Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto Dragon Champion ❯ A break in the Exams ( Chapter 9 )

Naruto - The Twin Swords

 

Disclaimer: I hereby state that I do not own Naruto and all affiliated materials to the series.

 

Chapter 9

 

A Break in the Exams

 

( ): Thoughts

 

((“ ”)): Holy Talon's voice

 

----------

 

In the Forest of Death…

 

“Hold still for a second will you?”

 

“Sorry about that Ino…but you really want to be doing this?”

 

Ino looked at Sakura and spoke.

 

“Listen Sakura…you could at least look a bit more presentable you know.”

 

The blonde girl was helping fix up Sakura with her hands as the other Genin checked out the area, Naruto was currently looking about, with Holy Talon in his hands. Hinata was still there, along with Kiba, Akamaru, and Shino. As soon as he walked back, he sat down and spoke to Sakura and the others…but mainly to Hinata.

 

“Hinata, can I talk to you?”

 

The shy Hyuuga girl looked at her crush and nodded slowly while blushing and twiddling her fingers.

 

“Y-Y-Yes…what about N-N-Naruto-kun?”

 

Naruto smiled and sat next to her…making the blushing girl even more aware of her crush being this close to her…and she tried her best not to suddenly faint. Naruto noted that and wondered just when he would be able to find out what was it that made Hinata like him so much, but put that aside for the moment as he spoke to her.

 

“I wanted to thank you for the healing ointment you used, I was right, you really are a kind girl.”

 

Hinata felt like her blush was going to turn her entire body red as Naruto's thanks and praise filled her ears, she did her best not to blush too much but failed miserably as she nodded and spoke slowly.

 

“Y-Y-Your welcome….Naruto-kun.”

 

Naruto then nodded and placed Holy Talon within the sheath and looked at Lee, it was when Tenten showed up to deal with Lee, he spotted the brown haired Kunoichi and called out to her.

 

“You're Tenten from Lee's group right?”

 

The brown haired Kunoichi stopped and found Naruto looking at her with those silver rimmed blue eyes of his and she couldn't help but be a bit flustered as Naruto looked at her and she then found herself looking at the blonde ninja, since despite the tears and dirt here and there, he still looked good. Tenten then replied to his earlier question as she managed to stop her staring at him.

 

“Yes…why do you ask?”

 

“Are you going to take care of you're team-mate? He was really banged up by the Sound Genin.”

 

Tenten nodded and proceeded to help Rock Lee wake up…by shaking him and slapping him awake…much to Naruto's surprise and even Holy Talon's as the sword spoke.

 

((“THAT is the way she helps her team-mate? She looks more like she's injuring him even further than healing him!”))

 

Naruto had to agree…but it appeared to have worked as Rock Lee woke up a bit groggily and Tenten lectured him about how Sasuke and the others dealt with the Sound ninja, and how he should have been more careful…Sasuke was surprised that Lee, the one who had defeated his Sharingan previously had managed to be defeated by the Sound ninja, namely by Dosu, the leader of the three. Naruto on the other hand smiled and reached out with his hand and helped Lee to his feet.

 

“You did something great there Lee, thanks for helping protect us and Sakura-chan.”

 

Lee nodded but looked a bit sad.

 

“I thank you for the praise Naruto-san…but I failed in my duty, I let them hurt Sakura and I was powerless to do anything…”

 

Naruto shook his head and Sakura got up and spoke to Lee.

 

“It doesn't matter Lee-san, you still gave it you're best and I thank you for being there.”

 

Lee looked at Sakura in surprise and recalled how she had reacted when they had first met, and now, she was happy and thankful that he came to protect her, even if he didn't defeat the leader of the Sound Trio, and he smiled back and spoke to Sakura and Naruto.

 

“Thank you Naruto-san, and to you Sakura…I promise you both I will become stronger so I won't fail anyone I swear to protect again…I promise!”

 

Naruto nodded and so did Sakura…but Sasuke on the other hand, who was already recovering from the Cursed Seal still couldn't believe that lee was defeated and he then thought back on the things he saw… Lee's Taijutsu skills, Neji's Byakugan, Dosu's sound weapons, Gaara's sand manipulation abilities and his killer's heart, and finally Naruto's sword skills, his skills in summoning and more. He wanted to fight them all…he was an avenger, nothing more….he didn't care what he had to do to be stronger, the rank of Chuunin didn't mean squat to him, but only to be stronger so he could finally accomplish his dream. And No matter what source of power…he would have it…

 

However, he then looked at Holy Talon on Naruto's back…after seeing what the sword was capable of accomplishing and how it would react to those who it did not chose, he wanted that level of power…but he recalled what that Dragon Lord had said that Holy Talon would obey only Naruto and he felt even more frustrated at that.

 

(The dobe gets such a powerful weapon that's even capable of overpowering Orochimaru…and even breaking his sword with enough force! I must have something like it to truly be powerful…apart from this seal…I must have the only thing that can rival…)

 

His train of thought was broken by Naruto calling his name.

 

“Hey Sasuke!”

 

The Uchiha clan survivor turned and spotted Naruto walking over to him and he spoke to his team-mate.

 

“What is it now?”

 

“We need to keep moving to the Tower, we have both scrolls so let's not waste anymore time here. We're rest if you feel any more pain from that seal.”

 

Sasuke gave a snort and got up on his feet and was a bit unsteady making Naruto worried as he tried to help his team-mate, but Sasuke responded by walking away angrily and then spoke to Naruto.

 

“I'm fine…don't worry about me.”

 

Naruto looked at Sasuke and gave a deep thought on what had happened and Holy Talon spoke to it's master, it sensed something troubling about Sasuke and it didn't like what the mind of the boy was formulating, it had a feeling that something had been implanted directly in the mind of it's master's team-mate.

 

((“Master Naruto…I sense something in you're team-mate Sasuke…something darker and more evil…it seems he's having thoughts on a matter that is something that is too dangerous…even for him.”))

 

(He must be thinking about what happened…I guess that means we keep an eye on him until we can make sure that Orochimaru doesn't claim him.)

 

Naruto put that out of his mind as the others began to leave the area to continue their own missions to find their scrolls and to reach the tower before the time limit was reached. Ino gave Sakura a good fixing up and Shikamaru led the rest of the group to locate their own scroll…while Hinata decided to leave a few extra containers of healing ointment to Sakura as she and the others left the area to head for the tower. As Naruto and his group got things together, Naruto felt his stomach growl…making Sasuke and Sakura sweat-drop as the sound was like that of a beast. Naruto looked and gave a sheepish expression to his team-mates as they moved on, hoping to find something to eat along the way.

 

As the days moved on, the Genin Teams began to be taken out one by one, either by other teams, or by other factors, such as teams opening their scrolls and paying the price, being killed by the predators in the Forest, eating poisonous plants and animals when they were hungry, or quitting ahead. Out of the 73 teams that remained from Ibiki's part in the Chuunin Exam, they were all being weeded out into smaller numbers by the various dangers, showing full well why the Forest of Death got it's namesake.

 

----------

 

In the Tower…

 

Anko rested while in the tower, holding her own Cursed Seal as it began to subside as she focused on controlling the pain that it was sending throughout her body. As the pain subsided enough for her to relax a bit, she recalled what had happened in the Forest of Death.

 

She had intercepted Orochimaru and was about to use a special jutsu that she had learned from him a long time ago…when she had been his apprentice before he abandoned her and left her on her own…and it was at that time that she knew that he was evil and worse. The jutsu was designed to kill both her and Orochimaru…a price she was willing to pay to stop her former sensei and a criminal of the highest rank to Konoha.

 

But Orochimaru bested her easily as he faded from the tree that he had used to recuperate from his many wounds, quickly appearing behind her and used the same paralysis jutsu like before, that he used on Naruto and rendered her unable to use the jutsu. He then further incapacitated her by using the cursed seal that he had placed on her many years ago. She demanded what he was doing here and why of all times he came back to Konoha.

 

The snake ninja smiled and replied that he came to gather outstanding ninja to his cause…and he gloated about his latest find in Sasuke Uchiha, but of his interest in one Naruto Uzumaki as well. That got Anko's attention right off the bat as she tried to fight the pain of the Cursed Seal, and Orochimaru explained his battle with Naruto and his failed attempt to take the sword…and the placing of the Cursed Seal on Sasuke, he took off with a warning to her that if she tried to stop the Chuunin Exams, then he would retaliate and send Konoha in flames.

 

As he left her, she was surrounded by tigers as the seal was still very much active at the moment, and she would have been killed but several ANBU came on the scene and drove the predators away from her. They spotted the seal and quickly realized just what was happening and she ordered them to take the Hokage to the Tower as she was now able to move, though still in pain from the Seal. When she was there and spoke to the other Chuunin, they were in heated discussion on whether they would cancel the Chuunin exams with the discovery that Orochimaru was in the area and no doubt had dangerous plans for Konoha's fate.

 

She however told them that they could not stop the Chuunin Exams due to too many factors, including Orochimaru…she didn't tell them about his plans, but the rest of the factors, including the presence of many feudal lords, representatives of our countries and more…if they were to cancel the Chuunin Exams, Konoha would look weak and vulnerable…something that they couldn't afford to have after the Great Shinobi Wars and the attack on Konoha where many were killed in battle, including the Yondaime, it was enough that some other country might very well launch an attack on them if they sensed weakness.

 

She was then told by another Chuunin instructor that a Genin team had just arrived, early…very early, already beating the previous record of four o\hours, that impressed Anko a great deal and she then looked at the battle that the Genin team had fought in, and recognized the fighter as none other than Gaara, the record showed how lethal a fighter Gaara was with his sand manipulation abilities and how his team had made it at so short a time. As she looked at the records and then to the team, she wondered how the others were doing.

 

She was also very curious on how someone like Naruto Uzumaki had managed to not only wound and injure her former sensei, but to also break his sword with his own…that was a feat that was totally unheard of as Orochimaru was also known to be highly skilled in Kenjutsu and a Genin like Naruto was the only one who managed to not only fight him on even terms but shattered and broke the man's sword with his own. Anko had to admit that it made Naruto Uzumaki a FAR more interesting person than she gave him credit for…and with that thought in mind she was hoping to see just how far he could go…and if he would make it out of the Forest of Death alive…she had some plans that required him to be around.

 

But for now, she had to wait and offer her report to the Hokage…and also to nurse herself back to fighting condition on the chance Orochimaru would come back again and cause another major disturbance and threat to Konoha.

 

----------

 

As teams were assembling into the Tower, Kiba and his group were relieved to have made it into the tower and were able to escape unharmed, and they made sure to keep to themselves for the time being and be given time to rest after all they had been doing. They were not the only ones as the Sound Genin were in the area, Neji's team as well, Ino, Shikamaru, and Chouji were there as well, along with the Sand Siblings as well, and amazingly enough two other Konoha ninja that were supposedly in Kabuto's team, but the ninja himself was not yet around.

 

Hinata looked out a window and hoped that Naruto and the others would make it soon, they only had a short amount of time left to make it there into the tower…she then recalled how Sasuke was and wondered if they were slowing down because of what happened before. The young Kunoichi hoped that her crush would come back to her all right…she then shook her head and blushed brightly as she began to drift back on how wonderfully strong, hard, warm and wonderful his muscles felt under hand hands when she was placing her healing ointment on him, she couldn't help herself in her imaginings and hoped that Naruto would come to the Tower alive and safe.

 

(Please Naruto-kun…be all right.)

 

She wasn't the only one to not notice the absence of Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke…

 

Ino hoped that the others would make it back to the Tower safe and alive, as she still wanted to see just how much Naruto had changed…he was certainly looking good and rather…interesting. She wondered just how did he change into such a hunky good looking guy in merely a few weeks since she had last saw him, and despite the fact that he was still the same loud-mouth as before…seeing him not only fight against someone like Orochimaru and not only survive but break the sword that guy had and nearly come close to killing Orochimaru had made her see him in a totally new light…and his new looks helped as well.

 

Tenten wanted to see just what other skills Naruto had with that sword, it had been quite an eye opener for her to see the blonde ninja use such unique and powerful moves as if he had been training with them for almost his entire life, she wanted to see if he had any more tricks to use…not to mention he was certainly a good looking on…she wanted to see how Neji would match up with him.

 

Temari hoped that the blonde ninja with the sword was safe and was already on his way there….she had a plan in mind so see how talented he was in other fields…Gaara wouldn't care and while Kankurou might disapprove…she was more than capable in dealing with that herself…but for now all she could do was wait.

 

----------

 

Three days later…

 

Naruto managed to find himself several fresh rabbits and had taken the time to skin them with a kunai before heading to where the others were. They had separated from the other Konoha teams and were now on their way to the two, it was at least two days more ahead, or a day and a half if they pushed it…but they weren't as they were taking risky chances, they knew for a fact that Orochimaru might still be about and might attack them if they were not prepared…not to mention that both Sakura and Naruto were still concerned about the Cursed Seal on Sasuke's neck.

 

Sasuke was getting water after he used his Blazing Fireball jutsu to start a fire under Sakura's request after getting some fish. Sakura and her team-mate however noted that the seal reacted when Sasuke used his chakra and his Sharingan, that he had used to spot any possible attacks such as Genjutsu, this further enforced Sakura's worry for Sasuke, and Naruto's growing wariness and concern…along with Holy Talon…the Cursed Seal began to remind the living sword of the many cursed creatures and spells that had something similar to the one that it had faced many times in it's long service to the previous Dragon Champions. There was something going on with that seal and they had to be careful.

 

Naruto then looked at the scrolls which were on the ground next to the fire and wondered just what was in them and Holy Talon was quickly able to sense it's master's intention to peek and recalled some rather…unwise decisions made by Champions concerning scrolls.

 

((“Master Naruto, I would advise you not to touch those scrolls.”))

 

(Why?)

 

((“Let's just say that being curious with scrolls can be hazardous…I recall several occasions that some Champions of the past in my world opened scrolls without sensing for traps…and while some them were a bit humorous, the other occasions were not exactly one would consider pleasant.”))

 

(So you're saying that there may be a trap in either scroll?)

 

((“Quite possibly…that trap must be active until they are opened inside of the Tower, I am not quite familiar with the types of techniques you're world uses, but I can tell that there would be a sort of trap involved to protect these scrolls from being opened prematurely…so it would be best not to take chances that are not needed.”))

 

Naruto thought about it and nodded mentally at Holy Talon's suggestion and left the scrolls alone for now, and sat down and took the three rabbits they had and put them on spits to cook. As the food began to be cooked, Sakura turned and looked at Naruto who was deep in thought at the moment, trying to figure out how they were going to reach the tower and avoid being attacked by other teams or by that snake bastard. However, she was directing her gaze at other things on Naruto's face.

 

Naruto had indeed lost all traces of baby fat, and looked far older then them…nearly the age of a full grown man of early adulthood, he looked very handsome and his silver rimmed eyes looked so deep blue like the ocean and the sky…and she couldn't help herself as her imagination began to run away with her…she placed those thoughts aside for the moment and asked Naruto a question.

 

“Naruto-kun?”

 

“What is it Sakura-chan?”

 

“Are you sure that Orochimaru is really after Sasuke-kun and his Sharingan?”

 

Naruto nodded and replied.

 

“I don't know that much about Orochimaru…since I didn't study too much history…but he was adamant in getting Sasuke…and since you and I saw how the Sharingan works and what it can do…it would make sense that he would want it…since it could really be an aid to him…but I don't know how he plans to get it…but there is no way I will let him do what he wants.”

 

Sakura nodded and she thought back on the time she had been stabbed by Orochimaru's sword and how Naruto had saved her, she smiled a bit at how he looked, she never thought he would look so vulnerable and sad like that…all because of her and she couldn't help but speak.

 

“I…I want to thank you Naruto-kun.”

 

Naruto was a bit confused at that and asked.

 

“What do you mean by that Sakura-chan?”

 

“For saving my life…I didn't think you would do it for me…”

 

“Of course I would do it for you, I would do what I can for the people I consider my friends!”

 

“Even after how I act around you? And even how I treat you sometimes?”

 

“Yeah. You have my word I would give my life to save you in a heart beat…and I would do that for you and those who are important to me.”

 

Sakura began to see how much heart Naruto had and for once she was seeing a side of Naruto which actually made him look beyond cool, but better. Maybe she should be a bit nicer to Naruto more so she could see this other side of him more. Thought she still liked Sasuke, Naruto was becoming a lot more interesting to her despite the fact that she still was not sure about how she should act about him..

 

“Thank you Naruto-kun.”

 

Naruto grinned and replied.

 

“You're welcome Sakura-chan…now let's eat something, I'm hungry!”

 

Sakura smiled as she and Naruto took off a bit of the meat from the fish and one of the rabbits to eat.

 

It was then that Holy Talon sensed something inside of Sakura's body…but it was not harmful in the least, yet it knew that it's master had to be informed of the situation…since it could actually benefit Sakura well…with the right time, experience, and training.

 

((“Master Naruto…there is something I would like to mention to you.”))

 

(What is it Holy Talon?)

 

((“It seems that when we healed you're friend of that horrendous wound that the sword of that man Orochimaru had placed on her when she saved you…we used too much energy and she has somehow absorbed it into herself.”))

 

(What do you mean by that?)

 

((“What I am saying is that your team-mate Sakura has somehow gained a small but potent portion of Dragon Magic into her blood…that is a rare occurrence.”))

 

(Is it harmful to Sakura-chan?!)

 

((“No…the Dragon Magic she had absorbed is used for healing, and is not dangerous in nature, Dragon Magic or Mystic Fire to some of the more rustic people in Dagren comes in many forms and has many uses, the Dragon Magic she has in her body is used for healing and restoration and as such is not dangerous to those who are not evil…but it can heal and mend wounds of many natures…and as I can sense…that small portion is beginning to meld into her body. There have been occasions of this in my world so it doesn't surprise me that she had gained that…though how it will work to her advantage is yet to be seen. She won't have the same physical features as you do…but some subtle changes will be there in the near future…so she will look as she always had.”))

 

(That's great, it would be really weird if she started looking different all of a sudden…So you mean Sakura-chan can use Dragon Magic the way you can?)

 

((“Not in the purest sense…but if she were to gain lessons in medical techniques, there will be portions of that magic that will merge with her healing techniques…making them stronger.”))

 

(So if Sakura-chan was trained in medical jutsu…then that magic in her will make it more effective?)

 

((`That's the long and short of it…this might really help her out, considering her effective chakra control.”))

 

(That's really awesome…I can't wait to see that in action…can I tell her about it?)

 

((“I recommend that you tell her at a much better time…you still have to get out of the Forest of Death after all.”))

 

It was then that they turned and spotted none other than Kabuto who showed up on the scene and greeted them with the same sheepish expression as he had done before.

 

“Kabuto-san…what are you doing here?”

 

Kabuto greeted the two and smiled.

 

“Sorry about suddenly appearing like this…I was in the area and I…well I was kind of hungry and decided to investigate…I was thinking I was walking into a trap…but instead I find you guys…pretty good fortune to me. You mind?”

 

Naruto shook his head.

 

“Not at all, here, there's plenty of food here…but before we do that…”

 

Kabuto however, already knew what Naruto was about to say and revealed two scrolls, one was the Heaven scroll, and the other was the Earth Scroll. This was enough to show to both Naruto and Sakura that there was no need to attack Kabuto. And the glasses wearing Genin replied to their looks with a smile of his own.

 

“Don't worry, I have the scrolls so I don't need to try and take yours…besides, my team-mates are not far behind and I was planning to reach the Tower and wait for them there. You were lucky not to have opened that scroll you know.”

 

“What do you mean by that?”

 

“Well, each scroll is designed that if it was opened before you were in the Tower, you would be knocked out by a very powerful hypnosis jutsu along with you're team-mates in the Forest of Death…and if that happens, then you would be in real danger, especially if rival ninja suddenly showed up and attacked you while you are sleeping or were knocked out…or when hungry animals came and ate you…that's happened before so I am happy you guys resisted the temptation to open them. And it's good you've got both scrolls. But why are you all still here? Shouldn't you be pushing onwards to the Tower?”

 

Naruto looked at Sakura and she replied.

 

“We got sidetracked by someone named Orochimaru…do you know him?”

 

Kabuto gave a serious look.

 

“Orochimaru…yeah I have…he's one of the most notorious ninjas in the Bingo Book of Konoha.”

 

“Bingo Book?”

 

Sakura sighed and explained what a Bingo Book was to her team-mate Naruto.

 

“A Bingo book is a term given to a book that contains all the data and pictures of missing ninja or criminals, that includes where they are from how old they arte, what are their skills, how many crimes have the committed along with what crime it is and how bad it is…every village in the five countries has one for all criminals from it's area.”

 

“Oh…so it's like a list all known bad guys, enemies and traitors of a village…am I right?”

 

Kabuto and Sakura nodded at that.

 

“Sakura-san is correct Naruto-kun, every village has one, and that also includes enemy ninja as well, there are many ranks from the lowest such as D-rank, to the highest and most dangerous ones, the S-ranked, of course the Bingo book isn't limited to just villages…the Great Countries also have their own Bingo-books as well, I know for a fact that one Momoichi Zabuza was a missing-nin from the Village of the Hidden Mist, and he is listed not in the Bingo books of both his country and village, but ours and the other village's as well.”

 

“I see…so what do you know about that guy Orochimaru?”

 

“Well, Naruto-kun…I am not entirely sure what I can tell you since Orochimaru is the most reviled member of the village. But what I do know is that long ago…Orochimaru was a ninja of Konoha and was also a student of the Third Hokage himself.”

 

“That snake bastard was a student of the Old Man?! I didn't know that!”

 

“It's not surprising you don't Naruto-kun…Hokage-sama rarely talks about it. But he was a student of the Hokage years ago and was a legendary ninja, along with two others who are not here anymore. He was a very skilled ninja and very powerful…and would have been the Hokage when the Third stepped down from being Hokage…but he was now known to be dark and evil…he wanted power and the Third knew that and chose another to take the place of the Hokage…he was the Yondaime who fought and sealed away the 9-tailed Fox that attacked Konoha at least twelve years ago…”

 

Naruto nodded at that as he knew full well about his resident, but he then had a question that he decided he should ask Holy Talon later one…but he allowed Kabuto to continue.

 

“…Orochimaru didn't take too kindly to that and began to do horrible experiments, or continued them in secret until the Third found out about it and exposed Orochimaru…but he wasn't able to kill Orochimaru and then Orochimaru fled the scene, just as the Kyuubi attacked. The Yondaime was a far better choice since he truly cared about the village and was a kid hearted soul, and it was shame that he died in his attempt to stop the Kyuubi. As of now…no one knows where Orochimaru is or what he had been doing…but now you're saying that you fought with him Naruto-kun?”

 

“Yeah…I even managed to shatter the Kusanagi he had…though he nearly killed Sakura-chan and branded Sasuke with some sort of seal.”

 

“That's not good…”

 

“By the way…if Orochimaru is such a skilled ninja…does that mean he's one of the Legendary Sannin?”

 

“That's correct Sakura-san…he is one of the Legendary three.”

 

“Who are these Sannin anyway and who are Orochimaru's team-mates?”

 

Sakura then replied in answer to Naruto.

 

“Sannin is a term to three legendary ninja in the past years of Konoha and they were considered to be the very best and were all students of the Third Hokage. They were known for so many missions they undertook as a team and were highly skilled fighters in their own right. There were three of them, the first was naturally Orochimaru, who was known to be very talented and used snakes but evil to the core. The next was Jiraiya, I don't know that much about him, but he was known to be highly skilled ninja who used toads and was a close second to Orochimaru and was known as the Toad Sage. The last was someone named Tsunade…a very skilled Kunoichi and was known for her high level of skill in medical jutsu, her immense strength, her use of slug summons, and well…her high temper. She is supposed to be the daughter of one of the Hokage, though which one I have no idea.”

 

“Wow…I was right say you were the smartest among us Sakura-chan! You really know a lot about the things I don't.”

 

Sakura smiled at that and replied.

 

“Well, you would be too if you read those books more often.”

 

“I guess…so how's the food Kabuto-san?”

 

The ninja replied as he took in the meat from the rabbits and smiled.

 

“Pretty good meat here…you really should learn how to cook more so you could make really nice food Naruto-kun…”

 

Kabuto stopped talking and quickly moved away as a kunai buried itself in the area where he was, both Sakura and Naruto reacted and took out their weapons, but stopped mid way as they spotted the thrower of the kunai to be none other than their own team-mate Sasuke Uchiha and not any of the other teams or that snake bastard. Naruto re-sheathed Holy Talon and looked at his team-mate with surprise.

 

“Sasuke?! What's gotten into you attacking Kabuto like that?!”

 

“How can we be sure he's not an enemy? For all we know, he might by lying about having both scrolls and came here to take us out?”

 

Kabuto replied as he showed his own scrolls.

 

“I already have my team's scrolls so there's no need for me to steal yours you know Sasuke-kun…besides I am not here to fight, I came here to grab a bite to eat and you're team-mates were kind enough to let me have a meal.”

 

“I want to challenge you to a fight, right here and right now.”

 

Sakura and Naruto looked at Sasuke if he had lost his mind. Kabuto already made it clear that he was not there to steal their scrolls from them so why the heck was he asking for one?

 

“Sasuke, knock it off already…there's no need for a fight, he's got his scrolls, and we've got ours…what's the point of having one too many?”

 

“Naruto-kun does have a point, we don't need too many scrolls right now and he is not here to fight us.”

 

“ Shut up…that's not the point Sakura!”

 

“Sasuke-kun.”

 

“We need to make sure that he's not going to attack us…even if he does have the Heaven and Earth Scrolls, and so do we…how can we be sure he might very well take ours while he's at it? There might be too many scrolls, but he might get them to use as bargaining chips for other teams or if he gets into a bind during the fight…we have to win and we have to keep our chances of winning alive. So we cannot afford to be careless, even if he is a Genin from Konoha, the same as us…this a serious test here.”

 

Kabuto grinned at that and replied.

 

“You're lying…you know…for all you're tough talk Sasuke, you don't have you're heart into attacking me.”

 

“What makes you so sure about that?”

 

“For one thing, if you really believe that winning is everything, then why did you issue a challenge to me to get me ready for a fight? It would have been far more effective to catch me off guard and take my scrolls from me then…so I rather doubt that you're serious about attacking me. After all, stealth, surprise, trickery, and subtlety are ninja techniques after all.”

 

((“He does have a point there…but that works both ways as well…I don't trust him Master Naruto.”))

 

(What do you mean by that?)

 

((“I'm not really sure…something about Kabuto doesn't feel right…but it would be best to be on guard.”))

 

Naruto took that in consideration as Kabuto spoke once more.

 

“But I actually admire you for it, in fact I'll help you make your way to the Tower…but we have to hurry and finish up…that cooking fire is no doubt attracting every predator in the forest…and no doubt…competition as well.”

 

---------

 

Along the way, Kabuto warned the three ninja about the dangers and advantages of making it to the Tower, namely since the other teams would no doubt ambush them along the way to get the scrolls, along with the collectors, these guys collected scrolls for many reasons, including the one stated by Sasuke, or for more sinister purposes. But thankfully it seemed that they were going to have clean run to the Tower…and for good reason…

 

Since a considerable number of the Genin teams had seen Naruto's battle with Orochimaru and how much power Naruto had, they knew that attacking Naruto and his team was a bad idea…and this allowed Naruto's team to push on forward. Sasuke didn't quite trust Kabuto, and Holy Talon as well…but for now they both focused on the task at hand, and Sasuke was still feeling the pain in his neck when he used the Sharingan. Naruto then made an army of clones to act as decoys as he had one to look like him and the other three to resemble Sasuke, Sakura, and Kabuto…who were amazed at he was able to make that many and still keep up with them

 

As they made it to the Tower…Kabuto bid them farewell and good luck on the rest of the Exams…as soon as both teams entered the rooms they were supposed to go into however…

 

“So was the harvest any good today Kabuto?”

 

“Of course it was, I managed to learn a good deal about his abilities…and I have no doubts he has quite a lot more…plus that sword he has is quite a weapon…shame we can't use it…and as much as I hate to say it…you might be able to either…Orochimaru-sama…but I do have his information card, do you want it?”

 

“Of course…he is proving to quite an interesting one…and I must admit that you're skills as a spy are very valued…continue to do what you can and keep me posted Kabuto.”

 

Orochimaru said as he took the card and vanished…leaving Kabuto and his team behind.

 

----------

 

Naruto smiled widely and greeted Iruka.

 

“We did it…we're past the second half of the Chuunin Exams!”

 

Iruka couldn't help but smile at Naruto's enthusiasm as the blonde was in great spirits, despite being surprised by Naruto's new look and clothing, he could still see that it was his student and somewhat little brother underneath the new clothes and appearance. He had arrived through summoning that both the Heaven and Earth Scrolls had, much to their surprise.

 

He told them about the meaning behind the writing on the walls and what a Chuunin is when in relation to the scrolls and the writing on the walls when they opened the scrolls and he thought back about what he had seen Naruto do with Holy Talon as a part of his arsenal, that and his own growing skills meant that Kakashi was right about his words, and of course he was now assured that Naruto and his team were more than ready for the Third and final Chuunin Exam segment.

 

“Naruto…be sure to do well and when you are done and become Chuunin like Sakura and Sasuke, I'll buy you as much ramen as I can.”

 

“Now that's a done deal!!!!”

 

As Naruto and his team were about to move on as Iruka went back to the audience room, Anko and Kakashi made their appearance and then stopped Naruto.

 

“What's going on Kakashi-sensei?”

 

“The Hokage wished to speak with you for a moment Naruto-kun.”

 

Kakashi then turned to Sasuke and Sakura and told them to move on as he and Anko escorted Naruto elsewhere. The blonde wondered just what was going on, but decided to place aside his questions for the moment. However Kakashi then filled him in about meeting the Council…stating that they knew Orochimaru was in the area…but he wanted to know from him what had happened…

 

And Naruto told him…along with what he suspected Orochimaru came to Konoha for.

 

----------

 

In the Tower's own Council Chamber…

 

Naruto had never been in this chamber before and for good reason, most if not all people of his rank were never allowed in here unless under special circumstances, and right now, this was making him a bit nervous. But he put that out of his mind as he was being escorted by both Anko and Kakashi, and several ANBU as well. As soon as the blonde ninja sat down in the chair before him…several more people came into the room, three of them he recognized quickly…the first was Ino's father Inochi, the other was Shikamaru's own father Shikaku, and Chouji's father, Chouza as well…the original Ino-Cho-Shika group as they were known…they had been friends and allies for years so it would make sense how Ino, Shikamaru, and Chouji knew each other and were close friends, despite their contrasting personalities. The rest of the Council comprised of a large number of senior ninja, including Hinata's father Hiashi, Ginji Haruno, who was Sakura's father and a skilled Jonin of his own right though he like his daughter had better chakra control and had a few signature jutsu. He had dark red hair and deep green eyes, the same kind of eye shade that he had with his daughter, along with the two eldest ninja who were former team-mates of the Hokage, Homura Mitokado and Koharu.

 

Sarutobi arrived and with a nod at Naruto and he sat down and spoke to the assembled groups before him.

 

“I called this special council meeting due to disturbing news that I have received and no doubt that you all have heard of as well….my former student, and the greatest traitor to our village, Orochimaru has returned.”

 

The moment that came out of Sarutobi's mouth the rest of the council were not in the best of moods and they were all chatting with one another seriously, Inochi then spoke to the rest of the Council and to the Hokage.

 

“Pardon my intrusion Hokage-sama…but what is Naruto Uzumaki doing here?”

 

The council wanted to know that as well as some of them were not very trusting of Naruto, others hated him for his being the container of the Kyuubi, while others a bit more sympathetic and worried. Sarutobi knew that very well and decided to tell them the exact reason why he was allowing Naruto into the council chambers.

 

“Orochimaru went after one group in particular, that being Naruto's team, which comprises of Sakura Haruno, and Sasuke Uchiha as well as Naruto…Naruto defended both his team-mates by himself and forced Orochimaru to fight him one on one…and later on, both he and Sasuke were able to fight Orochimaru to a standstill and as amazing as it sounds…forced Orochimaru to retreat.”

 

That got gasps and looks of shock and surprise from everyone, they all knew how skilled and how deadly Orochimaru was and even more so since he was more a monster than a man, the idea of two Genin such as Sasuke and Naruto fighting him to a standstill and then forcing the S-ranked criminal ninja to retreat was very much unheard of. They knew that Sasuke was talented so didn't have too much trouble with believing that, with Sasuke being an Uchiha, but Naruto was another matter, they all knew Naruto very well and his history…but to hear that he was able to fight Orochimaru in an even standing was something else entirely and they wondered if the Kyuubi was the one that gave him the power even up the odds with Orochimaru. Hiashi then spoke to Naruto.

 

“How were you able to fight Orochimaru to a standstill Naruto?”

 

Naruto smiled a bit and replied.

 

“Through kenjutsu…and I was able to break his Kusanagi in half.”

 

THAT got a reaction as the Council member's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates. They were all familiar with Orochimaru's sword, the Kusanagi, it was known to have the power to pierce or cut anything, and nothing they knew had the power to break the Kusanagi…to hear Naruto had not ONLY equaled Orochimaru in kenjutsu…but BROKE the Kusanagi in combat was totally unbelievable.

 

“How can we be sure he is telling the truth?”

 

Naruto sighed and took out Holy Talon and placed it on the ground.

 

“Because the sword I used to do just that is right here in front of you.”

 

The Council then watched as Naruto placed the blade on the table before them and they found themselves looking at the Holy Dragon Sword…the weapon wielded by a breed of men and women of the races of beings under the stewardship of the Holy Dragons of another world…The Dragon Champions. It was unlike any weapon they had ever seen and in certainly didn't resemble any weapon design that they knew of and there seemed to be energy coming from it. Sarutobi coughed and caught their attention as he spoke.

 

“Before we question Naruto about what his sword is…we must at least know the events that led to Orochimaru's appearance and the battle between him and Kakashi's team…Naruto, can you tell us exactly what had happened there in the Forest of Death?”

 

Naruto nodded and began to tell them of the situation he and his group had found themselves in when they were through the gate and had been on their way looking for a team to ambush and also to locate the Tower that was in the middle of the Forest of Death, he filled them in when he had been separated by Orochimaru from the others and how the snake bastard had sent a summoned snake to try and make a meal out of him.

 

The council members had to admit that while some of them were not that friendly to Naruto, and there were some of them who outright hated him due to the Kyuubi inside of him…they had to agree with his description of the S-ranked ninja traitor. They were impressed that Naruto was able to slay that summon and then escape the cavern he was in and how he managed to stop Orochimaru from attacking his team-mates when he intercepted them.

 

The people in the Council room were stunned as Naruto recounted the titanic battle that went underway between him and Orochimaru as the S-ranked ninja and him engaged one another in kenjutsu with both Naruto's still unknown sword and Orochimaru's Kusanagi. The battle was explosive and it was a wonder that no one had been killed, neither him nor Orochimaru.

 

He then recounted how Sakura had been severely wounded…and Ginji was naturally concerned for his daughter and was relieved that she was alive and safe…rescued by Naruto's technique that so resembled a medical jutsu and Kakashi assured him that his daughter was all right ands he heard how Naruto defended her with all that he had…he smiled and looked at Naruto with a different look…like all the ninja, he was afraid of the Kyuubi, and was distrustful of Naruto…but hearing how his daughter was alive and safe and how fiercely Naruto defended her when she was recovering…made him think about the blonde ninja differently.

 

And he made that clear to everyone as he stood up and bowed before Naruto…surprising Naruto greatly, along with everyone else in the room.

 

“Thank you Naruto-kun for saving my Sakura…I owe you a debt I doubt I can repay.”

 

“No need for that Ginji-san, I will protect those I care about no matter what it takes.”

 

The discussion continued to the part where Naruto and Sasuke attacked Orochimaru and how Orochimaru had taunted Sasuke with the knowledge of that man…Naruto admitted that he had no idea who that person was, but he was sure that this person was of great interest to Sasuke for him to attack Orochimaru with nearly fanatical zeal…he then told them how Orochimaru had somehow implanted a seal on Sasuke when he distracted him, he then told them on how he had broken the Kusanagi, and what were Orochimaru's words concerning Sasuke… and he told them on what had happened to Sasuke when the seal became active.

 

The events he narrated naturally raised great concerns among the Council as the ramifications became clearer to them. They were familiar with the powers possessed by the Sharingan…after all, the Uchiha Clan was among the famous noble houses in Konoha before the clan were all killed by one of their own…the man who had then left and disappeared from their spies and informants.

 

The Council discussed the information and then Homura asked.

 

“Why would Orochimaru want to take Sasuke and give him the Cursed Seal?”

 

Kakashi then stepped forward and replied to the Council.

 

“Naruto told me that he was here and after Sasuke for only one thing…The Sharingan.”

 

The Council then looked at Naruto and Inochi asked the blonde ninja.

 

“Are you absolutely sure that Orochimaru is here for the Sharingan?”

 

“I am.”

 

Chouza then asked.

 

“What made you come to that conclusion?”

 

“Well…I've already heard about how the Sharingan can allow Sasuke to read and decipher a jutsu by looking at the chakra and hand signs of the person he is fighting, and this will allow him to copy it…just like Kakashi-sensei could copy Zabuza's previous jutsus before…so I thought it over and I realized that if Orochimaru had the Sharingan, he could very well learn and master ANY jutsu that he sees with it.”

 

The ramifications of that struck the council hard as the pieces of Orochimaru's return came together. Shikaku nodded as he leaned forward.

 

“I have to agree with Naruto's thoughts…if Orochimaru has the Sharingan, then he could very well be able to copy any jutsu he desires…and he would be even more powerful than he was before he was banished.”

 

Sarutobi knew that to be true, he knew how far his former protégé had fallen and how mad and drunk with power he was when he…when he saw the full extent of the depravity and brutality Orochimaru would go to accomplish his goals. He sighed and closed his eyes in thought on what they should do now. He then looked at the rest of the Council and then to Naruto…

 

“Does anyone else know about you're conclusion Naruto?”

 

“Myself…Kakashi-sensei, Sakura-chan, and Sasuke himself.”

 

Ibiki arrived and spoke to them all.

 

“What should we do about Sasuke Uchiha now that he has the Cursed Seal

 

Anko then stepped forward as she full well how the Cursed Seal worked…after all…she had one of her own to prove it.

 

“We should remove him from the Chuunin exams and hand him over to the ANBU Black Ops, we have to find a way to contain that seal and keep it from claiming him.”

 

Kakashi however spoke.

 

“You truly believe that he will just let us do that? He IS an Uchiha after all…they would never accept the situation before them and would rather die that give up.”

 

Anko however was not happy with that answer and showed her anger at Kakashi's words.

 

“I don't care what he is and who he belongs to…if he remains in the Exams the way he is right now…he's a danger to everyone around him! Don't you get it Kakashi…I know what the Cursed Seal can do and you don't because you've never had it…as he gets stronger, so does the Cursed Seal as well…that thing is feeding of his chakra and sooner or later…his very mind. That is a forbidden jutsu at very well eats the one who carries it.”

 

Anko gripped her shoulder where her own mark was and that was seen by everyone…including Naruto and Holy Talon.

 

(Don't tell me she has one like it too?)

 

((“I believe so…but she has great will be able to suppress it. She might be a bit dark…but she certainly is strong and not evil in the literal sense.”))

 

“It's a miracle the boy isn't dead himself from that seal…by now he should be dead…Lord Hokage…we have to remove him from the Chuunin exams before it's too late to stop that seal.”

 

“We must keep it that way…in that sense…the Chuunin Exams must continue…”

 

The Council looked him and even the two Jonin and ANBU, along with Naruto himself looked at what Sarutobi had in mind as he looked at them and replied.

 

“If we were to act on this information, Orochimaru would very well make his move, and considering the number of dignitaries that are here along with the possible arrival of the country leaders and the other Kages, he could very well have all the leverage he needs to crush us…I have no doubt that Orochimaru has allies already on the move to attacking Konoha…if we alert him…we could very well place all our villagers in the firing line, along with all the other civilians and more from the other countries. And if we were to take Sasuke off the exams, he would suspect us and who knows what might happen when he does…we must continue and play along for now…until we are ready to fight.”

 

“But Lord Hokage…wouldn't we still be playing right into Orochimaru's hands? And what of Sasuke Uchiha?”

 

Anko asked with great concern.

 

“Not if we covertly speak to our forces and prepare them in advance…we must make sure that all our ninja forces are aware of the situation and be ready for any attack…in the mean time, our village's emergency plans that involve sudden and unexpected attack be implemented along with our shadowing of Orochimaru's activities here in Konoha. We need to prepare for the worst…but without alerting Orochimaru and his allies…so life will go on here in Konoha…but all must be ready to fight at a moment's notice. Kakashi…”

 

“Yes Lord Hokage?”

 

“I want you to ready that binding seal you have developed…it might not be enough to stop the Cursed Seal by itself…but you must do it in order for Sasuke not to be corrupted by that seal until we find a possible cure…no matter how thin that idea might be.”

 

Anko relented and hoped that Sarutobi was doing the right thing.

 

The Council talked it over for a few more hours and Naruto tried to calm himself, but was failing as he was not used to staying put in one place for too long. Sarutobi noted that and so did Kakashi and the elder Hokage spoke to Naruto.

 

“You may return to the Chuunin Exams now Naruto…but you must make sure that you do not breathe a word of the Council's decisions for the time being until we are prepared to take the needed measures…and that goes for the rest of you…we must make sure that Orochimaru knows nothing of the plans we have set in motion.”

 

Naruto nodded at that and swore on his life and way of the ninja that he would not breathe a word of it to anyone…even his team-mates. With that, Kakashi and Anko escorted him back with the rest of his team as he took Holy Talon back.

 

----------

 

Later…

 

The Genin assembled and were all there in the main hall of the Tower and before them was a stage and several number of Jonin along with the rest of the Chuunin Examiners and Anko…she looked and saw all the teams…at least 24 teams made it in all…and that was a great deal of surprise for her. One such team to make it was the Rain Genin Team, they were able to finally get the scrolls and were able to enter in time before the time ran out for them all.

 

(Out of 78 teams, only 24 made it eh? I thought the numbers would be far lower, but it seems that Ibiki wasn't kidding about this bunch being better than the rest before them.)

 

“You all did well for passing the second part of the Chuunin Exams and for that I congratulate you…but don't think that it's entirely over.”

 

The teams looked at one another, Hinata was happy beyond belief that Naruto was alive and safe, Ino was happy that both Sasuke and Sakura had made it as well, along with Naruto, Tenten had to admit this was going to be an interesting fight. Temari was happy to see that Naruto was still around, while Gaara was also interested, the Sound Genin were there as well and Zaku swore to deal with Sasuke when the time came to finish him off.

 

Gai made some comments about Kakashi's team being lucky and how his team was going to win, but Kakashi paid no attention to that and only asked what was Gai talking about until he asked what Gai was saying and instead of silencing Gai, it made him even more ignited. Tenten admitted that at least in looks, Kakashi had the one up on their sensei…while Lee recalled what happened in the Forest of Death and his promise to Gai and Sakura…while Neji kept an eye on both Sasuke and Naruto.

 

The Hokage then stared to explain to them the history of the Chuunin exams and why it was made after Anko called them to attention. They learned that in order to truly show the strength of the ninja, the ninja started the Chuunin exams to both avoid destroying themselves and to showcase their strength, while fostering friendship and alliances as well. The Exams was in turn a war between allied nations as in the past these same allied nations fought one another, and the Chuunin exams were started to avoid wasting their military strength and places of designated combat were named and that was why Konoha is hosting the Chuunin Exams. Some asked why this was the case and why did they fight to the death. The Hokage explained that the only way for a ninja to truly show his or her power was in a fight to the death and only in a life or death battle can one truly push themselves to the limits of what they could accomplish. The battles also allowed dignitaries and leaders to witness the strength of the country's ninja and therefore…countries with strong ninja were given better jobs, while countries with weak ninja are not given better jobs, this also allows countries to show their military strength so they can pressure the other countries as well…these were the dreams of all the ninja who fought before them to become Chuunin themselves.

 

Naruto had to admit the reasons were pretty good…and then the new Proctor Gekkou Hayate spoke on something of great importance to them all.

 

The Chuunin Exams were going to host a preliminary exam, something that has not happened in over five years.

 

----------

 

To be continued…

 

----------

 

Author's notes:

 

That should do it for this part of the story of Naruto Dragon Champion…I apologize for delays due to some factors I have no control over and I hope that this will be enough for now. And it seems that some things are different this time around.

 

The Rain Genin were not fought by Naruto's team and Kabuto, so they are there in the exams as well, so expect an extra battle to kick off. And it seems that Sakura's somehow absorbed a portion of Holy Talon's healing Dragon Magic, and in simpler terms, Sakura now has a small but potent amount of Dragon Magic or Mystic Fire in her blood and is melding with her chakra.

 

How will that play out in the future? We'll just have to wait and see now won't we?

 

Time to see just what will happen in the Preliminary Exams!!!