.
In the midst of the crowd, Naruto's eyes scanned the room, noting the experienced shinobi from other villages, their confidence radiating through the room. He turned to his fellow rookies, a determined gleam in his eyes.
"We're all in this together," he began, his voice carrying conviction. "They might see us as underdogs, but we know what we're capable of. What do you say we stick together during these exams?"
The idea resonated with others and a murmur of agreement spread through the group.
Shikamaru, ever the strategist, nodded thoughtfully. "Troublesome, but it makes sense. We know each other's strengths and weaknesses. We can watch each other's backs."
Kiba's grin is fierce as he pounded his fist into his palm. "Yeah! Let's show them that the rookies from Konoha aren't to be taken lightly!"
Hinata, shy and meek, added her voice. "If-if Naruto-kun suggests it, then we should." Though the first part went unheard, the last was heard and she got nods of acknowledgement from others.
Even Sasuke, often detached, seemed to agree. "It's a logical plan. We can use our knowledge of each other to our advantage." He is sure he will get many new Jutsu to copy and practise. He asked Guy's permission to use his Jutsu after he copied his moves and got an 'youthful' approval.
Though a proud Uchiha, Sasuke doesn't want to be compared to or come across as a grave robber who defiles the corpse of the dead or a Justu stealer. He is too focused to be called that.
"Though you can't avoid your fate, I suppose the idea has merit," Neji added and the group turned to him in surprise. He has an accepted look with his hands across his chest.
"Do you want me to defend my way of thinking?" he asked and at their intriguing looks, he sighed. "Who will win and who will lose is already decided. All this effort you put into sticking together doesn't change anything." He explained, not willing to explain further.
Though he got varied reactions, Naruto can be seen thinking about it. 'He is not wrong. It's a matter of determination and will. If someone's will is strong, they will endure the toughest of problems and stay strong till the end. But he is also wrong. By accepting, you are not fighting it, and taking what's you got and moving on.' Naruto mused.
For someone who fought through the thick and thin of life and still managed to win, Naruto believes in fighting for what you want even if it seems impossible and unrealistic. Maybe these exams won't be boring after all.
He went through many of the past Chunin Exams records and the first stage will be an exam, the second stage will be a survival test and the last stage will be a tournament with knockouts. He is sure it will be the same now.
Knowing about himself and his capabilities and recent progress, he is sure he can take on most of the aspirants in the room and emerge victorious, that is not counting the Kyuubi chakra he had in his necklace.
Being lost in his thoughts, Naruto didn't hear all the rookies' agreement or the approach of a certain bespectacled medical ninja.
Their senseis, observing from a distance, exchanged knowing glances. Asuma's smile is proud as he commented, "They're growing up. Learning to see the bigger picture."
Kurenai agreed, her eyes soft. "They understand that there's strength in numbers. It's a valuable lesson."
Kakashi gave an eye smile while Guy recreated his 'youthful hug' imagining Lee running from the other side. He cheered on how youthful the new batch is.
Waiting Room
The large doors to the exam arena swung open, and the Konoha rookies, still buoyed by their unified resolve, made their entrance. The chatter in the room momentarily hushed as heads turned to evaluate the newcomers.
Many eyes sized them up, some filled with curiosity, others with disdain. Whispers spread through the room, and it didn't take long for the word "underdogs" to reach the ears of the Konoha group.
"You can feel the tension in here," Shino observed, his voice calm but attentive.
Amid the crowd, a pair of glasses glinted, and Yakushi Kabuto made his way towards the rookies, a friendly smile on his face.
"Ah, the new generation from Konoha," he greeted, his voice dripping with faux warmth. "Welcome to the Chunin exams. My name's Kabuto and this will be my seventh time taking the exam."
Naruto's eyes narrowed slightly, but he maintained his cool composure. "Seventh time, huh? You must know a lot about how this works."
Kabuto is taken aback by the astute observation. Generally, when he shares it's his nth time, people take it as if he is weak and look down on him. This is interesting. Certainly interesting! Kabuto is excited now.
Kabuto's smile widened, his glasses glinting mysteriously. "Indeed, I've gathered quite a bit of information over the years." He pulled out a set of shinobi info cards, offering to share details about other participants.
Sasuke's eyes flicked to the cards, interest piqued, while Sakura seemed to recognize the danger hidden behind Kabuto's friendly façade.
Neji, however, openly scoffed. "Information or not, we're prepared for whatever comes our way."
Kabuto's smile never wavered, but there is a sharp glint in his eyes. "Confidence is good, but knowledge is power. Don't underestimate the importance of information."
Kabuto's smile continued to be plastered on his face as he examined each of the rookies' faces, his eyes pausing momentarily on Naruto. "You all seem rather special, even for Konoha's standards. Allow me to show you these," he said, extending his ninja info cards to the group.
Sasuke, his curiosity piqued, stepped closer. "What are those?"
"Information on various participants," Kabuto replied, flipping through the cards with practised ease. "I've gathered data over the years. It might help you to know your enemies."
Naruto, maintaining his cool demeanour, raised an eyebrow. "And why would you share that with us?"
"Consider it a gesture of goodwill," Kabuto answered, his voice smooth. "The exams can be quite brutal, and a little help never hurts anyone."
Ino, her arms crossed, said suspiciously, "Or maybe you're trying to mislead us."
Kabuto's smile twitched, but he kept his composure. "Why would I do that? It's in my interest to see strong shinobi rise through the ranks."
Shikamaru, yawning, drawled, "Sounds too troublesome to me. Information can be double-edged."
Kiba grinned, his canine-like teeth showing. "We're not scared of the competition. Bring it on!"
Hinata, although more reserved, added softly, "We trust in our abilities."
Kabuto's eyes flicked between them, and he finally shrugged, retracting the cards. "Suit yourselves. But remember, knowledge can be a powerful ally."
Lee, burning with enthusiasm, declared, "Our hard work and determination will be our allies!"
Kabuto chuckled. "I admire your spirit. Good luck to all of you. You'll need it."
As he turned away, Sasuke's voice stopped him. "Wait. Show me those cards."
Kabuto's smile returned, and he handed over the info cards. As Sasuke examined them, the others watched, their feelings mixed.
"You're playing right into his hands," Sakura warned, concerned in her eyes.
Sasuke's voice is cold. "I'm taking what's useful. That's all." Naruto didn't comment. He used his sharingan to see Kabuto's cards and though they have useful information, they have 2 sides. One with useful information, and the other with misleading information.
He gave Sasuke the correct info cards in the beginning maybe about some Samui girl or that make-up boy. But as the cards followed, the info was misleading. He is wrong about Gaara not having any Bloodline or even Haku using the Water style and Temari being weak at Taijutsu.
Naruto turned away, his interest in observing and analysing waning. He will prove himself in these exams and that's it. No one is going to stop him from being at the top.
Kabuto watched the interplay, his eyes sharp, before finally moving away, his mission accomplished.
The tension lingered after Kabuto's departure, his words and actions leaving a trail of uncertainty and intrigue.
"What was that all about?" Choji wondered, munching on a snack.
"He's playing a game," Naruto said, his eyes narrowed. "But we won't be his pawns."
The determination in his voice resonated with others, and they nodded, their unity rekindled.
As Kabuto finally moved away, leaving the rookies with a mixture of useful information and lingering unease, Shikamaru muttered, "That guy's more than he seems."
The rookies agreed, but they are undeterred. They have come prepared, and they are ready to face whatever lies ahead.
They took their places among the other participants, their eyes scanning the room, taking in the competition. The atmosphere is charged, the tension palpable, and the rookies know that the true test is about to begin.
Their unity, their determination, their shared experience—all of it will be put to the test in the coming days. But they are ready. They are Konoha's next generation, and they are here to prove their worth.
From a distance, many teams observed the rookie teams' interaction with Kabuto, some happy at their success at repelling him, some disappointed while the most unreadable of the whole ordeal. Team B and Team Suna are of the latter.
With the murmur of conversation filling the room and the energy of anticipation palpable, the entrance doors are suddenly thrust open. All eyes turned towards the disturbance as Ibiki Morino, his head nearly bald and marred with scars, strode into the room, flanked by a group of stern-looking proctors.
The atmosphere in the room shifted instantly. The chatter died down, replaced by an attentive silence that seemed to hang heavy in the air. Ibiki's presence commanded attention, his reputation as a master interrogator preceding him.
"Attention, participants!" Ibiki's voice boomed through the room, authoritative and unyielding. "Welcome to the first stage of the Chunin Exams."
His words are met with a mixture of excitement and apprehension from the assembled Genin. The Konoha rookies exchanged glances, their resolve strengthened by their shared experiences.
Ibiki continued, his tone never wavering. "The first stage is a written test. Your knowledge, intelligence, and decision-making will be assessed."
The room is filled with audible gasps and puzzled looks. A written test is unexpected, and confusion is written on many faces.
"But," Ibiki added, his eyes narrowing, "this is no ordinary test."
He paused, letting his words sink in, his gaze sweeping the room as if assessing each individual present. The tension in the room thickened, and even seasoned shinobi like Team B and the Sand Siblings felt a chill.
"Remember, if we catch anyone cheating, you fail. And if you fail, your entire team fails. You have one hour. Begin."
All the Genin scrambled to their seats as their seating order is revealed with a question paper thrust into their hands as they made their way to their seats.
As the Genin bent over their papers, their minds racing, Ibiki retreated to the back of the room, his eyes never leaving the participants. The real test has begun, not just of knowledge and skill but of character, loyalty, and cunning.
The room is filled with the sound of scratching pencils and nervous glances. The rookies, Team B, the Sand Siblings, and all the other teams are now pitted against each other in a battle of wits and stealth.
The Chunin Exams have truly begun, and the stakes are higher than any of them have imagined. After minutes of starting the exam, all of them are hit by a strong force of bloodlust - killing intent permeating through the room.
Surprised, many heads turned to the Proctors and saw all of them having bloodthirsty grins. "Didn't I say? If you pass out, you fail. Chunin are important on the battlefield and bloodlust is a common occurrence on any battlefield." Ibiki said, deeming it enough explanation.
Now this is an unexpected twist many didn't see coming as the first stage threw them a curveball, challenging not only their intelligence but their will, integrity and teamwork.
The test continues...
And Cut.
That's it for this Chapter folks.
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