Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ A Tail of Two Bijus ❯ Preliminairies! ( Chapter 12 )

A/N: Greetings again my fellow readers! After a lot of looking into how the original main matches were set up, I've discovered that I can have four people vs Naruto, including the final. I'm still deciding which half of the table to put the extended part on. I really want to get Naruto and Yukiko and Sasuke promoted to Chunin during this exam, and the only way I can think of doing it is to have a very soppy finals match, even by my standards. Namely, I have Yukiko and Naruto face off in the finals, but they both forfeit, claiming that they would never hurt a friend, even if it was just a regulated match. However, this is the only way I can think of doing things that will get both of them promoted to Chunin. Even so, to even get to the finals, I'd have to do the same thing for either Naruto vs Sasuke or Yukiko vs Sasuke. These are the ones that I've finally decided on for the line up of Naruto's opponents for the main matches:

 

First round: Hyuga Neji.

 

Second Round: Rock Lee.

 

Semi Finals: Sabaku no Gaara.

 

Finals: Yakushi Yukiko.

 

Also, Jdawg26, you have to understand that both Yukiko's and Naruto's demons were practically forcing them to do it. The two demons realised if they pushed any harder, it would probably have the exact opposite effect they wanted, so they basically just let things pan out and try and arrive at their goal naturally.

 

And a big thank you to Ani-Blast for pointing out that flaw for me. Sorry about that, it should be that there was 79 people left, not 78.

 

Oh and I was hoping to keep the main reason about why Naruto decided to smarten up a secret, but I guess I might as well tell you guys now, otherwise it will just look like a major design flaw. He read something in his father's box on the Akatsuki saying that he would be hunted to the ends of the earth along with the other demon containers unil either Akatsuki had captured all of the demon containers, or Akatsuki had been defeated. Naruto decided to wizen up and get better, for Yukiko's sake as well.

 

One final thing. If you dont want a MASSIVE spoiler about the most recent manga issue of Nartuo, I suggest you do not read the Author's Notes at the end of this chapter. Let's just say that the current issue completely destroyed almost all of my love for Naruto as a story. If you want to find out why I think this, read the AN at the bottom. Let's just say it made me want to get off the original story line ASAP.

 

The thing you'd never hear a character say quote for this chapter: 'SHIKAMARU: "Hey Naruto, buddy, I got some extra cans of paint, let's go decorate the Hokage's mansion!"'

 

Anyways, to the writing! I hope my creativity gives you some semblance of pleasure to read.

 

&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&&&&&

 

Day Five of the Second Test:

 

The Genin had all assembled in the middle of the tower, which was obviously used as a fighting arena. They noticed that all of the important people of the village were here. Anko was the first to address them.

 

“Hokage-Sama will now explain the rules for the thrid exam, so litsen up!”

 

The hokage stepped forward. He took a long draw from his pipe before expelling the smoke.

 

“Before I explain the rules of the third exam, I want to tell you the true meaning for this exam.”

 

“That it's a replacement for war?”

 

Everyone turned to Naruto who was smiling sadly.

 

“That is correct Naruto. Go back 50 or so years, and you'll find that all the currently 'allied' countries were enemies fighting for the right to rule. Eventually, they realised that there was a much lest costly way of dealing with the power struggle, and so the Chunin Selection Exams were born. During the main matches, you will be watched by some of the most powerful and influential people on the face of the planet. Each shinobi in the exams is expected to put his life on the line to uphold their village's power and prestige.”

 

Kiba wanted some answers.

 

“But why the hell do we have to risk our lives to entertain people?!”

 

Yukiko answered for the Hokage.

 

“The strength of a country is decided by the strength of it's village. The strength of the village is decided by the strength of the shinobi. If the strength of a shinobi, and therefore it's village and country is clear, the infulential and powerful people in the stands will favor that village, and they will recive more clients. However, if the inverse is true, and a shinobi is seen as weak, his or her country will recive less clients. If a village's 'power' deteriorates to a certain level, it is giving the message to the other villages that 'we are weak.' This will signal any country that is even a slight enemy that they are prime for invasion. Therefore we are expected to perform our best and bring power and prestige to our village in order to avoid any potential threats of invasion.”

 

The hokage nodded.

 

“That is correct, Yukiko. They only time a shinobi's true strength comes to the surface is during life or death situations. I will now begin explaining the third test's rules-”

 

“<Cough> Actually, Hokage-Sama, as the referee, will you allow me to explain the rules?”

 

“Very well.”

 

The Chunin coughed again and turned around to face the group of Genins.

 

“Greetings... <Cough>... I am Hayate. There's something that must be done before the third test begins, naely, a preliminary.”

 

“What? Why?”

 

“It may have been that the first and second tests were too easy this year, or it may be that you are all exceptional Genins. Whatever the reason is, there are far too many people left to simply put you all into the next test.”

 

“But why is that?”

 

“As Hokage-Sama said, there will be powerful people watching the third test. Their time is valuable, and we cannot afford to waste it... <Cough>... Therefore, accroding to the Chunin selection exam rules, we are required to hold a preliminary.”

 

People mumbled but accepted it.

 

“One final thing, would anyone like to give up now?”

 

The Sound Jounin instructor looked at Kabuto, as if giving him some sort of message, but Kabuto pretended that he hadn't seen it.

 

“No one? Very well. The preliminaries will be one on one matches. You will fight as if this is a real life confrontation. Since we have exactly 22 participants, the winners will advance through to the main matches. Please look at the screen on the wall behind me. The first two names will be announced. The two that appear first please prepare. The resot of you, please go and stand with your senseis in the stands above. The first match is between:

 

Uchiha Sasuke

VS

Akada Yoroi

 

“Would the two fighters step up please?”

 

Sasuke stepped up to Hayate's left, and Yoroi to his right. Yoroi was one of Kabuto's team mates. Yoroi sneered and Sasuke smirked.

 

“Fighters, please begin.”

 

Hayate jumped back bringing his hand down in between them to show the match had started. Yoroi gathered his chakra into a wave around his right hand and laughed.

 

“Are you ready?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

Yoroi used his left hand to reach into the pouch on his back and took out three shuriken, which he promptly hurled at Sasuke. Sasuke pulled out a kunai and deflected them back at Yoroi, who ducked to dodge them. Yoroi charged in, holding his right wrist. Sasuke rolled backwards, just missing Yoroi's hand, which punched through the ground where he had been a split second ago. Sasuke stabbed his kunai into the ground to give him a firm grip on seomthing that let him spin around to catch Yoroi's leg in between his own, tripping him up. Sasuke placed one leg over Yoroi's neck and held Yoroi's right hand, preventing him from forming any seals. This however, was good for Yoroi, as he turned his arm over, and grabbed onto Sasuke's neck, activating his chakra in his hand. Sasuke felt the strength drain from his body at an alarming rate. He had to get out of this, and fast. He grabbed Yoroi's forearm with both hands and managed to prise him off himself. Sasuke lept back.

 

“That's an unusual ability you have. The ability to drain someone else's chakra and add it to your own... Impressive...”

 

“Why thank you. However, I'm not in the mood for taking complements. I'll finish this right now.”

 

“So will I.”

 

Yoroi charged in, and Sasuke body flickered to just infront of Yoroi, who was not expecting this and tried to back up, but it was far too late. Sasuke gave him a huge kick to the underside of his chin, sending him flying into the air. Lee was shocked.

 

“That's my...”

 

Sasuke appeared behind Yoroi and smirked. I'll have to thank Lee for this later, however, from here on out, it's all original.”

 

Sasuke pointed two fingers into Yoroi's back to give himself a center of gravity and gave a sweeping right kick Yoroi blocked it and smirked.

 

“Not enough!”

 

“Wrong!”

 

In one fluid motion, Sasuke retracted his food and gave a sweeping backhand punch to Yoroi's face. Just as he was about to land, Sasuke finished his combo with a sweeping kick to his stomach.

 

“Shi Shi Rendan!”

 

Sasuke recovered and gloated over his victory. Hayate walked over to find Yoroi unconcious. Hayate coughed and pointed to Sasuke.

 

“Winner of the first match is Uchiha Sasuke.”

 

Sasuke body flickered up to his team. He gave Naruto a high five, and Kakashi smiled at him. The medics had removed Yoroi from the stage to prepare for the next match. Hayate coughed to get everyone's attention.

 

“The next match's participance will now be announced.”

 

Everyone looked at the board. The names said:

 

Uzumaki Naruto

VS

Zaku Abumi

 

“Fighters for the second round, please step up. You may begin when ready.”

 

Naruto took one look at Zaku and burst out laughing.

 

“What's so funny?”

 

“Did you enjoy me breaking your arms? How about I break your neck this time?”

 

Everyone was chilled to the bone. How could Naruto talk about killing this guy in such a manner?

 

“Shut it you demon freak! I can still use at least one arm.”

 

Naruto just smiled and bent to the floor, letting forth a gutteral growl. His hair became unruly, his wiskers elongated, widened and darkened. His fingernails turned into claws and his canines grew. When Naruto opened his eyes, they had turned blood read, whith cat like slits for pupils. Everyone just glanced in horror. Yukiko on the other hand, was uncounciously licking her lips. Gaara was trying to contain himself.

 

“I've seen this form before demon boy! I know how to defeat you!”

 

“Oh? Do you know how to defeat this form then? First demon gate: The armour gate. KAI!”

 

Naruto's body began to be surrounded by a blood red armour made of chakra. As the armour reached Naruto's chest he screamed in obvious pain, before it overtook his head. His scream turned into a battle cry that screamed bloodlust. Peope were vissably quaking. Yukiko just smiled at her boyfriend. She announced to the people around her what was about to happen.

 

“He's dead.”

 

They all looked to Yukiko for an explination.

 

“Calling Naruto-Kun a demon is a bigger taboo than calling Choji fat. You call Naruto a demon, you forfeit your life. That guy was lucky to get off with calling Naruto-Kun a demon once, which is once more than anyone. Watch, I don't know how Naruto-Kun's going to kill him, but it won't be pretty.”

 

They all turned back to the match. Naruto smirked and created four Kage Bunshins to stand at the four corners of the ring. Naruto turned back to Zaku and announced his move.

 

“Prepare yourself!”

 

Naruto charged in with blinding speed, and just before he got to Zaku, he changed direction and formed a ring of dirt around Zaku. Lee knew where this was going.

 

“That's also my...”

 

Zaku was getting bored.

 

“Come on demon boy, let's see what you've got.”

 

“Very well. Your life ends now.”

 

Naruto sprinted out from his current position in the ring and punched Zaku into the wall, making a fairly large crater.

 

“That's just the beginning of it. SHI-NE!”

 

Naruto ran and plowed into the wall, before draging him towards the back wall. When he hit the back wall, there was another large explosion of smoke, before Naruto appeared again, draging Zaku along the back wall before slamming him into the other side, another explosion of smoke eminated from their point of impact. Naruto again dragged Zaku down the wall, but this time he stopped half way and jumped into the centre of the ring, draging Zaku with him to where the other kage bunshins had just reached by jumping off the walls. The real Naruto jumped off the back of one of the colnes, attaching himself to the roof and waiting. The clones began a sickening combo, punching and kicking Zaku before kicking him further up into the air, where the real Naruto was waiting. Naruto released his hold on the roof and dropped down to meet Zaku. Naruto grabbed a hold of Zaku's middrift, locking his legs around Zaku's neck.

 

“Omote Oni Renge Rendan!”

 

Naruto dived down with Zaku locked in position. Zaku may or may not have been alive at that point, it didn't matter to Naruto. Naruto slammed Zaku into the ground with such force that the ground bucked and shattered underneath the point of impact releasing a huge wave of dust and debris throught the arena. Everyone covered their eyes. Ino screamed and Sasuke just gave a 'hmph'. Naruto landed sofly beside the crater, waiting for the smoke to clear. When it did, everyone saw Zaku, completely broken and disfigured, with his legs sticking up in the air. Zaku's legs went limp and he fell down in a very unhealthy looking position. Naruto began to change back to his normal human self.

 

“That is what you get when you call me a demon, and hurt one of my team mates. I hope you learn your lesson in the afterlife.”

 

Hayate didn't need to check. Zaku was well and trully six feet under. He coughed, and pointed a hand at Naruto.

 

“Winner, Uzumaki Naruto.”

 

Naruto turned to the audience.

 

“I expect to see both of you, Lee and Gaara in the finals. Don't dissapoint me.”

 

With that, Naruto body flickered back to his team mates position. Sasuke shook his head, Yukiko squealed and Sakura looked in shock.

 

“Wasn't that going a bit far to protect me, Naruto-Kun?”

 

“Nah, he deserved it.”

 

Sasuke gave Naruto a high five.

 

“Show off.”

 

“Heh. Looks like we both copied the same guy, eh?”

 

“Seems so.”

 

Yukiko couldn't contain herself any more and latched onto Naruto.

 

“That was awesome, Naruto-Kun! Do you think I could learn that technique?”

 

Naruto looked thoughtful for a moment.

 

“Well, you have everything I needed to perform it, so I'd say so.”

 

Naruto turned to Lee, who was still dumbfounded as to how Naruto had managed to make his own, far more powerful version of his trump card.

 

“Lee, I have to thank you for performing the Lotus in the second test. I managed to stay concious just long enough to see it, before losing conciousness again.

 

Yukiko gave him another hug. People just stared. Was she a demon too? Hayate once again coughed to get some attention.

 

“The next match's contestants will now be selected.”

 

Everyone turned to the board and looked at the names flashing through the screen. It finally stopped on two people.

 

Yakushi Yukiko

VS

Inuzuka Kiba

 

“Contestants for this round, please step up.”

 

Kiba wasn't so sure if he was lucky or not. He put Akumaru on the ground and waitied for the match to begin. Hayate saw they were both ready.

 

“Please begin the 3rd match.”

 

Kiba formed the seal of the ram and announced his technique.

 

“Gijyuu Ninpou, Shiykyaku no Jutsu.”

 

Kiba's nails started lengtheneing and turned into claws. Yukiko and Naruto both burst out laughing.

 

“Oi! What the hell's so funny?”

 

“The fact that that's the most half assed mimicry technique I've ever seen! Yukiko-Chan, show dog boy what a REAL mimicry technique looks like!”

 

Yukiko suddenly closed her eyes and began forming strange hand seals that were foreign to everyone but herself and Naruto. Kiba's sensei, Yuuhi Kurenai turned to Naruto and questioned him.

 

“What kind of hand seals are they?”

 

Naruto turned to her and smiled.

 

“Ones that humans could never hope to understand.”

 

Yukiko finished her last hand seal and announced her technique.

 

“Demon Mimicry Ninja Technique, Full Body!”

 

When those words left her mouth, Yukiko's cainines began to lengthen and her fingernails began to grow into claws. When she opened her eyes, Kiba noticed in shock that they were no longer violet, but they were now emerald green with gold rims. Her pupils had also elongated into elipses, with pointed ends at the top and bottom of her pupil. She let out a hiss.

 

“This is a REAL mimicry technique, Kiba.”

 

Kiba was starting to get scared. He was sure that she was a demon as well. He lowered himself onto all fours and prepared to charge.

 

“Entertain me, Kiba. Show me why the Inuzuka Clan is famous for their affiliation with beasts and why they look and smell so much like them.”

 

Kiba growled and body flickered forward. He attempted a right hook to Yukiko's face. However, the was she blocked it was completely unrealistic. She simply held up two fingers and stopped the attack with just the fingers. She had her eyes closed the whole time. Kiba jumped back and attempted one of his trademark techniques.

 

“Tsuuga!”

 

Yukiko made no move to block. She just pulled her fist back and waitied until Kiba was close enough before punching into the grey whirlwind. Kiba's attack stopped when he met her fist. Kiba began to drop to the ground, but Yukiko picked him up and threw him at the wall, causing several of Kiba's bones to fracture. Yukiko slowly walked up to him and picked him up by the collar of his jacket.

 

“Why are you so weak? I thought the Inuzuka's were heralded for their beast like strength. To me, you're nothing more than a kawaii little puppy. This is your first and final warning. Give up, before I decide to beat you into submission.”

 

Kiba couldn't believe that he was being beaten so badly. He attempted to hit Yukiko in the head to temporarily weaken her grip on him and allow him an openeing to escape. Yukiko didn't even block it however, and Kiba's fist slammed into her temple. Yukiko didn't even flinch. When she opened her eyes again, she looked straight into Kiba's.

 

“That almost hurt. I see you still have some fight left in you. How about we start with your right hand?”

 

Yukiko grabbed Kiba's right wrist and began applying pressure. Kiba screamed as the sound of bone under extreme pressure was heard throught the arena. Naruto decided it would be best for Yukiko to show him some leinency.

 

“Oi, Yukiko-Chan! Stop playing with your food! Just finish him already!”

 

Yukiko glanced up at Naruto in mock hatred.

 

“You better thank Naruto-Kun, Kiba. If it wasn't for him, I'd take my time your breaking bones until you passed out. But I'll just knock you unconcious. Less fun, but it works just as well.”

 

Yukiko brought her knee up to Kiba's stomach, making him cough up a stream of blood before he slumped in Yukiko's hand. Yukiko dropped him and began walking back up to her team. Everyone was wary as Yukiko passed them, but she just smiled at them before arriving back at her own team's position.

 

“Yukiko-Chan, you should really learn not to play with your food. Just a quick clean win is all you need.”

 

Yukiko did the irrisistible 'puppy pout' technique, to get what she wanted from Naruto. True to form, Naruto just sighed and hugged her before giving her a small kiss. The others wondered if Naruto and Yukiko could both really be so violent. They seemed like such a normal couple until they were fighting. Dosu took particular interest in them.

 

'Seems like Team Seven of Konoha sure is one group of violent kids...'

 

Hayate coughed again, catching everyone's attention. Yukiko was getting worried about the examiner.

 

“Hayate, you should really get that cough seen to.”

 

“It's fine. Please look to the board for the next match.”

 

The names cycled through and eventually stopped on two:

 

Sabakyu no Gaara

VS

Dosu Kinata

 

Naruto and Yukiko had been waiting to see their fellow demon container in action. And considering his opponent was a decently ninja from the sound, they should be able to get a little bit of an idea of what he was capeable of. They stared at each other, and once Hayate saw they were both ready, he brought his hand down.

 

“Please begin.”

 

Dosu noticed something flying towards him and he held up his amplifier and blocked the attack.

 

“Well, then, I take it you are ready to die?”

 

Naruto turned his back and snickered, Yukiko just shook her head. They both announced their verdict in unison.

 

“He's dead.”

 

The other's turned to them for an explination. Lee shook his head in dissagreement.

 

“No, he's strong. I think he can win.”

 

“Lee, did he win against me in the forest?”

 

“No...”

 

“Trust me. Gaara is one of us, a demon container. Sure, his demon is inferior to both mine and Yukiko-Chan's, but he's achived the full potential of his demon. Yukiko-Chan's unlocked about half of hers, which makes her about equal to Gaara, while I've unlocked about twenty percent of mine, also making me about equal to him. That's why I said I was only interested in seeing you and Gaara in the finals. You, Gaara, Yukiko-Chan, Sasuke and myself are in a league of our own. Dosu had the worst luck possible matching up with Gaara. That's because, unlike us, Gaara is a psychotic killer. He will show Dosu no mercy. He's just going to toy with Dosu and then kill him in a rather sadistic manner.”

 

Everyone looked at Naruto in shock This was a lot of information to digest at one time. Sasuke looked pleased however.

 

“So, you still conider me a threat, eh Naruto?”

 

“You bet. However, I would like to avoid fighting you if possible. Same goes for Yukiko-Chan. You're both invaluable friends to me, who I could never bring myself to harm, even if it meant giving up the Chunin exam to avoid doing so.”

 

Now everyone was dumbfounded. Naruto? Give up? Those two words didn't fit into the same sentence, except if a word like 'never' was inserted into the mixture somewhere. Yukiko kissed Naruto while Sasuke gave a genuine smile, which was becoming more and more regular these days.

 

“You're such a sweetie, Naruto-Kun. Always looking out for your friends.”

 

“Heh, I'd never have admitted it before, but you'd make a great Chunin, if not Jounin one day.”

 

Naruto smiled and turned back to the match.

 

“Let's see how long it takes the Sound nin to figure out he's totally, fatally, utterly screwed.”

 

Down in the arena, Dosu had begun his charge. He pulled the sleave up up to reveal his weapon, and aimed a punch for Gaara's face. What few expected however, was a wall of sand to come up in between Gaar and Dosu's hand. Dosu let off a brief sound blast before jumping back to rethink his strategy. The sound tried to find a way through the wall of sand, but the sand just absorbed the sound and quivered.

 

“Is that it?”

 

Dosu looked up to see Gaara hadn't moved. Dosu was now getting very worried.

 

“There isn't enough.... BLOOD!”

 

A wave of sand worked its way across the floor towards Dosu, who tried to jump over it. However the sand reached up and grabbed his foot, hurling him against the wall. Dosu looked up quivering from the pain to see another wave of sand fast approaching. Dosu attempted to move out of the way, but he was far to slow. He caught the wave of sand full in the chest. Dosu screamed in pain, before he slumped to the ground. Dosu was already out cold, but apparently Gaara hadn't had enough. Hayate knew this match was over.

 

“Gaara, enough. Dosu has passed out, thereby rendering him unconcious. You've won. Please return to the stands.”

 

Gaara paid no attention. Hayate was about to get in the way of the sand attack when someone did it for him.

 

“Gaara, when the examiner says the match is over, it's over. If you continue, you won't be able to go on to the finals. That wouldn't be any fun would it? You wouldn't get to fight me. So just do as Hayate says for now. I'll make up for this loser's weakness in the finals, ok?”

 

This seemed to have the desired effect on Gaara. He drew all the sand back into his gourd, the last of it forming a cork to seal it. He turned to the side and began.

 

“Very well, Uzumaki Naruto.”

 

“Winner, Sabakyu no Gaara.”

 

Gaara surrounded himself in a swirl of sand and warped back to his team's position. Hayate looked up at the board. The names began scrolling again through the remaining Genins. It came up with a match that no one had expected:

 

Hyuga Neji

VS

Hyuga Hinita

 

Hinita stiffened up. Neji just smirked and jumped down to the floor of the arena. Hinita made her way slowly down to the ground, hoping to delay the inevitable. Once they were facing each other, Neji spoke up.

 

“I never thought I'd have the pleasure of fighting you, Hinita-Sama.”

 

“Neji-Niisan...”

 

Yukiko smiled sadly.

 

“What a match up... The heir of the Main House VS the heir of the Branch House. It's clear that Neji will win though. His power dwarfs hers. She should give up.”

 

“Nah, Hinita may be about to get beaten to a pulp, but she's good with words. She will lose the physial battle, but she will triumph mentally.”

 

Everyone turned back to the match. Hayate brought his hand down and jumped back.

 

“Before we fight, I'd like to say something, Hinita-Sama. You don't make a good shinobi. Forfeit now! You are too kind, you wish for harmony and avoid conflict. You agree with others, never resisting...”

 

Neji continued to talk trash Hinata. After a while Naruto had heard enough of Neji's voice.

 

“Oi! Hinata! Are you going to let that bastard trash talk you like that? Chin up! As for you, Neji, I suggest you stop acting like everything's decided by fate alone. If you're such a 'great shinobi' yourself, shut the hell up and prove it! Talk's cheep! I want to see why you're called the person blessed with more Hyuga talent than anyone else. Right now, all I see is an arrogant bastard who thinks he knows absolutely everything! If you can beat Hinata, I might just start believeing in your 'title'! Go on, Hinita! Kick his ass! I know you can do it!”

 

Hinita looked up at the object of her admiriation. She lowered her eyes.

 

'Arigato... Naruto-Kun...'

 

Hinita looked back up at Neji with nothing but determination in her eyes. She fored a seal and activated her clan's Bloodline Limit.

 

Neji frowned, and got into his juken fighting stance and Hinita did the same.

 

“Neji-Niisan. Let us fight!”

 

They charged at each other and began pumping large amounts of chakra out of their hands in an attempt to damage to opponent's chakra coils. They traded turns attacking and evading, before they eventually both swithched to an offensive attack. They both landed an attack on each other and the room went silent. Eventually, Hinata stiffened and coughed up blood. She set her eyes into a determined glare and pushed Neji's arm away from her neck and attempted to strike his heart. Neji used one hand to grab Hinata's attacking arm and the other to strike a Tenketsu in her arm. Hinata began panting heavily. Neji pulled back her jacket sleeve, revealing her struck tenketsu. Hinat looked at her arm in astonishment.

 

“So from the beginning you were...”

 

“Correct.. I was sealing your tenketsu.”

 

Neji struck Hinata and launched her back, landing on her back.

 

“This is the difference in our unchangable powers. The moment you said you wouldn't run, you set yourself up for regret. You should be in despair right now. Forfeit.”

 

Hinata started struggling back to her feet.

 

“I... NEVER... go back on my word... That is my way of the ninja...”

 

Hinata looked up to Naruto, who smiled back at her and nodded. Hinata smiled back.

 

Hinata charged back at Neji, this time unable to use her juken fighting style, due to her tenketsus being sealed. She fought Neji with her remaining power before Neji executed a cruel juken strile to Hinata's stomach. Hinata fell forward. Neji got back up. Neji smirked.

 

“From the start, your attacks have done nothing.”

 

Hayate was sure this was the end.

 

“Hinata is unable to continue, and therefore-”

 

“Don't even think about stopping the match yet!”

 

Everyone turned to Naruto. Naruto pointed at Hinata.

 

“This is where Hinata gets her revenge of sorts. Watch”

 

Hinata slowly got up. She was stuggling to stand. Everyone wondered what sort of 'revenge' Hinata could possibly get in that condition. Neji voiced everyone's concerns

 

“Why do you stand? You'll really die if you push yourself anymore.”

 

“It's not over...”

 

“Acting tough is useless. You can barely stand, I can see that. From the moment you were born, the responsibility of the Hyuga main house has been forced onto you. You have always hated yourself for your own weakness. But people cannot change. That is destiny. Tere's no need to suffer anymore. Let it go!”

 

“That's not true, Neji-Niisan. Because I can see it... It's not me at all... The person lost and suffering within the destiny of the main and branch houses... Is you, Neji-Niisan.”

 

Neji snapped. He charged at Hinata. Hayate started forward.

 

“Neji-Kun! This match is over! Stop!”

 

However, Neji disreguarded Hayate and continued his charge at Hinata. All of the leaf Jounin instructors held onto some part of Neji's body, preventing him from moving. Naruto and Yukiko were also standing in between Neji and Hinata.

 

“What is the meaning of this? Does the head family get special treatment?”

 

“Neji, drop it. You made a passionate promise with me that you wouldn't argue about the main family during this exam.”

 

At this point in time, Hinata's organs decided to rupture. Hinata fell to the ground, coughing up huge chunks of blood. Kurenai ran towards Hinata, but Naruto blocked her path.

 

“Naruto, let me see my student!”

 

“No. Let Yukiko-Chan heal her.”

 

Yukiko was already standing over Hinata, green chakra rolling off her in waves, forming many complex and foreign hand seals. Yukiko took about thirty seconds before announcing her technique.

 

“Healing Type: Healing Wind!”

 

The room darkened slightly, and an intricate circle appeared on the floor with Hinata at the center. The circle was filled with a brilliant pattern. The edges of the circle began to form whisps of golden brown light that spiralled around the circumfrance of the circle, getting higher and higher before Yukiko gave a breif and strained “HA!”

 

The spirals around the circle's edge began to fly up in straight lines, before converging on the centre and blasting into Hinata. Hinata showed no signs of having this energy slamming into her body. The circle on the floor faded away, and the room lightened again. Hinata's expression slowly morphed from one of pain into a very tranquil look. Yukiko was panting from exertion. Naruto stepped out of the way of Kurenai, who ran over to check on her student. She checked her vitals, and noticed she was in a deep and peaceful sleep. Kurenai looked up at Yukiko questioningly.

 

“Hinata-San would have died in about three minutes if I hadn't saved her. I doubt even the medics on duty here could have saved her. She was lucky I got to her when I did. Even if I had performed that technique 20 seconds later, it would have probably been too late.”

 

Yurenai nodded.

 

“Arigato, Yukiko.”

 

“No problem, Kurenai-Sensei. I'm a medic. It's my job to save people. As for you!”

 

She turned to Neji.

 

“All of your attacks were aiming to kill, weren't they? How the hell can you do that to a blood relative of yours?”

 

“That's none of your business. Stay out of the Hyuga's affairs.”

 

“Oi, jackass.”

 

Everyone turned to Naruto.

 

“NO ONE talks to my girlfriend like that. Take that back immediately.”

 

“Are you going to make me?”

 

“Yup.”

 

Naruto used Hiraishin no Jutsu to warp at Neji at an incredible speed. He gave Neji a solid blow to the gut and Neji staggered back, wincing in pain.

 

“I will repeat myself one more time. Take it back.”

 

Neji just grimiced and prepared to attack. Hayate broke the fight up.

 

“Both of you, if you continue this, I will make you lose by default before you even get into the main matches. Return to the stands immediately.”

 

Naruto just 'hmphed' and Neji glared in anger. Naruto passed close to Neji and whipsered in his ear.

 

“When we meet in the main matches, you're dead. That is, assuming you even get to fight me.”

 

Neji stiffened up and gave a look of horror at Naruto. Everyone else was returning to their places in the stands. Neji shook his head and followed them. Hayate coughed.

 

“I appologise for the delay. The next contestants are about to be announced.”

 

Everyone once again concerntraited on the board. The names it chose this time were:

 

Tsurugi Misumi

VS

Kankuro

 

Kankuro smiled and jumped over the edge of the balcony.

 

'Finally. It's my turn.'

 

“Fighters, begin when ready.”

 

Hayate jumped back. Misumi decided to warn this punk from the sand what he was getting himself into.

 

“Unlike my team mate, Yoroi, I show no merct to my enemies, even little runts like you. I'll warn you know. If I get to use my techniques on you, it's over. Give up now.”

 

Kankuro just stared at the ninja. Misumi sighed.

 

“I will end this quickly.”

 

Kankuro finally responded by pulling the bandaged object off his back.

 

“Then so will I.”

 

Misumi however, didn't intend to give Kankuro the chance.

“I won't allow you to do anything!”

 

Kankuro blocked the punch, but knew something was up when Turugi smiled. Turuigi's hand suddenly wrapped it's way around Kankuro's and pulled his body into a completely lock. Misumi's arms had extended to wrap themselves armound Kankuro's arms and neck. Misumi started applying pressure.

 

“In order for me to gather information, my body has been altered to fit into any space. I can keep squeezing until your bones break. If you don't give up, I'll keep squeezing harder. I don't know what kind of ninja tool you use, but you can't use it like this. But try anything funny and I won't wait for you to give up, I'll break your neck immediately. This is your final warning. Give up.”

 

Kankuro smirled through the pain.

 

“Heh. No way.”

 

“What?! Do you want to die?!”

 

“You're the one who's going to die.”

 

A sickenening snap could be heard throughout the arena. Most people just looked on in disgust.

 

Misumi sighed.

 

“You baka, you made me kill you.”

 

However, Kankuro turned his head around as if his neck really was broken to look at Misumi. The area around his face was peeling, revealing a puppet underneath.

 

“Then is it my turn now?”

 

Misumi looked on in horror as the puppet's arms wrapped around his torso and began constricting. He also noticed bandaged object beside him unravel to reveal the real Kankuro.

 

“A puppet user?”

 

Kankuro smiled to himself.

 

“If I break your bones, you'll be even softer, right? I'll go easy on your neck.”

 

Misumi started saying 'I give up', but was cut off by another sickening snap that echoed throught the arena. Hayate coughed and announced the result.

 

“This battle cannot be continued. Winner, Kankuro.”

 

Kankuro walked back up to his team, leaving the medics to take Misumi off the field. Hayate looked back up at the board. The next set of names were announced.

 

Akimichi Chouji

VS

Yakushi Kabuto

 

“Fighters, please step up.”

 

Kabuto stood opposite Chiji and pushed his glasses further up the bridge of his nose. Hayate saw they were both ready, and nodded for the match to begin.

“Please begin.”

 

“I assume that since you're Yukiko's brother, you specialise in medical techniques?”

 

“I have some minor medical, techniques, yes. Why?”

 

“No real reason, just interested.”

 

“I see. Then please prepare yourself.”

 

Chouji used his multisize technique and was about to use his meat tank technique when Kabuto closed the small gap and slapped Choji with a green chakra covered hand. People just stared at Kabuto for a second. Had he just.... Slapped him? With a chakra powered slap no less? Yukiko signed, knowing instantly what technique her bother had used.

 

“Chakra scalpel.”

 

“So, that's that, huh?”

 

“Yup.”

 

True to their words, Chouji returned to normal and clutched his stomach. He groaned in pain, before falling over. Kabuto sighed, and bent over Chouji and began healing him. Chouji looked up and gazed at Kabuto through half closed eyes.

 

“Why are you... Healing me?”

 

“Because, despite the fact that you're an opponent at the moment, you're still a fellow Leaf nin. I don't like seeing my comrades die on me.”

 

“I see... You're a good guy, Kabuto...”

 

“Thanks, Chouji. Oh and by the way, I'd love to study your clan sometime. Their abilites and use of clan designed food suppliments to boost their power levels intrigues me.”

 

“Heh. Pop by my place some time. I'm sure dad would be happy to help...”

 

With that, Chouji passed out. Hayate coughed and pointed to Kabuto.

 

“Winner: Yakushi Kabuto.”

 

“Good job, Niisan!”

 

Kabuto smiled and waved to his sister.

 

“Thanks, Yukiko-Chan.”

 

Kabuto made his way up to stand by his sister and her team. Naruto looked at the remaining competitiors.

 

'One from the Sound, one from the Sand and four from the Leaf... Most of the people left, I have no idea as to what their abilites are... This should be interesting.'

 

Everyone looked up at the board to see what the next match was.

 

Haruno Sakura

VS

Yamanaka Ino

 

This battle was a strange match up. Two childhood friends turned rivals.

 

Sakura looked down at the ring hoplessly. Sasuke in a rare move, put a hand on her shoulder.

 

“Sakura, you'll be fine. Just believe in yourself.”

 

Sakura looked up at Sasuke, smiled and nodded.

 

“You're right, Sasuke-Kun. I won't lose to Ino-Pig!”

 

“That's the spirit Sakura-Chan! Go teach her who's boss!”

 

“Thank you, Naruto-Kun.”

 

“Good luck, Sakura-San.”

 

“Thanks, Yukiko-San.”

 

With that, both girls took their stances and glared at each other in grim determination. Ino was the first to speak.

 

“Sakura, I never thought I'd be fighting you.”

 

Sakura undid her forehead protector and retied it to her forehead. Ino did the same and they waited for the word to start.

 

“Please begin.”

 

Sakura and Ino charged. Sakura started off with a Bunshin no Jutsu, amking two copies of herself. Ino was quick to comment.

 

“This isn't an academy graduation exam! A textbook jutsu like that won't work against me!”

 

Sakura concerntraited the chakra to her feet, and lept at Ino. Sakura dispelled her Bunshins and lept through the smoke and punched Ino on the face, sending her flying back.

 

“I'm no longer the crybaby Sakura you once knew! If you still think I am, you'll regret it. Fight me seriously, Ino.”

 

“I was hoping you'd say that. As you wish. Here I come!”

 

They ran at each other again, trading punches. They each blocked the other's punch. They both lept back and threw a shuriken at the other. Sakura and Ino both charged in and and landed a punch to each other's face. They got up and looked at each other panting. Ino snapped.

 

“There's just no way you could be even with me!”

 

“True, I'm not. Someone who grows her hair just too look pretty will never be able to keep up with me.”

 

“You better stop disrespecting me.”

 

With that, Ino pulled out a kunai and cut off her own hair.

 

“I don't need this any more!”

 

Ino's team looked on in horror

 

“Oh man, she's completely snapped...”

 

Sakura just smiled at her victory.

 

“So simple...”

 

“I'm going to force 'I give you' to come out of your mouth!”

 

“Shintenshin no Jutsu? Wow, you really are desparate...”

 

“Who cares! Prepare to lose, Sakura!”

 

“If you miss, it's over, you know that right?”

 

“Ninpou, Shintenshin no Jutsu!”

 

Sakura had already began running, and stopped about a few steps away. Slowly, Sakura raised her head.

 

“You lose... Ino...”

 

Shikamaru slapped his forehead.

 

“Just as I thought.”

 

Sakura began to move towards Ino, only to find that her foot was stuck. She looked down to see a string of chakra and hair was wrapped around her ankle. She followed the string through Ino's hair to her hands, which were placed on the ground.

 

“You fell for it, Sakura. This is it. Now, I will use the REAL Shintenshin no Jutsu. I have a 100 percent chance of success now. Ninpou, Shintenshin no Jutsu!”

 

Both girls once again slumped. Again, Sakura was the first to raise her head.

 

“You lose... Sakura...”

 

Everyone sighed. Ino had as good as won. The Ino controlled Sakura raised her hand.

 

“I Haruno Sakura would like to for-”

 

Naruto intterupted.

 

“Oi, are you going to lose to that pittiful technique, Sakura-Chan? You've come so far! Join us in the main matches! Don't let us down!”

 

Ino controlled Sakura just looked up at the screaming blonde.

 

'How annoying...'

 

Hayate prompted Sakura.

 

“What is it, you want to forfeit?”

 

Ino forced Sakura to smile, but she stiffened and clutched her head.

 

'Jeez, Naruto-Kun can be annyoing some times, but he's right. I've come too far to lose to lose now.'

 

'What? Sakura? What is this?'

 

'Welcome to my mind, Ino. Now, if you don't get out of my body right now, you're going to pay.'

 

Hayate prompted her again.

 

“Well, which is it?”

 

“Forfeit? Like hell I'll forfeit!”

 

Sakura threaded her fingers together and muttered a “kai”, dropping Sakura's body to the ground. Both girls got up shakily, panting. They launched at each other, giving one final blow to each other's heads, knocking their forehead protectors off and taking one last look at each other before they both passed out. Hayate surveyed the scene.

 

“Both fighters are unable to continue. This match is a double knock out, meaning no one from this match progresses.”

 

Kakashi and Asume body flickered down to the stage to pick up their students.

 

“That was a good match, eh Kakashi?”

 

“Yeah. I can't believe Sakura's grown so much. Ino has a a lot too, hasn't she?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

They both body flickered back up to the stands and put them next to each other leaning up against the wall. Everyone crouded round the girls to check on their condition. Yukiko and Kabuto looked them over, before turning and smiling to everyone.

 

“There's no need for medical attention. They'll both wake up soon.”

 

“That's good to hear.”

 

Hayate coughed again, trying to get everyone's attention. Naruto was getting annoyed.

 

“You know, Hayate, you don't have to cough to get our attention. You could just say 'please pay attention, the next match is being announced' or something.”

 

Hayate just coughed again, saying nothing. Naruto just rolled his eyes and leaned on the railing. Everyone turned to the board. The next set of names were:

 

Temari

VS

TenTen

 

“Fighters, please step up.”

 

Both female ninja stepped up. Hayate brought his hand down and lept back.

 

“Please begin.”

 

Teamri opened her battle fan part way to reveal a blue circle.

 

“This is one. When it gets to three, you've finished.”

 

Tenten smirled and pulled out some kunai and threw it at Temari. Temari blocked them with her fan.

 

“I seriously don't hope you expected to defeat me with that. Two”

 

Temari had opened her fan up to reveal a second blue circle. Tenten knew she was going to have to pull out the big guns, and removed a set of scrolls from her belt and laid them out on the ground in front of her. She bit her thumbs and smeared her blood up the length of the scrolls, before picking them up and launching them into the air. Gai looked on in suprise.

 

“Tenten said she was saving them for the main matches... She must be in trouble to pull it out so quickly...”

 

The scrolls formed a double helix shape Tenten jumped up into the middle of the scrolls and pressed her hands to the scrolls in a rapid series of swipes that brought a weapon of some description out from the scroll each time her hands scame into contact with the scroll. She then proceeded to launch them in a blizzard of metal at Temari. Temari just smirked.

 

“Three.”

 

Temari blocked all of them and laughed.

 

“Is that the best you can do?”

 

“I'm not done yet!” Tenten had secretly attached every single weapon she had launched from the scroll to a wire which was connected to her hands. She pulled them up again and then flung them back at Temair who just laughed. She swung her fan, releasing a giant gust of wind. The wind turned into a tornado and surrounded Tenten, cutting into her skin. She shrieked in agony until the whirlwind died down. Tenten landed right on the top of Temari's fan.

 

“How boring.”

 

Lee saw what was about to happen and lept down just in time to catch his team mate, who Temari had thrown off her battle fan.

 

“Nice catch.”

 

“Is that what you do to someone who tried her hardest?”

 

“I don't care. Take her and get out of here.”

 

Lee scowled, but decided it'd be better to just retreat for now.

 

“Winner, Temari. Please look to the board for the next match.”

 

Everyone focused again on the board.

 

Nara Shikamaru

VS

Kin Tsuchi

 

“Fighters please step up.”

 

Hayate noticed they were both ready and brought his hand down and jumped back.

 

“Please begin.”

 

“Man this is troublesome... And I have to fight a girl too...”

 

“Then I'll end it quickly.”

 

Shikamaru formed a familiar hand seal and announced his technique.

 

“Kagemane no Jutsu!”

 

“Ha! Such a one trick pony! I just have to avoid your shadows and I'm safe.”

 

Kin launched two neeldes with bells attached to them. Shikamaru dodged them and looked behind him when he heard the sound of bells.

 

“Bells? That's an old trick. Next, you'll launch two needles again. One with a bell, one without, hoping that I won't notice the one without the bell right?”

 

“You talk too much!”

 

Kin launched another two needles, which Shikamaru also dodged. He then noticed that the first set of bells jingled again.

 

'What?! She was using a string to control the bells?'

 

This distraction was all Kin needed to get an advantage. She launched another set of needles at Shikamaru, who bore the full force of the attack. He collapsed to the ground Kin just laughed.

 

“You're not such a tough guy you know-”

 

Kin stopped dead. She couldn't control her body.

 

“Wha? My body!”

 

“Ha! Finally, Kagenane no Jutsu success.”

 

“But you shadow isn't anywhere!”

 

“Oh come on, do you really think strings that high off the ground have a shadow?”

 

Come to think of it, it did look a little odd. The 'string's' shadows began to lengthen and thicken. Shikamaru laughed and pulled out a Shuriken. Kin mirrored his movements.

 

“What the hell are you doing? If you go through with this, we'll both be killed!”

 

“We'll see! We'll just keep throwing shurikens until one of us falls.”

 

Just as the shuriken was about to make contact with Shikamaru's face, he lent back and berformed a back flip.

 

'Bah, he was just bluffing-'

 

Kin didn't even get to finish her thought, as she leant her head back, it smacked into the wall behind her, knocking her unconcious.

 

“Ha! If you're a shinobi, you need to fight with knowledge of your surroundings. Even if we moved the same, the distance to the wall behind us was different.”

 

“Winner, Nara Shikamaru.”

 

Nartuo was impressed. He was a lazy guy, but when he put his mind to it, he could creatw some brilliant strategies. Hayate coughed.

 

“Could the final two fighters please step up?”

 

Aburame Shino and Rock Lee stood facing each other. Hayate nodded and brought his hand down inbetween them, before jumping back.

 

“Please begin.”

 

Lee cheaged in and Shino's bugs started to surround his arms. Lee started off with a familiar move to him.

 

“Konoha Senpuu!”

 

Lee's kick collided with Shino's neck, but his body started turning black and Lee's foot sank into the Bug Bunshin's neck. Lee managed to get himself free and gave himself some space.

 

“Bugs? Very interesting.”

 

“You are a Taijutsu specialist. This will indeed be an interesting match. Let us continue.”

 

“As you wish.”

 

Lee took another charge at Shino, who's bugs came to a defensive position. This time, Shino created a wall of bugs to stop Lee from getting close. The battle went on for at least five minutes. Shino decided to take the offensive. He sent his bugs to try and finish Lee.

 

“Destruction Bugs!”

 

Lee didn't know what these 'destruction bugs' were, but they didn't sound friendly. Lee started doing back flips to get away from the advancing wall of bugs. He saw a second wave of bugs approaching from his left, backing him into the corner of the arena. Naruto smiled.

 

'What will you do now, Lee?'

 

Just as the bugs closed in for the kill, Lee jumped and began back flipping up onto the top of the stone statue of the ram hand seal. Lee sighed. He had no choice. He turned to his sensei.

 

“Gai-Sensei, may I remove them please?”

 

Gai gave it a moment's thought before nodding. Lee sat down and pulled his orange leg covers down to reveal a set of weights. Naruto smiled.

 

“Old fashioned training method, but very effective.”

 

Lee held up the weights that had the label 'Guts' written on them many times.

 

“Yosh! Now I can move much easier!”

 

Lee dropped the weights. Everyone watched as they sailed to the ground in slow motion. When they hit the ground, they sent huge plumes of smoke into the air. Naruto shook his head and laughed. Sakura had those anime white eyes with no irises or pupils and her mouth hanging open, with a complimentary stray hair sticking out at an odd angle. Shino raised an eyebrow in suprise, which was the most facilal movement anyone had gotten out of him so far. Kakashi held his hand infront of his mouth.

 

“Isn't that a bit much, Gai?”

 

Gai just smiled. He looked at Lee, who seemed to be waiting for something. Gai put his middle and index finger together and pointed them towards the arena.

 

“Go, Lee!”

 

“Yes Sir!”

 

Lee jumped up with almost three times the speed he had with the weights on. Shino raised both eyebrows in confusion, before raising his bugs in a shield around himself. Lee appeared behind him and delivered a lightening fast kick, which cleared out a small section of bugs. He dissapeared and reappeared somewhere else around the sheild of bugs, and punched through them, just missing Shino's head. Naruto knew that Lee was just toying with Shino. Shino tried to think up of a plan to stop Lee, but he couldn't come up with anything. Lee appeared infront of Shino, giving him a puch to the face. Shino went flying back, landing on a carpet of bugs which softened the impact. Shino got back up. He took a step forward before he held up his arms sending bugs flying towards Lee. Lee dissapeared and reappeared directly under Shino, giving him a kick to the chin launching him up into the air. Lee appeared behind him and unwrapped his bandages from around his arms and encased Shino in them. Shino knew he'd been beaten and just accepted fate.

 

“Omote Renge!”

 

Lee had sensed that Shino had given up, and so had made the Omote Renge far less painful than it could have been, however that didn't mean that it didn't hurt. Lee landed on the edge of the small crater. Shino shakily got to his feet before falling onto his hands and knees.

 

“I give up. You win.”

 

Lee smiled and walked over to Shino and sat down next to him to recover from opening the first Celestial Gate and using Omote Renge. Lee smiled at Shino.

 

“You are a very powerful ninja. You should be proud of yourself.”

 

“I have one request.”

 

“What would that be?”

 

“Get as far in the main matches as you can so me losing doesn't look so bad.”

 

Lee laughed softly.

 

“Very well, I promise you I will go all out during the main matches and get as far as I can.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

“You're welcome Shino.”

 

With that, Anko turned on here mic and addressed everyone still present.

 

“Well that wraps the prelims up. I would like everyone who won their match to come down here please.”

 

All 10 of them who had won formed a row in front of Anko. Anko smiled.

 

“Congratulations on getting the right to compete in the main matches. I have in my hand a box. I want you all to pick out one piece of paper each and when everyone has one, I want you to tell me in turn what your number is.”

 

Sasuke was first. He picked a piece of paper out of the box. Kabuto was next, then Yukiko, Naruto, Shikamaru, Gaara, Temari, Kankuro, Lee, and lastly Neji. Anko moved back infront of them.

 

“Ok, Starting with Sasuke, Tell me your numbers.”

 

Sasuke: 7

 

Kabuto: 6

 

Yukiko: 10

 

Naruto: 1

 

Shikamaru: 8

 

Gaara: 5

 

Temari: 9

 

Kankuro: 3

 

Lee: 4

 

Neji: 2

 

Morino Ibiki was scribbling furiously on a clip board as they read out their numbers. Finally he finished and showed them what he had been writing.

 

“This is the ladder for the main matches.”

 

Everyone peired at the clip board. This is what it said:

 

First Round, First Division: Uzumaki Naruto Vs Hyuga Neji, Kankuro Vs Rock Lee, Gaara Vs Yakushi Kabuto.

 

First Round, Second Division: Uchiha Sasuke Vs Nara Shikamaru, Temari Vs Yakushi Yukiko.

 

Naruto lept into the air.

 

“YATTA! All the matches I wanted!”

 

Yukiko giggled at Naruto's antics. Sasuke smiled. Gaara was getting impatient.

 

“When do the matches start?”

 

The hokage took over the proceedings.

 

“Well, it will take some time for the feudal lords and royalty to get here. We have set the date for exactly one month from now. Until then, you are free to train or rest as you please. Before I dismiss you, are there any questions?”

 

Shikamaru raised his hand.

 

“Yes Shikamaru?”

 

“This is a tournament menaing there's only going to be one winner, right? Does that mean that there's only one person going to become a Chunin?”

 

“No. There will be judges such as myself, Kazekage, and other various feudal lords. We will be deciding on who becomes a Chunin based off your performances. As you progress through the tournament, you will have more chances to impress the judges. However, if you impress the judges enough and still lose in the first round, you can still become a Chunin.”

 

Temari realised what this meant.

 

“That means that everyone could become a Chunin...”

 

“That's correct. It could also mean that no noe becomes a Chunin. Are there any other questions?”

 

No one spoke up.

 

“Very well, thank you for all the effort you exerted in these trials. You are dismissed until next month.”

 

With that, Naruto turned and walked out with his team, all of them anxious to begin training.

 

&&&&&&&&&&&&&a mp;&&&&&&&&&

 

A/N: And I said I would never do another chapter like this again! Man, it was exhausting to write this chapter, to say the least. Anyways, it's past 2 am now, so I'm going to finish up and go to bed. Oh and you wanted to know why I lost faith in Naruto as a series?

 

OK SPOILER ALERT! READ PAST HERE ONLY IF YOU WANT TO KNOW!

 

Sasuke managed to get inside Naruto's mind and found the Kyubi. So what you say? Well, Sasuke put his hand on the Kyubi and one shotted him! And I mean KILLED him! No technique or anything! WTF is with that? I seriously think the creators of the manga were on drugs when they made that issue. I mean, the Yondaime wasn't strong enough to kill it, yet Sasuke can just tap it's snout and blow it to pieces? HOW THE HELL DOES THAT WORK??!?! If someone can explain it to me, I'd be greatful. I've lost all confidence in Naruto now. The fillers are garbage, and they just screwed up years of work they put into the manga by doing THAT!

 

Arg, enough ranting. Also, FF.Net is being ghey. It won't let me upload, so I'll try agnain tomorrow. Until next time, my avid readers!

 

Ja ne,

 

Specula