Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Naruto Dragon Champion ❯ The Dragon Eye Awakens ( Chapter 10 )

Naruto - The Twin Swords

 

Disclaimer: I do not own anything and everything related to Naruto…if I did, then why am I still writing stories about it?

 

Chapter 10

 

The Dragon Eye Awakens

 

( ): Thoughts

 

((“ ”)) Holy Talon's Voice

 

~“ ” ~: Shana's Voice

 

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In the main Tower Hall…

 

Naruto listened in as he waited for Gekkou Hayate to begin his words, though had to admit that the Chuunin proctor for this exam was certainly in the best of medical conditions at the moment, he wasn't the only one to thing so as well as Hinata, Ino, and Sakura noted the large amount of coughing that Hayate was doing, showing his sickened condition and they were surprised that he was able to do his work, considering his health.

 

However, Hayate was able to get his message across, that since this would be the very first time in over five years that they would have the Preliminaries in the Chuunin Exams…suffice to say, not everyone was the least bit happy that this had to happen, the only thing that really got their attention was the fact that the Preliminaries were already in effect and Hayate told them all that if anyone who was not feeling a full one hundred percent ready to take part in the Chuunin Exams' third stage were free to leave.

 

Naruto and Sasuke were not keen on leaving and so were the rest of the teams and their members, but Sakura had a far greater concern for her team-mate Sasuke as he gripped the area of his neck in pain as the Cursed Seal continued to make it's mark on his body…she was deeply worried that if Sasuke were to use his chakra and his Sharingan, the seal on him would grow stronger and stronger and take over him.

 

Naruto noted that as well and wondered on what he should do for the time being, he knew that he had made an oath to the Hokage, to the Council and to his own sensei not to say anything about their plans to let Orochimaru have his way while they were making their own moves. But it still made him worry about what the situation will turn into if Sasuke still tried to compete with that blasted seal on him. He could see the pain his team-mate was going through and that made him even more concerned as he looked on.

 

Sarutobi, Ibiki, Kakashi and Anko watched the situation and they each had their own thoughts on the matter.

 

The elderly Hokage wondered if he was making the wrong move, but focused himself on the here and now since if he tried to do something that could alert his former student of their plans, then things would be in even greater danger, for now, they had to play along that they were just becoming aware of the situation and keep Orochimaru in the dark about their covert plans. He didn't know where Orochimaru was right now…but there was no doubt that he would very well be watching…and he might be in the very same room as they all were. Naruto told them that Orochimaru had sent the Sound Genin as an assassination team for Sasuke…, so that would mean that he could be in league with Sound or had manipulated them to fight for him. He didn't have enough data to make a move and it was a very risky game he was playing…but it was the only option they had right now.

 

Anko hoped that the others would see reason and have Sasuke placed in isolation so they could keep the Cursed Seal under wraps…but she reigned in her thoughts and tried to think it over…the Council made it clear that even if they were successful in keeping him sealed up…Orochimaru would no doubt act quickly and would kill as many people as he wants to force them to show how he would react to them trying to deny him his gift…she had a feeling that there would be more involved with Orochimaru's return to Konoha, she knew enough about her former sensei that he always had other plans buried in his current ones.

 

Ibiki hated to admit it, but he knew how dangerous Orochimaru was…even when he was the leader of the ANBU Interrogation Squad…he was afraid of Orochimaru…even when he was still a child…the snake summoning boy with snake like eyes and pale white skin seemed more monster than human to the battle hardened Special Jonin and the horrible things that Orochimaru did for the sake of power and knowledge further reinforced his inner fear of Orochimaru. He knew that Orochimaru would not hesitate in any way to get what he wanted, and would any method…not only was he known as a highly skilled ninja, but also as a master manipulator. He had no doubts in his mind that Orochimaru would have plans to help him as well.

 

Kakashi understood Anko's anger and how she would look at Sasuke with worry and mistrust. He knew Anko had once been Orochimaru's student years ago when she was young, no doubt around Naruto's own age or younger. She had grown to hate and despise Orochimaru for his evil ways and while she did have something of a dark streak in her nature…she was not evil in the full sense and she had learned a number of useful jutsu. Like all others who knew her, he knew about Cursed Seal that she herself had, and while he told them the truth about Sasuke, he kept in mind that out the other children subjected by Orochimaru to the Cursed Seal before Sasuke was given that Cursed Seal…Anko was known to be only among the VERY few survivors of the Cursed Seal as many like her died in great pain from the Cursed Seal…so she would know how deadly it was. He wondered if he should be ready to make his move, but for now he knew that he had to keep the binding technique ready should the Cursed Seal become too much.

 

Sakura was about to raise her hand when Sasuke stopped her with a glare and spoke in a tone that demanded answers.

 

“What are you doing Sakura?!”

 

“Sasuke…you have to forfeit the matches for now!”

 

“Why the heck should I?!”

 

“Do you think I'm blind to how you're suffering from the effects of the Cursed Seal?! You can barely use either you're chakra or you're Sharingan without that thing coming to life and injuring you even further! You can't hope to survive any fight with that thing eating you from the inside…please…I am begging you as a friend and team-mate…to please forfeit not for our sake…but your own.”

 

Sasuke however didn't listen as he thought back on his oath be stronger, to gain more power and more ability to finally accomplish his long dream of avenging his clan and killing the one responsible for the murder of all of his family by one of their own…his own…

 

He then thought about his dream…and what and who he was…he was no longer just a man…but an avenger…a being who sought power and would seek out that power…regardless of it's source, be it kind or evil. He wanted to show that he was strong and he wielded power…power to defeat all who faced him and the only way to gain it was to fight the strongest…and all of them were here, in this very Tower…he could not afford to back down from this…lee, Dosu, Gaara, Neji…and Naruto were here in this room…if he backed down now…he would never get another chance like this…and he was NOT going to be denied this chance.

 

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The three Genin however turned when someone spoke out.

 

“Okay…you got me, I'm out of this part.”

 

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke turned to see Kabuto raising his hand…and that made Sasuke very wary of the Leaf Genin who was now leaving the scene. Holy Talon thought likewise and wondered just what was Kabuto up to…from what it could sense, the Genin had more than enough chakra and physical strength to be in this match…why was he backing out?

 

Naruto was also curious and spoke.

 

“Hey Kabuto-san…why are you leaving?!”

 

Kabuto turned and smiled a bit and replied.

 

“I'm sorry Naruto…but I had a heck of a hard time getting the scroll from the other team I fought with…and they really drained me and even if we made it here now…I'm still somewhat beat up…but I know you can do well…I know I'll miss it…but…hey don't worry about me, do you're best all right.”

 

Naruto looked sad but smiled and gave Kabuto a thumbs up signal.

 

“I will!”

 

Kabuto smiled back and gave the same reply as he left the area.

 

However…he didn't get away scot-free…

 

Sarutobi looked at the leaving form of Kabuto and recalled something, this was NOT the very first time he had seen this young man, and neither was this the first time he had seen the man leave the Chuunin Exams at THIS stage…at first, he had allowed it as there was truth to his claims…but now that this was the seventh time he had done this act, he was got suspicious.

 

He turned to Anko and Ibiki as well and they were able to find out just who he was…namely his name of Kabuto Yakushi and his times in the Academy and in the missions he had undertaken…and the times he had taken the Chuunin Exams…his grades were average and he was not really much of a special case, however Anko revealed that he was the child who was found among the enemy dead during a battle in Konoha's history years before…the Battle of Kikyou Pass by one of the Konoha Medic Squads, and was taken in. And that boy grew up here, learning medical jutsus and had a very unremarkable career, that boy was Kabuto himself.

 

As soon as Sarutobi got the details…he looked at Kabuto and thought to himself aloud.

 

“What sort of game is that young man playing with us?”

 

He wasn't the only one as, Kabuto was stopped by Yoroi…his fellow team mate…and spy of Orochimaru. The two exchanged a hushed conversation with Yoroi warning Kabuto about his playing games and keeping his loyalty to Orochimaru…to which Kabuto replied back that he doesn't have to worry and to which Yoroi replied that while he was Orochimaru's favorite, he was certainly going beyond his bounds, Kabuto replied that he knew about Yoroi's desire to take his place and now was his chance…with that Kabuto bid farewell to both Naruto and Sasuke.

 

(Sorry I couldn't stay and fight, but if I did, the old me would have come back…I will be watching though, I hope you do well Sasuke-kun…and you too Naruto-kun.)

 

(Besides…if I fought here and now…I would be revealed as a spy…and I wouldn't want that, the rest I leave to you and you're capable hands Orochimaru-sama.)

 

The Sound Jonin looked on but a thin smile appeared as Kabuto left the room, leaving the others to wonder on what they would do…however Sasuke made up his mind already…as Sakura tried to raise her hand once more, he stopped her and replied.

 

“Sakura…this is my path! I chose it for myself…you have no right to tell me what I should do!”

 

“I am you're team-mate and friend Sasuke-kun and I can't just stand by and let that thing eat you alive!”

 

“If you are truly my friend and team-mate Sakura…then let me fight! This Chuunin Exam is more than an exam for me! I don't care much about the title of Chuunin, I am an avenger, nothing more, I have something to do no matter what, and I can't have myself stopped by anyone…not even you. All the strongest ninja are here and now…if I don't fight them here and now, then how can I see how strong I have become? I have to become strong no matter what, I won't let anything stop me…and that is what I want…and you have no right to stop me.”

 

Sakura looked on sadly unable to say anything as she tried her best to reason with her team-mate, Naruto however was far from happy with Sasuke's behavior towards Sakura, and he was not going to let Sasuke's attitude get the better of him, he had a feeling that his words were merely helping Orochimaru get a better grip on Sasuke.

 

“Sasuke-teme, you have to listen for once…stop acting so cool and focus on the truth, that damned seal's…”

 

Sasuke then turned and gave a challenging look to Naruto.

 

“Naruto…you ought to know that you're one of the people I want to fight.”

 

That made Naruto glare back and wonder just what was going on in the mind of Sasuke…but they had no time to think about that as Hayate got the Chuunin exams underway. He then showed them the screen nearby that would take the names of the Genin present and pair them in one on one combat. Also since there were 23 of them, then it would be a series of eleven matches to start the preliminaries. It didn't take long for the first match to begin and much to Naruto and Sakura's dismay…

 

It was Sasuke Uchiha against Yoroi Akadou…

 

Sakura was stunned, while Sasuke smiled, Naruto gave a shake of his head, while Lee, Dosu, Neji, and Gaara decided to take a good long look at Sasuke and see just how he gets out of this one.

 

As soon as that was announced, the Genin and their Jonin sensei made their way to the upper terraces to watch the match and to stay away from the fight itself.

 

“I won't have this fight any other way.”

 

Gekkou then spoke.

 

“All right, the names called forward please come forward.”

 

The Chuunin Proctor then faced the men and asked them if they had any objections to the match-up between them and they replied that they had none, while Orochimaru in his Sound Jonin disguise smiled and watched on to see how this situation will play itself out.

 

Sasuke then spoke to Yoroi.

 

“You are going to be in for the fight of you're life with me.”

 

“Heh…bring it on Sasuke Uchiha.”

 

Yoroi said with a smile, which was naturally hidden by his veil as he looked at Sasuke…who looked back with a smirk. Naruto and Sakura looked on and wondered how things would turn out, while the others were looking with interest.

 

Sasuke kept his cool, but held his shoulder in pain as the Cursed Seal once more reacted with his chakra. Hayate saw this and then gave the announcement that those who were not called were to leave and head for the upper levels for the match grounds to be clear of bystanders.

 

As they got ready Kakashi came by and was greeted with great enthusiasm by Naruto and the Jonin spoke directly to Sasuke.

 

“You have to be careful not to use you're Sharingan, Sasuke… if that mark activates then you're life will be on a thin edge.”

 

“So you know about the Seal?”

 

“Yes…and what it does to those who are infected with it, and just so you know… if this fight gets beyond your ability to handle, then I will stop the fight personally.”

 

Sasuke turned and was outraged by Kakashi's words to him and it made him even more unhappy to know that there was some truth to Kakashi's words, if he used the Sharingan, he would be vulnerable when the Cursed Seal activated itself and allow his foe to beat him senseless. But he knew that it responded to his chakra quite often.

 

(If I use my chakra, it grows stronger and it's grip…and Orochimaru's grip on me grows stronger, I have to beat Yoroi without my Sharingan and my clan's jutsus are off limits as well…maybe I can make him laugh to death instead.)

 

Orochimaru however was going to enjoy this fight.

 

(You are going in for a good test Sasuke-kun, Yoroi's unique talents should be a real challenge…I want to see if you can overcome it.)

 

Sasuke sighed mentally and psyched himself up and got ready nevertheless. The other teams got ready to watch as Kakashi hoped that Sasuke didn't overdo it and get himself in a real mess. As soon as Gekkou gave the signal, both ninja went to work, as Yoroi threw some shuriken and Sasuke fired some kunai, but Sasuke was stunned to the ground when the Cursed Seal awakened…nearly leaving him open to attack as Yoroi closed the gap, Sasuke quickly used his remaining strength to moved out of the way of Yoroi's fist.

 

He then used the Kunai he had to get a grip on the floor and used his legs to kick Yoroi down to the ground and then with several restraining moves managed to knock Yoroi to the ground and opted to try and make Yoroi fall to submission.

 

“He got him!”

 

Naruto cheered, but Yoroi merely grinned and replied.

 

“Really now? Who's got who I wonder?”

 

His hand glowed once more as he activated his own chakra and then grabbed Sasuke and much to Sasuke's shock and disbelief…his chakra was being…taken from his body.

 

(What the hell is happening?!)

 

Yoroi then stuck hard, loosening Sasuke's grip and then forced his way through and much to the shock of everyone in the room, except Orochimaru who smiled sadistically as the spy from the Sound Village leaped back and as Sasuke managed to get off the floor, the ninja then used his glowing hand once more and began to drain Sasuke's chakra…making Sasuke lose his power.

 

Kakashi and the others looked on in surprise and disbelief as the Uchiha survivor was being placed in a deadly situation.

 

“My…my chakra…what the hell are you…doing to my chakra?!”

 

“What…you're just noticing it now?”

 

Yoroi replied as he laughed and continued his actions on the still weakened and disoriented Sasuke who couldn't muster enough strength to break free just yet. Holy Talon sensed it and realized that it had seen similar techniques such as those before and he understood just what it was.

 

((“Master Naruto!!!! He's using a technique similar to a Vampirism Spell! Either that, or he's got the same abilities as a Vampire or Soul Reaper!”))

 

(What?!)

 

((“I can't get into all the details, but it seems that foe of Sasuke Uchiha has traits similar to some beings in Dagern that absorb the life force or blood of others, in this case he seems to be gifted with the ability to drain another person's chakra!!!”))

 

Naruto realized that quickly and knew that if that was true, then Sasuke was in a disaster, without his chakra, he was in serious threat of being affected by the Cursed Seal.

 

Orochimaru noted and wondered how Sasuke would be able to handle this mess, Yoroi was indeed given such a unique talent, he could absorb the chakra of his foes with only a touch of his hand, quite a unique and deadly talent in the right hands and in the right circumstances, and this would make things even more difficult for Sasuke.

 

(As soon as Yoroi takes you're precious chakra Sasuke-kun…you will have no other choice but to rely on my little gift to you…and we shall see how you do. Release that forbidden power…it will save you after all…you have no choice in this matter.)

 

Sasuke managed to gather enough strength to kick Yoroi away from him, but he knew now that close combat with this guy was a serious mistake, if he got grabbed like that again…he was finished, but he was too weakened by the first two attacks that using either Kunai or shuriken were a bad idea, and even if he could do it, the Cursed Seal would hurt even more. Yoroi however was not going to stop as he lashed out at Sasuke and the Uchiha ninja tried to evade and managed to avoid some of the blows, but he got hit by the hand in the hair…however instead of being a miss, the chakra absorbing technique affected him quickly…forcing him to lose even more of his strength…but he had enough to tolerate Yoroi's taunts and get some distance.

 

“Sasuke-kun!!!!”

 

“Damn it! What the heck is wrong with you?!?! Think of something fast or you're history Sasuke!!!!”

 

Sasuke admitted that Naruto had a point and then he realized that he had one chance…part of it wasn't original, but heck…as things were at this moment…it was better than nothing. He waited and then made his move…managing to avoid Yoroi's next strike he then attacked with a move that everyone recognized…including a duo of ninjas with the same hair-style, the same suits, and the same bushy brows.

 

(Wait! That's my move!!)

 

Lee said as he saw Sasuke use the same kick that he had used on him before during that test fight. He couldn't believe that Sasuke was using that move as well.

 

(What the?)

 

Gai thought as Sasuke leaped after Yoroi. As soon as they were in mid air and Sasuke was behind Yoroi, he confessed something to the Hidden Sound Spy.

 

“All right…I'll admit I borrowed this move…but from this point on, the rest is my own creation.”

 

With that, Yoroi only commented the first part of the move as Sasuke began to take his shot at taking out Yoroi…but before he could accomplish it, the Cursed Seal once more activated and he was bathed in pain as the flame patterns once more began to spread all over his body as he now felt it's presence begin to fill his body and mind.

 

(Damn it all…not now!!!)

 

“Sasuke-kun!!!!”

 

“Crap!!! Sasuke…you had better not lose here and now of all things!!! You said you and I will be fighting soon when the Preliminaries are over!!!! Don't you dare go back on your word to me now!!!”

 

Sasuke looked at saw Sakura with her eyes in tears and her face in worry and fear, while Naruto was seriously tense and not wanting him to just give up and lose now. He was not going to be beaten here, he had much to live up to and his two goals in life would be even further out of his reach if he lost here and now…

 

(Damn! I won't lose I will win and I will do it on my own power!!!!)

 

With that, he focused his will and strength of mind into it and managed to beat back the seal and force it to subside…much to the shock of the people who knew about it…namely Kakashi, Anko, Sarutobi and naturally Orochimaru himself as Sasuke used several attacks to take Yoroi out of the match and finished the attack with a powerful heel kick known as the Lion's Barrage.

 

The two ninja were out of it, but Sasuke was able to get off his back and was sitting down with exhaustion and Hayate declared Sasuke the winner and that was Kakashi's cue to make his move after trading some words with Gai…. as Yoroi was taken away by the medics for treatment and one of the medics tried to approach Sasuke, but Kakashi interceded. The Jonin told Sasuke that the Cursed Seal had to be contained and now was a good a time as any for it to be done. Sasuke naturally was not happy with the fact that he was going to be missing out on the rest of the competition, but Kakashi was not backing down and Sasuke had no choice as he was followed by Kakashi.

 

Orochimaru smiled and was excited at what he had seen while Anko and the others who were aware of the effects of the Cursed Seal were impressed that Sasuke was able to resist the call of the Cursed Seal to use it's power. Orochimaru however decided to leave the scene and see just what Kakashi was having in mind. However Dosu was not liking this…he had a feeling that there was to what was going on and he wondered what was going to happen next. However he decided to see just what would be the outcome of the other matches…he had nothing left to take care of at the moment and attacking Orochimaru was suicidal to say the least.

 

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Naruto looked at the two as they left the room, no doubt to have Kakashi give Sasuke the seal he was told to by the Hokage, and he had seen the Seal react once more during the fight between Sasuke and Yoroi. He didn't like what he saw and that made him even more cautious and wary of how the seal was affecting his team mate and rival. However, he had little time to think on this situation as he looked at the next number of match line-ups

 

And found his name to be chosen and he was going to fight none other than Oboro…who was one of the Rain Genin. The other Rain Genin were a bit worried, but they put those thoughts out of their minds as they knew that Oboro was armed with a special jutsu that he kept in reserve, they had used it before to get the advantage before in order to get the Chuunin Preliminaries and now it was time for it to be revealed.

 

Naruto realized that for this kind of battle he didn't need to take Holy Talon with him in order to win this fight, so he took of the sword while it was still in the sheath and then placed it on the wall, he the walked away but spoke to Sakura.

 

“Sakura-chan, I'll leave Holy Talon here for this fight…I'll be back for it later.”

 

(Are you okay with that? I mean…)

 

((“It's quite all right Master Naruto, I can still speak to you and be there to you if you need my aid in a battle.”))

 

As he made his way to the floor and faced Oboro, Hayate then gave them the signal to begin and Naruto quickly closed in the gap and lashed out with several powerful punches and kicks with Oboro who managed to block them and fire back his own kicks and punches as well. The two then grabbed each other's hands and tried to overpower each other. Naruto's gained height, form, muscle mass and tone gave him an edge in such a situation as he began to overpower Oboro, but the Rain Genin was not giving up yet as he managed to move away and fire several double bladed kunai at Naruto, that Naruto evaded by flipping backwards and then took out one of his own kunai.

 

Oboro then used his special variant of the Kage Bushin making Naruto look on in surprise for a moment and then in anticipation.

 

“So this is a Kage Bushin style fight huh, fine then, I'll just hit the ones and find you!”

 

“You're welcome to try!”

 

Naruto wasted no time and began to lash out at the clones, first with several thrown shuriken and then leaping into the fight to use his hands and feet. Back on the upper floors, the others watched and wondered how this fight was going to turn out as Naruto began to try and locate the real Oboro as his team-mates watched on, unconcerned for the moment as they knew that Naruto was about to walk right into a trap.

 

Holy Talon then moved and fell to the ground with a clang that got the attention of everyone on that side of the building as it apparently had slipped. Hinata and the others looked at it for a moment as the shy girl reach out and tried to hold the sword.

 

(I have to place it back for Naruto-kun…what?)

 

Hinata was in absolute surprise when she tried to lift the weapon and found it to be almost like trying to lift a massive boulder by herself…she had known that a weapon like this one would be heavy…but not THIS heavy….she could barely move it a millimeter of the ground.

 

(This thing is so heavy…and yet Naruto-kun can use this with no effort and carry it…how strong has Naruto-kun become?!)

 

Hinata tried again and that caught the attention of Kurenai and her other two team-mates.

 

“What's wrong Hinata?”

 

Hinata turned to see her sensei looking at her and she replied.

 

“I-I tried to lift Naruto-kun's sword when it fell…but I can't seem to even lift it…it seems so heavy Kurenai-sensei…”

 

“Let me try…”

 

Kiba moved in and tried to lift it as well, he was stunned to find that he couldn't lift it at all, and Akamaru smelled something from the sword, it wasn't bad or anything, rather it was a soothing form of feeling, but it seemed to warn him that lifting it was a bad idea.

 

Kiba groaned tried to lift the sword several more times but gave up after the last try.

 

“Wow…that is one HEAVY sword, and Naruto carries that around all the time…he must really be working out.”

 

Shino himself tried to lift it…but had no such luck as lifting the weapon proved to be impossible. Kurenai herself tried to lift the sword and found that the weapon weighted almost like a massive boulder and she sighed as she gave up her attempts to lift the heavy weapon That attracted the attention of the other Leaf Genin as Sakura spoke.

 

“You guys had better leave that sword alone, only Naruto-kun seems to be able to lift and use that thing, I've tried lifting it before and so did Kakashi-sensei and we couldn't lift it either.”

 

Lee reached for the sword and also tried to lift it…but to his utter surprise, despite his exceptional training and strength it seemed that he couldn't lift the weapon as well…let alone drag it with him…it was as if it was held in place by an invisible grip. Lee tried many times until he stopped.

 

“I can't even more it at all…it feels like trying to move an entire mountain…”

 

Gai stepped forward and spoke.

 

“Let me try Lee…”

 

Gai tried to lift the weapon or even drag it…but the weapon wasn't budging or moving even a millimeter…even Gai, who was the strongest of his team found it near to impossible to lift the sword, he tried several times and was forced to release the sword and commented.

 

“I am impressed…I have carried quite a number of heavy objects in my time…but this sword Naruto carries is different, it's like trying to move the mountain where the Hokage faces are…and he can use this sword with skill…this is interesting indeed….Lee…I guess this means we're both going to have to train hard to carry something like this!”

 

“Yes sir!”

 

Neji sighed and replied.

 

“Here we go again…”

 

Tenten herself tried to lift the sword, but even she found it near impossible to lift, and she tried several times and then spoke to Neji.

 

“Neji-kun…do you think that Naruto's got some sort of chakra system built into it to render it to be that heavy for us, but not for him?”

 

“Possibly…but how that thing was able to incinerate Orochimaru's arm and nearly consume him is another matter…I'm surprised none of us were reduced to ashes by it when we touched it.”

 

The others nodded and the three Leaf Jonin were then told by their students what they had witnessed Naruto was able to do when he fought with Orochimaru and suffice to say, Kurenai, Asuma, and Gai were impressed indeed, they were among the few Jonin who were not aware of Naruto's gifts given to him by Holy Talon and they all looked at Naruto after they were told by their students and wondered what else would happen. The Hokage knew that with that happening, then the time would come for them, along with Kakashi and Iruka to someday know the truth of what happened at Wave Country and soon, if with Naruto's permission, they, along with Kakashi would be able to speak to Holy Talon's creator…Lord Faldren, the undisputed and revered leader of the Holy Dragons.

 

For now however, the fight between Naruto and Oboro was still underway…

 

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Elsewhere…

 

“I must have been out of my mind to have said that…”

 

Kakashi said to himself as he calmed himself a bit and looked over at Sasuke who was currently resting after the binding seal ritual that he had undergone. He was acting this way since he had been faced by Orochimaru who was shed his disguise and revealed himself still in his Sound Jonin outfit and the two traded words, while Kakashi defended Sasuke with his use of his Raikiri. During this time, Orochimaru revealed that he had known about the Wave Country mission, but only because he wanted to keep track of his prize…Sasuke.

 

He also revealed that he was the head and leader of the Sound Village and that sooner or later…Sasuke will be his, and then nothing would stop him. However he was interested with Naruto now…either as a test subject or as a target to be eliminated, and to have that sword either corrupted or destroyed.

 

Orochimaru left afterwards and Kakashi was able to get some help from a small band of ANBU that he sent to escort and protect Sasuke in the Hospital where he was to rest and recover until his body got used to the binding seal, before Sasuke fell unconscious, he had told him that the binding seal needed his will to keep the Cursed Seal from spreading.

 

As soon as that was over, he made his way to the ring to see just who was fighting, and sure enough, he spotted none other than Naruto taking on one of the Rain Genin. As soon as he rejoined Sakura, the Rain Genin made his move…

 

----------

 

Naruto punched another clone and was getting frustrated and was unaware that he was now right into a trap and the Rain Genin suddenly attacked as he appeared right out from under Naruto…

 

“Damn! You were hiding there the whole time!”

 

Oboro laughed and replied.

 

“Of course I was…I let you swing and attack all you wanted because you would then tire yourself out and lose your focus and energy…just enough for me to use this!!!”

 

The Rain Genin made several hand signs and his hands glowed in the same fashion Yoroi…Naruto tried to attack, but he was suddenly surrounded by dispersing clones and the mist were certainly enough to blind him and then he left two touches on his head…on the sides of his temples. Naruto got out of the smoke and found Oboro armed with a kunai and the blonde was finally in a slightly better mood as he took out his kunai and spoke.

 

“So you decided to show yourself…now it's an even fight!”

 

“Try me!”

 

“HERE I COME!!!”

 

Naruto charged at the seemingly calm Rain Genin and Naruto closed the gap and leaped up to sucker punch Oboro in the face…

 

“Now I got…what the?!”

 

Naruto suddenly saw that his eyes were beginning to lose color…everything he saw suddenly began to turn grey and he now found himself looking in black and white…quite literally, and then his vision began to get hazy and normally clear images began to fade and become like mist…and then everything was dark.

 

Oboro moved aside and Naruto struck nothing but the floor with his fist, and he was able to get back up and he looked about and began to strike wildly…making the others wonder what was wrong.

 

“Naruto-kun! What's wrong?! Why the heck are you hitting around…that foe of yours is next to you!!!”

 

Naruto struck in that direction, but missed entirely as Oboro kicked him in the stomach and then punched him in the face…Naruto recovered and tried to fight back, but Oboro was able to redirect Naruto's hand and made him strike his own leg with his own kunai…Naruto shouted in pain and Oboro got his distance.

 

Sakura and the other Genin watched in disbelief while Hinata was in fear of Naruto's life.

 

“Damn it! He did something to me!!!”

 

“What are you saying Naruto-kun?!”

 

“I can't see Sakura-chan!!! He somehow blinded me!!!”

 

Kakashi noted that and spoke to Sakura.

 

“He used some form of jutsu to strike at Naruto's head…my guess is that whatever jutsu that Rain Genin used on Naruto must have somehow rendered him unable to see anything…his eyes might be fine…but he can't see anything at all. He must have gotten Naruto to waste his energy and focus to lure him in and breach his defense…and struck him on the head.”

 

“Oh no…! If Naruto-kun can't see…”

 

----------

 

Naruto tried to find Oboro and then he heard several footsteps and tried to kick in the direction but missed Oboro who then kicked him in the chest…making him stumble as he tried to regain his footing but Oboro wasted no time and lashed out with a kick to his head, Naruto was hit hard and when he recovered he then tried to block any attacks, but without his vision, he was unable to predict where the attacks would come from.

 

Oboro tossed several shuriken at Naruto and they hit him hard and then he tossed another kunai that got Naruto by the left shoulder. Naruto shouted and grasped the kunai on his shoulder and his leg…pulled them out and gasped.

 

“What the…why can't I see anything?!”

 

“You surprised? I call it my Vijon Hakudatsu Jutsu…it's a special technique I developed that allows me to send chakra into your eyes and that chakra will disrupt you're vision and soon you will be blinded.”

 

“Damn you!!!”

 

Naruto charged and threw some kunai, but missed as Oboro leaped up and punched Naruto on the face and Naruto reeled as Oboro laughed.

 

“I actually wasn't planning to use it…but to be a Chuunin, I am willing to go all out to win, that is the goal after all…as long as I am alive and conscious, the chakra in your eyes will blind you and then when you regain you're sight, you've either surrendered…or you're dead. Another way is if I am unconscious or dead…but I doubt that's going to happen anytime soon. So what do you say…ready to give up, or should I just kill you instead?”

 

Naruto roared out in anger and replied.

 

“ I will never surrender and give up to you…and I refuse to die!!!”

 

Naruto attacked once more, but Oboro played him like a simple child as he leaped aside and punched Naruto on the stomach and then leaped over him and wounded him in the back with a kunai.

 

“ARGH!!!”

 

The Leaf Genin looked on and Kakashi was worried.

 

(This is not good at all…even Sasuke's Sharingan or the Hyuuga Clan's Byakugan need functional eyes in order to work…without any vision at all…Naruto can't do anything to stop those attacks.)

 

(Naruto-kun!!!!)

 

Oboro further taunted Naruto as he threw several more shuriken at Naruto further wounding him.

 

“You are a foolish brat…even if you can hear me, you can't tell where I am…you're wasting your breath and you're energy…you can either give up now and save your life and I'll return your vision, or you can bleed to death here and now…either way…I win this round.”

 

Naruto however bit back the pain and tried to attack, but Oboro knocked him back and he fell to the ground…covered in blood and his clothes torn and bloody. Naruto however was not giving up as he got to his feet. Oboro snorted and got ready to attack…

 

“Fine then… I might as well finish you off now!!!”

 

The Genin watched as Naruto stood as Oboro closed in and was about to deliver the fatal blow…without Naruto being able to see his foe and evade…he was not in a good situation, he was wounded in various parts of his body and he had lost his sight…he was in a serious situation indeed.

 

Unknown to them…

 

Naruto thought of his situation and was about to summon Holy Talon to his side, yet he felt like he was going back on his word…but he was in a dire situation…but the spirit of the sword spoke to him.

 

((“Fear not Master Naruto!!! I will aid you and I know who will be best to aid you in such a situation as this…you will not need me there.”))

 

(What do you mean?!)

 

((“ I know of only one Dragon Champion to help you…the Sightless Battle Maiden…her essence and spirit will aid you in this fight!!! After all…she is the only master of the Dragon Eye and this battle is where she truly specializes in.”))

 

(Who?!)

 

It was then that a new voice filled his ears, a soft, gentle, but strong and formidable voice…that of a woman.

 

~ “Holy Talon refers to me young Dragon Champion…and he is right…I shall aid you in this battle.”~

 

(Who are you?)

 

~“I am the Sightless Battle Maiden as many have called me when I was alive…but I was once known before that name and the title of Dragon Champion as Shana Leonora. I will aid you in this battle…allow me to meld with you and aid you now.”~

 

Naruto agreed and he suddenly felt a massive rush of energy in his body…he felt his chakra come to life once more…far more intensely than before and he felt his senses suddenly become sharper and more powerful than before…it was as if he could SEE in a way no one else could manage. Then Shana's voice spoke along with Holy Talon…

 

((“Master Naruto…follow Shana's advice and listen to her…she is the only known Master of the Dragon Eye and she will be of great aid to you here and now.”))

 

(All right! I'm ready!)

 

~ “Good now…invoke the Dragon Eye!”~

 

Naruto followed Shana's instructions as he spoke softly in the same archaic language and finished the words.

 

“Allow me the vision to see my enemy…beyond the veil of flesh, blood, bone, and spirit…I invoke you… I call you…Come forth…Dragon Eye!!”

 

----------

 

“You're dead!!!”

 

Oboro launched a strike with his kunai…intending to strike the vulnerable area of his neck that would kill Naruto…Sakura screamed out a warning while Hinata tried to warn her crush of the incoming attack and the other Leaf Genin tried to do something…Kakashi was about to step in when he spotted a glow coming from the Holy Talon…he stopped as he saw…the jeweled eye open once more and glowing…and sure enough…

 

WHAP!!!!

 

“WHAT THE?!”

 

Everyone gasped…

 

As Naruto gripped Oboro's outstretched arm in his own, gripping the hand that held the double bladed kunai with his own fist, stopping the Rain Genin from striking the fatal blow…Oboro was too stunned to retaliate as Naruto turned to face him and grinned.

 

“Now it's my turn…I've got YOU!!!”

 

With that…Naruto pulled Oboro forward and KICKED him right in the stomach while releasing him…sending the Rain Genin away from him.

 

----------

 

The rest of the audience watched in utter amazement as the Rain Genin Oboro found himself thrown halfway across the floor and as he got up from his back…he stared in utter disbelief at Naruto who was still looking at him with his eyes open….eyes that he had disabled with his jutsu…but that blonde brat was still able to not only block his finishing strike…but kick him and send him crashing into the ground like some stuffed toy.

 

“But…but that's impossible!!!! My Vijon Hakudatsu Jutsu has rendered you blind and you are not skilled enough to use you're other senses…how in the heck did you manage to stop my attack?!?!”

 

“Naruto-kun…you blocked it…that was amazing!!!”

 

Sakura replied, utterly amazed that her team-mate was able to block the fatal block at the last moment.

 

Kakashi looked on and was impressed at the way Naruto was able to use whatever technique he had to survive this…he had been a bit worried when Naruto had been rendered unable to even determine Oboro's location when the ninja had been able to get close enough to strike him on the head and unleash a brutal number of attacks on the utterly defenseless blonde ninja. He turned and looked at the still lying form of Holy Talon still in the sheath and noted the glowing eye like jewel, many would have thought that it was merely the light playing on the gem…but after Wave Country and what he had seen and heard, he knew better than to think that the sword was doing nothing but lie there.

 

(It seems that Holy Talon has somehow tipped the scales of this battle in Naruto's favor, I have to admit, that would mean that Naruto doesn't always have to have Holy Talon with him to fight well…this new ability should be interesting.)

 

Lee was impressed, he thought Naruto was at a severe disadvantage without his sight to help him, he was worried as he watched Oboro punch, kick and slash at Naruto, along with using kunai and shuriken, forcing the blonde back to a corner…but suddenly the tide of the fight changed when Naruto grabbed the Rain Genin's hand as he tried to end the fight with a fatal blow…and kicked his foe to the other side of the field.

 

“Gai-sensei…that was amazing… I thought Naruto-san was dead for sure from that attack.”

 

“So did I…being unable to use your eye-sight is a deadly flaw and it takes years or more to use the other senses as far as I know…but somehow he was able to fight back...you've got quite a find this young one Kakashi.”

 

“You might say that.”

 

Neji himself was stunned at the sight, he had thought that Naruto was at a deathly disadvantage with the jutsu Oboro used on him and he was close to losing, but now it seemed that everything was now uncertain.

 

(Interesting, I had thought that without his sword, Naruto Uzumaki would be at a disadvantage…was my assessment wrong?)

 

“Wow…that was unexpected…”

 

Tenten replied as she looked at the sight.

 

Hinata gave a sigh of relief as she saw that her crush was alive and safe, she was worried greatly ever since the jutsu was used on Naruto…but now he was back in the game.

 

(Naruto-kun…that was so amazing…you are so strong!!!)

 

Kiba and Akamaru were stunned and so was Shino as well, and even Kurenai was surprised at the outcome of the fight, the red eyed Kunoichi expected that Naruto would be in great trouble with all his senses disabled by Oboro's jutsu, and while she had to admit that he was certainly a good looking young man, despite his young age, she had thought he was no longer able to fight, but it seemed that Naruto proved her wrong.

 

(I can see why Hinata likes him so much…he certainly is full of surprises and rather…wait, I better not think of those things…after all, despite him being good looking he is younger than I am, though he might not look like it…I am older than him and Hinata does like him…it would be rude of me to do such things to them.)

 

Ino was impressed to say the least and so were her team-mates…along with Asuma, who was also familiar with Naruto's origins as the rest of the other ninja were and didn't expect him to be this powerful. Ino was smiling as she looked at Naruto once more…she might not show it, but she was starting to see that maybe there was more to Naruto than being loud and noisy.

 

“Whoa…that was unexpected.”

 

Shikamaru said, while Chouji nodded as well.

 

“I thought Naruto was done for sure.”

 

On the other side were the Sand Siblings and Temari was smiling proudly…despite her patient look, she was worried about how Naruto had fared when the Rain Genin used that jutsu to literally blind Naruto in all of his senses and he was getting pounded, but now he appeared to have recovered somehow…it would have been a shame for him to be beaten at this stage of the fight…besides, she had a plan in mind that involved him at some point.

 

Kankurou sighed and shook his head…he was really wondering how the blonde would get himself out of this one and it seemed he was able to get out somehow. Gaara still maintained his ever dour and stoic look, but he was getting more intrigued by Naruto and was slightly disappointed that he was not able to fight him…but at least he got to see another trick the ninja had.

 

Dosu and Kin looked on as they tried to figure out how Naruto managed to block that attack at the last moment, even with all of his senses shut down and hard as well. Dosu and Kin were quite impressed with the situation and wondered just how this would turn out…while Orochimaru…once more in his Sound Jonin disguise looked on with interest.

 

The Hokage looked on with great surprise but kept his focus on the match, he was worried about Naruto before but now it seems his fears were unfounded as despite his injuries…Naruto was far from out of the fight, Ibiki nodded as he was seeing that his assessment of the boy was proving to be quite accurate, Anko smiled at that and was eager to see just what else Naruto was going to do.

 

Oboro growled as he got ready to attack and wondered if he had somehow only missed the area of the chakra pathways which could allow his jutsu to work. He got ready and summoned some more chakra to his fingers and tensed himself.

 

“All right then…I'll make double sure that…”

 

Naruto however went into a combat stance and replied.

 

“Don't bother…you're jutsu still worked…I can't see you…you hit me dead center…”

 

“Then how in the hell did you manage to not only block me and hit me at the same time?!”

 

Naruto grinned at that and he spoke to Holy Talon and Shana in his mind.

 

(Is it all right if I taunt him a little…just a bit?)

 

((“Sounds fair to me Master Naruto…just don't be over eccentric with it”))

 

~“If that is what you want then go ahead.”~

 

Naruto then spoke to Oboro.

 

“That's because I'm using a brand new jutsu I came up with…I call it the Ryu Manako Jutsu or the Dragon Eye Technique.”

 

That announcement got the attention of just about EVERYONE in the room, none of them had ever heard of such a jutsu before, Kakashi however knew that it had something to do with the Holy Talon, as far as he knew, Naruto had not used any other jutsu but the Kage Bushin, the Henge jutsu, and that Sexy Jutsu he had on hand to knock men out when he needed to…he didn't have any new jutsu to speak of yet…so he must be using one of the gifts handed to him by the Holy Talon…but he must be masking it IN a jutsu to throw everyone off.

 

(Hmmm…nicely done Naruto…this will be fun to see.)

 

“The what?! I've never heard of such a jutsu!!!!”

 

“Hah! Not my problem…but I'll give you the short version so you'll have an idea of what it can do…with this jutsu…I have the ability to see you at a far more powerful level…unlike normal physical vision, the Dragon Eye Jutsu allows me to see and you're plans ahead of the present…like I can see your every possible actions… in minutes or hours before you can even think or do them yourself, allowing me to counter those moves with nearly no effort.”

 

Oboro lost his cool and unleashed a massive barrage of kunai at Naruto while shouting out.

 

“YOU LIE!!!!”

 

Naruto, with the guiding essence of Shana in him, dodged and evaded the kunai thrown at him and with exceptional timing began to catch them by the rings and he quickly flipped back and then smiled at Oboro as he revealed all ten kunai in his hands. The Rain Genin gasped and then Naruto threw all the kunai back at Oboro, forcing him to move aside, but then found Naruto charging at him with his own kunai in hand, the Rain Genin blocked with his own kunai and tried to force Naruto back with a kick, but Naruto merely leaped upward and in mid air launched a spinning heel kick that send Oboro aside and the Rain Genin got up and growled.

 

Naruto then replied as he made his hand signs.

 

“Now do you get it…I can already see every possible way how this battle is going to end…and you won't be the winner…I see every possible move you can do…and since the Dragon Eye Jutsu is now active, I will never be beaten so easily….and that means…”

 

“KAGE BUSHIN JUTSU!!!!!!”

 

In a moment at least fifty Naruto clones appeared and all were armed with Kunai and surrounded Oboro and they all with the original Naruto spoke in one voice that spoke of victory.

 

“I DON'T NEED MY EYES TO BEAT YOU!!!!”

 

The clones and the original rushed in and began to pound Oboro into submission as several of them were taken out by Oboro with thrown kunai…but that hardly mattered as the others closed it, and unleashed a flurry of punches and kicks that really gave Oboro as serious beating and the Rain Genin was being knocked about like a punching bag in a free for all brawl, and then several of the clones suddenly kicked the Rain Genin upwards, while several others leaped up to the air and further kicked the Rain Genin into the air and to the back and Naruto himself and three of his clones rushed as the Rain Genin fell to the ground and they leaped upwards to meet him in flight.

 

Naruto and his clones then unleashed a pair of spinning heel kicks with each leg that slammed hard into the torso of the Rain Genin and then they finished the attack with fists right into Oboro's face.

 

“UZUMAKI RIOT STORM!!!!”

 

Oboro fell to the ground with a thud…alive but severely beaten and unconscious…Naruto stood up…exhausted as his clones dissipated…and the jutsu the Oboro used to deprive him of his senses disappeared as well and Naruto looked at Kakashi and Sakura and grinned with a thumbs up smile.

 

“The jutsu wore off! I can see again!!!”

 

Hayate walked over to Oboro and then declared the winner of the fight.

 

“The winner is, Naruto Uzumaki.”

 

The cheers were on as Sakura was in the lead, followed by Lee and Hinata, and even Kakashi with a smile.

 

“WAY TO GO NARUTO-KUN!!!! THAT'S MY TEAM MATE!!!!!”

 

“WAHOOOOOOO!!!!! NARUTO-SAN!!! YOU ARE ON FIRE!!!!”

 

(Naruto-kun!!!! That was so amazing!!!!)

 

“Well, well, he's certainly taking this up a notch…nicely done Naruto.”

 

Kakashi said with a bit of pride while Gai couldn't help but speak out about Kakashi's team.

 

“You're group is certainly filled with talent Kakashi…makes me wonder just how will they handle the rest of the Exams, I can't wait to see that.”

 

Ino was impressed and so were the others in her team as well as their sensei Asuma.

 

“Wow…he's really different from before!”

 

“Yeah, I thought that jutsu that Rain Genin used would have been the end of him, man it's going to be a drag if I have to fight him.”

 

“I have to agree…he'll be a tough one to take on.”

 

(What has that kid been doing? I guess Kakashi's words were all true about Naruto being more than capable as a potential Chuunin candidate.)

 

Asuma thought as he finished his cigarette.

 

Kurenai also thought in her own fashion after seeing Naruto in action.

 

(He certainly has changed, at first I had thought that Naruto Uzumaki was still a class clown despite his sudden changes in appearance and physical attributes, but he has certainly shown a great deal of growth under Kakashi's watch, I see now that he would be a very strong and powerful opponent.)

 

Kiba and Akamaru thought likewise as they looked at Naruto with a look of wary respect as they were shown that despite still being the loudmouth that he was, he was no weakling anymore that they could beat easily.

 

Shino thought likewise as well.

 

Tenten was smiling brightly at this and Neji was still stoic as ever, but had to give Naruto credit, he had used his Byakugan to see what was this jutsu and to his surprise, he saw that there was a faint trace of unknown energy laced with chakra that formed a massive…reptilian eye that was on Naruto's forehead, that eye was open and seemed to be on fire…yet only with his Byakugan activated could he see it.

 

(So that's the Ryu Manako Jutsu…I must say that it is an interesting technique he has, but that energy he has with his chakra's different from it…that must be quite a jutsu indeed not to rely on normal vision, both the Sharingan and the Byakugan still rely on the eyes of their users to be active to work…but this jutsu Naruto used doesn't rely on his eyes working at all. He certainly is not one to take lightly in a fight…just like Sasuke Uchiha.)

 

On the other side of the ring, Kankurou was giving Naruto a look that despite his dislike, he was impressed, Temari was smiling widely and Gaara was still his emotionless self, but he gripped his hands tighter as he was excited by what he saw.

 

The Sound Genin looked on with surprise and so did Orochimaru who looked on with increased interest at Naruto as the blonde ninja left the floor with Oboro being taken away as he was now officially eliminated from the competition. That made his other comrades wary of their own chances was well.

 

(You have grown so much Naruto-kun…I am wondering if I should either take your blood for study or have you placed with the Cursed Seal…but no matter, I will have my prize, but I will be keeping tabs on you and the sword you carry.)

 

As Naruto walked back, charged by his first victory, Hinata was feeling very much aware of the fact that this was her chance as she held a container of her healing ointment.

 

(He's coming here…what should I say?! What should I do?!)

 

As Naruto was about to reach Holy Talon and pick it up, Hinata managed to blurt out his name…despite her intense shyness towards him.

 

“N-N-Naruto-kun…”

 

The blonde ninja stopped as he was going to pick up his sword and turned to face Hinata and was surprised why she seemed to blush bright red at him for some reason, while twiddling her fingers.

 

“Is something wrong Hinata?”

 

“No-I-I-well, - thought-uh, maybe…”

 

Hinata gulped and walked over to Naruto and gave him the healing ointment, trying her absolute best not to faint before her crush, but couldn't say anymore, and Kurenai noted that as well, smiling at that.

 

(Hinata…well now…this is nice.)

 

Naruto looked at the container for a moment and recognized it.

 

“Hey, that's one container of that healing ointment you gave me before right…you're giving it to me?”

 

“Um…y-y-yes…”

 

Naruto smiled and took the container while speaking.

 

“Thanks Hinata! I really appreciate you giving me this; I was right about you being a nice person. I'll pay you back soon enough once the Preliminaries are over, you have my word!”

 

Hinata's blush deepened as she felt Naruto's hands touch hers and she couldn't help but feel the skin, toughed by sword calluses and yet warm and strong…she began to have fantasies in her mind about Naruto…she felt that she was going to faint right now, but fought it back. Kurenai noted that as Naruto left and went to pick up his sword and despite her earlier misgivings…she couldn't help but look at the blonde ninja's body and backside and couldn't help but smile to herself.

 

(Well…he certainly has the looks, I hate to admit it…but he's certainly a hot guy despite his age.)

 

Hinata was still blushing as she too gave the same thoughts as Naruto took up Holy Talon, checked his sword for any damages and placed it right back, the Hyuuga girl didn't notice the very serious looks that her own sensei was giving her crush, and just about every women of either age was giving Naruto the once over, and Holy Talon could sense that and he merely replied.

 

((“Here we go again.”))

 

(Did you say something?)

 

((Nothing important Master Naruto.”))

 

(By the way…I need to discuss something with you soon, about myself…)

 

((“You mean the Demon Fox of Nine Tails inside of you…the one known as the Kyuubi, am I correct?”))

 

(Yes…how did you know?)

 

((“Actually I was wondering when you were going to ask me that question Master…I will tell you soon enough…”))

 

Feminine laughter then filled the blonde's ears as Shana's voice came back to him and Holy Talon.

 

~“My…you are quite the charmer young one, I hope that you can hold on to you're trousers since I can sense QUITE the auras around today.”~

 

Naruto was still a bit unsure about that and began to use the healing ointment on his wounds and got ready to watch the rest of the incoming matches. Things were about to heat up as the next set of matches were about to be announced. Naruto then realized that after that battle…he would have get ready and get himself a new set of clothes to replace his torn ones once he was free to do just that.

 

----------

 

Author's Notes:

 

Sorry about the numerical error, had a lot on my mind lately…and I have been playing Neverwinter Nights 2 for quite a while too…quite a good game as well, sorry about that. Now on with the work!!!

 

It seems Naruto has gotten some aid in fighting Oboro and it seems that his support is one of the previous Dragon Champions, and a woman at that, a very skilled fighter as well, and she is Shana, one of the first mentioned Dragon Champions in this story who's essence Naruto is able to call on.

 

As previously stated in the other chapters, the Dragon Eye Holy Talon has can predict attacks allow them to be countered, it might not seem as much when one has vision, but in this case, it certainly has proven here in this chapter to be more than effective in the kind of fight Naruto found himself in with Oboro, ands just who is this one named Shana?

 

Well, as you have no doubt figured out…she is a Dragon Champion of Dagern generations before. But who is she exactly?

 

----------

 

Shana Leonora is one of the first named Dragon Champions who's essence or spirit resides in Holy Talon, she was born with a deadly sickness due to a plague that hit her village, which was found to be mystical in nature, it infected many and she was merely a little baby…the plague was eventually removed by the previous Dragon Champion of her generation…but while she was saved along with others…she lost her eyes…while her eyes remained physically intact and seem fine…she has been completely blinded.

 

She grew up with difficulties as many people were not well receiving with her due to her condition, but she persevered and worked her hardest to make a life for herself in her home…one day she learned that she had a talent for magic, but she decided not to take the path of a spell caster, and trained her mystical potential to act as a new sense for her to compensate for her lack of physical vision…it had taken years, but she eventually mastered this unique version of sight, though it only allowed her to move and travel about.

 

One day, she returned from a journey with some of her townsfolk, but when they came back…the village was in flames…completely obliterated and their fellow villagers either taken as slaves or were all slain. Shana sat down in grief and in tears as she found her home and simple farm burned to ashes and her beloved who loved her despite her physical condition dead before her…stabbed and slashed to death while he was before the home that was to be theirs…his simple short sword…broken, chipped, and shattered, told her that he had died defending their future home.

 

She then sought out answers and when to the Holy Sanctum of the Holy Dragon Sword and despite a disapproval of many others, Holy Talon chose her and told her that it had been the followers of the Chaos Dragons and the wielder of Death Fang who attacked her village and many were also subjected to this fate. On that day, she swore to avenge not just her fellow villagers, and her future husband, but to give hope to others…or die trying.

 

Holy Talon then taught her about the Dragon Eye and with her own self taught mystical sense, she began to grow in skill and power… she could predict enemy attacks and evade them regardless of direction and speed, evade spells and ranged projectiles with ease, and attack with lethal precision with both fist and sword. Holy Talon admits that out of all the previous Dragon Champions who had wielded it before her…only Shana had relied and trained exclusively with the Dragon Eye gift to the point that she seemed to have been born with the Dragon trait herself.

 

In conjunction with her still functioning senses such hearing, taste, smell, touch, and her mystical sense…Shana rose to be a great Dragon Champion…to those who were under the protection of the Holy Dragons and those who fought with her when she was in battle…she was named `Sightless Battle Maiden' both for her beauty, skills, and abilities in combat and more despite her blindness…

 

And to those who are the followers of the Chaos Dragons and their minions, she was known as the `Blind Witch' due to her skills and abilities as well. Many of them wanted to break her as a slave due to her beauty and form, but just many were slain by her in combat when they underestimate her abilities.

 

Shana lived long and well, she was married in the later stages in her life by a young man, a simple healer who loved her not for her title as Dragon Champion, or her beauty and reputation…but for who she was underneath the titles, a strong, brave, but kind and loving woman. Shana loved him back and they had several children and she had no regrets as she was able to slay the current Chaos Dragon Champion despite being fatally wounded in the battle.

 

She was able to return home to her family and after being fully healed…she and her family returned Holy Talon and she bade farewell to Holy Talon and lived her life in peace…and she was able to die peacefully…surrounded by her children and her grand children as she joined her husband in death…and she gave her wisdom, skill, knowledge, and power to Holy Talon to aid future Dragon Champions.

 

Shana was a tall woman with a well formed build and had short red hair with a pair of braids on the sides of her face…her deep green eyes shined in such a way that many mistake them to be working eyes, she was considered to be a strikingly attractive woman and was strong and lithe due to her past life as a farmer and her life as both a warrior and Dragon Champion.

 

(Think Mokoto Kusanagi of Ghost in the Shell Stand Alone Complex 1 & 2 when you picture her.)

 

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That should wrap up at least part of the Chuunin Exams…and I hope to move on to the next part…and we get to meet up with a certain perverted ninja novelist, and we get to learn just what exactly happened to the Kyuubi and why hasn't it appeared just yet. This will mean that Lord Faldren will soon make a reappearance…and before the ninja in question as well.

 

Now someone asked me if I was going to have Sasuke become the Chaos Dragon Champion and wielder of Death Fang by default, the answer to that particular question is no...at least not yet. As you are aware, the two Dragon Swords are more than mere weapons, but living weapons, batteries of power, essences and more… and so, have their own inner beings and as such, they are not merely tools. They choose their own masters and are very picky about that, remember…out of the thousands of people that have sought out either sword in the past back on the worlds of their origin, only ONE out of literally thousands is chosen to be their respective wielder. Just because Naruto was chosen by Holy Talon on the first try does not mean that Death Fang will choose Sasuke instantly.

 

For all you know, Death Fang might deem Sasuke unworthy to be it's wielder and master and will reject him utterly, and as you know, there are just as many people who are eligible to take command of Death Fang apart from Sasuke. Just because Sasuke becomes evil in the Naruto series later on…that hardly means that he is the chosen one to wield Death Fang is my story…Many people have used Death Fang before and they were pure evil, probably even more evil than some of the villains in Naruto itself and since their spirits reside in Death Fang, and the evil of Chorvax and his kin is melded into it since it's creation…so it is the strongest embodiment of evil in existence in this story of mine…and it might find Sasuke as a mere shadow and unworthy of it's allegiance.

 

Of course…he MIGHT become the wielder as well…that is all up to me, so we shall see if he does become the Chaos Dragon Champion and wielder of Death Fang.

 

We're about to learn the fate of the Kyuubi as well.

 

Oh, and if anyone expects me to bash any characters in this story, then I want to say that I don't do such things, so don't expect it.