Rebirth of the Two Sons

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto. Or any references I make.

Dust in the Eyes

They arrived at the village just as the sun was reaching its height. The streets were busy and they passed by several teams of shinobi and even more carriages carrying food, cloth and other such things. The air around them was... quiet, they had scarcely spoken a word, barely even one as they recounted the events in the Land of Waves. They were of course tired but they could rest when they were back in their beds and the sun was beginning to set. It seemed as if nothing could worry them.

But for the silver-haired Jōnin, his worries were only beginning to rise, he hid this instinctual uncertainty behind his well veiled aloofness. Ever since that time on the bridge, the thoughts swimming through his mind were enough to drown him. Sasuke had awakened his kekkei genkai, that was of little surprise to Kakashi but Naruto... that's where things troubled him. Thankfully his team had not spoken about it at all, he could only assume that they had similar thoughts but Kakashi wasn't sure of it and it was safe just to assume that their thoughts were of course different.

To awaken not one, but two kekkei genkai and so suddenly was the cause of so much anguish for the teacher. If word was to spread that the son of the Yondaime, the Jinchūriki of the Kyūbi and last scion of the Senju clan was in possession of not only one of the strongest kekkei genkai in existence but an entirely new, possibly just as powerful kekkei genkai, the ideas and omen that came to mind were harrowing to say the least. Kakashi knew he was treading dangerous water and it was his duty not only as a shinobi, but also a sensei to inform the Hokage immediately of what transpired. He could imagine the headache that would come to the old Kage's mind.

Once he sent the genin on their way and of course 'implied' that a shinobi mission is confidential to those outside of the chain of command did the Jōnin make his way towards the office of his village leader. Luckily he wasn't met with any resistance, no Might Guy to challenge him, no Asuma to distract him with drinks, he would have to deny both for the sake of this unknown mission. It was of the utmost imperative that he get this information to the Hokage and Tsunade. When he finally saw the door of the Hokage, he saw Mabui, Naruto's betrothed and new assistant to the Hokage walk out of the room with a stack full of papers in hand, folding away and re-arranging the sheets while mumbling incomprehensible words to herself. He gave her a curt nod that she didn't notice as he knocked on the wood of the door, waiting for the Kage's reply which he received shortly.

"Kakashi, I am pleased to see that your back and pleased also that you knocked. Now tell me what occurred in the Land of waves, I am eager to hear of your student's growth and what they have learned from such an experience." spoke Hiruzen, smoking on his pipe as he shifted through papers, writing in ink on statements and stamping on missions that required his approval. However, the old shinobi stopped his action as he heard the reigning silence of Kakashi, standing there hands in his pockets, something which Hiruzen took as a sign of urgency. "Leave us." whispered the Kage as his team of personal ANBU appeared from the shadows bowing before disappearing into a puff of smoke.

"Sandaime-sama, there is also another that needs to listen to what I have to say." spoke Kakashi seriously earning more of the Hokage's intrigue but worry over what his Jōnin would reveal. "Tsunade-sama needs to hear about what happened also."

"Ahh, I see now, this is about Naruto." just as the Sandaime said those words, Mabui came back into the room, mumbling to herself again and placing a stack of papers onto his desk. "Mabui, would you please fetch your future mother-in-law and tell her to meet me at my office and that is it above urgent. Lives are apparently at risk." spoke Hiruzen to which Mabui nodded while Kakashi gave his leader an exasperated look. "I speak the truth Kakashi, Mabui is the key to our alliance with Kumo, so long as she is wed to Naruto, a tentative peace exists between us and Kumogakure. But while we wait for Tsunade, tell me of what occurred upon the bridge."

"Forgive me Hokage-sama but everything I have to say, occurred on that bridge, trust me when I say that Tsaunde-sama will want to hear this too." the Sandaime only blinked at the defiant shinobi, to refuse such a thing was considered to be the greatest level of disrespect. And normally the Sandaime was above such things but given how the normally relaxed Kakashi was stalwart and serious, things were dire indeed and given how Naruto was in the eye of the storm only spelt certain doom for the village (at least in Hiruzen's mind). Half-an-hour passed and Tsuande finally arrived, her features a mix of confusion and worry as she entered the room and closed the door with Mabui right in front of her.

"Thank you Mabui, you can have the rest of the day off, this meeting is private and do not tell anyone that it happened." Mabui merely nodded her head curtly as she left the room and the Sandaime activated a silencing signal that had been placed there since Tobirama Senju had taken office. "now Kakashi, we are well and truly alone. No one can hear us, so tell me what happened on the bridge." spoke the Hokage, his eyes dour and his words cutting through the air like wolf's teeth through cloth, Tsunade only glanced uncertainly at the two, a wave of worry and confusion crashing into with every word.

"We gravely misunderstood how dangerous the mission was Hokage-sama. Tazuna lied to us from the beginning about the dangers, but we pressed on, none of the genin wanted to abandon the mission and so we continued on. Only to discover that Zabuza Momochi, the Kirigakure no Kijin (demon of the Hidden Mist) had been hired to kill him." started Kakashi causing Tsunade and her former teacher to widen their eyes in horror at the thought of it, an untrained genin team, matched against one of the most dangerous shinobi that Kirigakure ever produced, it made Tsunade's heart pang in her chest, knowing that her son was put into mortal danger, if it wasn't for the direness in Kakashi's voice, she would have marched to the Land of Waves and created earthquakes and tsunamis. "I dealt with Zabuza and all seemed fine, until on night on the bridge. The entire team was ambushed and I was separated from my students. Zabuza wasn't alone. Alongside him was a boy, with skills and experience far above that of even the most hardened of Jōnin. That's when the fox surfaced." continued Kakashi, the room growing more cold with each word he spoke, the mention of the Kyūbi sent a cold chill up all their spines. "this boy, Haku, pushed Naruto and Sasuke to their limits until he nearly killed Sasuke right in front of Naruto on the orders of Zabuza. That's when the fox appeared and it is also when Naruto's true power erupted. Like a storm, the fox's rage consumed Naruto and he tapped into abilities none of us even guessed he had..." then Kakashi went silent as he remembered the roars of Naruto and that of the fox, the foul chakra in the air, the hatred that was carried in the wind. "Hokage-sama, Naruto... is in possession of Mokuton." just like that the world went black and white for Tsuande and Hiruzen, they couldn't even begin to digest the information overload they had, to think, the last son of the Senju carried with him the power of the Shodaime Hokage. "but that's not all, along with Mokuton, Naruto displayed an entirely new kekkei genkai, one which the world has never seen before. Kinton."

"Kakashi, are you? Are you certain?" frantically questioned Tsunade while Hiruzen was silent, the room growing darker as he puffed on his pipe.

"I wouldn't be saying it if I knew it wasn't true. I saw it with my own eyes. Naruto, bending and shaping metal like paper." replied, Kakashi still trying to adjust to this new information. "Hokage-sama, what do we do? If word spreads of Naruto's abilities, his life will be in greater danger than it already was. And with Chūnin exams coming, other villages may take such a risk to end his life."

"...Kakashi, tell me more. Before we proceed with any course of action, we must understand this situation more and find a solution that can benefit everyone. As a student of the Shodaime, I saw firsthand what Hashirama Senju could reap with his powers, but I am even more intrigued with Kinton and its applications."

"I have heard of Kōton (steel release) before, the ability to manipulates and harden one's body with metal, but Kinton, it seems far more advanced. I can't tell you much as Naruto only used one jutsu, but I can only guess that this kekkei genkai can create and control metal for a variety of tasks. When Naruto used it, he tore through just about everything in his path he even was able to shred through thick concrete with ease. My guess, this jutsu he used is only a drop in the ocean of what it could be capable of, given experience and time."

"Sensei, don't tell me you're going to tell the village!" cried Tsunade, worried for her son but also amazed at what he was capable of.

"With the Chūnin exams nearing closer every day, the threat of an inside attack grows larger. We shall keep Naruto's abilities a classified secret and dissuade him from using them unless in life-threatening situations and when he is ready I shall introduce him to a special individual who can help him control his kekkei genkai. For now, Kakashi I want you to tell your other students from leaking Naruto's kekkei genkai to the public. Should this come to pass, no matter their stations in the village, they will be punished to the full extent of our laws. "

"And I'll explain to Naruto the seriousness of this new development. He'll listen to me." spoke Tsunade, eager to see and talk with heir son, hoping to make him see reason about this dangerous new development.

"Sorry Hime but the way you two have been lately I'm sure he would be more eager to rebel than anything." spoke a new voice by the window as all three shinobi in the room snapped their heads towards the direction of this new stranger. Sitting on the windowsill was Jiraiya, arms crossed and with a massive smile crossing his features. "besides, the kid trusts me, it'll be good to hear it from someone who hasn't lied to him recently."

"Jiraiya! What have I told you about entering my window! Just use a door!" comically roared the Hokage as Jiraiya only laughed at his former sensei. "And how long have you been sitting there!"

"Since this conversation started. Everyone needs to lighten up and stop being so serious. So the kid can grow flowers, big whoop! If you approach him like that he'll only become stressed from such a thing, it will eat him up. You need him to relax, a good day at the hotsprings will cheer him right up I promise." spoke Jiraiya as he jumped off his perch. "besides Hime, from what I've heard from Shizune, you two are feuding at the moment, she even mentioned how the tension got so thick you could cut it like butter. The kid adores me, he'll listen to what I have to say. Sensei, I'll say what I have to say later, let me handle the kid." spoke Jiraiya as he saw himself out, leaving all three flabbergasted at his sudden disappearance. Tsunase couldn't fault Jiraiya for thinking in such a way, ever since that time with Mizuki, her relationship with her son has been, strained, to say the least, he's more eager to get out of the house and not even register her existence. It tore at her heart like knives and Jiraiya was right, if she talked to him now he would be all the more eager to hurt her by going against her wishes.

As for our favourite, rambunctious ball of blond energy, he was currently stuffing his face full of a warm bowl of miso ramen. Having just received his profits for the mission, the blonde decided to gorge himself on a treat, his family was rich so losing this much money on such a thing was hardly a dent to his funds. Besides, after discovering his new kekkei genkai he was all too excited to invent new jutsu and see just how badass he could be. Before he could even order another bowl he felt a slap on his shoulder that jostled him back to reality.

"I see you wasted no time celebrating your first real mission." spoke Jiraiya surprising Naruto at his sudden entrance but nonetheless bringing a smile to his face. "And you know what I'll pay for all your bowls too." spoke the Sannin with a sly wink earning an even bigger grin from the Senju, only for Jiraiya's eyes to widen in horror at the stacks of bowls sitting next to Naruto and a sly smirk spreading across teuchi's features at how much money he's gonna make today.

"Yeah ero-sennin I can't wait to tell you about all the cool stuff I did and learned." spoke Naruto, giddy like a child on Christmas.

"I bet, but that's kind of why I'm here." said Jiraiya resting a his on his palm as Naruto lost his smile. "I already know what you did and to be honest I can't be more amazed. But you have to know that these... tricks will paint a real big target on your back. What I'm saying is, don't go telling anyone and don't be too eager to show others. Many would kill to have such abilities, and many more will kill you to stop them from spreading to your kids someday."

"Oh, yeah I already know. Not like I was going to tell anyone." stunning Jiraiya comically at what he just said. "I mean, look at me, people want to take a swing at me every time I walk down the street. Just imagine what it would look like with the entire world after me." this could only make his godfather laugh, the seriousness of the world wanting you dead and Naruto just took it in stride. It was a little funny.

"You know what, how about this. I'll teach you a brand new jutsu, one that will be easy for you!" said Jiraiya earning an adoring look from Naruto as they quickly paid for the food (much to Jiraiya's grief) and made their way to a nearby training ground, where logs were set up one by one in a narrow line as the two them readied themselves. "Now the jutsu I will be teaching you is one the old man invented. It combines ninja tools and Shadow clones to create a lethal and helpful technique." said Jiraiya as he turned to one of the logs. He ducked his hand quickly into his pouch and took out a single shuriken while Naruto looked on in wonder, the sage threw it at one of the logs before flashing through handseals and in a flash the one shuriken had become a thousand shuriken and the metal easily pierced into the wood of the log. Naruto only smiled in amazement, eager for him to try as well. "the technique can not only be used with shuriken but Fūma shuriken and kunai also. It's perfect for ambushes and distractions and perfectly suits your abilities. This technique should be easy for you since you already know it's parent jutsu." With that said Naruto nodded and threw a shuriken and flashed threw the seals just as Jiraiya had done. While Naruto only made seventy shuriken, two hundred was the limit and he would train with Jiraiya until he mastered the technique.

On the following day, the sun was shining and the birds were chirping happily, Naruto had spent the rest of yesterday with Jiraiya, even going to the hotsprings (begrudgingly as the Senju heir wanted to train more). But at the very least he was able to let go of his worries for the time being but around this time he noticed strange things happening in the village, not strange weird or bad just the kind that was out of the ordinary. Many shops and hotels seemed more frantic than ever and shinobi stores were stocking up on weapons and seals and now that he noticed he saw many shinobi not of his village walking around the place, obvious from their attire and head-bands. His thoughts later shifted to other such things such as how he was going to train himself in using his kekkei genkai, he knew it could be done, his great-grandfather was an example and the Mizukage of Kiri. He was so caught up in his thoughts that he didn't notice the fact that he walked by Sakura who was surprised to see him appearing from a nearby corner.

She watched him as he walked passed, chewing softly on his finger as his thoughts were consumed of what he could do with his abilities. Upon seeing this Sakura kicked some dirt at her feet and bit her lip in anxiety, for so long she wanted to thank her team-mate for defending her from those bullies all those years ago and although it seemed like a small gesture, such a thing emboldened the pink-haired girl, making her proud of herself and wanting to become stronger for Naruto, so that he would notice her. Taking a gulp, she swallowed whatever fear she had and ran up to Naruto and patted him on the shoulder, startling the genin slightly and whipping his head over his shoulder to see the girl. She had just gathered up the confidence to talk to him when another earthly distraction appeared from nowhere. A rectangular box painted like a rock with two eye holes.

"Naruto, you know there's a box following you right?" queried Sakura, more confused than ever of what was transpiring.

"Yeah I know, they've been following me for an hour. Just ignore them, they won't do anything." replied Naruto as he began walking and just as he restarted his trek the box exploded with smoke and three different coughs began to make themselves clear the fog. Each of them did their own unique intro and pose, acting as if they were on some tv show than real life. To Sakura it seemed as if the Senju heir had his own little fan-club a little strange but stranger things have happened in history. "So did you guys want something? Or are you just going to follow me for the rest of the day?" stated Naruto bluntly while Sakura looked on the children more dazed than ever, her head spinning as the kids asked their idol if he could play with them, something which the troubled Senju was not too keen on doing. They then noticed Sakura and a sly grin stretched across Konohamaru's face.

"Man boss your a smooth player, already ahead of the game." said the shinobi-hopeful while the two genin merely blinked at him as if they were two dead fish. "I mean she's your girlfriend." before Naruto could even answer and well before Konohamaru could snicker to himself the young boy was socked right across the cheek with Sakura screaming 'Pervert!' at him, the force of the punch was so intense that a skid mark was left on the ground and the Hokage's grandson crashed into a wooden fence while pink flames emanated across Sakura's form. As the boy picked himself up a little scuffed but otherwise alright did he say something that he would regret. "You're an evil bitch! And you're ugly too!" yelled Konohamaru as the world went black around him, Sakura's jaw hung freely from her mouth as she breathed raspy quick breaths as she cracked her knuckles and a second figment appeared behind her, promising the boy eternal pain and torment for the rest of his waking years.

When her work was done, Konohamaru was nothing but a (comically) smoldering piece of bruises and broken bones, it appeared as if he lost a few of his teeth and multiple large bumps decorated his brown hair. His eyes were ghostly white and tears were streaming down his cheeks as he moaned painfully and cursed himself for his big mouth. Naruto couldn't hold back a snicker at the sight something which grabbed Sakura's attention. She blushed at the sight of Naruto's laughter, a little pleased with herself that she was able to bring a small smile to his face.

"Man screw that broad-browed! Fire breathing hag! Is she even a real female! I swear she was raised by wolves and suckled the fangs of venomous snakes! I'm sure she was born with hair on her flat chest!" it was silent after that, so much so that you could hear a pin drop, not even the wind rustled the leaves as Konohamaru's insults resounded through the kunoichi's mind. Sakura's head twisted around like that of an owls and her face was so terrifying that it was like straight out of a horror movie. Without even thinking twice, Konohamaru ran as fast as a fleeing rabbit, dust being kicked up from his small steps as Sakura chased after him like a hawk. Naruto, Moegi and Udon were all following close behind hoping to calm the angered genin.

Without looking where he was going Konohamaru crashed into a hard surface and fell to the ground only to be yanked up by the hem of his scarf by the stranger he bumped into. The stranger was wearing a black baggy bodysuit that covered everything but his hands and feet with a red and yellow circle located on his chest. He wore a black hood that had two cat-like ears with his hitai-ate stiched into the cloth and he had purple face-paint that mimicked that of a cat's face.

"Does this hurt punk? Like when you bumped into me." spoke the stranger, smoothly as he tightened his grip on Konohamaru's scarf.

"Cut it out Kankurō, or you'll pay for it later." spoke the other stranger, a girl with sandy brown hair which was gahtered into four spiky ponytail's and teal eyes. She wore a purple dress that left her shoulders bare and a fishnet shirt underneath with a scarlet sash around her waist and another fishnet on her right right calf and carried with her what appeared to be a folded fan on her back.

"Don't worry Temari, we have a few minutes before he gets here. I say, lets have some fun with this one while we wait."

"Put him down or lose the hand, your choice." spoke a voice, garnering Kankurō's attention as he eyed the newly arrived Naruto. Kankurō, obviously unafraid of this new arrival only smirked as the Senju heir openly glared at him. Temari on the other hand only noticed how handsome this blonded newcomer was, commenting to herself how many cute boys were in Konoha. "I don't like repeating myself, never have never will. So I'll let you off with a warning." spoke Naruto as Kankurō's smirk only grew, not noticing the stray leaf falling into the blonde's palm and in a second, the leaf rocketed forward and slashed at the Suna genin's cheek, drawing blood. The genin's grip on Konohamaru didn't weaken but he was shocked at what just happened while Sakura stared in shock believing that Naruto had just used his Mokuton kekkei genkai so recklessly (which was not the case).

"Hmm, guess the little punk isn't all bark after all. But his bite could use some work." spoke the foreign genin as he wiped the blood off his cheek. "You're just being annoying now. So when a scrawny punk like this one (Konohamaru) starts disrespecting someone like me, I just want to break him in half, like a twig." continued the puppeteer as Moegi and Udon cried over what was happening while his sister seemed resigned to whatever he was going to do, stating that she would not be held responsible for his actions. "So, guess I'll just have teach this little brat a lesson then I'll finsh the punk." Naruto launched himself forward just as Kankurō raised his fist only for a pebble to hit the suna nin in the wrist, releasing his grip on the Sandaime's grandson. Naruto stopped his sprint when he saw this and he then turned his head to see Sasuke sitting in a tree, fiddling with a pebble in his hand.

"You heard him, put the kid down or lose the hand. Unlike you our threats aren't empty. Now you're a long way from home and way out of your league. What do you say Naruto? Care to show this guy what happens when you pick fights you can't win." spoke Sasuke before crushing the pebble in his hand as his best-friend smirked at his response.

"Well, look at that, these little pests want to have a go huh? You both are the kind of punks that piss me off the most. You're both hissing kittens without claws or teeth. Well, let me show the difference between kittens and lions!" yelled Kankurō as he slammed the bandaged mummy onto the ground with Temari expressing shock at what he was doing.

"Kankurō, don't." spoke a brand new voice, it was scratchy and hollow and seemed as if it was like a harsh wind in the heat of the sun. "You're a disgrace to our village." spoke this new boy. He was pale, as if the sun hadn't even touched his skin in many long years, he had keen green eyes and flaming red spiky hair. He lacked any sort of eyebrow, instead sporting dark rims around his eyes with a tattoo for the kanji for 'love' above his left eye. He wore a black body suit with an open-neck with fish-net sleeves. A white cloth arced over his right shoulder and the left side of his hips with a wide leather-strap that carried a gourd on his back and tied to the strap was his hitai-ate. Sasuke and Naruto could only comment to themselves about how silent this boy was, his stealth skills rivalling those of Kakashi's, if that was possible. "to think, a lion such as yourself would quarrel with kittens, perhaps you should have your fangs pulled out or are you that afraid of their claws scratching your nose? Have your forgotten the reason why we have come here?"

"I know, I know, I am really sorry, Gaara. But they challenged us, you s-see here's what happened." blabbered Kankurō as his younger brother glared at him with cold dead eyes.

"Shut up, or I'll kill you." warned the other genin, his green eyes narrowing in well-controlled anger at his older brother.

"Yeah, you're right I was totally out of line." replied Kankurō skittishly as his knees shook. Gaara then turned his head towards Sasuke and Naruto, his face remaining impassive.

"I apologise for his idiocy and the trouble he caused. Lions should always know when to roar. I'll be sure to clip his claws later." apologised Gaara while Naruto and Sasuke remained stoic. 'these two, the dark-haired one stopped Kankurō with a pebble and made it look easy. While the blonde one cut him with a leaf before he could even notice. These two are dangerous.' then the Suna genin dissipated into sand and appeared between his siblings. "We're early but we didn't come here to play with our prey. Let's go."

"Wait! What's your name?" questioned Naruto before the genin team could leave. Gaara only slowly turned his head to look at Naruto, only for a throbbing pain to overcome him as he stared into the blonde's sapphire eyes. He heard things, whispers to spill the blood of the fox? Whatever that meant but the longer he stared the more of a thirst he felt to kill this one. Gaara couldn't explain it for the time being, but decided to indulge the other genin for the time being. "Sabuka no Gaara (Gaara of the Sand Waterfall). And yours?"

"Naruto Senju." spoke the blonde as Kankurō and Temari widened their eyes at the revelation. They had heard their was a scion of the Senju clan that still lived, but they could never have guessed that it was this boy. Gaara on the other hand only narrowed his eyes and gave a slightly crazed smile towards the boy. The Suna genin then turned his eyes upon Sasuke, who took that as his queue to answer.

"Sasuke Uchiha."

With all that said and done, Gaara and his siblings walked away, leaving the three out of four members of team 7 cautious of their guests unaware of the three other genin hiding in the trees.

Eslewhere in a ceremonial office of the Hokage many Jōnin were gathered, heading the call of the Kage to see whether or not their genin teams were worthy of participating in the chūnin exams. Among the notable ones were Asuma Sarutobi, Kurenai Yūhi and Kakash Hatake, the sensei's of the rookies. All of them stood at the front, stoic before one of the greatest shinobi to ever live.

"Now then, it is time to select our candidates for the Chūnin exams. We shall start with the fresh batch of genin, Masters Kakashi, Kurenai and Asuma, tell us, do you have amongst your charges, any genin you'd recommend for this year's exams. But before we can even consider them, they must have completed a minimum of eight missions, beyond that, employ your own judgement upon your students as to whether they they ready to aspire to the next level despite their inexperience. To be truly competitive, the candidates should have completed at least double the recommended number of missions." spoke the Hokage, ensuring that the shinobi under his command understood what was expected of them and their students, while Iruka looked on nervously from the back, slightly confident that none of his students will participate, they were not ready in his eyes and to undertake such a task as the exams, it broke most genin. "Kakashi, you may begin." spoke the Hokage whiled the masked shinobi put his hands into the seal of confrontation.

"I Kakahi Hatake, head of the Hatake clan, leader of Team 7, sensei of Naruto Senju, Yugito Nii, Sasuke Uchiha and Sakura Haruno. I vow upon the honour of my clan, the Hatake, recommend all four of these genin for the Chūnin exams." spoke Kakashi shocking Iruka, who was clearly sweating for fear and well being of his students. Then Kurenai put her hand into the seal.

"I Kurenai Yūhi, Leader of team 8, sensei of Hinata Hyūga, Kiba Inuzuka and Shino Aburame. I vow upon the honour of my village, Konohagakure, recommend all three of these genin for the Chūnin exams."

"I Asuma Sarutobi, Member of the Sarutobi clan, leader of team 7, sensei of Shikamaru Nara, Chōji Akimichi and Ino Yamanaka. I vow upon the honour of my clan, the Sarutobi, recommend all three of these genin for the Chūnin exams." with Asuma's final words, the room quietly erupted into hushed talks about how all of the rookie teams were eligible to participate. The Hokage himself was most intrigued, it had been years since a whole generation of genin were chosen to participate all at once in the chūnin exams. It was a rare case of talent and even rarer to see such faith in one's own students.

"Just a moment! Hokage-sama allow me to speak!?" yelled Iruka to which the Hokage gave a curt nod, allowing the teacher to do so. "With all due respect Sandaime-sama. But the ten genin that were just named, all of them were my students at the acedemy. I can vouch for their skills myself, each and everyone of them have skill, potential and commitment to their duties... but it is far too soon to allow them to enter such dangerous and breaking trials, allow them to gain more experience and strength. Just give them more time so to nurture their abilities and experience, give them a true taste of the shinobi world. I cannot fathom why their supervisors can't see that."

"I was six years younger than Naruto when I was made a Chūnin and by his age I was already Jōnin." spoke Kakashi attempting to rebuke Iurka's claims.

"Naruto's nothing like you or his father! He never grew up in an age of war where children were forced to grow up early!" shouted Iruka his temper flaring and his care for his students shining through. "are you trying to destroy him! Turn him into you!"

"Well my team always whinge and complain whenever they aren't challenged. I think it would be good for them to find out what real pain and adversity is like. Breaking them would be fun, afterwards I can mould them like clay to be the perfect shinobi."

"You can't be that arrogant?!" barked Iruka, appalled at kakashi.

"You need to take a step back and trust in my judgement. I understand you... and I do apologise if my recommendation upsets you but you can't shield them forever. These exams are meant to show them what kind of world they will be stepping into and whether they are prepared for the storm ahead. I can be wrong, they may not be ready at all, but there is no harm in finding out. I have faith in them and you should too. Besides, Naruto is proving to be quite surprising as of late."

"Ok that's enough Kakashi, you've said enough, back off before you say something you regret." spat Kurenai, growing tired of the conversation.

"I have many regrets Kurenai, but this is not one of them. And in fact on the contrary Iruka needs to hear this, he must realise that they are no longer his students. They are mine. Don't get confused and don't underestimate them. Naruto may be reckless but he knows more than he says, thinks more than he speaks and notices more than you realise. He surprises you in every way, and weak is not a word you'll remember him by. Yugito is careful, she relies on more than she should and she's made friends she can count on. Sakura is is kind, but she's not kind to those who trespass against the ones she cares about. And Sasuke has always been one step ahead, he's seen more than most shinobi in their entire life. And I have taught them all to be that way."

"Iruka you have made your point and I respect your opinion. I ask you now to respect Kakashi's and the other sensei's and trust in your students. That is all you can do for now. Will the rest of the Jōnin please put forward their candidates and retrieve the forms for your students to sign and offer them some last words of encouragement before they are swallowed by the dragon." spoke the Hokage as the shinobi in the room nodded while Iruka gripped his fists in anger at his own helplessness.

The very next day on a bridge around ten o'clock the genin of team 7 were waiting for their sensei who told them to meet him there at eight o'clock. Of course they had all been duped into waiting for Kakashi who would show up and give them a poor excuse as to why he was late. Yugito and Naruto had decided to come in later knowing that Kakashi was going to be late anyway. They were ready to start yelling at any moment when Kakashi's form appeared from nothing above a beam.

"Good morning everyone, Sorry I was late, I was lost on the path of life. In any case. I'm glad that you're all here." Said Kakashi as he jumped down from his perch right in front of his students. "No doubt you have already seen the different shinobi wandering around the village. And I also assume you know about the Chūnin exams." they all nodded at this as Kakashi gave them an eye smile before handing each and everyone of them an entrance form for the exam. "The exams like most things in life are voluntary, just because I recommended you doesn't mean you have to participate. If none of you feel ready you can wait till next year. But in case you do want to participate you just need to turn in those forms at room 301 at the academy at four o'clock tomorrow afternoon. I will see you guys later and good luck." said Kakashi forming a seal before disappearing once again in a puff of smoke.

The team were all walking together inspecting their application forms as they walked down a road.

"Chūnin exams, finally I can show everyone that I'm not the Haji no Senju (Disgrace of the Senju) and that I can be a shinobi like my ancestors." spoke Naruto with a happy grin on his face.

"I just want to fight strong opponents, these exams will be the perfect opportunity. To see how strong I become." replied Sasuke while Yugito and Sakura listened intently. Yugito had already decided that if Naruto was doing them then so will she (it possibly didn't have anything to do with her crush on him). While Sakura out of the four was the most uncertain, out of all of them she felt like the dead-weight of the group, her three friends were already far above her in skill and strength and she was worried that she would have little to contribute to the overall group. She then looked once again at Naruto's back, no, she was there to prove something, she wanted Naruto to acknowledge her so that she can build up the courage to thank him for all he did.

On the very next day, the team was gathered around, not a single one late, not a single one missing out on what was to come. Some were excited, others were anxious, for these exams weren't just going to decide their rank in the ninja hierarchy but also decide whether they are truly worth the title of such a thing. Thus the four of them made their way to the academy, being sure not to look anyone in the eye lest they lose their confidence. When they made it inside the academy and up a few stairs, they encountered a whole crowd of disheartened genin trying to get into room 301.

"Huh, someone as worthless as you is trying to do the Chūnin exams and you can't even get passed us. You have no chance. You should just give up now before you get hurt." spoke one of the genin as he punched a strange looking boy away. Team 7 quickly noticed the crowd and even they couldn't get in the room, but each and every one of them noticed something peculiar. They couldn't be on the third floor by now.

"Naruto you see that?" whispered Sasuke, as Naruto darted his sapphire eyes towards the sign that seemed to shimmer somewhat, the longer he stared at it.

"Yeah genjutsu on the room number and besides this is the second floor." replied the blonde while Sakura decided to ask one of her own questions.

"Should we call them out for their trick?" questioned Sakura.

"No, this is a competition. Less rivals we have the better. If you're that dumb to fall for that illusion than you don't deserve to be Chūnin." spoke Yugito as the entire group nodded and carefully pushed through the crowd while the two genin at the door talked about how bad the exams were.

"Don't misunderstand, we're trying to help you, we're being nice by comparison, the exams are gonna make this look like a picnic." said Kotetsu.

"Hell some of you won't even survive the exams, others will be wrecked for life, others may go insane." continued Izumo.

"Don't even treat it like a joke, Chūnin are chosen to lead missions. The lives of your team-mates are in your hands and if you fail it's your fault, the dead shinobi will haunt you for the rest of your days. Delicate little girls don't belong here."

"We're just thinning out the weak, those who are strong will triumph and the weak will die. Survival of the fittest." they would have continued talking if it wasn't for the fact that they saw team 7 walking by, not even giving them a glance. They must have already figured out their little trick and so Kotetsu decided to up the ante. "see look at this guy, he knows what you don't!" said Kotetsu as he swung his foot at Sasuke who was ready to block it with his own kick upon being attacked. But in a flash, before either of them could come to blows, a green blur appeared right between them, catching both of their legs in a firm grip.

'He's so fast. He perceived the attack patterns on both sides and planted himself right in the nexus of their kicks. That takes skill.' thought Yugito stunned by what she saw and a little surprised to see that this boy was hiding some hidden strength. While Sasuke could feel something strange with the boy's chakra, as if it was different somehow. Just then the girl from before and the other boy with the pearly eyes approached, obviously not pleased with what he just saw.

"What about the plan? It was your idea not to draw attention to yourself." spoke the other boy who Naruto guessed was a member of the Hyūga clan, obvious from his distinctive eyes. The green-clad boy was about to explain himself when he turned to Sakura with a prominent blush on his face and his bruises having already healed. He then walked right up to Sakura, standing tall and resolute like a statue.

"My name is Rock Lee. You are Sakura right?" spoke Lee with confidence while team 7 only stared strangely at the boy especially Sakura as she was wearing a dumbfounded look. "PLEASE GO OUT WITH ME! I WILL PROTECT YOU WITH MY LIFE!" yelled Rock Lee, giving a wink and a flash of his white teeth and a huge thumbs-up. Naruto barely contained his own laughter at the situation having to forcibly suppress his giggles with his hand while Sakura looked as if she was slapped with a fish.

"...No..." replied Sakura meekly as Lee became blue at the thought as was seemingly heartbroken. "I'm sorry Lee... I just don't deserve you." said Sakura quickly trying to mend the boy's feelings. Sasuke only grew exasperated at what transpired, not even Chūnin and Sakura was already getting marriage proposals, although even he would admit it was amusing.

"Hey you. What's your name?" questioned the Hyūga with a rude manner of speech that made Sasuke frown.

"It's common courtesy to give you own name before asking someone else's."

"You're a rookie aren't you, just how old are you."

"I'm not obliged to answer, not with that smug attitude of yours." spoke Sasuke as he turned on his heel and walked away while the Hyūga boys eyes landed on Naruto.

"You, you're the Haji no Senju are you not?" questioned the boy causing Sasuke to stop his trek and for Naruto's eyes to darken. "You probably won't last five minutes in the exam. You should give up now before you bring down your team." spoke the Hyūga only for Sasuke to stand face to face with the genin.

"You know, in the shinobi world surprises are everywhere, I would watch what you say to people you don't even know. They tend to beat you into the ground when you underestimate them." warned Sasuke a prominent scowl marring his features while Naruto simply stared in a mixture of surprise and appreciation, clearly taken back by Sasuke's defence.

"Doubtful, but we will see, although I don't expect much from someone like him." spoke the boy before leaving while his team-mates quickly regrouped with him, unaware that Kotetsu and Izumo were watching them from behind a partially closed door, excited to see what the genin would bring to the table this year. Sasuke was disappointed? To see that the Chūnin exams was nothing more than a freakshow where circus clowns and mimes gathered to the same place.

Once team 7 had made it to a large training area, right outside the exam room they were quickly confronted by a green blur standing over them from a balcony.

"You there, Sasuke Uchiha. I want to fight you, here and now." spoke Lee causing Sasuke's to raise his eyebrows at the weird genin. "My name is Rock Lee. You said it is common courtesy to offer one's own name before demanding another's. Sasuke Uchiha. I challenge you, every knows of the strength of the Uchiha clan and also." spoke Lee his round eye landing on Sakura blushing at the sight of her. "Sakura, I will win your love through fiece combat!" yelled Lee only for Sakura to scream in horror only for Lee to then blink hearts that Sakura painfully avoided.

"Sorry there Lee, but we have to get to the exam if you're gonna go fight someone than go punch a tree." stated Naruto as he began walking off while Lee merely narrowed his eyes at the blonde genin, clearly insulted.

"I will not stand and take such an insult, especially from the Haji no Senju." there it was again, that title, Naruto hated that title more than anything else in the world. Lee speaks of being insulted, but the greatest insult was being reminded of something you were keenly aware of. Yugito could literally see blood drip from Naruto's palms from gripping his fist so tightly.

"You weren't the one being insulted. You should never judge a rock by its worth, maybe you should scrub away the dirt and see the diamond underneath. In other words, you're a fool. Naruto doesn't have to fight you, he has no interest, your not even worth his time. You're like a fly buzzing around. That's an insult, see the difference." spoke Sasuke only a glare from Lee. It was also true that Sasuke had rarely ever heard Naruto being called by his name from fellow students, only that ludicrous title. "And you know what, for insulting my friend. I accept your challenge, allow me to teach you what it means to be born into our clans." Naruto raised his eyebrows in shock at this, memories flooding back into his mind when he and the Uchiha heir were much younger, ever since the Land of Waves, the two had become less hostile and were quickly returning to their former relationship. This was all the proof Naruto needed.

"Mark my words Sasuke, you will not defeat me. I am the greatest fighter among all the genin in Konoha." spoke Lee as Sasuke charged at him, this was no longer about Sasuke's damaged pride, but it was about defending his friend. Just like on the bridge, he couldn't stop himself from jumping to the aid of the one he considered precious to him. His brother (although he wouldn't say it aloud) and to see this freak before him insulting his best-friend, was something the heir to the Uchiha clan could never forgive.

The two were quick to engage blows with the other, but Sasuke was surprised at the level of speed Lee showed, his movements were a blur and his attacks left streams of wind. It became apparent early on that Sasuke wasn't going to overwhelm this opponent with brute strength but to his astonishment, whenever he would block a blow, it would somehow land a hit and sent him hurtling back. Sasuke couldn't explain to himself what had happened, was it some kind of ninjutsu or genjutsu, he couldn't explain. But excitement was running through him, the thought of practising with 'it' was too much of a thrill. The Uchiha heir blinked once and his normally black eyes were now deep crimson with two tomoe in each eye. Lee upon seeing the infamous dōjutsu couldn't help but be slightly intimidated by its appearance, it's as if the eyes wanted to spill blood.

Sasuke once again charged at Lee, confident that he would see what kind of technique he used to get the better of him. But such thoughts were dashed when Lee kicked him in the chin, sending him shooting up into the air and gritting his teeth upon not seeing the jutsu Lee was using. Before he couldn't even counter against what Lee would do next, Sasuke felt the presence of the taijutsu user right behind him.

"I do not need ninjutsu or genjutsu to defeat you. My moves are strictly taijutsu. I know it it hard for you to accept, but it is the truth. The Sharingan can see the art of ninja well enough for you to copy and duplicate it. I am sure that your sharingan is invaluable again ninjutsu and genjutsu with their formalised rules, hand seals and chakra but taijutsu is a very different story. While it is true that you can see my moves, but unless you are fast enough to counter them than your Sharingan is useless. It doesn't matter hat your eye can see if your body is too weak to act. There are two kinds of shinobi in this world. The kind that are born with strength at their fingertips and the kind that must work for it every day. You are a prodigy in every sense of the word, born with power and never having to train to increase it but I have achieved my through blood and sweat. In other words your subtle ninja arts and my physical prowess make us a terrible mismatch. Allow me to prove it to you. This move of my exceeds you genius in every way." soon he bandages around Lee's arms began to unfurl but before either of them could act a pinwheel came soaring through the air and pinned Lee's bandages against a nearby wall.

"That's enough Lee!" spoke a...turtle. Before long Lee flipped through the air, landing right before the turtle in a kneeling position. Sasuke was able to land on his feet while Naruto stared in disbelief, the fact that someone like Sasuke was beaten with only taijutsu came as a shock to everyone. "You know the rules Lee, don't think I wasn't watching! You're a disgrace! Using a forbidden move like that despite the risks! I don't care about your excuses! A shinobi never reveals his techniques before a battle. Sasuke only gritted his teeth, seething with rage that he lost to a shinobi such as Lee. "I hope you are prepared to receive the punishment for your actions. Alright he's all yours Guy-sensei!" spoke the turtle as a puff of smoke exploded on his shell.

"Ahh! The Springtime of Youth. You are full to the brim with it!" all the genin of team 7 had to stop themselves from regurgitating upon seeing Might Guy. So horrified with the appearance of the man that words couldn't even begin to describe the amount of nausea flowing through him. And the fact that his eyebrows were so massive that Naruto momentarily mistook them for caterpillar's would be rational.

"Forget the Chūnin exams being a freakshow. It's more like therapy for the horrifically weird, they just happen to have appointments at the same time." spoke Yugito as she nursed her head from all the freaky things she had seen today. Honestly a talking turtle wasn't nearly as bad as Guy-sensei. All of team 7's jaws dropped to the floor when they saw Guy sensei punching Lee in the face! Calling him a little idiot for what he's done! The sensie then wasted no time in walking over to Lee, manly tears flowing from his eyes as he knelt down beside his favourite student. "I am sorry Lee, it is all for your own good. Much to the horror of everyone, Lee and Guy embraced each other tearfully as a sudden sunset appeared from nowhere right behind them almost causing the other genin to go blind at the sight. "it's alright Lee, during youth you make mistakes. But I cannot let you go unpunished for breaking the rules. Now I want you to give me 100 laps around the practice field and don't come back until you sweat. Now run into the setting sun, run and suffer but don't mess up your hair." said Guy offering a big smile that glinted in the false sunlight of their inexplicable sunset. "oh that's right, the exams will begin shortly. How could I forget! Lee, your punishment must be more severe for disrupting the Chūnin exams, 500 laps around the practice field sounds better." Guy then turned his eyes upon team 7 who were still adjusting to the horror before their eyes. "tell me, how does Kakashi fare these days."

"Wait you know Kakashi-sensei?" queried Yugito, finally regaining her senses. All the team blinked in confusion as Guy suddenly dissappeared before their eyes and reappeared right behind them.

"I don't just know him, we are called eternal rivals. The score currently stands fifty to forty-nine. Fact is I'm stronger than Kakashi, and faster and more handsome." all of the team couldn't deny that Might Guy was definitely faster than Kakashi ever will be. But it was still hard for them to believe that this man is more powerful than Kakashi. "I do apologise for all the trouble Lee give you and for insulting you, Naruto. It was uncalled for, surely Lee should understand your feelings better than anyone." Sasuke meanwhile was stewing in his thoughts of Guy's words, was he really stronger than Kakashi, now that he saw some evidence, it wasn't too unthinkable! "Now this is the part where we have to part, as a gesture of forgiveness Lee will gladly escort you to room 301 for the exams and good luck to you all." spoke Guy as he and his turtle summon disappeared in a puff of smoke.

"By the way, Sasuke, I must apologise once again, I was not completely honest with you before. I am taking part in the exams only to prove my own strength. But you are not the one I want to prove them to. I lied to you when we were fighting. I told you I am the greatest genin in Konoha but that is far from the truth, there is another wearing that crown. Someone on my own team. I came to defeat only him, you were just practice now you and the Senju are targets and I shall apologise to you also, Naruto, I had little idea that derogatory title would upset you that much. I look forward to the day our fists clash also. I now must take my leave. Good luck."

"Naruto, if you ever fight that guy..." spoke Sasuke gritting his teeth and clenching his fist he then turned his Sharingan eyes upon Naruto, they were filled with hatred over this recent bout and Sasuke only needed his friend to do one thing. "Aim for the throat."

"I'm not sure even I can defeat him. If any of you saw his hands, than you should probably realise that he probably trains until he knocks himself out. He trains harder than most of us at least. That's all I'm saying."

"Hmm, you're right, the chūnin exams are turning out to be more exciting than I thought. let's go." spoke Sasuke with a confident smirk having finally cooled down from that little scuffle. In fact, knowing that there were actually strong opponent's out there. He was excited to say the least. They later made it to room 301 where they saw none other than Kakashi standing by the door.

"I'm glad you came Sakura, for your sake and the others, otherwise, I would not have permitted your team-mates beyond this point. The way the exams have been set up, it can only be completed by at least a three-man team." spoke Kakashi in a serious tone as he talked to each member of his team.

"but sensei you said the decision to take the exam was up to the individual. Were you lying?"

"I did say that yes. But I didn't technically lie to you. It is of course an individual decision. But it affects the entire team. I never told you before because I didn't want your comrades to pressure you into the exam. At the same time, I didn't want you to feel obliged to take the exam because of any fears you had for your team-mates. To put it simply, if Naruto, Sasuke or Yugito had shown up without you then they would have only gotten this far. But that doesn't matter, you are all here anyway. I am proud of you all for coming to an adult decision. Unfortunately, I cannot help you further for the time-being. These exams will push you to limits you didn't think you had. You shall be tested in every way. I couldn't ask for a better team. Now all I can do now is wish you luck, you're going to need it." said Kakashi as he circumvented the group and left. The four didn't say a word only gave each other determined looks before pushing through the door.

What awaited them on the other side were hardened genin some far older than the group, all giving them death glares at the fresh genin who were slightly intimidated by the stares. Fortunately their fears were stripped away when a blur came flying from the shadows that jumped right on Sasuke much to the latter's chagrin.

"Sasuke! I could hardly wait!" purred Ino as the Uchiha heir tried to shake off the noisy girl to no avail as he held onto him like a sloth on a branch. Yugito only sighed at this, believing that Ino couldn't stoop any lower than she already has. Honestly to the Nibi Jinchūriki Ino was an embarrassment to all Kunoichi.

"Oh it's just you guys, I knew this was going to be troublesome from the start but I didn't know it was going to be this boring" spoke a new voice which belonged to none other than Shikamaru Nara, heir to the Nara clan carrying his usual bored and apathetic look.

"Oh it's just you. I was actually expecting someone more spectacular but I guess they just let anyone in here after all." replied Naruto unhappy with the Nara heir's comments especially since he always complained and never did anything about it. One of the all round laziest people in the world. Chōji only continued to munch on his chips, unconcerned as to what was happening around him.

"Well, well looks like the whole gang is back together." spoke a brand new voice that beloned to Kiba Inuzuka, with Hinata and Shino flanking him. Kiba was about to say something else when his eyes landed on Yugito and just like that the vicious Kiba Inuzuka melted into a love struck puppy. "Uh h-hey Yugito, how you've been?" look it was pretty obvious to everyone that Kiba had a thing for Yugito, it boggled everyone even more since she was a well established cat-lover. But that apparently didn't stop the Inuzuka heir from trying to win her affection anyway. "S-so perhaps after the exams the t-two of u-us could hang out and stuff."

"Sorry did you say something?" said Yugito innocently as if Kiba's words didn't even touch her ears, the dog-lover could do nothing but face-fault at this as he was once gain unintentionally rejected.

"Damn, you guys too huh, guess everyone is here for this troublesome exam. I'm only here cause My mother ordered me, my dad didn't even defend me, just acted like whipped dog. Troublesome."

"Yeah, looks like all the ten rookies are here and I think it's clear who's going to win." spoke Kiba so confident that he will win the entire exams without breaking a sweat.

"Careful Kiba, would hate for that ego to go to your head, it would make it a target." replied Sasuke smirking at the dog user. Kiba only laughed at this, so sure that his training with Kurenai would give him a leg up in every way.

"I-I'm sorry about Kiba, Naruto I'm sure he didn't rally mean anything by it." spoke Hinata but her voice was so quiet that it was nothing more than a whisper, something the Senju heir didn't even pick up on.

"Hey you guys, you might want to try keeping it down. Everyone here is tense and no offence, but you are the ten rookies, fresh out of the academy. Wouldn't want you guys to make a spectacle of yourselves. And just if you were wondering, I'm Kabuto Yakushi and you kids need to watch your backs. You all made quite an impression, barely six months and you guys are already taking the exams, you're a clear threat whether you want to be or not." spoke Kabuto as the rookies flicked their heads all around them, watching the piercing eyes of their enemies watching them like predators. "Everyone is one edge, waiting to take the exam. But I guess it's unavoidable, like all rookies you think you know everything. And before you even ask, the exam is diificult, this is my seventh try and the exams are held twice every year. Look since you're new and we're from the same village, I guess I can help you out. The chūnin exams have three different tests each designed to cull the weak and thin the herd. The first test is always about intelligence but it changes every time so you don't know what to expect. The second test is about survival, they dump in some hell and expect you to survive for a set amount of time. But the third and final test never changes, it's one-v-one combat last person standing tournament. That's unfortunately all I can say, you guys got to figure the rest out on your own."

"Alright that's enough out of you! Everybody sit down and shut up!" said a voice as smoke erupted from the front of the room, blanketing some of the desks and students before shapes were revealed, in a single line were prcotors of the exam wearing black and grey with their hands tucked behind their back while one stood at the front, his face scarred and wearing a bandanna. "My name is Ibiki Morino, your proctor for the first test. Now anyone who causes trouble before the exam even starts will be disqualified. These are the rules that will last throughout the exams. There will be no fighting without express permission from the proctor. And even if that permission is given, anything that endganer's another applicant's life is strictly forbidden and will result in immediate disqualification. Good. The first part of the Chūnin exams is about to commence, turn in your written applications and then take a card for your seating arrangements, when everyone is seated we shall begin the test."

It didn't take long for all the applicant's to hand in their papers and take their seats.

"Now that everyone is seated we shall let you in one what the test is and the rules and I don't have the patience to answer any questions so pay attention!" yelled Ibiki making sure the genin under his care knew exactly what they were doing, he then took a piece of chalk and started writing down the rules on the chalkboard. "First, if any of you expected a written test... than you're dead wrong!" yelled Ibiki shocking all the students who thought they were going to be undergoing a paper test. "Pencil's aren't shinobi weapons! Papers don't win battles! In the heat of war you don't know who is friend and who is foe, so for this test you will all be placed in a genjutsu. Your goal is to find your team-mates in the illusion and avoid other students. First rule; if there are any dōjutsu users here that can see through genjutsu, then your kekkei genkai is prohibited, the use of it is immediate disqualification that means no Sharingan, no Byakugan, no Idon'tgiveashitgan. Second rule; dispelling the genjutsu also affords an automatic disqualification. Third rule; if you wish to give up at any point, simply raise your hand in the illusion for fifteen seconds and the illusion will be broken but this also means a disqualification. Rule four; teams pass and fail based upon the actions of the individuals, meaning that if one person gives up, you all give up. Rule five; if another applicant defeats another in the genjutsu than that also counts as disqualification for the loser. Rule six; When you manage to find all your team-mates just stay where you are, the sentinels will prevent the other students from attacking you so you can await the final phase of the test. Also the sentinels stationed around the room shall be watching over you in the genjutsu, you can't see them but they can see you so don't even try putting them under genjutsu yourself, that will also result in disqualification. If you want to be a shinobi, then show us what exceptional shinobi you can be. Be ready." with that said Ibiki took a step back as each of the proctors waved through handseals.

"Magen: Kurushimeru no Katen (Demonic Illusion: Torment of Katen)." soon enough the Senju heir's eyes grew heavy, as if he couldn't hold the wait of the world any longer before he drifted off into slumber. Wearily opening his eyes he observed the world around him, it was a dark temple, full of pillars and statues of gods and creatures. He was standing in the middle of it keeping a lookout for anything that could jump for the darkness. Soon enough the forms of the other students came into view and remembering the rules the blonde quickly ducked behind a statue just in time to avoid a fight from breaking out.

It seemed as though the genin took Ibiki's words to heart, they were quite literally thinning out the weak as the targeted whoever came across their path, a numerous others were able to escape the chaos while others gave up out of desperation, believing that the world they were occupying was real. Soon enough the emotions running through everyone simmered to a halt, as the genin that were too tough to defeat found no more prey in their line of sight before running off into the temple. The son of the Yondaime breathed a sigh of relief as he peaked behind the statue, making sure no one was nearby. Although it was a genjutsu, imagination was the only limit, he knew not what to expect in such a place and only hoped he could find his team-mates before time runs out.

As for Sasuke he had been placed in a different area of the 'temple' he was surrounded by mist and springs inside closed walls and he was not the only one, others students could be seen through the thin veil, they took no hostile action as a result of their shifting environment.

'Ok, so that Ibiki guy said that we have to find our team-mates, I guess that means all of them and we a eligible for the final phase. But there are so many rules about how you can fail, one in particular aimed at me, but how do I-' Sasuke didn't ponder any longer as he heard a shrill cry coming from the mist, one that sounded more like a monster than man. His ears perked up at the sound of screams from the other contestants most of whom were speaking gibberish about demons and monsters. With barely a thought to spare Sasuke dived into the steaming water just as a figure emerged from the mist. He could barely see it through the water but the way it moved, how it twitched its head from side to side as if picking up a scent seemed to imply that there was more than just the students to worry about in this temple. The thing flicked its head to the side and ran off in another direction, racing through the mist. Sasuke surfaced from the water, gulping down air as he turned all around him, ensuring that nothing was watching him. 'whatever that thing was, it's not friendly, I need to find Naruto and the others before it catches them.' thought Sasuke as he leapt out of the water and ran into the dismal halls of the temple.

On the other end of the illusion, Ibiki scanned his eyes across the students, already a few had woken up from being disqualified, either from being defeated or just giving up. He had to hold back a smirk as a majority was still standing strong, sleeping soundly upon the desks, but the proctor knew better than that, inside the genjutsu you didn't know what would come at you, the illusion was designed to test your ability to not only hide from enemies, but to also regroup with your lost comrades. Such things were crucial in scouting and survival missions, even ambushes. Also, the test will push the genin, to determine who is really friend or foe.

Gaara and his siblings had already finished, having survived the rigours of the temple and figuring out the trick to it all. Team 8 was also in a similar situation. Illusion or no, tracking is what the team was made for and they knew the inner-workings of genjutsu from their sensei, the greatest genjutsu specialist in Konoha. The test was too easy for them with Kiba even complaining that they should have made it harder.

But such ease was not for everyone as Sakura was struggling to understand the illusion, while other students kept gunning for her, ensuring that she and her team failed, when you have the likes of the prodigious Sasuke Uchiha and the oft underestimated Naruto Senju, than she could understand. When she finally received a breather from running around she tried to make sense of this maze of a genjutsu. While she had seen plenty of other students walking and running around, not a single glimmer of her friends could be graced and she kept getting chased around by these strange demons, ones with horns and glowing yellow eyes, their forms shrouded by a pulsing aura.

'The proctor said that the main objective was to find our other team-mates, he never mentioned the demons running around the place. Nor have I seen Naruto or Yugito.' she would have tried to figure it out sooner had a demon not appeared right behind her, a long tongue flickering about. Sakura saw no other alternative, she ran but as soon as she did this the creature gave chase, flailing its arms and roaring at her. She pulled out smoke bombs from her pouched and slammed it against the ground, blanketing the visible area in dark smoke. She then dived into the smoke and tried to do battle with the monster, aiming different punches and kicks towards the creature who ducked and weaved through them all with ease. Her fist was eventually caught in the palm of the beast and she soon lost her footing as she was pinned to the ground, the monster hovering over her. She stared at it right in the eye, openly defiant, believing that she had failed the test and her team-mates, to her surprise nothing happened, she didn't wake to find herself seated in the test room, only the monster continued to stare at her, its jaws moving as if saying something. Soon enough Sakura widened her eyes in utter surprise as she figured it out.

Naruto had not figured it out, too long he had been running and hiding and running and hiding (with a bit of crying). The temple confused him to no end as he thought he had figured it out only for a fish to slap him in the face with reality, he had been set on fire from the traps in the halls, sprinkled with pin and needles that had erupted from the walls and her had not seen a single sign from Sasuke or Yugito or Sakura or anyone else. He breathed a sigh as he sat on the ground, trying to figure out the mess, his mind was re-awakened to hear the nail-splitting scream of one of those demons again. Tired of running from them the heir of the Senju clan stood his ground as two of them came racing towards him, he cocked back a fist just as one of them was barrelling right towards him, and without second thoughts socked the beast right in the cheek, sending them flying backwards and skidding across the ground, a huge bump on the side of the face. He blonde shinobi cheered at this while the other demon only shook its head from side to side, massaging it temples as Naruto stared dumbfoundedly at the monster. Not in a confused sort of way but in a more familiar kind, he knew of only one person who did such a thing when he did something of an exasperating nature. That's when it hit him, soon the two demons were replaced with Sakura and Yugito's forms, Sakura was comically lying on the ground nursing a bruise while Yugito continued to rub her temples

'Oh shi-' he wasn't able to finish his personal sentence when Sakura's fist came flying towards the top of his head, completely smashing his own into the ground, a huge and throbbing bump sprouted from his head as streams of tears flew from his orbs while he apologised to Sakura profusely who would hear none of it. The two girls had figured out the purpose of the test, on the battle-field you didn't know who was friend and foe, so it was up to them to figure it out. Pretty smart. Just then Sasuke's shrouded body came running from around the corner, he too appeared as one of those creatures to the three others while he saw them as the same. Naruto quickly getting over Sakura's previously assault enthusiastically waved towards the Uchiha who only stared at them cautiously. It became clear to them that he saw them as those monsters and not as their team-mates so Naruto raised his fist in their air for a single second, not long enough for the sentinels to release them but quick enough for Sasuke to pick up. Soon the same thing happened to him as the demons were replaced with the shapes of his team-mates.

"Wait, so do we pass?" queried Naruto as he rubbed his golden hair in slight confusion.

"I'm still figuring it out." replied Sasuke, trying to wrap his own head before the answer came to him.

"It was Yugito, she knew what she was doing from the start." stated Sakura while Yugito grinned slightly at the small praise.

"I had some help" 'Thanks Nibi'

'My pleasure kitten, I'd hate for you and your boyfriend to fail.' 'He's not my boyfriend!... yet.'

"The test was designed to challenge our perception of reality. On missions, deception is the greatest weapon of the shinobi and enemies will not be afraid from using it. They made sure our team-mates were disguised as monsters while everyone else remained the same. This was to ensure that even if they were Konoha shinobi, you didn't know if they were friend or foe while they disguised our friends as the demons, making us believe that we were just part of the genjutsu. We had to look for subtle reveals that gave away who we were from the start, a twitch in the feet, a motion in the hands. Obviously it was a little difficult for some of the others. But, once the sentinels realised that we realised it they dropped the little trick until all of us had figured out the clues."

"So what now?" questioned Sakura still nursing the bruise on her cheek while comically glaring at Naruto who quivered slightly under the glare.

"We made it to the final phase of the test. We wait until every other team has either been eliminated or are also waiting for the final phase." spoke Sasuke while the others nodded just as the voice of Ibiki resounded through the temoke, grabbing all the genin's attention.

"I will like to say a few words before we get onto the final phase. For those who made it this far, I wouldn't celebrate just yet. Now that we have weeded out most of the hopeless cases it's time for the main event. This is the final phase of the test. But before we enter the next phase, there are some more rules that you need to be aware of." spoke Ibiki, causing some of the students to sweat in anxiousness at the thought of the final phase. "these rules are unique to the final phase so listen carefully because I won't repeat myself. Rule 1; each of you is free to choose not to enter the final phase, it's completely your decision." this caught everyone off guard, free to choose? Then what was the point of the entire test? Running around like headless chickens? Some were ready to verbally object until they were interrupted by Ibiki. "If you choose not to enter the final phase of the test, regardless of your accomplishment in re-uniting with your team-mates you will be disqualified and that means your team-mates are also disqualified. There are also mores rules. If you do enter the final phase but fail you will not only be disqualified, but you will be barred from taking the chūnin exams ever again!"

"Hey that's Bull! There are plenty of people who've taken the test before!" yelled Kiba inside the temple furious over such a rule and how unfair it was to those who worked hard to get here.

"Well, I guess you're just the unlucky bunch. I wasn't making the rules before, but I am now. Of course if you don't want to take it, your free to do so. If you're not feeling confident then by all means skip it, you can come back and try again next time. Now if you're all ready, to those who don't want to take it raise your hand for fifteen seconds like before. Your results will be recorded, you and your team will be broken from the genjutsu and you will be free to go." this Ibiki waited as a few of the genin were broken from the illusion when fifteen seconds had passed, soon enough time continued to pass as more and more hopeful genin had such hopes crushed by being dispelled from the illusion. Sakura meanwhile only stared at Naruto, who stared at the stone ground of the temple, his mind a whirl and his thoughts crashing against each other like waves. She of course worried for her friend, who gripped his hand tightly as it quivered and trembled. She was silently begging for him to raise his hand, but even if she wanted to say the words, Naruto would never raise his hand, even if she asked. Her mind flashed back to all the times he proclaimed he was going to be Hokage, her eyes flickered to Yugito who was the same, they both shared concern for their blonde friend. It then dawned on the pinkette about how much she cared for the Senju heir, possibly as more than a friend as she watched him struggle against his own will. She couldn't let him, if they failed she didn't want to see his dream crushed so she was ready to raise her hand when Naruto's voice cut through the silence.

"Sakura, please. Don't worry about me, I'll be fine, no matter what happens. I'm actually more worried about you, let's see this to the end." spoke Naruto offering a re-assuring smile which in turn caused Sakura's eyes to widen in stunned appreciation, while Yugito bit back the frown that arose, slightly hurt that Naruto was more worried for Sakura than her. Sasuke didn't pay attention, only smirking somewhat at the blonde's big heart.

"The decisions you make can change your entire life in a blink of an eye. For any reason you would rather quit, do so." upon seeing that none of the other teams had been broken from the genjutsu Ibiki spoke once more. "Alright then, for those who would take the test, to risk everything, prepare. We are now entering the final phase. For those who have regrouped with their team-mates and chose to continue to the final phase, this is what you'll do. Amongst the teams. You are to choose the weakest member of your team for outright elimination!" yelled Ibiki stunning everyone within the genjutsu who were blindsided by what the ANBU captain had just said. "That's right choose the weakest member in your team, the weak link and remove them from the Chūnin exams. They have been weakened, they slow you down, they add nothing to the benefit of the mission, you have to cut them out if you are to proceed! Decide quickly, you have two minutes!" yelled Ibiki as many of the genin gave each other fervent but worried glances, afraid of what they'll say and do, few outright called out certain members of their team others stayed impassive, sweating profusely as they scanned their team-mates.

Team 7 was in such a bind, there was no doubt in their mind that Sakura was the weakest of their team and the pinkette was worried they would turn on her, cut her out from the exams and kill any possibility of her becoming Chūnin. It was almost too unthinkable, but yet at the same time too real. Her team-mates didn't dare look her in the eye, too consumed by their thoughts to think the emerald-eyed genin could only stand there was worry.

"We're not seriously considering this?!" yelled Naruto, anger clouding his mind as he roared at Sasuke and Yugito. "We're not just going to leave our friend behind?! Yes, Sakura may be the weakest, she may slow us down but in the end she's a member of team 7! remember what Kakashi-sensei said?!" yelled Naruto causing Yugito and Sasuke to think back to his words, but, they couldn't help but feel a nagging itch at the back of their mind, to cut out Sakura and continue on with the exam without her, they were so overcome with the idea that the both of them were sweating just form thinking about it as their hands trembled and their teeth chattered quietly. "I wouldn't even call you ninja if you did such a thing! Don't you even care?!" screamed Naruto, disgusted with the idea of leaving a comrade behind. This seemed to awaken something within the other two, as they regained their senses.

"Of course we remember what Kakashi said. We're team 7 after all." said Sasuke causing Sakura to whip her head up at him, overcome with emotion that even someone like Sasuke wouldn't leave her behind.

"Could we call ourselves shinobi if we left our friend behind. I'd rather die than be like that." said Yugito placing a confident hand on her hip as Naruto's angered expression melted into one of joy. Sakura too couldn't help but smile at this turn of events. With that said, team 7 did nothing but stand there, not caring if they failed, they would never abandon one of their own for the sake of a mission or test. They would stand defiant and raise their heads high.

Ibiki however surveyed the students across the room. Seventy eight. That's how many didn't turn on a comrade, more than he expected, but he could feel that inside the dream, most of them were wavering, not a single one would dare turn on their beloved friends except those that had already have. This was all the proof Ibiki needed, he turned his head towards the sentinels each nodding to him, all the confirmation he needed and thus, he spoke once more.

'Well, I admire your determination if nothing else. For those who didn't turn on their comrades as was required... you pass!" proclaimed the interrogator causing stupified expressions to grace all of the genin, utterly confused by what they just heard. "those who refused to abandon their comrades are true shinobi, those who did don't even deserve to wear their village's hitai-ate." spoke Ibiki as the genjutsu broke and all the contestants woke up to find a smaller room each of them looking towards the proctor who wore a huge smirk on their face. "For those who abandoned their friends, leave the room immediately and don't even dare to complain." spoke Ibiki sending out a chilling glare to all the genin who did as he said, with many of them running out of the room as quickly as they can, leaving the ones who refused the order still stunned by what he said. "I would like to congratulate each and everyone one of you for passing the first test. Your decision to not turn on your comrades was the entire point of this test." still seeing that some of them didn't quite understand, Ibiki decided to elaborate. "In the shinobi world, the ones who fight at your side can mean life and death in the field, you don't know what will happen and things may not go according to plan, the men who stand shoulder to shoulder with you can decide whether a mission succeeds or fails based upon the one fact that you will always watch their back. And if you think the previous phase was a waste of time than you are wrong. The first phase had an important overriding purpose. To test your ability to seek out and realise who exactly you fight beside. In the shinobi world you need to examine both your enemies and friends on a more than personal level, you need to know what their mannerisms are, what they do when their nervous or stressed or are they calm despite the circumstances? Deception is a shinobi's greatest strength and on missions you will find such things, it is up to you to realise who it is that watches your back for if you fail, you may find a knife in your side. My objective was not just to test you as individuals but also as a team and how well you function as a part of that team. That's why the test was scored on a team basis, so you'd know that everything you did or failed to do not only affected you but your entire team. I wanted to see how you handled the pressure, to see whether or not you functioned as a team at your core and whether or not you were able to undertake such missions such as this in the future."

"The first phase was difficult, in fact as some of you may have already realised how difficult it was to realise that the things chasing you were your own team-mates, the mission may demand them to change into a different appearance or an enemy shinobi may just be masquerading as one of your team-mates, it was up to you to decide whether either of these were the case. I imagined that most of you quickly came to that conclusion, that you had to know who your team-mates were and who were your enemies, it is why we allowed the other students to keep their appearance. Of course it would have done you little good if you failed at every turn to recognise you team-mates like some of the other failures from before. Those who failed to recognise their friends, of course, failed. Better to know your enemies than your friends. Trust and faith, it can be a powerful weapon in battle, how well you distinguish between enemy and comrade can mean life and death. There'll be times when you have to risk your life on a gut feeling. Of course you must always consider whether or not your enemy has studied you and your team, they may act the same way as you or me and can lure you into a trap based on your trust alone. Always bear this in mind. Deception can be better than no deception, it can lead to the death of innocents, your family and even you. That's why I put you into both positions to see whether you were willing to sacrifice someone for the sake of a mission and whether you trusted them enough to not consider them your enemy." "

"That's why those who failed at either were rooted out like weeds. Leaving only the strong of will behind. That's why the final phase was set up the way it was, it was the whole point of the test, I gave you three choices, all difficult, you could choose to play it safe and quit while still in the game, sacrifice your weakest member for the success of a mission or refuse the order and carry on without sacrificing anyone although that would lead to the failure of the mission. But this is the sort that chūnin have to face every day. Now do you have the option of taking a pass on a suicidal mission of saying that your comrades and I would rather live to fight another day? Can you choose to avoid danger? No! There will be many missions that will call on such a sacrifice but you must not think about it! You think only of the goal and if that means a comrade slows you down you do not think about leaving him behind, even if you fail the mission you must carry on with your team now and forever! You achieve the mission through courage and discipline, never faltering even if the man you trust dies in front of you. These are the qualities required of a chūnin. Those who choose the safer path, those whose determination falters in the face of adversity, those who would put their comrades live in jeopardy by worrying about their own. Those who would save their own skin for the price of their honour will never be able to call themselves shinobi! At least as long as I breathe. As for those who passed you have successfully persevered through the test have earned the right to continue on to the next stage. But you have passed through the first gate and now only two more remain between you and your ambition. I hereby declare that this part of the Exams completed. There's nothing else for me to say but to wish you all good luck in all your future trials." spoke Ibiki one final time just as a blur came flying and crashing through the window, glass spraying everywhere as a result. In a flash, two kunai tied with cloth were flung at the roof, revealing words and the figure of a woman standing there yelling loudly.

"Alright boys and girls! This is no time for celebrating! I shall be the Proctor of the second exam Anko Mitarashi at our service! Ready for the second test?! Good let's go and follow me!

"I'm not one to judge and being early is a good thing, but sometimes timing is key." scolded Ibiki as Anko blushed in embarrassment. The Jōnin then scanned her eyes across the seventy eight remaining students, surprised that this many had managed to survive the first test.

"Ibiki, you let all these newbies pass? You're getting soft that or your test was too easy." berated Anko, slightly disappointed in her co-worker.

"Or it could be from this year's talent. We have a rather excellent batch this year." argued Ibiki with a smile as he peaked behind the curtain.

"Well they sure don't look it. Trust me after I'm done with them, more than half will be eliminated. This is going to be fun. Alright, you maggots had it easy so far, but if you think the rest of the exams will be like this than you're dead wrong. Your sensei's will be waiting for you and first thing in the morning they will direct you towards the location for the second test. You're dismissed." spoke Anko as the genin got up out of their chairs and left through the door, nearly all of them breathing a sigh of relief.

"Man, I thought we weren't going to pass for a second." spoke Naruto, hands behind his head as team 7 was once again walking through the streets of their village.

"Yeah, but the second test sounds even harder." commented Yugito while Sakura nodded, agreeing with her.

"We'll be ready for it, no matter what. Let's just all get a good night's sleep. I have feeling we'll need it." stated Sasuke as each of them went their own separate ways, anxious about tomorrow.