Yo,
I'm back with the next chapter of Change in Winds. You can read the next chapter of the story on my patron page.
Link: pat - reon . Com / blackinfinity1289
Before we dive into our newest chap, there is one last thing:
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 somelove!
Link: discord . Gg / SPsSwAcq4b
Remove the spaces
As always, thank you for your continued love and support.
Enjoy.
Change in Winds
Chapter 16
Divergent Paths
Chunin Exam Hall
"Alright, kiddies. Brace yourselves for the next stage of the Chunin Exams. And trust me, it's going to be a ride you won't forget! Meet me in Training Ground 44 in 2 hours. If you are late, you are out." Her words were met with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. Seeing her part was done, Anko promptly vanished, throwing everyone into a panic to reach the said training ground.
Naruto knew what that training ground entailed but quietly followed his team out as a plan formed in his mind to ensure their safety and be victorious. He is going to show who Uzumaki Naruto truly is. He will make them regret looking down on him.
As the final moments of the first stage of the Chunin Exams wound down, the tension that had filled the room like a thick fog began to dissipate. Anko's ominous warning still echoed in the ears of the young shinobi as they processed the reality of what lay ahead.
The examination room, once filled with an almost unbearable pressure, now buzzed with a different energy. Teams gathered their belongings, their faces a mix of determination, anxiety, and in some cases, relief. The instructions were clear: they were to head to Training Ground 44, infamously known as the Forest of Death, and they have 2 hours.
Some teams, like Naruto's Team 7, lingered for a moment. Naruto's intention to plan is clear as day to his team. Seeing Team 7, other rookie teams waited for other teams to disperse.
Finding Naruto to the side, Haku walked to the blonde with a confident smile. "Glad to see you made it, Naruto-kun," she said as she approached the blonde. Naruto's face brightened seeing Haku with a small smile.
"Likewise, Haku. I can imagine Zabuza bitching his ass out if you failed for an 'inferior' killing intent." That made Haku chuckle, imagining it happening. Haku's teammates reached her, waiting for her to complete.
Noticing their tense looks, Haku bid her farewell. "Hope to see you in the finals, Naruto-kun. Be careful in the next stage." She said and with a shakehand, she left with her team. Naruto can see their wary look.
From his peripherals, he also saw the Kumo team glancing at him in interest before a busty lime-haired girl led them out. 'She certainly got the spunk.' Naruto mused. Sensing someone approach, he turned to the red-haired kid, the make-up boy and the sandy blonde girl from Suna approached him.
The red-haired boy stood a few feet away, his gaze fixed on Naruto in a silent challenge, which Naruto met without flinching. "I hate to see you dead before I get to fight you," the redhead stated coldly before turning away.
The boy with makeup looked down on Naruto with disdain. Though the most interesting 1 is the girl. She, on closer observation, looked good and a bit mature compared to the kunoichi Naruto saw till now. She gave him an unreadable look as if he is a mystery.
"What?" Naruto asked directly. Noticing he was talking to her, she straightened up, her curiosity shifting to a confrontational glare. "You can't bend me." She declared in a challenging tone. Naruto was perplexed by that.
His expression shifted from neutral to confused, trying to decipher her meaning. As if that's enough, she strode off with a 'hmph'. Naruto pondered her words briefly before dismissing them, turning his attention to his approaching teammates and the other rookies who began to gather around.
As other teams filed out, the corridors of the exam building became a hive of activity. Voices discussing strategies, expressing fears, or boasting of anticipated triumphs filled the air. The sense of urgency was palpable; even though some tried to mask it, the weight of what was to come hung heavily over them.
While in the spacious waiting hall, the rookie teams gathered. The air charged with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. They all understood the dangers that awaited them in the Forest of Death, but there is a sense of camaraderie among them, a silent agreement that, despite being competitors, they all are classmates and seen as the underdogs.
After the exchange of normal greetings, a tense silence filled the room, all of them expecting others to take the lead to break the silence.
Naruto stood among them tired of the silence, his eyes scanning the room with an intensity that spoke of his determination. Unlike his often brash and impulsive image, there is a calculating glint in his eye.
"We need to watch each other's backs out there, this time literally." Naruto began, his voice steady and confident. "This exam isn't just about individual strength. It's also about strategy, teamwork, and survival."
Everyone agreed and the meeting on the vein with Sasuke nodding in agreement, while Sakura and Ino emphasised the importance of smart engagement and mutual support. Shikamaru, despite his laziness, acknowledged the need for teamwork. Choji, Kiba, Hinata, Neji, Tenten, and Lee each added their thoughts, highlighting the importance of preparedness, belief in oneself and each other, and the power of youth.
Though not completely in agreement, everyone nodded in determination, promising to see each other in finals. With that part done, the teams dispersed, each going in their own way. There is a sense of unity among them. They are rivals in the exam, yes, but more than that, they are comrades, all born from the same village, most sharing the same aim: to become Chunin, while some want to prove their worth.
As the teams dispersed from the meeting hall, Team 7 moved with a shared sense of purpose. Naruto led the way, his usually focused and serious expression on his face.
"We should head to Training Ground 7," Naruto suggested his voice firm. "We know the area well, and it'll give us a chance to strategize without interruptions."
Sasuke and Sakura nodded in agreement, recognizing the insight in his suggestion. As they walked, the atmosphere among them is one of quiet determination. Naruto's steps are measured, his eyes scanning their surroundings with an alertness. There is nothing called too much caution.
As they reached their familiar training ground, Naruto turned to his teammates. "I have a feeling something big is going to happen soon. We need to be prepared for anything. Let's go over our formations, make sure we're sharp."
Sakura pulled out a scroll, jotting down notes as they discussed various strategies. Naruto's insights are sharp, and his suggestions are innovative yet practical. He proposed several formations, each designed to maximise their individual strengths while covering their weaknesses.
Sasuke silently observed the blonde and felt his respect for him go up a notch. It's more akin to admiration than just respect. "Naruto," he started, his tone betraying a hint of curiosity, "teach me the Shadow Clone Jutsu. It could be useful."
Naruto raised an eyebrow indicative of his thoughtful consideration as he poked Sasuke, a subtle way to gauge his chakra levels the blonde recently learned. After a brief assessment, he nodded approvingly. "Yeah, you've got enough chakra to handle making three clones, but don't push it. Stick to two at most for now," he advised, his voice carrying the weight of experience.
Sasuke listened intently as Naruto explained the mechanics behind the Shadow Clone Jutsu – the hand signs, the chakra control, the mental focus required. It is a complex technique, one that Naruto has mastered out of necessity and sheer determination.
"Remember, this jutsu is more than just creating copies. Each clone has a piece of you, your chakra, your thoughts. When they dispel…" Naruto stopped himself. Seeing this as a good opportunity to prank, he smiled at the Uchiha. "Understand it can get overwhelming. Be prepared for that, yeah." Naruto said mysteriously.
Sasuke nodded, absorbing the information with the keen focus he is known for. "I'll keep that in mind. Thanks." With a brief nod and a promise to meet back at the training ground, Sasuke left off to practise the jutsu, leaving Naruto and Sakura alone.
Thinking of what to do with the pink-haired kunoichi, Naruto got an idea. He rummaged through his pack and pulled out a small, intricately designed scroll. He handed it to Sakura, who took it with a mixture of curiosity and confusion.
"This is a chakra scroll," Naruto explained. "It has a Jounin level chakra stored. In the past months, your chakra reserves have grown to an average Chunin level. So that's a good amount." He explained.
Sakura turned the scroll over in her hands, her brows furrowed. "But why give it to me?"
Naruto's expression is sincere. "If you ever find yourself in a situation where you're low on chakra, especially when using medical ninjutsu or genjutsu, use this. It'll give you a significant boost. Think of it as a backup."
Sakura's eyes widened, a mix of gratitude and determination lighting up her face. "Thank you, Naruto. I'll use it wisely. And... I promise to do my best." She tucked the scroll carefully into her own pack.
As they wrapped up their meeting, Sakura left to grab some lunch, promising to meet Naruto back at the training ground on time. Naruto watched her leave, a proud smile on his face, glad to see how far his teammate had come.
He turned to the sun to check the time and seeing the celestial body straight above his head, he deduced its noon. He got one more hour. Though he can do many things, his expression changed to one of mild annoyance. He can sense the presence of others - the distinct, albeit faint, chakra signatures of Root Anbu.
How does he know they are from Root you ask? He can sense chakra using the wind and the same wind gives him a good enough mental image. One just needs to see their mask to say who they are and the 'ne' on them is as clear as day for the blonde. They are 3 in total. A full Anbu squad. It isn't the first time he felt them trailing him. 'Dumb moron, he didn't learn his lesson.' Naruto clicked his tongue.
He couldn't help but grin, thinking, 'Time for a little surprise.' With a burst of speed, he leapt towards the concealed location where one of the Anbu was lurking. Just as the Anbu was about to react, bewildered by the blonde's lightning-fast manoeuvre, he vanished into a puff of smoke. The sudden disappearance sent the Anbu operatives into a frenzy.
They knew they couldn't afford to lose him. Danzo-sama's wrath is not something they wished to face. However mindless they are. It is then that a realisation struck them - his destination is the Forest of Death. With a silent agreement, they made their way there, determined to lie in wait.
Uzumaki Estate
In the secluded expanse of the Uzumaki Estate, just outside Konoha, Naruto stood in deep concentration. Before him lay a series of marked kunai, arranged in a specific pattern, each a beacon for his ambitious attempt at using the Hiraishin technique, a jutsu his father was famed for. This is his first real attempt at teleportation using the technique with kunai, a feat that demanded precision and immense control of chakra.
Just as he is about to initiate the jutsu, a sudden influx of memories and sensations flooded into him, the experiences of his recently dispelled clone. He paused, closing his eyes to process the information.
The memories cascaded through his mind: the tension-filled atmosphere of the Chunin Exams' first stage, the strategies discussed with his teammates, teaching Sasuke the Shadow Clone Jutsu, the moment he handed Sakura the chakra scroll, and finally, the subtle but unmistakable presence of Root Anbu tailing him.
With each memory, Naruto's understanding of the day's events deepened. He reflected on the significant progress his team has made in just few months and the ever-looming spectre of Danzo's Root operatives. It is a lot to take in but Naruto did it like a pro, going through everything in a few seconds in real time.
The more he used Shadow Clones, the faster he could process all the memories of the clones. Opening his eyes, Naruto's resolve hardened. The surveillance by Root could mean several things, none of them particularly reassuring.
It's been some time since the original was last with his team. His recent days had been a whirlwind of activity, a testament to his growth. Since his last mission in Suna, Naruto threw himself to further his training, as he didn't want to solely depend on Wind as his main tool.
He started to improve his bond with Mayuri, she had become a crucial part of his routine. The sessions were gruelling, pushing him to the limits of his physical and mental endurance. Mayuri is not just a weapon but a legacy, a reminder of the weight of history he carried. Their training focused on fluidity, precision, and integrating his Wind and water chakra into his sword techniques, making each strike not just powerful but also versatile.
He found Mayuri is more attuned to Water than Wind as expected from the Uzumaki clan as they lived on the coast. Adding his water chakra to her felt like uniting with a long-lost partner for Naruto, as if they are understanding each other at a deeper level. The feeling is certainly mutual if the thrums of excitement and joy he felt from her are any indication.
She often acts like a spoiled kid, demanding more of his chakra as if having it mean the world to her. Naruto didn't know where the chakra is going as the seals carved into her are more advanced than any he encountered even for an Uzumaki and he often wondered as if she is making up for the lonely years she spent in the ruins of Uzushio.
As if she is apologizing for not being ready or being at his side in his earlier years, for leaving him alone and the sentiment touched Naruto. He gently caressed the blade as his water chakra poured into her. One more surprising thing he noted is she doesn't cut him. However much he tries to cut himself, she refuses to cut him. Every time he tried, she refused.
With a chuckle, he revised to other things he focusing on - perfecting the Rasenshuriken, a jutsu Naruto had developed and refined over time based on Rasengan following his father's words to add elements to Rasengan. He practised tirelessly, aiming to reduce the chakra consumption, damage its causing his body and increase its accuracy. Each throw was a dance of chakra manipulation, a balance between power and control. His Uzumaki vitality proved itself, healing his hand as fast as it got injured. He can confidently say his hand hardened over the past weeks due to the constant damage and healing.
And he also managed to create 3 variations of the Jutsu. Each made of different elements. That's his proudest creation so far after his bond with Mayuri deepened and the sword responding to his calls to unleash devastation.
Next is his dive into Hyoton (Ice Style). He experimented with different forms, from defensive barriers to razor-sharp projectiles, each new creation a step forward in his mastery of this rare ability.
But it was the Hiraishin technique that demanded most of his attention. The jutsu was complex, involving not just speed but the instantaneous calculation of distance and trajectory. Naruto's natural talent for improvisation played a key role in adapting the technique to his unique fighting style.
The thought of surprising his opponents and spooking them like the Kiiroi Senkō tickled Naruto in the right spots and he pushed through all the obstacles that came in the way.
Not to brag but he also added the sealing formula he found on Uzushio labyrinth to the Estate, making it his teleportable house with high Kage-level chakra. Naruto didn't try it, obviously. It's foolish to even try it just outside the village.
Amidst his rigorous training schedule, Naruto also visited Nami, his new territory. Following the formation of the council, he began training the youth in shinobi arts and sent 1 team to the Chunin exams and the clone saw them pass the first stage.
There are barely 20 people who are able and willing to follow him and the 3 he sent here are the best. He didn't send them to advertise as a shinobi village. He wanted to let the world know even Carpenters can be strong under the right guidance and as he is already famous as the Chairman of Nami Shipping and Construction, he just wanted to show the world he got good people as well.
He also managed to push the nation out of hunger and poverty as well with average citizens making as much as an average Genin and that's a lot for civilian folk. Shaking himself, Naruto turned to the kunai in hand.
Since he got a literal armoury waiting for use, he added a few kunai with the Hiraishin Jutsu Shiki. He sighed in exhaustion. His adaptation of the Hiraishin is a unique twist on his father's legendary usage and the Nidaime's jutsu. Unlike Namikaze Minato, who could pinpoint his teleportation to specially marked kunai, Naruto required something more substantial as a beacon for his version of the technique - specifically, his shadow clones. He blamed it on his ultra-large chakra reserves.
He had to turn the Scroll of seals upside down to find that as he was stuck when it came to the right beacon. Senju Tobirama is definitely a wild man with weird taste in Jutsu as the jutsu he made got darker as he aged. There is 1 that can suck chakra out of enemies as painfully as it could and another that can defile graves and bring back the dead as a slave as if to torment them even more.
Naruto looked around tiredly. Since becoming the Uzukage, his chakra isn't under his control however many blood and shadow clones he made, it felt like he still has so much more to spare. Though his other techniques compensated for that. Especially his version of Hiraishin and Mayuri.
Seeing the problem, Naruto made all his clones carry the Hiraishin jutsu shiki in their pouches to give someone if need be, which allowed Naruto to instantly teleport to their location for the most part. This modification of the jutsu is both a testament to Naruto's innovative spirit and an acknowledgement of the limitations he faced in mastering the original technique.
As Naruto stood beside his clone thinking, the clone looked at him expectantly. It is one of the many advantages of his shadow clones – they were extensions of himself, sharing his thoughts and intentions up to the moment of their creation.
"What's the plan, boss?" the clone asked, already knowing the original Naruto would have a strategy in mind.
Naruto took a moment to survey the area, his mind racing through various scenarios as he looked at his clones. His gut is telling him sending clones won't suffice for the 2nd stage of the exams. Not to mention that mummy Danzo's Root. "I'll handle this one," he finally said, his voice strong. "You guys keep up with the training. We can't afford to lose any time."
The clones nodded, a mirror image of Naruto's resolve, and turned back to their duty, leaving the original to prepare for what lay ahead.
Naruto knew he needed to be fully equipped for the task. He returned to his estate, moving with purpose. In the armoury, he carefully stocked his ninja pouch with kunai and shuriken, each weapon meticulously placed for easy access.
Unlike his father, who relied heavily on kunai, especially those marked for the Hiraishin, Naruto had always preferred a more varied arsenal. It is a habit born from his unpredictable combat style, one that adapted to the situation at hand.
Next, he turned his attention to Mayuri. Normally, he would seal Mayuri into a scroll for convenience, but today, he felt the need to have her at his side, ready for immediate use. He strapped her sheath across his back, the weight of the blade a familiar and comforting presence. Mayuri is more than just a weapon; she is a symbol of his resolve, a constant reminder of the path he had chosen as a shinobi, and a reminder of the sacrifice his brethren made.
As he equipped himself, Naruto ran through potential strategies in his mind. The upcoming task is not just another mission; it is a test of his abilities, his growth as a shinobi, and his readiness for the unforeseen challenges of the Chunin Exams.
Once fully prepared, Naruto took a deep breath, centring himself. His cerulean eyes reflected a calm that belied the storm of thoughts and plans swirling within. He stepped out of the armoury, his movements fluid and confident.
Naruto decided to grab a quick lunch at his favourite spot, Ichiraku Ramen. The familiar scent of the broth and the warmth of the small, cosy establishment are a welcome contrast to the intensity of the morning.
As he walked in, the familiar jingle of the bell rang through the shop. Ayame greeted him with a smile. "Naruto-Kun! Haven't seen you in a while. The usual?"
"Yeah, the usual sounds great, Ayame-neesan," Naruto replied, sliding into a seat at the counter. He placed Mayuri carefully against the counter, ensuring she is within reach but out of the way.
Teuchi looked up from his pot of boiling broth. His face brightened as his gaze fell on Naruto. "Naruto, you look like you're gearing up for something big. And is that a sword?" he asked, his closed eyes lingering on Mayuri.
Naruto chuckled, picking up a pair of chopsticks. "Yeah, I've qualified for the second stage of the Chunin Exams today. Just getting some good food in me before it starts. And this," he patted Mayuri, "is my sword, Mayuri. I've been training with her lately." he said affectionately.
Ayame served him a steaming bowl of ramen, her curiosity evident. "A sword, huh? That's new. You're always full of surprises, Naruto-kun." she said with a wink. Naruto gave her a small smile as he dug in with a small 'itadakimas'.
As Naruto began to eat, the conversation flowed easily. He talked about his recent training, carefully omitting sensitive details, and his hopes for the exams. Teuchi and Ayame listened, offering words of encouragement and the occasional teasing remark about his voracious appetite.
The atmosphere in Ichiraku is a comfortable bubble away from the pressures of the shinobi world. Here, Naruto isn't the Jinchuriki or a shinobi who had fought in numerous battles; he is just a regular, albeit somewhat notorious, patron who loved ramen.
Finishing his large meal with a satisfied sigh, Naruto thanked Ayame and Teuchi for the food and company. He stood, slinging Mayuri back over his shoulder. "Thanks for the meal! It's always great coming here. I'll tell you all about the exams once they're over."
Teuchi waved him off with a smile. "Go show them what you're made of, Naruto. We're rooting for you!"
Stepping out of Ichiraku, Naruto felt a renewed sense of energy. The comfort of the ramen shop and the support of its owners reminded him of the small, everyday joys of his life in Konoha. With a determined stride, he headed back towards the Forest of Death, ready to face whatever the Chunin Exams would throw at him.
Entrance
Forest of Death
The Forest of Death loomed ominously, its towering trees casting long, foreboding shadows. The air is thick with tension as the genin teams gathered at the entrance, the quiet only broken by occasional whispers and the rustling of leaves.
Anko, leaning casually against a tree, began counting the teams as they arrived. Her eyes darted from one team to the next, tallying them up. The deadline is drawing near, and every team is aware of the ticking clock.
As the last seconds dwindled, two teams rushed into the clearing, out of breath and clearly having sprinted to make it in time. But Anko, ever the stickler for punctuality, ignored their late arrival, continuing her count without acknowledging them.
She stood upright, her eyes sweeping over the assembled genin. "Alright! Line up! Three-man teams, side by side. No dawdling."
The genin hurriedly formed lines, each team standing shoulder to shoulder, the anticipation palpable.
Naruto arrived at the training ground precisely at 1 pm, his timing impeccable despite the myriad tasks he had attended to earlier. The training ground is a scene of disciplined readiness, with all the teams lined up with their respective members.
As Naruto approached, he noticed Team 7's spot and shunshined to join Sasuke and Sakura. His teammates gave him a nod, acknowledging his arrival. They are used to Naruto's tendencies to be just on time, a habit that belied his otherwise meticulous nature when it came to matters of importance.
Anko, overseeing the assembly with her usual flamboyant demeanour, caught sight of Naruto the moment he entered the clearing. Her interest piqued by his subtle shunshin. She smirked, seeing an opportunity to make a point. In a swift, fluid motion characteristic of her unpredictability, she flung a kunai directly at Naruto.
The kunai spun through the air, aimed precisely to nick him – a test, a provocation. Without missing a beat, Naruto tilted his head slightly, allowing the kunai to whisk past him, mere inches from his skin. His reaction is calm, almost nonchalant, a testament to his heightened awareness and reflexes.
Anko, her smirk widening, sauntered over to Naruto. She pressed up close to him, her face inches from his, her expression playfully menacing. "Always just in time, huh, blondie?" she teased, her voice a mix of mock annoyance and amusement. "Remember, in the real world, a second can mean the difference between life and death. Don't push your luck."
Naruto met her gaze, unflinching, a slight smile playing on his lips. "Understood, Proctor-san. I'll keep that in mind," he replied, his voice steady and respectful.
Anko held his gaze for a moment longer as if trying to discern the thoughts behind his calm exterior. Then, with a laugh, she stepped back, returning to her position in front of the teams.
"Alright, everyone, let's get this show on the road!" Anko announced, her voice loud and clear. "Prepare yourselves for the second phase of the Chunin Exams. It's going to be a wild ride!"
Walking down the line, Anko counted aloud, "One... two... three..." She continued until she reached the end, stopping and turning to face them all. "Fifteen teams. Not bad." Her eyes then darted to the two late teams, giving them a pointed look. "As for the latecomers, remember, punctuality can mean the difference between life and death in a mission. Consider this a lesson."
There is a murmur among the teams, some casting sympathetic glances at the tardy genin, while others exchanged relieved looks, glad they'd made it on time.
"Now that we're all here," Anko continued, her voice dripping with mischief, "let's dive into the details of this phase of the exam." She grinned wickedly, excitement evident in her eyes. "Hope you're all ready for some fun!"
Anko stepped forward, her piercing eyes studying each team with a mix of amusement and curiosity. "Now, pay close attention, kiddos, because I'm only going to explain this once." She drew a scroll from her belt, unfurling it to reveal a map of the Forest of Death.
Her gaze swept over the young shinobi, each bristling with a mix of nervous energy and determination. "The next stage is the Forest of Death," she continued, her tone taking on a more serious edge. "It's a survival test, and I mean survival in the most literal sense."
"This is your playground for the next three days." She pointed to the large tower depicted in the centre of the map. "Your primary objective is to reach this tower within the given time frame."
She then held up two types of scrolls, one with a sun emblem and the other with a moon. "Each team will be given one of these scrolls. Your secondary objective is to obtain the other scroll, which means you'll need to either negotiate or fight other teams for it. But remember, you can't enter the tower unless you have both."
The tension among the genin grew. This wouldn't be an easy task.
"Now, here's the twist," Anko continued, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Within the forest, there's a... let's call it a 'shortcut'. Pass that particular obstacle, and you'll find yourself right at the tower. But trust me, it's not as simple as it sounds."
Whispers erupted among the teams, speculations about what this 'obstacle' might be.
As Anko is about to continue, a rustling sound caught her attention. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted a Kusa genin trying to stealthily approach, trying to distract Anko from her joining the line of genin. Without a moment's hesitation, Anko threw a kunai in the intruder's direction. The kunai whizzed through the air, embedding itself in a tree trunk just inches from the genin's face, effectively halting her advance.
Anko didn't miss a beat. "Next time, try not to interrupt." She smirked, clearly unfazed by the sudden attempt. The Kusa genin gulped, clearly understanding the warning and joined the lines, making all the 18 teams that passed the 1st stage.
A hush fell over the group. Everyone took in the audacity of the genin while some thought of the scary Forest in front of them. After all, it had a reputation that preceded it – a vast, dangerous area where the line between a training exercise and real combat blurred dangerously.
"In this stage, anything goes. You'll be fighting for your lives out there, facing not just each other but whatever else calls the forest home in addition to the lil surprises we have in store. And trust me, they're not all friendly."
Anko held up a stack of papers, each one a waiver. "Before you get your scroll and enter the forest, you and your team need to sign one of these. It's a no-objection waiver stating that Konoha is not responsible for what happens to you there. In other words, you're acknowledging the risks, including the risk of... Death." many winced at that.
Murmurs and uneasy glances rippled through the teams. The reality of what they are about to undertake settling in, the excitement mingling with a healthy dose of fear.
"If you're having second thoughts, now's the time to back out. No one will think any less of you. For those brave or crazy enough to go on, come up here, sign the waiver, and get your scroll."
One by one, the teams approached, a resolve set in their eyes. They are young, trained to face danger head-on by their respective villages. As they signed the waivers, there is a sense of solemnity, a recognition of the seriousness of the challenge ahead.
Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura stepped forward together when it was Team 7's turn. Naruto's signature is bold and unwavering, a reflection of his unyielding spirit. Sasuke's is precise and deliberate, mirroring his calculated approach to everything he did. Sakura's hand trembled slightly, but her signature is firm, a testament to her growth and determination.
Anko handed them their scroll. "Remember, your objective is to survive and reach the tower in the centre of the forest in 3 days. And, of course, to get the other scroll you need to enter the tower."
With their Sun scroll in hand, Team 7 stepped into the lines, joining the other teams who are now preparing to enter the Forest of Death.
As Anko watched them, her expression is a mix of pride and concern. They are Konoha's future, young lives about to be tested in the crucible of the Forest of Death. "Good luck, kids," she whispered, though her words were lost in the wind. "You're going to need it."
As the teams milled around, preparing for the imminent challenge, Naruto's gaze, sharp and calculating scanned the crowd, searching for an easy target.
His eyes roved over the various teams, noting their compositions, their body language, and the subtle cues that revealed their mental states. It is then he noticed a team from Amegakure – three ninjas who carried themselves with a brash arrogance that didn't sit well with him. They pushed past other teams with a dismissive air, their loud voices boasting of their strength and how they planned to dominate the competition.
Naruto watched them closely as they strutted towards the tent to receive their scroll. Activating his Sharingan, he focused on them, his eyes picking up the minute details that others would miss. As the Ame team received their scroll and briefly turned around to check which one it is, Naruto caught a glimpse of the symbol – a moon.
With the knowledge of their scroll type, a plan began to form in Naruto's mind. He knew that obtaining both a Sun and Moon scroll is essential to completing this. Targeting this particular team, especially given their overconfidence and bullying demeanour, seemed like an efficient strategy.
He turned to share his observations about the Ame team with Sasuke and Sakura. However, the sight of his teammates halted him mid-sentence. Both Sasuke and Sakura looked exceptionally tense, their eyes scanning the surroundings with heightened vigilance. It is a stark reminder of the seriousness of the challenge they are about to undertake.
Sasuke's usual calm demeanour is replaced with a sharp alertness, his hand subconsciously resting on his weapon pouch. Sakura, often the more outwardly nervous of the trio, had a determination set, her fists clenched as if ready for immediate action.
Naruto recognized this tension. It isn't just about the Forest of Death or the exam; it is about the unknown dangers that could be lurking anywhere around them. He decided to hold off on sharing the news about the Ame team. First, they needed to acclimatise to their environment and establish a sense of security. He will tell them once he succeeds.
Naruto took a moment to adjust his equipment. He checked his kunai pouch, ensuring that each weapon is easily accessible. He then shifted Mayuri on his back, finding a comfortable position that allowed for quick drawing of the sword if needed. He felt the familiar weight of the blade, a reassuring presence that grounded him. They knew it, it's about to begin.
With all 18 teams having bravely decided to proceed, the atmosphere around the starting area of the Forest of Death is electric with tension and anticipation. It is a rare occurrence for none of the teams to quit at this stage, a testament to the determination and strength of this particular group of Genin.
Anko stood in front of the massive gates that served as one of the official entries into the notorious Forest of Death. Her expression is a blend of excitement and seriousness, reflecting the gravity of what is about to commence.
"Alright, listen up!" Anko's voice cut through the murmurs and whispers of the gathered teams. "This is your last chance to back out. Once these gates open, you're in it until you either pass, wait for 3 days or die."
She paused, letting her gaze sweep over the young shinobi. Despite her warning, there is a resolute look in the eyes of each team. They didn't flinch or look scared at the mention of death. Good. They are ready.
"You can move to your designated entrance." She instructed and everyone shuffled to get to their designated entrance.
With a theatrical flourish that is quintessentially Anko, she declared, "This is it, kiddos! You have 3 days to reach the tower. The deadline is 2 pm." She reminded them. Giving dramatic pause, she continued, "The second stage of the Chunin Exams in the Forest of Death begins... NOW!"
She slammed her hand down on a large lever beside her. With a heavy groan of metal, the enormous gates began to slowly swing open, revealing the dense, foreboding forest that lay beyond. The air is immediately filled with the sounds of the forest – the distant calls of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the eerie howls of creatures hidden within its depths.
"Your time starts now! Get in there and show us what you've got!" Anko shouted, a wicked grin on her face.
Without hesitation, the teams surged forward, each disappearing into the thick foliage from their chosen gate. Team 7, led by Naruto, moved with practised efficiency, their earlier strategizing now coming into play. They entered the forest with a clear plan, Naruto targeting the Ame team with the moon scroll.
As the last of the teams vanished into the forest, the gates began to close with a finality that echoed ominously. The second stage of the Chunin Exams had officially begun.
Anko watched the gates close completely, her expression turning serious. "Good luck, brats," she muttered under her breath, though there is a hint of genuine concern in her tone. She knew better than most the dangers that lurked within the forest – dangers that these young shinobi are now facing head-on.
Meanwhile
As the genin teams delved deeper into the Forest of Death, unaware of the myriad eyes watching them, a particular pair of sinister, golden serpentine eyes opened with a predatory gleam deep within the underbrush. Hidden beneath the earth's surface, a figure emerged slowly, deliberately like a snake shedding its skin, his pale skin reflecting the sunlight as he slowly ejected himself.
'Kukukukuku. So it starts,' Orochimaru thought, The damp earth shifting and falling away as he slithered out from his concealment. His long, dark hair melded with the shadows of the forest, and his face a mask of eerie calm. As he stood upright, his eyes scanned the dense foliage, locking onto a nearby Genin team from Kusagakure he could sense.
Orochimaru's mind is a whirlwind of sinister thoughts and plans. He has been biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to set his plan into motion. The 2nd stage provided a ripe opportunity, a gathering of fresh, young talent ripe for the picking.
'These naive children have no idea what horrors await them,' he mused internally, a cruel smile playing on his lips. 'They are mere pawns. Kukukuku.'
His gaze lingered on the Kusa team. They are moving cautiously, clearly aware of the dangers but utterly oblivious to the true predator now stalking them. Orochimaru's interest is not in their scrolls or their success in the exams; they are merely the first step in a much larger, more sinister plot.
As he slithered closer, blending seamlessly with the environment, Orochimaru's mind is already on his next move. He knew the importance of stealth and surprise in this initial encounter. The fear and chaos he intended to sow would serve as a delicious appetiser to the main course of his plan.
His target was not just the genin before him but a much more valuable prize – one he had been seeking for some time. And he is willing to go to any lengths to obtain it.
'I'm coming for you…' he thought in glee as he imagined his plan in action.
And Cut.
That's it for this Chapter, folks. Hope you all liked it. Tell me what you think of the chapter and story in general.
This chapter is a result of the weekly poll I make on my discord server. If you want the updates to continue, join my discord server to vote in the poll. I'll also make a monthly poll to see which story is most liked to work on next month. So you can vote in the as well in addition to talking to me dorectly about the story.
Link: discord . Gg / SPsSwAcq4b
Remove the spaces.
Any suggestions are welcomed.
See y'all in the next chapter.
Black Infinity 1289,
Ja Ne.