Chapter 15: Foreigners | Chunin Exams Begins: Stage I
Training Ground 3: Shortly before dawn
Naruto, Sasuke and Hinata sat on the grass beside the wood stumps. It was early in the morning. The sky was still dark. Tenzo-sensei had told them to wait for his substitute there. They arrived sooner than they were supposed to. The recent events concerned them greatly, and they needed to discuss what they knew – Things might be worse than we thought – Sasuke said with a stern look on his face. Naruto had a similar expression, and Hinata seemed worried – what do you think is happening, Naruto? Did Yondaime-sama say anything? – Sasuke asked. Naruto shook his head – I've never seen Mom so worried. Dad always keeps his cool, so it is hard to know what his thoughts are – Sasuke gritted his teeth – It must be something really serious if he sent away so many strong people on a mission. It is not a coincidence that my father and brother, Shisui-san, Hiashi-sama, Tenzo-sensei, Mukai-san and Jiraiya-sama, left the village at the same time. Who knows who else was sent on this mission, but I can't imagine a mission needing three of the six pillars of Konoha – Sasuke pointed out as he stared at the river. Naruto was perturbed when Hinata and Sasuke told him about their fathers going on a mission. He then found out Ero-sennin had left the village the day after they returned from the Land of Waves – My father increased the security of the Hyuga Compound before leaving. He also told me, and Neji nii-san, to be extremely careful with the genins from Kumo during the Chunin Exams and ordered my grandfather never to leave Hanabi-chan's side – Hinata bit her thumb – What the heck is going on? Why do the adults not say anything? – Naruto shouted as he stood up and hit one of the wood stumps. To his surprise, a cloud of smoke appeared right after that, making Hinata and Sasuke stand up, too. Naruto heard a familiar voice coming from the cloud of smoke – You three shouldn't bother trying to understand these complicated things. It's just a lot of boring stuff that comes with politics, and trust me, there is nothing more boring than politics – the man who stood atop the middle stump had spiky silver hair, dark eyes, and a relaxed and lazy expression. He wore Konoha's standard infantry clothing, fingerless gloves with metal plates on the backhand, and a mask covering most of his face. He wore his forehead protector balanced above his forehead. He had a vertical scar across his left eye. Naruto smiled broadly when he saw him.
Note: In chapter 8, I stated that six people are known as the Pillars of Konoha: Minato, Fugaku, Hiashi, Jiraiya, Tsunade and Hiruzen. Team 7 doesn't know Jiraiya didn't go with Fugaku and Hiashi on the same mission. They just know he also left the village. As for why Kakashi is showing both of his eyes and no Sharingan is visible, here is a flashback. I intentionally made sure never to describe Kakashi's appearance since chapter 7 because it was too early to reveal the reason behind his normal eyes.
Flashback: ROOT Headquarters, a few months after Fugaku took over the ROOT (12 years ago).
Fugaku sat on the floor of a vast room within the ROOT underground headquarters. He spent most of his time here instead of at the military police HQ or his new office in the Hokage Tower as a counselor. He needed to bring order to the ROOT and ensure its members were loyal to Konoha, not Danzo. He'd have a rough path ahead for several months or years to gain ROOT's trust and loyalty. Many of his clan members had joined the ROOT recently to support him. He had decided it was time to train a team, but not a genin team from the academy; he would train an elite team. He had taken under his tutelage his former sensei's grandson, Shisui Uchiha, the blind Yamanaka boy from the ROOT, Kessho, and for his third disciple, Minato had asked him to take Kakashi, a student of his and the son of the legendary White Fang. Kakashi had a Sharingan, a gift from his teammate, Obito, before dying. Kakashi was a prodigy and was talented with his Sharingan, but Minato thought that training under Fugaku would increase Kakashi's potential with his Sharingan.
Fugaku sighed. He was upset. Kakashi should've arrived 15 minutes ago. He hated impunctuality. It took five more minutes before the young ANBU appeared in the room. He wore his regular ANBU suit and mask. He kneeled before Fugaku. The floor where Fugaku sat was elevated compared to the rest of the room's floor – Yondaime-sama said you wanted to see me, Fugaku-sama – Kakashi said and noticed Fugaku frowned – I expected Sakumo's son to be more reliable – Fugaku said coldly. Kakashi stayed silent – I'll go straight to the point, Kakashi. From now on, you'll train with me. Shisui Uchiha and Kessho Yamanaka will be your teammates. I'll introduce them to you later – this took Kakashi by surprise. Minato-sensei didn't mention anything about it. Fugaku noticed Kakashi's surprise – Yondaime-sama believes I can help you train your Sharingan. He also asked for a specific favor – Fugaku stood up and walked toward Kakashi – Stand up and show me your Sharingan – said Fugaku. The young ANBU stood up and lifted his headband to reveal the crimson eye. Fugaku stared at him – I waited years for you to come for help. But you're too proud to ask for help, aren't you? I always assumed the way Obito spoke of you was because he was jealous of you. I guess he wasn't entirely wrong – Kakashi gulped at the mention of his former teammate – You think too highly of yourself, Kakashi – Fugaku continued. Kakashi frowned – I don't know what you mean, Fugaku-sama – Fugaku chuckled – Obito used to say you looked down on everyone else in your class, and you thought yourself superior – Kakashi started sweating. He was indeed a jerk back then. Remembering how badly he treated Obito, Guy, and many others during that time made him feel sick. He had lived using Obito's words as his life motto after his friend's death – You are talented. I can't deny that. However, are you seriously so arrogant to think that you can unlock all the Sharingan potential by yourself? You never came to us for guidance or help – Fugaku said with contempt. Kakashi didn't know what to say. Minato-sensei had recommended him to ask Fugaku's help with his Sharingan shortly after he got it. Obito's Sharingan drained much of his chakra since he couldn't deactivate it. He had accidentally discovered that keeping it in the dark prevented it from draining as much chakra as it would normally do. Kakashi had refused to ask the Uchiha Clan for help. Having Obito's Sharingan drain his chakra was a way of penance for him. He didn't deserve it and only used it when necessary. Kakashi stayed silent before Fugaku's words. Fugaku sighed. Minato had ensured him that Kakashi had changed since Obito's death – You must've done something good for Obito to give you his Sharingan – said Fugaku as he sighed. Obito hadn't shown the same talent as his father, Fugaku's best friend. However, Fugaku lamented Obito's early passing. Obito's parents had died not long after Obito. Fugaku stared at Kakashi. He would honor Obito's will and help Kakashi, even though he didn't like the Hatake boy.
Fugaku stood before Kakashi, facing him – I will help you learn how to deactivate your Sharingan and activate it at will – said Fugaku as he crossed his arms. Kakashi was taken aback – With all due respect, Fugaku-sama, I don't think that's possible – Kakashi said monotonously. Fugaku frowned again – Do you think you know more about the Sharingan than I do? – Fugaku's chakra burst. Kakashi knew he had messed up – Of course not, Fugaku-sama. My apologies – Kakashi said as he made a small reverence. Fugaku sighed – You received Obito's eye with his Sharingan activated. Your brain never registered the feeling of the Sharingan awakening. I will use my Sharingan to plant a genjutsu in you. I'll engrave in your brain my memory of my awakening. That should help you activate and deactivate your Sharingan at will – Fugaku explained. Kakashi seemed to ponder the idea – What if my Sharingan reacts on its own to block your genjutsu? – Kakashi asked. He knew this would bother Fugaku, but he didn't want the Uchiha Clan leader trapping him in a genjutsu. Fugaku was truly upset – You seriously think your Sharingan is stronger than mine, huh? You do have a huge ego, Kakashi – said Fugaku and before Kakashi could say anything, he activated his Sharingans and trapped the young boy in a genjutsu. However, to Fugaku's surprise, Kakashi seemed to fight it. Fugaku burst his chakra, but Kakashi's instincts kicked in, and his Sharingan reacted to his feelings. The three tomoes merged and formed into three triangles, wrapping themselves around the pupil. Kakashi and Fugaku stepped back at the same time. Kakashi covered his eye. Fugaku was shocked – This can't be! You have awakened the Mangekyo Sharingan! How was that possible? – Fugaku couldn't believe what he saw. Kakashi started breathing heavily. Fugaku's genjutsu was stronger than any genjutsu he had ever seen or performed. He was in problems. He had kept his Mangekyo Sharingan hidden; not even Minato-sensei knew about it. He was ashamed of it. He acquired it after Rin's death. He was sweating – I'm sorry, Fugaku-sama. I must leave – Kakashi said, gasping. Before he could disappear, Fugaku grabbed his arm – You're not leaving unless I say so, Kakashi – to Kakashi's surprise, Fugaku was grinning – You're indeed talented, boy. I never imagined you would be able to awaken the Mangekyo Sharingan – Kakashi was sweating. His Mangekyo Sharingan remained activated, and he could feel his chakra being drained. Things would end badly if he left without the Uchiha's consent – Please, Fugaku-sama. This won't work. I should leave – Fugaku chuckled – You're being too arrogant to think you're the only one with a Mangekyo Sharingan, let alone to think your mastery of it is better than ours – Fugaku said, smirking – Ours? – said Kakashi, almost whispering. Fugaku let go of Kakashi. Kakashi straightened up and stared at the new counselor and head of the ROOT. Fugaku's Sharingan's tomoes changed into three dots, and a ring and three curves spiraling counterclockwise around the pupil formed – let's see how well your Mangekyo Sharingan defends against mine, shall we? – said Fugaku. Kakashi had no time to react and was trapped in Fugaku's genjutsu. Kakashi remained motionless and lost in the genjutsu. Fugaku used his genjutsu to see Kakashi's memory of how he awakened the Mangekyo Sharingan. He was thunderstruck when he saw it. Rin Nohara had sacrificed and got herself impaled with Kakashi's Chidori. The trauma of killing his friend had been too much for him to handle. It explained how he awakened it and why he was ashamed of using it. Fugaku's expression softened. To think this boy had been through something like this. The details of Rin's death were never shared to the public. Most likely, the Sandaime wanted to protect Kakashi from the village's attention and prevent Sakumo's downfall from repeating itself. He continued with his initial plan and planted a false memory of the Sharingan awakening in Kakashi's brain based on his own awakening and released Kakashi.
Kakashi came to his senses and stumbled. He rubbed his left eye. It felt different. He didn't feel his chakra being drained anymore. It couldn't be true – It worked! You did it! – said Kakashi, dumbfounded. Fugaku smirked – You doubted me? You can activate and deactivate your Mnagekyo because you awakened it yourself. That process is engraved in your memory, and now, you can do the same with your Sharingan – said the Uchiha leader. Kakashi stuttered – I just … I never thought it possible. I tried for years to deactivate it. Time after time, I failed, so I gave up and decided that it would be my burden – Fugaku crossed his arms and sat again on the elevated floor. He ordered Kakashi to sit, too – As I told you before, you should've come to me sooner. But that's not important anymore. Anyway, I think I owe you an apology myself – Fugaku said, staring at the ANBU. Before Kakashi could say anything, Fugaku raised his hand, signaling him to stay silent – I saw your memory of the day you obtained your Mangekyo Sharingan – Kakashi lost his breath. He stuttered. He knew about Rin's death. Kakashi started sweating – Rin's and Obito's deaths were not your fault, Kakashi. You should stop blaming yourself – Fugaku stared at Kakashi, but the young ANBU said nothing. After a long silence, Fugaku continued – Anyway, I'm surprised you hadn't told Yondaime-sama about your Mangekyo. I guess this is the time for the three of us to inform the Hokage about our Mangekyo Sharingans – Kakashi appreciated that Fugaku didn't press the topic of Rin and Obito. However, he was curious, he said "the three of us." Fugaku called out, and two men appeared between him and Kakashi – This is Shisui Uchiha. He's Kagami Uchiha's grandson and the third wielder of the Mangekyo Sharingan – said Fugaku as he pointed at the man standing to Kakashi's left. Kakashi looked in detail at Shishui. He knew the name; he was known as the Body Flicker, and his grandfather, Kagami Uchiha, was a contemporary of the Sandaime-sama. One of the Saindame's commanders during the three great wars – and this is Kessho Yamanaka – continued Fugaku – Starting today, the three of you will be trained by me. In your case, Kakashi, you'll still be part of the Hokage's ANBU and report directly to Shibi-san. I will only be your sensei. Yondaime-sama wants you to stay under his direct command, instead of joining the ROOT.
Note: Itachi awakened his Mangekyo Sharingan due to Shisui's death. In this story, Shisui's still alive. Thus, Itachi hasn't awakened his Mangekyo Sharingan YET. He only has a three-tomoe Sharingan. He's still very talented and one of the strongest in Konoha without his Mangekyo, though. In Boruto, it is shown that Sasuke can read someone's memories with his Sharingan. That's why I decided to have Fugaku see Kakashi's memory from Rin's death. Hiruzen was still the Hokage when Rin's accident happened. That's why Fugaku figured it was him who kept Rin's death details secret.
END OF FLASHBACK
Naruto smiled. For a moment, he forgot about everything else. He hadn't seen Kakashi nii-san in a long time – Kakashi nii-san! – Naruto yelled. Sasuke stared at the jounin before them – So, this is Kakashi Hatake, Konoha no Shiroi Tsume (White Claw of Konoha), my father's disciple – Sasuke thought. Sasuke didn't know that Kakashi had been Minato's disciple before becoming his father's. Sasuke always wondered what this man looked like. Naruto would always talk about him as an older brother, and his father and brother praised him constantly as an excellent shinobi. Sasuke interrupted Naruto's moment with Kakashi – You take us for fools. Adults keep saying we shouldn't worry about it, but it's more than obvious that something big, something bad, is going on. Are you going to tell us something useful? If not, save your sermon and let's start training – said Sasuke. Naruto looked at Sasuke, annoyed. He didn't like the way he talked to Kakashi, but he also agreed with him. Sasuke was surprised to see Kakashi smirking. It was even more shocking to know he was smirking even though he wore a mask. It was odd how the jounin expressed a smirk with only his eyes – You are Fugaku-sensei's son, after all. I guess we should start training then – Sasuke frowned. So, he wouldn't even bother to try to tell a lie about what was going on. Sasuke smirked. Naruto looked at Sasuke, then at Kakashi – What do you mean with Fugaku-sensei? I thought Dad was your sensei – said Naruto, puzzled. Sasuke and Hinata stared at Naruto – Well, Naruto, Yondaime-sama was my sensei as a genin, and I've been under his command ever since. However, in the last years, I have been training under Fugaku-sensei in the ROOT – Hinata wowed. The Hokage and the head of the ROOT and Military Police had trained their temporary sensei. Naruto wanted to ask more about what was going on, but Sasuke gave him a look to let it go. They would decipher it themselves with Teams 8 & 10 help. Naruto was the one who was worried the most. He hadn't told Sasuke and Hinata about Kurama, and his mom's status as jinchuriki. He couldn't tell them what Kurama said without revealing his mom's status. Kurama had told him he couldn't reveal his mom was the jinchuriki. He didn't want to betray Kurama's trust. He bit his lip. Kakashi stared at him. Minato-sensei and Kushina-san had told him about the Kyubi's warning. He'd hoped Naruto never experienced war, but that hope seemed gone. He needed to continue Tenzo's training and prepare them for what was to come. Tenzo had done an excellent job with them so far. He was excited to train with Naruto. He had promised Fugaku-sensei to train Sasuke, too. His greatest wonder was Hinata. Tenzo had given him a detailed brief about the three of them. He wanted to see Hinata's version of the gentle fist with her raiton.
Note: There is no reason for Kakashi to be known as "Kakashi of the Sharingan" or "Copy Ninja" since there is an entire clan with the Sharingan that can copy jutsus. I decided to give him a nickname based on his father's nickname. Sakumo was the White Fang, Kakashi is the White Claw.
Kakashi performed a series of hand seals – Raiton: Raiju Tsuiga! (Lighting beast tracking beast) – three lighting hounds emerged from Kakashi's hands and charged at the three genins. Naruto, Sasuke and Hinata were shocked. They dodged, but the hounds continued chasing them. Sasuke was shocked to see how he manipulated his raiton into hounds – Oi, Kakashi nii-san! What are you doing? – Naruto yelled as he dodged the hound again – Well, I need to see what you've learned with Tenzo. Show me how strong you are – the white-haired shinobi said as he increased the speed of the lighting hounds. Naruto jumped back and performed a series of hand seals as he did. He launched his jutsu as soon as he landed – Futon: Reppusho! (Gale Palm) – a mighty gale was expelled from his palms, clashing with Kakashi's hound. Futon is Raiton's weakness. The raiton hound was dispersed with Naruto's Futon. Kakashi smirked. Sasuke pulled his sword and let the hound get closer to him. When the hound attacked him, he stabbed it with the sword. Sasuke funneled his chakra through the sword. Given Sasuke's affinity to raiton, he managed to drain the lighting hound with the ANBU chakra blade his brother had given him. Once the hound was gone, Sasuke swung his sword, dispersing the remaining raiton chakra running through the blade – He's got talent with raiton – Kakashi thought. Hinata activated her Byakugan as she dodged the hound. She looked for the core of the jutsu – Lock on! – she jumped and hit the air midair – Hakke Kusho! – the vacuum palm hit the cord of lighting that connected the hound to Kakashi's hand. The hound dispersed immediately. Hinata landed on the grass, and her teammates joined her – Oi, Nii-san! You could've given us a heads-up! – said Naruto, pointing at Kakashi accusingly – Well, Naruto, the enemy won't give you any, so why would I? – said Kakashi as he disappeared in a cloud of smoke – Hinata! – Naruto and Sasuke said at the same time. Hinata nodded and reactivated her Byakugan – Jump! – she yelled. The three genins jumped in time as Kakashi emerged from the ground before them with Kunai in hand. Sasuke activated his Sharingan. Naruto performed a series of hand seals – Futon: Sunabokori (dust cloud)! – Naruto exhaled a massive cloud of dust. The dust cloud was thick enough to block Kakashi's and everyone else's visions. Sasuke and Naruto landed next to Hinata – Is he still inside there? – Sasuke asked. Hinata nodded – Do not underestimate Kakashi Nii-san. He's really strong – Naruto said – Well, let's test him – said Sasuke, grinning.
Naruto and Hinata nodded and performed the same series of hand seals – Futon: Kaze no Nagare (wind stream)! – Sasuke performed another jutsu – Katon: Ryuka no jutsu (Dragon fire technique)! – Sasuke's Katon was potentialized by Naruto's and Hinata's Futon. A wild blaze engulfed the cloud of dust. Naruto and Sasuke worried for a second that they'd just killed their new sensei, but Hinata quickly let them know to stay alert. Naruto smirked – The river! – Hinata yelled. Kakashi stood on the river – Suiton: Michishio (high tide)! – the level of the river rose, and a wild wave charged at the genins – Raiton, Doton, and now Suiton. How many chakras' natures can he use? – said Sasuke, surprised. The genins jumped back and landed on tree branches. Kakashi surfed through the wave toward the genins. Sasuke smirked – Hinata! – Hinata nodded. Sasuke and Hinata performed a series of hand seals – Raiton: Jinraikanha (thunderclap wave)! – Sasuke and Hinata threw a lighting to the wave Kakashi surfed, hoping to electrocute him. However, Kakashi didn't stop advancing. The raiton seemed to do nothing to him – What's going on? – said Naruto in disbelief – Raiton is his affinity – said Hinata. She had done something similar in their first encounter with Zabuza. She had electrocuted the lake and herself to force the Swordman to release their sensei. The Raiton didn't affect her much because of her affinity. If Kakashi-sensei was immune to that raiton, it was because his affinity was raiton, too. Once the jounin was close to them, he performed a series of hand seals – Katon: Gokakyu no Jutsu (great fireball)! – Sasuke gritted his teeth – and now Katon, that's the last thing we needed – said Sasuke, annoyed. Naruto pulled a scroll from his wooden box. He extended it as the Katon got closer – There is no time, Naruto! We need to dodge! – said Sasuke, but Naruto ignored him. Several kunais were thrown at the fireball. However, these weren't regular kunais. Naruto had embedded them with his futon chakra before storing them in the scroll. Normally, Futon would increase Katon's effectiveness, which caused a great surprise to Sasuke when he saw how Naruto's futon kunais dispersed Kakashi's fireball – How? – Sasuke asked, dumbfounded – Kakashi had to dodge the potentialized kunais. Kakashi landed on the meadow as the water returned to the river – That was clever, Naruto. Your futon kunais perforated my fireball, creating vortexes that broke and dispersed the jutsu. Let's see how you handle this – said Kakashi as he performed a series of hand seals – Suiton: Tenjyu (Heavenly Weeping)! – Kakashi started spitting water senbons at high speed. The amount of senbons he continued spitting at them was impressive. Hinata jumped – Shugohakke Rokujuyon Sho! (Protecting Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms) - Hinata was hitting the air in all directions, expelling extremely thin, sharp chakra blades from her fingertips that clashed against Kakashi's senbons. Sasuke and Naruto gasped when they saw that jutsu. It was the jutsu she used to protect them from Haku. Seen the volley of senbons and Hinata protecting them triggered the horrible memory of that day – Impressive. That's the jutsu Tenzo was talking about. This girl has talent – Kakashi thought. Sasuke and Naruto jumped, landing before Hinata. They didn't want her to get hit accidentally by a senbon. Sasuke used his Sharingan to block the kunais he foresaw Hinata couldn't block, while Naruto performed a futon jutsu to repel the rest. Kakashi stopped creating more suiton senbons. After they had blocked all of them, they prepared for whatever Kakashi may throw at them. But the jounin stood at the meadow and put his hands in his pockets. The three genins looked at each other, puzzled.
Kakashi used the Shunshin no Jutsu to appear on the wood stumps. He was sitting on the middle stump with a book in his hand. The three genins walked toward him – I'm impressed. Tenzo did a great job training you. I see why he recommended you three for the Chunin Exams – said Kakashi as he opened his book and started reading. The three genins grinned. Sasuke was the first to talk – Can you use the five chakra natures? – asked Sasuke. He was intrigued. The jounin had used four elemental chakra natures – I do not. I think you already figured out that Raiton is my affinity, and naturally, Futon is more challenging for me. I'm unable to use Futon. Over the years, I learned to use Katon, Doton and Suiton at a very high level, though – Sasuke and the others were surprised – You're amazing, Nii-san! – said Naruto excitedly – But, if that's the case, how's it possible for Hinata to use Raiton and Futon? Didn't you say they're opposites? – asked Sasuke again – Well, that's because Hinata has two affinities, Raiton and Futon. That's an odd combination. You don't often see shinobis with opposite affinities. Hinata is a rare case – said Kakashi in a lazy tone. Hinata blushed – For a moment, I thought you'd mastered the five chakra natures, but that's impossible – said Sasuke, relieved – Hmm, that's not precisely true, Sasuke. Sandaime-sama is not only able to use the five chakra natures. He possesses an affinity to the five chakra natures – Sasuke's and Hinata's eyes went wide open, and Naruto's jaw dropped – did you think he's called Shinobi no Kami and The Professor for nothing? – said Kakashi. The more Sasuke learned about the former Hokage, the more intrigued he was. His father had said once he looked up to Sandaime-sama. Team Ten told them how the old man let them carry out their missions mostly on their own because their enemies always tried to flee or surrender when they found out who he was. Tenzo-sensei told them how the old man had killed the former Mizukage and defeated the current one, forcing him to retreat, and now he found out he was known as Shinobi no Kami? The Professor? Ino had told him during their dinner with Teams 8 & 10 that he should talk with the old man and find out how they were connected. He had forgotten about that after all the information they had received that day. He needed to find out what Ino meant – are you sure we're talking about Jiji? He's ancient! – said Naruto skeptically. Kakashi sighed – There is no point in talking about that. We need to start training. The exams begin next week – said Kakashi, although he didn't seem interested in training, or anything, for that matter.
Note: Even though the fourth databook states that Kakashi can use the five chakra natures, we never saw him using Futon in the manga or anime. This is why I decided to change it this way. Also, as you probably may have already guessed, Sasuke has no reason to leave the village, and I do not intend to make him a rogue ninja who leaves to train with Orochimaru. This is why I'm creating this interest with Hiruzen instead of Orochimaru.
Konoha's streets: Five days later, at sunset.
Note: I won't spend more time on this training. I'll explore more in Kakashi's training during the month between the preliminaries and the finals. That's when the training with Kakashi will be more intense and important. I just needed to include this introduction between him and Team Seven.
Team Seven was heading to Ichiraku Ramen after a long day of training with Kakashi-sensei. He was as ruthless as Tenzo-sensei. They were exhausted – Oh man, I think every bone of my body is broken – said Naruto as he rubbed his side. Hinata was healing her arm as they walked – He has no consideration, and to think he has a Sharingan! – Said Sasuke as he pulled his shoulder back in place and groaned, repressing a painful scream – It makes sense why he was chosen to be Tenzo-sensei substitute, though – Hinata said, oddly cheerfully. Naruto seemed annoyed – Hmm, talk for yourself. The only nature he can't use is my affinity. He knows a lot, yet it would be good to learn Futon from another user instead of only from theory. At least you got Raiton, too, Hinata. Nii-san said Futon is the rarest of the five chakra natures, even in the Land of Wind, and all the Futon users in Konoha are too busy to help me – Naruto was interrupted by a strong gust that carried a heavy cloud of sand – What the heck? – said Naruto and Sasuke at the same time, covering their eyes from the sand. Hinata, on the other hand, smiled – You look miserable. Are you sure you're fit to take the exams? – said a familiar voice. When the sand dispersed and the three looked up, they saw their old friends from Sunagakure. Gaara, Temari and Kankuro stood atop a building's roof. Baki, their sensei, stood behind them – Gaara! – yelled Naruto with joy. Sasuke smirked. It had been a long time since they'd seen the Suna trio. Usually, their parents would take them along whenever they went to Sunagakure for political matters. The Kazekage would do the same when he visited Konoha. However, it had been almost two years since they last saw each other.
The Suna siblings landed in front of Team Seven – So, I take by what you said earlier that your affinity is Futon, right? – said Temari in a smart-ass tone. Naruto frowned – Hmm, yeah, why? – said the blond blue-eyed genin – Just wondering if your Futon is better than mine or Gaara's – Temari said as she leaned forward to pair her face to Naruto's. Naruto's jaw dropped – So, do you two have Futon affinity? – both nodded – Can you teach me some cool jutsus? – said Naruto pleadingly. Temari smirked, but it was Gaara who spoke – You shouldn't go around asking other village's shinobis to train you, Naruto – the red-haired shinobi said coldly. Naruto shivered – Oh, c'mon, Gaara. Naruto is not just any shinobi; he's a friend – said Kankuro as he placed his hand on Gaara's shoulder – Besides, Konoha is our ally, and Father is pleased to have them as such, ain't that right, Baki-sensei? – said Kankuro as he turned up to look at his sensei, who was still standing atop the roof. The Jonin appeared next to Kankuro, but before he could say anything, Naruto got closer to Gaara and said, with a mischievous look on his face – C'mon Gaara, you can teach me some Futon jutsus, and I can teach you some Fuinjutsu, what do you think? – Gaara and his siblings were surprised to hear that – Do you know Fuinjutsu? – said Temari in disbelief. Baki cleared his throat – You seem to forget he has Uzumaki blood. Not to mention that his sensei is Tenzo Senju, an expert in Fuinjutsu and disciple of Jiraiya-sama – Gaara looked at Naruto, intrigued. Shukaku's sand had inherent properties for Fuinjutsu. He could learn some Fuinjutsu without depending on Shukaku's power – You've got yourself a deal, Naruto. The Futon jutsus I teach you will depend on the fuinjutsus you teach me – Naruto jumped in excitement. Baki spoke – Unfortunately, that can't be, Naruto. No fighting, including training, is allowed between the different villages during the Chunin Exams in the host's land outside the exam stages. We're guests and expected to go by the rules. My students are the children of Kazekage-sama, and you and your friends are the children of Hokage-dono and his counselors. You six, among everyone else, are expected to set an example – Naruto was about to argue against the Suna Jounin when a young female voice interrupted him – so, you're the son of Konoha's Yellow Flash, huh? – Naruto and the rest turned to see a group of Iwagakure's shinobis walking their way.
The girl and her teammates looked a couple of years older than them. She wore a red uniform with her right sleeve missing, a lapel over her right leg, a brown flak jacket, metal mesh tights and a skirt over them. She wore regular shinobi sandals, gloves, and a shuriken holster tied to her right thigh. She had short, black hair and distinctly pink eyes. The two boys wore similar red uniforms to their teammate, but with both sleeves and pants reaching half of their calves. It looked like in Iwagakure, even the genins wore the distinctive flak jackets. Team Seven found this interesting. One of the boys was bigger and chubbier than Choji and had a plump nose. He had dark eyes and black hair that spiked out at the back from underneath his bandanna-styled forehead protector and had a jovial look. The other boy had blue-green eyes and dull-brown hair with bangs covering the right side of his face. He wore a black glove on his left hand. Their sensei had spiky, light-brown hair, prominent jaw lines and green eyes/ He wore a similar uniform to his students, but it was dark brown instead of red, with his right sleeve missing, a light-greyish-brown flak jacket. He wore his forehead protector wrapped around the upper portion of his right arm.
Note: In Kishimoto's colored covers from the manga, he showed Kurotsuchi with pink eyes. The anime changed it to black. I'm keeping them pink, as Kishimoto showed them. Based on the fourth databook, Kurotsuchi and Akatsuchi are two and four years older than Naruto. However, I decided to make them both the same age (2 years older than Naruto) and include them in the Chunin Exams. Sekki, the third genin, is a character from Boruto, a genin from Iwagakure who admires Onoki. I'll consider Gari and many other reincarnated shinobis from the Fourth Shinobi War alive to use them in my story. I think it's better to show the best shinobis from the different villages in the battles I have planned instead of just as Edo Tensei. So, expect more reincarnated shinobis to be alive; some of them will remain dead because they need to for my story to develop, though.
Naruto frowned at the girl – so what if I'm, huh? – said the blond, annoyed. Hinata and Sasuke frowned at the girl and their teammates. They recognized Iwagakure's symbol on their forehead protectors. Iwagakure was forced to surrender in the last war due to Yondaime-sama. They surely had a grudge against him – well, because I'll beat you up, dumbass! Your father killed many of our people! – she said as she tightened her right glove. Team Seven and the Suna trio took a fighting stand – We were at war. It was normal for people to die. Are you seeking revenge for a war Iwagagakure started? – said Sasuke, stepping up to face the girl. She frowned and was about to form a hand sign when her sensei stopped her – Enough of this, Kurotsuchi! You're here representing our village and Tsuchikage-sama. Keep it cool – Kurotsuchi gritted her teeth and grinned – People die in the Chunin Exams, too – said the girl as she pointed at Naruto. Baki intervened before Naruto and Team Seven could do anything – It looks like you got your grandfather's boldness, girl. No wonder Tsuchikage-dono chose Gari as your sensei – the girl frowned. She didn't like being compared to her grumpy old grandfather – Long time no see, Baki. You're still hiding that scar I gave you, huh? – said Gari, smirking. Baki frowned. The Suna trio stared at their sensei and the Iwa jounin – so, this is the man that forced Baki-sensei to retreat during the last war – Kankuro thought. They had only seen Baki's left side of his face once. Half of his face was covered in burn scars. His skin looked like it had melted. He told them that Gari of the Explosion Release, Captain of Iwagakure's Explosion Corps, had caused him that injury. Gari stared at Team Seven and then at the Suna trio – I don't think we've had such promising candidates in a Chunin Exams since Jiraiya-sama's team's demonstration years ago. Now, we have the children of Hokage-dono and his counselors, the children of Kazekage-dono, and the granddaughter of Tsuchikage-sama, and a new team trained by Hiruzen-dono – said Gari, but something quickly caught his attention and turned his face, staring at the trees. Baki, Gaara and Hinata were also perturbed and stared in the same direction. Hinata activated her Byakugan – There is no point hiding from the Byakugan. Come out, you sneaky bastards! – said Gari, yelling at the darkness of the trees. Four shinobis jumped from the trees and landed on the street. Team Seven frowned. They were ninjas from Kumogakure. Hinata had said a few days earlier that her father warned her about them. They remembered Team Ten told them that the current and previous Raikage were obsessed with the Byakugan and Sharingan and had tried to obtain them during the three wars. The current Raikage was especially obsessed with the Byakugan.
The Kumo team was formed by a female jounin, two boys and a girl. The Jounin from Kumo was a tall, fair-skinned woman with a curvy figure. She had blue eyes and straight, shoulder-length blonde hair cut in an asymmetrical bob style. She wore a very low-cut outfit that displayed her sizeable cleavage, which competed with Tsunade's, with mesh armor underneath, a short skirt and red hand guards, high boots, and a modified flak jacket that covered her stomach only. She carried a tanto strapped to her lower back. The girl was dark-skinned with long, spiky red hair and amber eyes. She wore a long, short-sleeved dress with frilly edges, a typical white Kumogakure flak jacket, fishnet stockings, and thigh-high boots with white soles. Her forehead protector was wrapped around her head like a bandana. She had a long sword tied to her back. One of the boys was dark-skinned, too, with short, spiky, white hair and dark eyes. He wore a dark grey uniform with a hood, red bandage hand guards, white shin guards, a black forehead protector and Kumo's white flak jacket. Like his teammate, he had a long sword tied to his back. The other boy had brown hair, a long fringe hanging over his white forehead protector, and large dark eyes. He wore a uniform similar to his teammate's but with a turtleneck, sleeveless dark gray uniform, gray vambraces on both arms and no visible sword.
Note: Omoi and Karui are the same age as Naruto, according to the Fourth Databook. The third genin, Amai, is a medical shinobi from Kumo that's shown in a filler episode (Shippuden 286).
Kankuro and Sekki were having a hard time trying not to stare at the Jounin's large breast. Gari frowned at the sight of the Kumo-nins. Samui, Kumo's Jounin, frowned back at Gari. Baki noticed it. He wondered why these two would be so hostile to each other if they'd been allies during the last three wars. The three kumo genins, on the other hand, stared at Hinata, grinning. Sasuke and Naruto stood between Hinata and the Kumo-nins. The tension in the air was palpable – those are some pretty eyes, girl – said Omoi to Hinata. Naruto and Sasuke gritted their teeth. They burst their chakra angrily. Naruto's anger caused Kurama's chakra to react. Samui, Baki, Gari and Gaara were shocked – This chakra. There is no mistake. Could it be that this boy is the Kyubi's jinchuriki? – The three Jounin wondered. Samui grinned. Naruto and Sasuke walked toward the white-haired boy. Naruto grabbed Omoi by his jacket – What did you … – Naruto didn't finish speaking when Karui ran, approaching Naruto from his left. She was about to punch him, but Sasuke grabbed her arm and tightened his grip. She groaned in pain. She tried to release her arm from Sasuke's grip, but it was useless. Gari stood motionless, amused by the genins' behavior. Baki gritted his teeth. He couldn't intervene between Konoha and Kumo, and Samui didn't seem to have the intention of stopping her genins. Naruto got distracted. Omoi pushed him and quickly pulled his sword as Amai started performing hand seals. Karui used her free hand to draw and swing her sword. Sasuke let go of her and jumped back, pulling a kunai. Omoi swung his sword, but Naruto trapped the blade with his hands. Omoi tried to release his sword from Naruto's grip. Naruto stared at Omoi. Naruto's eyes transmitted a fierce killing intent. Omoi gulped and stepped back. Amai was about to launch his jutsu. Things could've escalated and ended badly, but a cloud of smoke formed, revealing two ANBUs wearing white cloaks. One ANBU pulled Naruto and tossed him toward Hinata. Naruto landed at Hinata's feet. The second ANBU did the same with Sasuke. Sasuke landed on top of Naruto, who groaned when he felt the impact of Sasuke landing on his back. The two genins stood up and stared at the ANBUs. Naruto could see from where he stood a glimpse of purple hair below the hood of one of them. He knew her, it was Yugao-san, one of his father's most trustworthy ANBU's. She could be really scary when she was angry, like his mom. Naruto couldn't recognize the second ANBU – Fighting is strictly forbidden – said Yugao, facing Naruto and Sasuke. She then turned to face the Kumo-nins – Samui-san, we expect you to keep your genins at bay. This will not be tolerated – Samui chuckled. Naruto frowned and was about to stampede against the Kumo Jounin, but he was hit on the stomach by Yugao – If you break the rules again, you and your teammates will be pulled out from the Chunin Exams. Is that clear? – Naruto rubbed his stomach as Hinata and Sasuke helped him stand up – is that clear? – the ANBU asked again. Team Seven nodded. Naruto couldn't see through her mask, but he was sure Yugao was enjoying this. Yugao turned again and walked closer to the Kumo-nins – As for you if you break the rules again, you'll be expelled from the village – Samui frowned – this won't happen again, right, kids? – Omoi sheathed his sword – of course not, sensei – said the young boy, sarcastically. Samui and her team stayed there, staring at the ANBUs. Samui grinned, turned around and left, followed by her team. Gari and his team did the same. The ANBUs looked at Baki and nodded. Baki nodded back. After that, the ANBUs and the Suna jounin disappeared.
Note: In chapter 7, Minato revealed to Rasa, Chiyo and Ebizo that Kushina is the junchuriki. Baki doesn't know. That's why he, like Gari and Samui, assumes Naruto is the jinchuriki.
Kankuro and Temari looked at Team Seven, puzzled. Gaara seemed not to care – What was all that about? And why did Baki-sensei leave with those ANBU? – asked Kankuro – The hell I know, but I can't wait to beat that white-haired jerk's ass in the exams – said Naruto. He was so upset that he didn't care why Baki would leave with Yugao-san and the other ANBU. However, Sasuke was pondering the situation. Suna was an ally, after all, and Baki-san was Kazekage-dono's right hand. He must be aware of everything that's been happening lately. Gaara walked toward Naruto – What was that chakra of yours earlier? – Gaara asked. Naruto gulped. He couldn't tell Gaara about Kurama – Oh, It is an Uzumaki chakra thing – Naruto said nervously. Gaara frowned. He knew what it was; he had no doubt about it. Naruto showed a chakra like Shukaku's. Naruto was lying; this upset him – C'mon, Gaara. Why don't we go for some training, huh? What jutsus are you going to teach me? – Naruto was trying to change the topic – Didn't you hear Baki-sensei? We can't train together – Said Temari, in a know-it-all tone – Enough chit chat, Temari, Kankuro – said Gaara, causing his older siblings to shiver – Let's head to our inn – Naruto interrupted – Oi, hold on a sec! We need to talk! – said Naruto – I guess we'll see each other at the exam – said the red-haired boy. Naruto frowned – What do you mean by that? We can hang out even if we can't train together, right? – said the blond, blue-eyed boy – You lied to me, Naruto. I know what that chakra of yours was. Until you decide to come clean, there is no reason to talk. Temari, Kankuro, we leave – said Gaara as he disappeared in a whirl of sand. Kankuro and Temari vanished, too – Things only get messier and more complicated – said Sasuke as he put his hands in his pockets. Hinata and Sasuke looked at Naruto. They wanted to know what Gaara meant by that, but they wouldn't force their friend to speak of something he wasn't ready to share. So, they pretended the topic didn't exist – I'm starving, shall we continue our way to Ichiraku's? – said Sasuke, looking at Naruto from the edge of his eye. Naruto stared at the place where Gaara had disappeared. What did he mean? How could he possibly know where his chakra came from? He was engrossed in his thoughts when he felt Hinata's hand on his shoulder – Naruto-kun, are you okay? – Naruto rubbed the back of his head – Yeah, everything is alright. Let's get some ramen – said Naruto as he started walking down the street to Ichiraku's. Sasuke and Hinata looked at each other, worried. They followed Naruto and joined him. They had dinner and talked for hours but never mentioned what Gaara said. Before they left Ichiraku's restaurant to head home, Hinata saw a weird pug dog with a blue vest running away. She thought it was cute the owner had put some clothes on the dog. She giggled. Unknown to Hinata, the pug was Kakashi's summoning. He had been watching everything that happened with the other genins and listened to their conversation.
A few minutes later, Pakkun reached Kakashi, sitting on a tree branch near Minato's house. He was looking after Kushina, as his sensei had asked. Kessho was nearby, also keeping watch. The pug briefed Kakashi of all the events – Hmm, those two have a short fuse, especially when it comes to Hinata. They must learn to control themselves – said Kakashi. Pakkun nodded – What do you gather from the rest? – asked the pug, intrigued – there might still be hope for Jiraiya-sama's mission. It looks like Kumo and Iwa aren't on good terms. Thanks, Pakkun. Baki-san must've briefed Minato-sensei by now. I'll send him my report anyway, though. You did great, old friend – said Kakashi as he patted Pakkun's head. The pug disappeared in a cloud of smoke. Kakashi stared at his sensei's house and smiled. Years ago, he had been watching over Kushina-san when she was pregnant with Naruto. Standing atop the branch brought back fond memories from that time. He was eager to meet his sensei's new child. He was sure Naruto would be an amazing older brother. He needed to protect them, even if it cost him his life. That was his Will of Fire – Isn't that right, Obito? – said Kakashi, whispering with a broad smile as he rubbed his left eye.
Outside Konoha Academy: Four days later, July First.
Several teams from other villages arrived at Konoha in the last few days. The hustle and bustle in the village had significantly increased. Team Seven stood in front of the Academy – Well, kiddos, here's where we depart. You've got this; Tenzo taught you well. Remember to be extremely careful and stay alert – said the white-haired Jounin, as he stared at a group of genins and their sensei arriving at the Academy grounds. Team Seven didn't recognize their headband symbol. They noticed Kakashi fixed his gaze at them – Who are those? – asked Sasuke, puzzled – Hmm, those are the genins from Otogakure – Team Seven was taken aback – What do you mean? Otogakure is Orochimaru's village. He's a nukenin and our enemy. Why are they here? – Naruto said, annoyed, as he tightened his fist. Kakashi sighed – Naruto, most of the villages attending the exam are our enemies. The Chunin Exam is open to all hidden villages. Konoha can't deny Otogaakure the possibility of participating in the exams. Even if we know they might be up to no good. Stay alert and watch each other's backs. Is that clear? – Team Seven nodded. Something else to worry about. It was enough to worry about Kumo-nins and the loud girl from Iwagakure. The Jounin instructor from Otogakure was a tall woman. She had fair skin, dark eyes and light blue hair tied in a spiky ponytail with long strands of hair framing her face. She wore a green dress with a long-left sleeve and a short right one, a red turtleneck suit under her dress with a white, fluffy collar and brown gloves. She wore calf-length brown sandal boots. The Jounin noticed Kakashi and Team Seven stared at them and smirked at them, but the grin on her face changed quickly to a frown. Why was Konoha's White Claw with the Hokage's son's team? Orochimaru's guinea pig, the Mokuton Jounin, should be their sensei. Where could he be? She needed to inform her master about it. Her three genin students got inside the Academy with a cocky smile and look at Team Seven. Team Seven frowned. Guren stared at Kakashi for a moment before disappearing into a cloud of smoke – See you after the exam – said Kakashi as he vanished.
Note: Instead of having Orochimaru disguised as a Jounin, I decided to have Guren as Otogakure's sensei. She'll have a purpose in the exams. I didn't spend time describing the Oto-genins. They're the same from the canon: Dosu, Zaku and Kin.
Team Seven entered the Academy and headed to Classroom 301. As soon as they entered, they saw a multitude of genins heading the same way, so they followed – Man, this is unbelievable! Look how many ninjas! – Naruto said in awe. Sasuke and Hinata nodded. They arrived where all the people were gathering. They saw two kids, a bow and a girl, standing outside the door of classroom 301. For some reason, Sasuke and the rest found them familiar, but they couldn't figure out why. The girl kicked a young boy who wore a Kusagakure headband. The boy fell on his back. One of his teammates was a young girl with short red hair that reached her chin. She wore a dark purple short-sleeved shirt with a brown collar, light brown pants, and sandals. She wore narrow brown glasses. Team Seven immediately thought of Kushina when they saw her. Naruto's reaction made his chakra sync with Kurama's, making the Kyubi see and feel what Naruto saw and felt – This girl, this chakra. Could this be fate? – the orange fox thought. He smirked. Naruto felt a shiver when he felt Kurama forcing the connection to end. The old fox didn't want Naruto to listen to his thoughts. The girl approached the door guarded by the two genins – Please, we're begging you, let us in! – said the girl, pleadingly. The boy guarding the door was about to slap her, but Naruto and Sasuke thrust forward instinctively. Sasuke grabbed the boy by his wrist. Naruto was approaching from the side to punch the boy, but the girl guarding the door got in the way and blocked him – are you two valorous knights trying to save the damsel in distress? – said the girl blocking Naruto. The red-haired girl blushed. Hinata ran forward and took the girl out of the way, as Naruto freed himself from the girl and jumped back. Sasuke let go of the boy and joined his teammates. Hinata healed the bruise from the girl's face – are you alright? – the girl nodded in disbelief. Sasuke stood next to Hinata – Hinata, let's go. We're wasting our time here. We need to get to Classroom 301 – Hinata nodded. The bruise was healed. Naruto and Sasuke stared at the girl – Thank you all for that – said the girl, blushing. Naruto and Sasuke blushed a little, too. Team Seven was leaving when a genin from Amegakure called them – Oi, what did you mean? This is room 301. Where are you heading? – Sasuke turned around and smirked at the genin as he replied – Look around you. This is just the second floor – the genins guarding the door smirked – so, you noticed, huh? – Sasuke and Naruto chuckled. The genins dispersed their genjutsu, and the classroom number changed from 301 to 201. The genins around them complained and wanted to attack the genins guarding the door, but they were already gone. Team Seven continued their way but were stopped again by the Amegakure-nin – How did you know it was a genjutsu? – Sasuke smirked – Konoha is the home of the mighty Uchiha Clan. Did you think we could fall under a genjutsu so simple? Look around you; there is not a single Konoha-nin around you. We are trained in genjutsu by the Uchiha clan. Everyone in Konoha can see through a simple genjutsu like that – said Sasuke in a cocky tone. The genins there gritted their teeth as Team Seven continued their way to the third floor. Followed by the rest of the presents – Who the heck were those two guarding the door? They seemed oddly familiar – said Naruto, rubbing his forehead, trying to force his brain to remember. Hinata giggled – Those were Setsuna-sensei and Moroha-sensei – said the Hyuga girl. Sasuke and Naruto were shocked – How do you know? – asked Sasuke. How he couldn't realize – I used my Byakugan. They were using the henge jutsu to change their appearance, but no one can change their chakra signature. I recognized their chakra – Sasuke and Naruto smirked – You're amazing, Hinata! – said Naruto. Hinata continued walking, engrossed in her thoughts. She couldn't stop thinking about that red-haired girl. Her chakra bothered her. Team Seven arrived at the real classroom 301. When they opened the door, they were surprised to see the number of shinobis. The number of shinobis they saw on the second floor was nothing compared to what they saw there.
Note: In chapter 8, I explained that there were many new senseis for different specialties in the academy, like fuijutsu, kinjutsu, genjutsu, etc. I mentioned that Setsuna Uchiha and Moroha Uchiha are the ones senseis for genjutsu. That's why Team Seven found them familiar. Hinata didn't know Karin was a medic-shinobi, too.
Minato's office: Earlier that day
Minato was sitting behind his desk. He was reviewing a series of documents and reports from the rangers he'd sent to patrol the borders. The military police had their hands full with all the new incomers. Foreign genin teams continue arriving even today, the day the Exams begin. His thoughts were interrupted when Hizashi appeared before him, kneeling. Minato was surprised to see him there – What is it, Hizashi? – asked Minato while he put aside the documents he was reading. Hizashi stood up – Yondaime-sama, the last genin team just crossed the outer barrier. They should arrive at the Academy grounds on time for the exams – Minato was puzzled. There was no point for him, the head of the outer barrier, to come all the way just to inform about the arrival of Kusagakure's genin team. Before he could ask Hizashi something, the Hyuga continued talking – One of the genins, she's … I might be wrong, no, there is no way, I've only seen a chakra like that with … – Minato wondered what could disturb Hizashi like this – spill it out, Hizashi. It can't be more serious than our current situation – Minato said in a calm voice. Hizashi calmed his breathing – One of the genins from Kusagakure, the girl, she's an Uzumaki – Minato stood up abruptly from his chair – Are you sure? – Hizashi nodded – Her chakra signature is peculiar and similar to Mito-sama's and Kushina-sama's. There is no mistake, Hokage-sama – Hizashi seemed confident. Minato couldn't believe it. Kushina will be so happy. He looked through the pile of documents from his desk until he found the files Kusagakure sent about their genin team. He went through the file and found the girl's picture. A red-haired girl. She had a light resemblance to Kushina when she was a girl. He smiled – Thank you, Hizashi-san. Please keep an eye on her and keep me posted – Hizashi nodded and left. Minato read in detail Karin's file. No last name was listed in her file. The girl could be the descendant of some of the Uzumaki Clan members who managed to escape Uzushiogakure's downfall; as Sandaime-sama suspected, they had settled in small villages not to draw attention. There could be more Uzumakis alive. He couldn't wait to get home and tell Kushina about it. He wouldn't be able to see Naruto until the end of the second stage of the exams, i.e., one week from today. He wondered if Naruto would figure out the girl's lineage. Naruto must suspect something, given the girl's chakra resembling Kushina's and her red hair. He was glad to have good news amid a storm of problems. As soon as the exams were finished and the threat of Kumo and Oto had been resolved, he would send people to Kusagakure to investigate the girl's family.
Note: It is canon that Karin was in the same Chunin exams as Team Seven. Tobirama knew immediately she was Uzumaki by her chakra signature and her hair, and Orochimaru mentioned her chakra is similar to Kushina's. With that being said, and the new barriers system Konoha has, it wouldn't make sense for Konoha not to find out she's an Uzumaki.
Konoha Academy: Classroom 301
Everyone stared at Team Seven as they opened the door. Hinata gulped when she felt the tension in the air. Team Seven was pushed forward by the other genins coming behind them. They were pushed inside the classroom. Sasuke and Naruto managed to pull Hinata aside to safety from the genins' stampede. Teams Eight and Ten joined Team Seven – it's pretty packed in here, don't you think? – Kiba said, annoyed. The nine rookies agreed. Shikamaru looked around, looking for the Kumo-nins. Team Seven had told everyone a couple of days before about the incident with them four nights ago. The rookies had been coordinating with each other since their last mission. Shikamaru was the best strategist among them. When they were sent to haunt down Mizuki-sensei, Yondaime-sama and the counselors thought he was Kumo's spy. They'd decided to keep an eye on Kumo-nins, especially after their blatant interest in Hinata's Byakugan – Oi, Shikamaru – said Sasuke. The Nara boy turned to see the Uchiha – Those three over there, with the music quaver symbol on their protectors. They're from Otogakure – Team 8 & 9 were taken aback. They frowned and stared at them – So, they're Orochimaru's minions, huh? – Sasuke nodded. The rookies were too focused to notice when three more Konoha-nin approached them – Hinata-chan, I see you and your friends made it in time – the boy had the same white eyes as Hinata. Team Seven hadn't meet him before, but they knew who he was, Neji Hyuga, Hinata's cousin – Hai, Neji nii-san – said Hinata happily – You should've waited for more experience, Hinata-chan. These exams are tough, and they won't be easy. Kessho-sensei made us wait a full year before allowing us to sign for it – said the Hyuga boy. Sasuke was surprised to discover that one of his father's disciples had a genin team. He had no idea Kessho-san was a Jounin sensei too – These are my teammates, Hoki Taketori – the boy had messy brown hair and purple eyes and wore a dark blue long-sleeve shirt with a long neck that went up to his nose, like Kakashi's, and a teal vest over it. He also wore dark blue fingerless gloves and black pants. He had a pouch tied to his lower back and a shuriken holster tied to his right thigh – and this is Sai – he was a boy with pale white skin. He had short, straight black hair and dark eyes. He wore a black collarless suit with red straps and a purple shirt underneath. He carried a backpack, a pouch, a shuriken holster tied to his right thigh and a tanto sword tied to his back. Everyone was shocked by the boy's pale skin, except for Ino, she found the guy kind of cute – the rookies greeted the other genins. Although they seemed insulted by Neji's comment – So, this is your first time taking the exam, right? – asked Choji as he opened a bag of chips. Neji and his teammates nodded. Hoki spoke – Another team from our generation is taking the exam this year. Over there, those three – said Hoki, pointing at three genins on the other side of the room. They noticed it and started walking toward them. As the other genins approached, Hoki continued talking – I see many more teams with Konoha's protectors, but I don't know them. They look older. I guess it is not their first time taking the exam – Neji and Sai nodded in agreement with Hoki. The other three genins arrived – Hi, everyone! My name is Rock Lee from Team Three – said the boy with bushy eyebrows and an awful green suit. Ino and Sakura were disgusted by the boy's taste in style – These are my teammates, Tenten and Iwabee Yuino – the other boy was tall and lean in build with tanned skin, stern dark brown eyes, and straight, dark brown hair. He wore a red cap covering his ears, secured by a blue string that held his hair, excluding a single bang that hung between his eyes. He also wore a dull red shirt, a black jacket and trousers. He had his forehead protector attached to his belt like a keychain. He held a Jo metal staff in his right hand – so, who's your sensei – asked Kiba. Lee seemed too excited with the question – Our sensei is the best of all, he's got the spirit of youth running through his veins! He's the one and only Might Guy! – said Lee with tears in his eyes – What's wrong with this clown – whispered Ino and Sakura together. Tenten and Iwabee seemed embarrassed by Lee's demeanor.
Note: For Sai's outfit, I'm trying to describe his son's Inojin outfit in Boruto, instead of the one Sai uses in Shippuden. Hoki and Iwabee are characters from Boruto. There is no need to describe Neji, Tenten or Lee. Kabuto is not part of the Chunin Exams. Now that it is public knowledge that Fugaku is the new leader of the ROOT due to Danzo's "sickness" and "deteriorate health state", Orochimaru wouldn't risk sending Kabuto and be recognized by Tatsuna or another ROOT member. Kabuto is replaced by a rogue ninja from the Shinden Novels, Hakubi Shin. The novels have some really interesting characters that I'll use and introduce over the story as needed.
The rookies were so engrossed in introducing themselves to the other two genin teams when Hinata, Ino and Neji turned around abruptly. They sensed the Oto-nins approaching fast. The three took a fighting stand as the three enemies jumped above the crowd. Hinata and Neji got ready to strike with their gentle fist, but a strong gale pushed away the three Oto-nin, making them clash against the wall – What do you think of that Futon, Naruto? – said Temari as she closed her huge fan. Naruto smirked. She was good. That jutsu was like his Toppa and Daitoppa. However, Temari's ability to direct the jutsu in such a way inside a reduced and crowded space without hitting anyone other than her target was impressive. His Futon jutsus were wide and wild. The only jutsu he could aim at with the same precision as Temari was his Reppusho; however, that jutsu was not as powerful. Naruto smirked. He badly wanted to learn more Futon jutsus. The three Oto-nins stood up – You bastard! Don't get in my way! – said Dosu as he pulled his right sleeve, revealing a huge vambrace. The crowd of genins found it odd that the vambrace was so big and had multiple orifices. It was not a common vambrace, for sure. Before the Oto-nins could attack, a deep voice echoed in the room as a vast cloud of smoke formed at the front of the classroom – Behave, you all little pieces of shit! I have no time nor interest to deal with your pitiful desire to show off! – as the cloud dispersed, a tall, imposing man with a dark grey uniform and a black overcoat stood in the middle of at least a dozen more shinobis wearing light gray uniforms. The tall man had two scars across his face, and his head was covered with a black bandana with his forehead protector. Many of the genins gulped due to the imposing aura the man emanated. Dosu covered his vambrace again. He whispered to the Suna trio as he passed them by – You'll pay for this – Kankura and Temari chuckled. Gaara stared at the three Oto-nins, expressionless. The three of them felt a shiver through their spines – Such a killing intent – they thought. They continued walking. Dosu took a last look at Gaara before taking a seat. Naruto approached the Suna trio – That was awesome! After the exams, can you teach me? – Temari giggled, but before she could say anything – Temari, Kankuro, let's find some seats – said the redheaded boy as he started walking to the back of the room through the rows of desks and chairs – Oi, Gaara! Wait! – said Naruto. Gaara turned his head just enough to see Naruto from the edge of his eye – I told you already, Naruto. Until you tell me the truth about that chakra of yours, we have nothing to discuss with you – Gaara turned and continued walking. Naruto bit his lip. He'd longed to tell the truth to Hinata and Sasuke for years. But he had no right to reveal his mother's secret. Gaara was one of his oldest and best friends. He would tell him the truth if he could – I'm sorry, Naruto. Gaara might get a little cranky when he fixes his mind on something. The easier way to pass through that is by giving him what he wants – said Kankuro – Oi! You three! Knock it off! Grab a bloody seat and quit that chit-chat! – Naruto's eyes went wide open and shivered. Ibiki-san was a scary man. Naruto turned and realized there were not many seats left. He scanned them quickly and was about to head for the seat next to Hinata, but a piece of chalk passed before Naruto, less than an inch from his eye – Not so fast, boy. Find another seat. You can't sit with your teammates – said Ibiki as he played with another piece of chalk. Naruto looked around and saw a seat next to Shikamaru, so he took the seat before someone else did.
Once everyone was seated, Ibiki spoke – This is a written test – said the scary man as the shinobis that accompanied him started handing over the exams – papers faced down until I give the signal. Now, listen up – groans were heard all over the room. The genins were not expecting written tests for the Chunin Exams – There are a few big rules. Listen carefully because I won't repeat them, and no questions are allowed – the room went wild. Genins started complaining all over the room. Ibiki gave them a cold look and the room went quiet – The exam consists of ten questions, one point each. Rule number one: every question you get wrong nullifies a correct answer. What I mean by that is, for example, if you answer five questions correctly and five wrongly, you'll end up with a grade of zero since your five wrong answers will cancel out your five correct answers – genins started complaining again. Many of them started getting nervous. With that grading policy, they had no room for mistakes. After a new wave of killing intent by Ibiki, the room stayed mute again – Rule number two: this is still a team event. Passing or failing will be determined by the score accomplished by the three members of each team, i.e., the max grade is thirty points – someone tried to speak up but was quickly silenced by one of the proctors by throwing a sticky substance that looked like jelly at his mouth – Shut up and listen. Didn't you listen to Ibiki-san? No questions allowed – said Izumi Kamizuki. The genin tried to remove the sticky jelly from his mouth, unsuccessfully – As I was saying, you and your teammates will pass or fail together, which leads to Rule number 3: Two points will be deducted from all team members for each time the proctors catch you cheating. If a team is caught cheating five times, it will be failed and asked to leave. In summary, if you let the proctors catch you cheating, you'll bring yourself and your friends down – the proctors smirked – I'll be looking over your shoulders when you least expect it – said Kotetsu Hagane. Several genins gulped. Team Seven and the other rookies kept their cool and smirked – You have one hour starting … NOW! – the genins flipped their exams.
Naruto started reading the questions. He read the first one: decipher an encrypted code. It wasn't an easy encryption; it was too advanced for him. He gulped and went to the next question. Each question was more complex than the previous one. His confidence started to fade away. He then read question number eight. It was a fuinjutsu formula, his specialty. He solved it with some difficulty. That was the only question he could answer. Question 10 wasn't there. He'd have to wait for 45 minutes before the question was announced. Naruto knew something was off. The fuinjutsu formula was too complicated for any genin to solve. He had solved it thanks to his training with his mother and Tenzo-sensei and all the books he'd been reading from the Uzumaki Shrine. There was no way any of his friends knew how to solve it. None of these questions could be solved by any of genin, except maybe Shikamaru and Sakura. He was analyzing the situation when a kunai passed next to his ear and pierced the desk behind him. Two more kunai landed at other desks – You three are out! You've accumulated five strikes – the genins were forced to leave the room. Naruto smirked. Ibiki-san made a big deal about getting caught cheating. This exam was too hard for any genin to solve. He needed to cheat without being seen. That was what the real exam was about. He knew Hinata could copy anyone with her Byakugan, and Sasuke could use his Sharingan. He, however, had no way to cheat. There was no point in knowing what he needed to do if he couldn't do it. He gritted his teeth. He needed to find a way to get the answers. Naruto was engrossed in his dilemma when he felt his body stiffening. He lost control of it. His hand moved on its own, and he started writing down the answers to the exam. Naruto didn't understand what was happening until his hand started writing on the margin of the exam sheet – I've got your back, Naruto. Stop fighting my Kagemane no Jutsu – Naruto read what his hand had written. He smirked as his hand erased the note he had just written. Shikamaru was using his shadow imitation technique to write down the solutions for the other eight questions. Naruto knew Shikamaru would be the only one smart enough to solve the exam independently. He'd been lucky to sit next to Shikamaru. Naruto kept writing under Shikamaru's influence. Several more teams were expelled from the exam. Suddenly, he saw how Ino laid her head on the desk as if she were sleeping. Naruto felt sorry. Probably Ino had given up. If only she could've sat next to Shikamaru. Shikamaru noticed Naruto's concerned look. He smirked. He stopped writing down the answers and wrote a new note on the exam margin for Naruto to read – stop worrying about Ino. She knows what she's doing and has Choji's back – Naruto didn't understand what he meant, but he trusted the Nara boy. Shikamaru and Naruto, in consequence, nodded. Naruto's hand erased the note and continued with the exam. After a while, Naruto had the nine answers for his exam.
Forty-five minutes have passed since the beginning of the exam – All right! Here it comes. Get ready for the tenth question – said Ibiki – For the tenth question, there are two more rules. These rules are absolute – the genins gulped – First, you must choose whether to accept or reject this tenth question – Kurotsuchi stood up – What do you mean? What will happen if we decide to reject the question? – Ibiki stared at the girl – so, this is Tsuchikage-dono's granddaughter, huh? – Ibiki thought before continuing – If you reject the question, you'll lose all your points, resulting in you and your teammates failing the exam – the girl from Iwagakure gritted her teeth. Omoi, the boy from Kumogakure, stood up – That's nonsense! Why would anyone choose to reject the question if it would mean failing? – more genins started complaining – because if you decide to take the question and get it wrong, not only will you fail, but you will never be permitted to apply for the Chunin Exams again. Not ever! – said Ibiki with a mocking tone and a broad smile. Everyone was taken aback. Genins started sweating and hyperventilating. Ibiki and his proctors smirked more broadly. Kiba stood up – You can't be serious! That's ridiculous! We know there are shinobis that have taken the exam more than once. There are some here, no doubt! – Ibiki started laughing maniacally. He continued – Well, this is the first time I'm proctoring the exam. I make the rules now. This is just your rotten luck – Kiba frowned and sat. Ibiki examined the room – Let's begin. Those who choose to reject the question raise their hand. Once their names have been confirmed, they will leave the room – One after another, genins continued raising their hands and quitting. Their teammates were forced to leave the room with them. Naruto looked at Sasuke and Hinata, who were sitting a few rows in front of him. He then looked at Shikamaru. The Nara boy seemed relaxed and calm by the statement. He laid back on his chair and placed his hands on the back of his head as if he were ready to take a nap. He smirked at Naruto. Naruto smirked back. If someone as lazy as Shikamaru, who is always trying to avoid any complication, was so confident, he had no reason to doubt. He didn't see any sign of hesitation in Sasuke and Hinata. They would never quit, and neither would he. He stood up and hit the desk with his hand – I'm Naruto Namikaze! Son of Konoha's Yellow Flash, Yondaime Hokage of Konohagakure! I'll accept your stupid question even if I risk being a genin for the rest of my life! I'll still become the man who surpasses all the Hokages! – Sasuke and Hinata smirked from their seats. Shikamaru smiled at Naruto – as noisy as always – the Nara boy thought. Kiba stood up – Hey! Don't take all the glory, Naruto! I'm not quitting, either! And I will be the one who becomes Hokage! – Sakura smiled – I didn't say anything about becoming Hokage! I just want to surpass them – Those rookies have spirit – thought Lee as he smirked. The genins stared at Naruto and Kiba and smiled nervously. They were inspired by them – I'll ask you one last time. This decision could affect the rest of your life. Quit now while you still have a chance – Shinobis of Konoha never back down! That's our way! That's the way of Yondaime-sama and Sandaime-sama – said Kiba. Naruto, for once, agreed with him. Kurotsuchi and Karui stood up, enraged – What are you implying with that, huh? Do you think only Konoha's got the guts never to back down? – both kunoichis said. They looked and frowned at each other. Ibiki looked around. The looks of hesitation on the genins' faces disappeared. It looked like these four had inspired them. He looked at his proctors. They nodded in agreement – Seventy-eight, huh? Way more than I expected. All of you that are still here … You've just passed the first exam – said Ibiki, to everyone's surprise. Ibiki explained the real intention of the exam, evaluating their ability to gather information, dealing with pressure and decision-making.
One of the room's windows broke right after Ibiki finished his explanation. A kunoichi entered through the window, spinning and throwing two kunais to the roof with a huge black shawl covering the entire front of the classroom, leaving Ibiki behind it. The shawl read, "Newly arrived examination officer Anko Mitarashi." The kunoichi yelled – None of you are in any position to celebrate! I'm Anko Mitarashi, your examination officer for the second stage – Anko stared at the room. There were more genins than she expected – You're going soft, Ibiki! 26 teams! Seriously? – Ibiki came out from behind the shawl – This is an exceptional batch, Anko – Anko groaned – Yeah, sure. I'll cut the number down by half before the preliminaries – several genins gulped – Oi, you scumbag! Move your asses! We're going to the location of your next exam – Anko and the genins left the room.
Note: It was always said that Shikamaru was the smartest of all the genins with the highest IQ (over 200). In the manga and anime, they showed only Sakura solved the exam by herself. I think it would make sense that Shikamaru, who's smarter than Sakura, solved it, too, without a problem.
Stage II starts in the next chapter. Since we now have Kumo and Iwa in the exams, stage 2 will develop differently than what happens in canon. Also, Karin is an important piece for the Chunin Exams to keep track of.
I thought about splitting this chapter into two small chapters. But I personally prefer longer chapters when I read.
OUT OF TOPIC: If you like Avatar: The Last Airbender, I would recommend you to read the novels of Kyoshi, Yangchen and Roku. The Reckoning of Roku came out just a couple of weeks ago. I just finished it, and it is really good.