Kakashi's POV (Nearby Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Kakashi and several other interested shinobi leapt from the roofs of various buildings as they rushed towards the Iron Arena. But Kakashi was barely focused on his surroundings or even present company. Many of them had their minds in a similar place themselves. Especially the ecstatic Anko, who raved that Ino was now a killer. The silent Eagle, determined to be quiet, now yelled, countering that Neji would defeat her if they should meet. Showing even the trained Anbu was somewhat invested. Doubtless, both had been charmed by his cute little Genin. But they were also followed by more. Kushina, whose face was best described as agonized. Mikoto who seemed slightly stressed but expertly and calmly dissuaded Kushina's impulsive ideas on ensuring her son won. Asuma and Kurenai were here as well, silently whispering to each other. Kakashi was sure they were sweet nothings, but based on the money both held, it could've been just as easily a bet. Gai was also present, ranting and raving on how his Lee would shine bright today, trying to goad Kakashi into whose Genin would go further. Shisui was also present, playfully gaslighting Kushina's more foolhardy ideas and ducking swipes from Mikoto for the trouble.

But none of that occupied the Cyclops; truthfully, this month had been odd. His only reason for becoming a Jounin sensei and retiring from his position as Anbu Captain had been the chance to be the sensei to Naruto. Allow him to meet and grow close to his own sensei's son. It had worked well, Team Seven, despite its frequent hiccups and despite the current one Ino and Naruto were going through. We were a solid and close-knit team. Kakashi hadn't even been going to the Shrine, a monument left for shinobi who were killed in action; many of such names were ones he knew.

Minato Namikaze, his sensei; Sakumo Hatake, his father; Rin Inuzuka, his friend. Normally, he went daily to grieve, to remember, to beg them to forgive him. He hadn't intended to stop; he hadn't known he could. But with the new responsibility in his life. He felt different from normal. It felt… good… freeing even… But he had known they would need specialized help to grow as brightly as they could. He and Anko were old friends, at one time lovers; she minded little helping him out. And though she would never admit it, she had seemed to enjoy her time as a sensei. Kakashi was sure Ino would flourish in these difficult times with a solid female role model. Someone different from her would make her ask questions. Eagle wasn't quite a friend; he wasn't sure he had such things. Eagle seemed to many to be similar to Root, but he had never been a member nor suffered their training. He was simply a man who cared little for the logical way most lived. Yet when Kakashi had scouted him after banishment and offered him a role in his Anbu team, he had taken it with vigor. From then on the man seemed tied to Kakashi. Between Eagle, Yamato, and Gai, Kakashi felt he needed to pick better friends. Yet it was undeniable that Eagle would be a good teacher; even better, he could relate to the troubled genius. He had originally intended to train Naruto himself, but once Jiraiya had made his intent clear, he had figured it was best to let the Godfather do so; besides, Jiraiya was one of the few shinobi that were not only more powerful than Kakashi but had more wisdom as well.

Kakashi sighed as they leaped forward. He missed his team and knew this may be the end of them. Chunin had no need for a Jounin sensei after their promotions. But he shook such thoughts from his head as the group of shinobi arrived at the Iron Arena.

The large construction before them knocked Kakashi from his internal stupor. Despite the simplistic name that would surely earn a disappointed "tacky" from Ino, the Iron Area was a sight indeed. It is an absurdly large compound with thick concrete walls decorated with ornate panels of bright tan wood. The name must've referred to the roof due to the roof being a standard shingle roof, the difference being the shingles being made of metal. The snow that layered the roof as it did everything else made it shine. A simple yet beautiful structure, fitting for the samurai, he supposed.

The group proceeded toward the entrance of the large structure. Unlike the last time Kakashi had been present, there was an assembly of various less than pleasant samurai, each exuding a thinly held tension. The samurai would much rather run them through than allow entry. It was odd to see but Kakashi knew they often distrusted their more "subtle" neighbors. The large wooden and iron ornate door covered the entrance, and to ensure protection, an absurdly large man wielding a large polearm stood directly in front of the door.

The samurai, despite the unknown tension, offered them no trouble. Instead, they carefully gazed at them as they passed by. Kakashi and Kushina lead the group impatiently, speed-walking to the large man. He eyed them with professional wariness and seemed ready himself.

"Identification, please." The man gruffly asked.

"Don't have time," Kushina said with an icy face, casually stomping past the man. He tensed and prepared to grab her shoulder, but as he came close, the mother whipped her head around and offered a stare-down. The man wisely froze, perhaps sensing the woman before him was rage incarnate. Before he could cry for help, Kakashi stepped between them and showed his and Kushina's ID. Figuring the impulsive woman may cause trouble otherwise, Kakashi had snuck it from her. This earned him his own glare from Kushina. One he was sure was a warning of getting in her way, but Kakashi was used to such. The man got quiet but nodded his head, undoubtedly realizing that if she was identified, he had no requirement to stop her and risk facing her wrath. The others also showed IDs, though Anko had flirted with the large man, and Gai attempted to challenge him to a wrestling match. But with a little (terrifying) encouragement from Kushina, they entered the building.

The structure was odder yet from within. What had seemed to be an entire building was actually a square perimeter of a building surrounding what appeared to be a significant training yard outfitted with sporadic trees on one side, separated by a decent-sized river that flowed with lazy speed. Indeed, it was unnatural, but it looked like it was. An odd series of boulders and crevices was on the other side of the field. Separated from the battlefield were a series of raised wooden platforms. Long benches outfitted with various matching cushions in front of these were another platform slightly raised from the cushioned one, seemingly to serve as a table. With another duo of platforms below, it staggers to allow the users to see the field below them. They were seemingly complex and comfortable stands. It's different from their arena in the Leaf, but perhaps nicer aesthetically speaking. The arrangement was designed to surround the field in its entirety, except for a section that was sectioned off. The front of it was exposed with glass, showing all five Kage as they conversed amongst themselves. Soon, they would speak to them and assure them of the future and the grandeur of the exams. Truthfully, it made Kakashi feel sick and yet hopeful.

He may not have been able to spend as much time with his students as he liked, but he knew they would have significantly grown. Somehow, without a doubt, Kakashi felt pride for them. They may not win, but he was sure they would leave their mark. Even more certain that two in particular would be considered for promotion. Ino had come a long way, but with the importance of this specific exam, the standards would be harsh; it would be a coinflip if she were considered. But Naruto and Neji? The two had power before training that even Jounin would be wary of. In their first mission, the two could easily fend off multiple Genin-level opponents.

One determined and/or desperate to defy fate, to shake the shackles held to his Side House brethren and make the Hyuga clan grander than they already were. The other seemed to aim for the peak of shinobi; he craved the approval of the inhabitants of his home. Yet he was now an outcast, no better than the Kyuubi itself; worse yet, he, in their eyes, was responsible for the demise of their greatest hero, the unknown father of the boy himself, Minato Namikaze. They hated him, yet he longed for their love. With the guidance of a Sanin, he would seek their approval through glory. Or to prove to himself he could.

Yes, Neji and Naruto would rise now; perhaps this day would be discussed in the future. If they did succeed, Team Seven would be all but disbanded. The trio of troubled youth he had taken on had become his life. Once they moved on, it would likely be back to the days of painful regret. Yet he felt no hesitation; he would be happy to see them grow. As the group of Leaf shinobi settled into the stand section for them, more than a few discussed the odds and likely winners. Kakashi continued on. Despite him being a sensei, they needed a strong Jounin to serve as referee. Kakashi had volunteered, of course. He would be sure his cute Genin had a fair chance, and if they fell, he would ensure they could rise again.

Such was the job of a sensei…

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Mifune's POV (Kage Viewing Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

How long had it been since he craved action like this? He had lived a long life, a life unfortunately full of violence, but violence with a cause. Mifune had honorably served his homeland well, with grace befitting a Samurai such as him. Within recent years, relative peace had been established. Mifune, a seasoned warrior, had seen the time for peace and had fought hard outside of battle to develop it. He had hung his sword and raised his pen as all good Samurai did. The struggle was never-ending, but often it came to a lull. The job of a true warrior was to adapt as needed. He had recognized that his time as the General Servant of the Land of Iron had ended. He had become a politician then fighting for his home with words and pens as opposed to his blade. But as he aged it had become clear he would need a successor. While his men were brave and surely skilled none seemed to have the qualities a leader of his home would need. Far and wide, he had searched his homeland. Seeking the truest of warriors seeking a man worthy of the task Mifune would hand them. He had no shortage of candidates, of course. The Way of the Samurai called to those deserving, and Mifune found some. Then he met Reizo; the choice hadn't been apparent at first.

Reizo had attacked them as they searched; he had been adopted into a bandit group from a young age. Somehow, he had discovered how to use his powerful bloodline; the way of the blade seemed to come naturally to him. Even as a petty bandit, his swordsmanship had shamed some of the men Mifune had brought. His bloodline ensured he could slay even skilled men. Mifune, of course, defeated him; no untrained man could hope to slay him. But Mifune spared him and offered him a purpose; serve the land of Iron as Mifune's private or die by his blade. Reizo had accepted. While rough, Reizo had quickly become one with the principles of Samurai, never quite perfect, but no man was. Over the years, Mifune had grown confident that Reizo was the choice. His eventual replacement had brought him peace, knowing he would leave his home with a new warrior to take his place when he died. Then Reizo had been slain, not only him but even their best men killed. A cruel trick from the man Ikam Uzumaki. Mifune felt his rage but held it with iron discipline. He focused back on the Kage before him; he would have time to figure out how to avenge him later.

"My question was simple: give me one reason not to remove your kid head, Yagura? You think we have forgotten the Rain of the Cloud incident?" A asked with only mild contempt, more looking to start an argument than earnestly raising a complaint.

"While that event was certainly villainous, my predecessor ordered it. If you remember, I killed that villain myself." Yagura countered calmly.

"Villain? Peh! You youth forget yourselves. It's never black and white. Life cannot be so definitively defined." Onoki interjected.

"Onoki speaks with wisdom; such titles are meaningless and subjective." Hiruzen agreed with a smile.

Onoki sighed with a frown; having Hiruzen agree with him felt wrong.

Rasa noticed this and allowed a microscopic smirk. "That's why they call you the Fence Sitter, I suppose."

Mifune sighed inwardly; his home often hosted these sorts of meetings. A neutral and powerful ground they could meet and count on to keep the peace. They always seemed to start bickering like children. He supposed Rasa and Hiruzen seemed somewhat better and less likely to seethe about the past. Though both were manipulative and had their own flaws. Rasa tended to snipe at all parties, seemingly content to keep everyone tense. And Hiruzen had a habit of playing devil's advocate. This all amassed into a massive headache for the Samurai.

"Kage, if we may perhaps focus a bit?" Mifune interjected patiently and politely.

Each nodded their head, instantly putting aside their squabbles for the moment. Despite their penitence for violence, there was no doubting the wisdom or power of the Kage. They were prepared to discuss business.

"I will start if no one objects?" Hiruzen began. "Excellent; as always, we should celebrate another successful Chunin Exam. Let it be a testament to the tense peace we have achieved."

"Keep the tree-loving gospel for home." A rudely interrupted.

"He's crass, but it would be nice to stick to the point. There is no need for such formalities between us. We are all familiar with the game of politics you play. Heroes have no need for mincing words." Yagura added. Mifune and several of the Kage gave him odd looks for this, but he seemed unaffected.

Hiruzen, with a weary sigh, continued. "The Exams present an opportunity to increase the bonds between our villages and display our shinobi's unique strengths and talents. This would suggest the villages with shinobi do well, which will surely lead to an increase in business. As such, as the Five Kage or at least the forces present, we meet and discuss the exams ahead of time to address any specific issues that may need addressing. As such, are any such concerns to be raised?"

"I have nothing. I prefer to watch my shinobi show your weak men up." A answered shrewdly.

"Your men will soon meet some of my own; they will be lucky to survive the encounter," Yagura answered with a sneer. "I have no such concerns. Heroes need not be political."

"I don't know if it's politics, but we are doing the standard fine for needless killing?" Onoki asked.

"Of course, I would not be here otherwise. Anyone responsible for slaying my kin will pay dearly." Rasa darkly answered.

"Then I am content for now." Onoki finished with a nod.

"I have nothing to add. Do you Rasa? You've yet to truly answer." Hiruzen asked.

"I, in fact do, I would like to propose an informal wager to you all." Rasa answered. "You, of course, Mifune, would be free of this." Mifune nodded to show his agreement. "But I am rather confident in my son's or other two children being the "victor. "" Rasa said, adding air quotes to the victor. "So much so I offer a friendly wager."

"What did you have in mind, ginger?" A asked with a raised brow. Mifune, Onoki, Yagura, and Hiruzen stayed silent, content to hear them out before interjecting.

"Simple," Rasa said, now smirking openly. Seemingly unphased by A's jab. "Whoever's men in the tournament or finals, however you refer to it. Wins and or performs the best. They earn their village a small trade agreement with the other four villages. The specifics of such, of course, would be decided at a later date, but an agreement toward some sort of deal would be in place."

"A hero never backs down from a challenge." Yagura said defiantly. Seemingly unable to let such provocation stand.

"I'm no hero, but I'm no coward either." A responded in compliance as well.

Mifune watched as the faces of Onoki and Hiruzen tensed. They were wise to think it over, unlike the other two. Doubtless, just as he had gained wisdom from his long life, they had as well. But truthfully, he knew they would accept. Such a deal was undoubtedly risky, but the benefits outweighed the risk. The winner would receive a great deal of profitable trade and a reputation boost. It would be a massive boon enough to have a noticeable effect. Along with the pressure of not having it themselves was the pressure of allowing the others to have it. It was no great shock to Mifune that both eventually offered consent.

"Then I am content as well." Rasa stated, smiling openly. Mifune had the oddest suspicion. Rasa seemed sure of his own victory.

"Then let's begin." Mifune offered. The five leaders nodded and rose; all stood before the vast glass double door that provided access to a large platform hanging slightly over the arena. Made specifically to deliver speeches.

Mifune marched forward slightly ahead before turning gracefully and respectfully, bowing to the five. They each matched one before returning to the crowd of various citizens and shinobi from all over the world. Each watching with rapt attention, the gathering of all Five Kage was a rare thing after all, even more occasional than the combined presence of Samurai. Below in the field, in a straight line, stood the Genin; each looked different from when Mifune had first laid eyes on them. Obviously, each had worked themselves to the bone for this opportunity. Mifune smothered his rage and grief over Reizo and his other men. Instead, he served as he always had.

"Welcome one and all to yet another Chunin Exams!" Mifune hollered, his voice echoing throughout the Arena. He paused as rampant cheering went off. Civilians loved few events like the Chunin Exams. It offered them a relatively safe few of the shinobi world after all. "We will soon begin testing our Chunin hopefuls by combat, but first, a word from the five leaders of the shinobi before us!" With this, Mifune stepped back. A located at the left end of the line of Kage stepped forward first.

"A of the Cloud, the Fourth Raikage. I'm not one for formal speeches. I am a man of action, not empty platitudes. But let me assure you that today, you will witness the strength of the Cloud. We will strike out and show our superiority. For those not one of us, we offer you a welcome for witnessing us." A said simply before stepping back. Rasa, located next to him, walked forward next.

"Rasa of the Sand, Fourth Kazekage. The Sand is a group of diligent and durable people. Today, we will show as such; I thank you for coming today and wish all those who seek glory a successful attempt." Rasa said simply, seemingly pulsating smugness as he spoke before falling back. Next was Yagura, who marched forward with grim determination.

"Yagura Karatachi, Hero of the Mist and Fourth Mizukage. Today, we will discover those who are strong and those who are weak. The strong will trample the weak today, and such is just. Might decides right in this world." Yagura said many of the crowd could be seen confused by this. But his speech continued the man unaffected by the reaction. "Let us know who is mighty and, as such, just!" He stepped back, seemingly pleased with his words.

Onoki floated forward, hovering at the same height as the other Kage. Mifune's supposed image was everything as a leader. "Onoki of the Stone, Third Tsuchikage. Conduct yourselves as expected as with your responsibilities, and you will surely see success."

Finally, Hiruzen stepped forth. "Hiruzen Sarutobi, Third Hokage. I wish all combatants to do well and end these exams well. I hope to see each village grow closer through this peaceful practice. And I know these exams will be quite the spectacle indeed." With all Five Kage haven spoken, they filed into the box for them, settling down to watch the events unfold.

Mifune stepped forth yet again. Addressing the crowd and feeling the tension of the Genin, crowd, and Kage as they awaited for it to begin.

"With that being said, please, all Genin except for Tenten of the Leaf and Naruto Uzumaki, vacate the field! The exam referee shall appear and give a breakdown of the rules!" Mifune then marched into the room and sat. His mind wondered now, he could afford it to. He did not wish to listen to the endless childish bickering that often became a meeting of the Five Kage.

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Kakashi's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Kakashi watched as all the other Genin vacated the courtyard, leaving only Naruto and Tenten. Both stood at a distance of about ten feet, locked into a staring match that often began fights. Kakashi felt excited to see his students finally show off their growth. He was worried if they were truly ready, but he willed such emotions to the sidelines. While he may have been unable to ensure their success, his duty was to ensure they lived with their failure. Furthermore, he could not afford to show his students any favor. Despite that…

Kakashi poofed into the arena, smoke billowing from around him as he posed to look nonchalant. His body flicker had been intentionally misaimed to land him to the left of Naruto instead of between the two. The crowd, more than a few, likely recognizing the infamous Jounin, roared in approval. Kakashi nonchalantly waved at the crowd, seeming to maintain his aloof demeanor, but he subtly whispered to him as he passed his student. Kakashi's mind swirled as he did, attempting to discover the best words, advice, and plan he could offer his students. But that would only be allowed if he thought he could provide more to Naruto. The young man had always held an internal strength that showed in his eyes. Wary but determined, he boldly stared past Tenten, seemingly towards the crowd. It was clear he needed not a plan, simply reassurance. He spoke the only words he could offer now.

"I'm already proud of you. Just be yourself; they'll see what I see in time." Kakashi whispered his mask, helping disguise his discreet last-minute words to his pupil. He side-eyed Naruto and saw him seemingly straighten up from the words. His eyes seemed brighter; somehow, his gaze was more intense. Kakashi smiled inwardly as he settled himself between the two and then stood alert, flaring chakra and killing intent in equal measure to grab the audience's attention. He felt their gaze settle on him and the two Genin before them.

"I won't waste too much time here; my name is Kakashi Hatake. I will serve as the referee to these matches; there is no need for a tournament that is too bloody today. So, let's talk about the rules and get to it. Ne? Firstly, and hopefully, obviously, the first rule is no needless killing. If a Chunin candidate decides to surrender, the match is over. And I will move to ensure no unnecessary damage is done. That being said, in such a move, if needed, I will not hesitate to repel your attacks and painfully discourage you from continuing. Secondly, if I deem a candidate unable to continue at any time, I have the right and responsibility to end the match. That is my call alone, only able to be disputed by the Kage. Killing and other such considerable injuries are within the rules as long as they do not violate previously stated rules. You are limited to the area of this courtyard and unable to receive outside aid. Tools of any kind are permitted but must be checked in on your arrival. Finally, any such order given to me during these matches is not to be disputed. If my orders are ignored or rules broken, you will face immediate disqualification and further punishment, depending on the severity of the crime. This includes, but is not limited to: Career Termination, Banishment, Incarceration, and good old Execution. Now that the rules have been established, allow me to ask. Tenten of the Leaf, do you understand and swear to uphold these rules?" Tenten nodded, laser-focused on Naruto. "Are you prepared for combat?" She nodded again, seeming impatient. Kakashi turned his gaze towards Naruto, asking him the same and getting a similarly tense confirmation. Kakashi nodded as he raised his hand, the crowd lifting in volume as he did so. "Then let the Chunin Exams Begin!"

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Naruto / Tenten's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Naruto had rarely been an anxious person. He craved attention, seemed to lack fear, and often acted impulsively. Anxiety and Naruto Uzumaki were not often looped together. Yet his heart pounded inside his head as Kakashi appeared and slowly trudged forward, seemingly unconcerned despite all the chaos. But Naruto could only gaze at the crowd. Such a public revealing ensured that even all the civilians in the crowd knew what he was. It was the only explanation for the silent fury they gazed upon him with. Civilians and shinobi alike seemed to have a distaste for him. While he had prepared for this, seeing it in such a volume was disturbing. He was still determined to do this; it would be the best way to win them back over, advance his career, and help/survive Gaara. But would his first goal be impossible? Kakashi suddenly whispered at him as he walked by.

"I'm already proud of you. Just be yourself; they'll see what I see in time."

Kakashi said subtly as he walked toward a decidedly neutral spot. The words were simple, not overly thought out or comforting. Yet Naruto felt the confidence return more robust than before. Things may be messy, perhaps even in disarray. Yet Naruto still had those who supported him. Words from within his mind sounded off from others who had shared their support for him.

"How to win people over? Well, I suppose you could be charismatic, handsome, powerful, and intelligent, you know, traits I have in spades. But if, for whatever reason, you lack that, then I offer one piece of advice! Live gutsy and proud; people will always cheer for a gutsy hero!" Jiraiya had said half drunk at the time. Naruto then had thought little of the words. Jiraiya had a habit of going off on tangents, and while Naruto enjoyed them, a lot of them just seemed to go over his head. But now, the words filled him with more determination. Guts and effort he could do.

"Son… I'm sorry about this… that you have to suffer this. But I know that despite it all, you'll somehow find a way to bounce back and shine. I just know you'll shine just as bright as your father." His mother had told him while serving him some sandwiches she had brought for an exhausted Naruto and Jiraiya. The words nearly made the blonde cry, yet it also made him want to scream. Yet now, they excited him to defy the expectations of those around him again.

Naruto allowed a smirk to settle on his face. He palmed Riptide, sheathed on his back as always before he relaxed, and lowered himself into a relaxed stance.

"Then let the Chunin Exams begin!" Kakashi sounded off.

Tenten's POV

Tenten eyed Naruto closely as Kakashi described the rules. She was only half listening anyway. Instead, she examined Naruto closely, noting anything that seemed noteworthy. It was done with a level of disarray as always; her mind was never something she found ease in. While Danzo had never managed to shatter her psyche as per the standards of the Foundation, it affected her. While she was mostly normal, her emotions often felt muted; often, they were crudely intelligent and manipulative. Just as Danzo likes his operative. So deep was the mental training that Tenten immediately noted Naruto's blade on his back. With her experience of weapons, she knew it was a tanto. From his stance, she knew he would likely start the match aggressively. Her eyes looked for the potential to end the bout, Root Training running through her mind as she analyzed him.

In truth, it was not the main reason she was so interested in the blonde.

Naruto was someone she had rarely interacted with; furthermore, as Root, she knew his status as a jinchuriki much before everyone else did. Yet Shikamaru, her closest (sorry Sai) friend, regarded him as nothing short of family. To the point that even the lazy and uninspired Nara had dug around attempting to find info for him. It had made Tenten wonder what kinda person Naruto Uzumaki would be if he could make the lazy work? Was he a natural charismatic leader? Perhaps a secretive genius Shikamaru could relate to? Blackmail? Tenten was unsure and doubted she would find out while fighting him. But the interest made her focus on him all the same.

"Then let the Chunin Exams begin!" Kakashi ordered as he jumped back.

Tenten's instinct kicked effortlessly and mindlessly. She fired two groupings of kunai aimed at Naruto with laser accuracy. As she did so, she jumped back; from what she had heard, Naruto was a close-range fighter. As such, she should maintain distance and overwhelm him. Naruto surged forward, seemingly fearless. He drew his blade and deflected the kunai one by one with ease, not slowing at all as he did so. Tenten merely continued her backpedal with graceful flips and backward running. Expertly firing off kunai in waves as she did so. Subtly activation seals on her wrist allowed her to replace the kunai she threw with unnerving speed. Naruto slowed as he continued his charge, but no kunai came even close to hitting him. Tenten nearly ran into a tree but, with practiced grace, flowed around it, determined to slow Naruto down. She quickly drew a scroll and activated it with a surge of chakra. She looked up and inwardly flinched at Naruto, who seemed quicker than her. Tenten did not slow, though, her training coming in handy as she summoned a Bo Staff and used it to launch herself into the air, rising twenty feet with ease. Naruto barely missed a horizontal slash, effortlessly slicing through the Bo Staff.

Tenten let go of the remaining staff in her hand with a slight frown and grabbed two scrolls. She threw them with dexterity, causing them to twirl through the air as she fell, long enough to reach the ground, looking like spirals of paper as they fluttered. Naruto looked up with a small smile, lowering himself into a defensive guard. Tenten merely smirked a tiny bit. He had no idea what she was capable of. "Twin Rising Dragons!" She called. A technique she had made herself using her own improved storage seals. It was easy to collect the ammunition for technique having the ties she did, and she doubted many would think to use it the way she did. Quickly, with many small bursts of smoke, a litany of weapons flew out. Swords, maces, spears, axes, daggers, spikes, nails. A wall of sharpened steel flew from the scrolls directed toward Naruto, who watched the storm of death approach with a shocked expression. 'Sorry Naruto, I was taught to end things quickly. A good shinobi does not play games; they end their opponents as quickly as possible.'

Naruto seemed to regain his composure, somehow finding the happiness to smile at the storm of weaponry. He lowered his stance, gripping his blade with both hands and tensing as if preparing for one of his most substantial slashes. Tenten was befuddled by this but body flickered directly above the blonde unseen with the weaponry approaching. She summoned and spun a bola, preparing to immobilize the blonde depending on if he could somehow evade or counter her Twin Rising Dragons.

Naruto suddenly roared toward the storm as it was about to turn him into mincemeat. Slashing with shocking speed, he did a twirling slash. "Uzumaki Style: Rising Spiral!" A boulder-sized spinning chakra blade swiped up the random weapons, sending some spinning around it and others flying away. Tenten, without flinching, fired off the bola while she slowly weaved hand signs, watching with cautious eyes as Naruto's powerful slash successfully reflected her barrage. He suddenly seemed to flinch before spinning in place and slicing through her bola with ease. It mattered little to Tenten, merely a distraction more than anything. She called out as she finished her seals. "Twin Dragons Second Volley!" She called as she activated her technique.

She saw Naruto's head snap up to her, and he seemed to go for his own hand sign. Not noticing the weapons behind rising as if controlled by an invisible force. Chakra wire puppeteering wasn't easy, but it made one of her best techniques even more lethal. All the weapons she had fired would fly again; hopefully, Naruto wouldn't be injured too terribly. She was, oddly enough, enjoying this fight.

Naruto's POV

Naruto had enjoyed his training with Jiraiya as much as he could anyway. The time he had grown to look forward to was dinner; training was done even though Naruto would be too tired to work past it. Which left the two to just talk. Often, it was stories of Minato or Jiraiya. Even his mother if Jiraiya was feeling brave. It felt almost like he had a father spending time with him. Yet there were times when Jiraiya would offer advice and training for his mind; he often dubbed it. He had warned Naruto that being close-minded was the deadliest mistake a shinobi could make. In battle with another shinobi, you never know what you could encounter; as such, never underestimate an opponent, especially if they have a plan. Naruto doubted Tenten would've made an attack so straining of resources so willingly. The bola confirmed it.

Naruto frowned as he saw Tenten finish her jutsu. What was this technique going to be? Why had it not already taken effect? Should he dodge? Suddenly, he heard what sounded like a shocking amount of something flying through the air. The weapons from earlier! Somehow, she was controlling them again. Naruto trusted his gut and felt his hands form a sign he had become familiar with.

"Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

Four Naruto appeared and grabbed the blonde. If the attack was tracking, it surely wouldn't follow him here. The clones wordlessly pushed up with all their might, sending the blonde flying upwards at Tenten considerably. Narrowly escaping the second pass of Tenten's attack. Tenten seemed to flinch as Naruto closed in. But nimbly, she twirled through the air, narrowly dodging Naruto's self-projectile. Naruto spawned another clone quickly, the clone forming under his feet and pushing him forward again.

"Naruto Reflect!" He called as he flew back towards Tenten, who was helpless mid-air. Naruto crashed into her feet first, sending her careening towards the ground, causing quite the disturbance, cracking stone and flinging up dust covering the impact for the moment. Naruto landed bodily shortly after Tenten's crash landing, eyeing it warily. As the dust cleared, there was a sizeable human-sized steel ball instead of an injured Tenten. "What the…" Naruto started before the dome suddenly opened, and a slightly battered Tenten flew from it with a speed greater than before.

She fired off kunai as she drew close, keeping a surprised Naruto off guard. Pulling close, she grabbed a club from the ground and swung it at the Uzumaki. Naruto deflected this swipe with his blade and kicked at Tenten's face. The young women rolled under this, picking up a discarded kunai and flinging it at point blank at the blonde. Naruto somehow managed to lean out of the way, earning a small cut to the cheek. He spun as he slashed low with Riptide. Teten managed to jump over it before Naruto caught one of her legs as he continued his spin and, with a shocking display of physical strength, threw her like a rag doll. Tenten rolled bodily from this, somehow throwing a spear as she flew, which Naruto barely managed to deflect. Tenten seemed to use a kunai to slow her descent and ended it on her feet. She was covered in minor scratches and a few bruises but was otherwise fine and seemed to have a wide smile. Naruto was confused by this but prepared himself; sure, she had more tricks up her sleeve.

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Ino's POV (Competitors Stand of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Ino and the other Chunin hopefuls had been led to a fenced-off portion of the arena, giving them a good view of the fight below. There were seats, but no Genin used them. Either interested in the fight or hoping to scout out competition.

Ino watched Naruto as he quickly seemed to gain the edge over Tenten. It was as if he had been training for a year instead of a month. He moved at a speed that Ino knew would leave her hard-pressed to counter. His swordplay had certainly advanced and was further bolstered by his Nijutsu. Honestly, Ino wasn't even surprised; something she had come to admire about Naruto was his drive and constant growth. He clearly had come today to win and was worn out, yet he smiled and seemed jovial in battle.

Somehow, seeing the blonde brought back the guilt from her words. A whole month, and they had been unable to discuss things. Did Naruto decide to distance himself from her? Did he hold a grudge? Ino sighed as she reigned in her emotions. But even that control taught to her by Anko did little against the guilt. She needed to talk to Naruto.

"He's come a long way, huh?" A familiar, unexcited voice broke her from her thoughts. Her eyes briefly strayed away from Naruto's fight to glance and see Shikamaru with a conflicted expression, watching the battle below. "I'm glad to see it, though I never imagined he would outmatch Tenten so easily."

Ino was glad for the distraction; best not to dwell too much until she could enact her plan. "He has been a powerhouse so far; I was shocked when he beat Neji." It had been the fight that gave Team Seven the chance to be a team. Before, Neji and his perceived superiority had affected their team to its core. His slights remind Ino of her fear of social exile. And his bold belief was a slight to Naruto's very ideals. When Naruto defeated the Hyuga, it allowed the team to operate as equals. At least before she opened her fat mouth.

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"He beat Neji?" Shikamaru said with a smirk as he fiddled with a lighter. He wished the arena allowed smoking. How was a lazy guy like him going to relieve stress? "I knew Naruto would be someone someday, but I thought Neji Hyuga was the strongest Genin bar, maybe Sasuke Uchiha. That knucklehead beat him, huh? Talk about troublesome. I'm unsure who I want to win, and now I find out Tenten is in there with another powerhouse."

"He did, in fact, defeat me; I hold no grudge but hope to remedy such." Neji cut in with a slight frown. "Furthermore, I wouldn't be so sure this is over."

"Listen, thanks for being polite, but I know my teammate. She's used many tricks, and the rest she hasn't shown won't be enough." Shikamaru said. "It sucks, but Naruto won't hurt her too badly. Besides, she's mature enough to know when she's beat."

Ino chose to stay silent; truthfully, she wanted Naruto to win regardless of who he faced. She simply couldn't see her… teammate losing today. He always won when it counted.

"I believed so at first, too, but I must figure out the current factors. Though I am certain Tenten hasn't given up. She's channeling a massive amount of chakra; it seems to be… becoming more potent?"

"So she has some level of power…" A raspy voice sounded from above them. On the roof stood Gaara of the Sand. His eyes locked onto the fight, and his face held a small smile. "So the human intends to give it her all, show her the difference… Naruto." The words whispered his presence hidden; it was better not to alert Naruto's friends of his attention yet. He had to behave here for now; besides, he would have his chance.

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Tenten / Naruto's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Her mind spun as adrenaline flowed through her. Tenten may have been young, but she was a shinobi employed by Root. While her rank was Genin, she knew her strength was much more that of a Chunin. She was faster, more skilled, and had more techniques; she was no standard shinobi. She wasn't arrogant; there were plenty of candidates she was sure she would be unable to defeat. Gaara of the Sand and Sasuke Uchiha came to mind, yet she was sure only they would be a threat.

Furthermore, she had never expected to be outmatched to this degree. Naruto was clearly somewhat faster than her, could easily counter some of her strongest techniques, and, if Tenten's instinct was off the mark, held back to some degree. Yet Tenten felt no dread or fear of losing, nor did she do what Danzo would suggest here: surrender. He had always told them not to struggle uselessly. But Tenten ignored that instinct; she was having too much fun.

Tenten could remember when she was much younger, before Hiruzen had discovered her, and her tenure at Root had seemed endless and hopeless. She had been sparring against Sai, the two being the same age had often sparred together. She enjoyed those spars secretly; though they could break bones and cause pain, the art had amused her. It had been one of the few lifelines she could find there; it hadn't lasted. During one of their more exciting spars, she had let out one laugh, a slight chuckle of joy. What a foolish mistake it had been. She couldn't remember how they punished her; it had faded with the other memories they had taken.

Tenten flinched, looking at Naruto; luckily, he stood with the same easy-going smile as if the fight was fun for him. Yet it wasn't from an arrogant perspective; it seemed Naruto was genuinely enjoying their fight. 'Why am I so distracted?! This isn't the time for reminiscing!' She felt her chakra flare oddly right as her mind drifted yet again.

Tenten wasn't sure where the memories came from; she couldn't recall thinking this before and certainly didn't remember them as the past. Yet she was sure they were real. (Her chakra flared further, causing Naruto to look at her quizzically. He was seemingly content to see what Tenten was planning.)

A man stood before her; his hair was done in a neat bun with a golden pin with a symbol Tenten couldn't fully remember. He had the same brown eyes as her, though it was hard to stare him in the eyes with his face full of terrible scaring. Yet the man looked upon her warmly; nothing about him made her fearful. Even without context, it was clear that the man held nothing but love for her. But who was he? She focused on the memory, forgetting about her match in the moment. The man spoke. His voice was deep and gravelly. The man, indeed, had damaged vocal cords.

"We are a proud family of warriors who long ago managed to seal an unholy deity. It's why we named you Tenten. It means heaven, representing the noble deed you will one day do as we all have before you. You likely have access to our great ancestral power. When we sealed this being, we tied ourselves to it. It allows certain members of our family to wield its power."

"The power of what daddy?" Tenten heard what sounded like a much younger version of herself. This man was her father…

"Chiyou, a land far from this one in a time long, long ago, Chiyou was revered as an evil god of war and weapons. He formed a clan of powerful and terrible men to serve him, arming them with some of the strongest weapons on this earth. Our founder somehow manages to seal the god into an artifact, a creation of Chiyou's, funnily enough. This ended his reign of tyranny and led to the ascension of our clan. So remember, my dear Tenten, when you wield this power, do not forget that battle is not merely a terrible bloody thing. If done with purity and lack of malice, it can be beautiful. Remember, daughter, battle is fun!"

When had been the last time she had enjoyed a fight? When she was young? She had been killed and witnessed extreme violence in her life often. With Root encouraging it, she had grown to hate battle. Yet now she was enjoying it; even losing, she was having fun. If only she could do more to hang on; she wasn't sure she could defeat Naruto.

"You okay?" Naruto asked with concern, even in the middle of a fight. "I was kinda hoping we could keep going."

Tenten wished she could, but what was the point? Why fight when she can't win? Yet Tenten's chakra flared yet again, seeming to be buzzing; it made her determined to keep going. To desperately claw for victory. To enjoy this thrilling fight, test her limits! Naruto had been enjoying the battle from the start. It was time she showed him just what she was made of! Words drifted into her mind, and her hands automatically formed hand signs as she said them as if she had always known them.

"Avatar of Chiyou: Emergence." Tenten said. Suddenly, her chakra seemed to surge inside of her. She felt lighter and energized. The pain from the battle so far has completely faded. She didn't remember summoning a weapon, yet she wielded a tanto in one hand and a smooth club of metal. Around her floated an array of weapons which lazily drifted around her. Each was made of a smooth and dark metal, and each seemed to brim with her chakra somehow without her effort.

"I'm so glad I waited, that's so damned cool!" Naruto said, forgetting himself for a moment.

"Thanks." Tenten smiled. "Round two." Tenten sprinted forward much faster than before. She felt an urge and mentally pictured swords, spears, knives, and spikes orbiting her, flying forward at Naruto. And without even a seal, they flew forward at impressive speed. Naruto dodged one narrowly, spun around another, and attempted to reflect another, but the force of it knocked him unbalanced. He barely managed to drop down to avoid two more spears that followed, dropping to the ground. He rolled, trusting Tenten would take advantage of the sound of her sword cutting into the ground he had landed on. Naruto summoned two clones to buy time, but both were pierced by her weapons. Tenten then flew in. Naruto caught flat-footed, attempting to block the blow, confident he was strong enough for it but was shocked when it crashed into him. It smashed through his guard and sent him flying into a tree. The impact shattered the bark and bent the tree with a mighty crack. Tenten smiled as Naruto climbed to his feet, more wary now. Now, this was more like it. She waited patiently as Naruto hopped to his feet and dusted himself off. She had a feeling Naruto was about to try something…

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Jiraiya's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Jiraiya and Tsunade stood side by side as the Kage watched over the fights. Thoughtfully, Mifune had his men install screens in the room so even the guards from their respective defensive positions could watch the action. The Kage were currently watching in rapt silence. More than likely, Hiruzen was engaged due to his ties to both Tenten and Naruto. The others were likely looking to see if either would be a threat in the future. Based on Tenten's renewed attack, both are probably noted. It mattered little to the Sage, truthfully. To be a Kage like the brat wished for, he would infamy. It would be up to the village to ensure he was not killed.

"Hmm, I thought you trained that boy, Jiraiya? He's certainly stronger, but he is more or less the same. You'd better not shirk your duty. You said you would train the squirt." Tsunade criticized. Truthfully, she had come to like the brat. Few would stand up to S-rank missing ninjas, and fewer would do so fearlessly. She supposed he reminded her of Dan and Nawaki.

"Of course not beautiful!" Jiraiya said jovially while expertly ignoring an eyebrow twitch from Tsunade. "I did the work; he's only been playing around so far."

"I'm sure." Tsunade said with a disbelieving scowl.

"He was just making sure he knew what he was dealing with. Right about now, he'll probably finish things." Jiraiya said confidentially, throwing his arm around Tsunade and ignoring her finger poke.

Though he swore it nearly broke one of his ribs.

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Naruto's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Naruto sighed as his mind settled. He wasn't sure what had happened with Tenten, but apparently, her technique had put her on another level. She could obviously control the assortment of weapons around her with ease. And they were quick and packed a punch. Her own physicality had increased as well. Before, Naruto had assumed this would've been easy.

He supposed this was unwelcome.

She rushed at him with her bo staff, which was met in the middle by his Riptide, finding its match as she finally matched the power behind his attacks.

But…it was not over there. She angled her head and swung it as if she was signaling something. A tanto appeared out of thin air, swirling to cut him in two.

His eyes widened as he leaned their stalemate to the right, bending both unnaturally, giving him the time to form a hand sign with his conjoined hands on the hilt. A shadow clone kicked away the tanto from bisecting his legs again as he gained some space.

Her sharp hazel eyes landed on him, slowly materializing more items than he could ever remember being used in a battle. She produced two goblets with some type of liquid boiling inside.

She almost flew over to his side as he readied Riptide to counter whatever she planned as a shadow clone stayed hidden.

She came close, and the goblets boiled over…..engulfing them in an explosion!

He was almost burned with his shadow clone offering protection while she came out unscathed out of a metal dome, acting as a shield for her.

This was problematic.

She swung a greatsword around with much force behind it while covering a more extensive range. He had to close the distance to match the absurd strength of the weapon by attacking closer to the hilt . Their attacks were canceled by the other, making space between them… but she twisted mid-air with the greatsword taking the shape of a bow as she pulled the string. The arrow appeared in of itself with its point glowing while it traveled the distance at an absurd speed and precisely at his face, taking a lot of space and making it hard to dodge. He had to use the blunt side of his blade while getting pushed back as she appeared in mid-air, finger going in certain seals as an array of needles appeared above him.

Her hand crashed down mid-air as if casting judgment upon him. The needles flew down at absurd speeds, covering all escape areas as he was forced to constantly block the attacks with his sword swinging at an equally ridiculous speed.

He forced himself to take it and qualify without revealing his most significant attacks to his opponent. But the only thought that crossed his mind was….

Why….

Am I…

Trying so Hard?

A mirage of images flashed by him, the face of his final opponent appearing in his mind.

He had faced cruelty…

Had been ostracized…

He wanted the respect of those around him but… he needed to demand it not allow them to walk all over him!

His eyes glowed whitish blue. Riptide held on as a shadow clone took its place momentarily in his stead. He crouched as the wind gathered around his palms, rotating around himself while another pulled the hand seals for it.

A bluish-white chakra surrounded his form while spinning angrily. Without notice, he was climbing towards her, her needles swallowed by the wind as he steadily gained her altitude. Her body formed a shield but was blasted across the field as soon as his leg came in contact. His eyes were hooded as he passed her in the air.

Everyone in the stadium was in awe of the jutsu used to bypass the deadly attack, but his gaze found the one trained bloodthirsty eye in the stands. Gaara looked on with a crazed smile in response to his determined one.

Jiraiya's POV

His eyes widened as he saw the jutsu in action. Tsunade's eyes widened as well at the rapid developments. But it was all worth seeing Jiraiya's mouth hanging open as if he was a man who had attempted to catch flies.

She smirked while saying," What? You did teach him that month, right?"

He shut his mouth while coughing into his hand," Of course I taught him. Don't forget we're talking about the prodigy of the great Jiraiya here!" He spoke while guffawing like a madman.

"He totally learned that from a different person!" Tsunade exclaimed while laughing at his expense. "I can't believe he decided that his master of a Sannin was no good master!"

Jiraiya regained his bearings and pride before explaining, "No, he didn't learn that from any other master. He mastered it himself."

Tsunade's eyes gleamed at the information. Even more than any jutsu, she really liked the boy's eyes. Those determined eyes….. Maybe he really was Minato's kid.

Naruto's POV

At the peak of his ascension and at the apex of his victory he was completely ignorant of it. Instead his staring match held all of his intention the small on his face felt almost forced as both projected their intent unknowingly. The indescribable bond of jinchuriki allowed them to be almost linked. It wasn't focused communication, more of a projection of experience and emotions. Both of their wills clashed, ideals combated, lives compared, wills pushed upon each other.

Naruto was shocked by the amount of pain he felt from Gaara. Naruto never had been the type to measure the struggles of his life upon others yet he could tell Gaara had struggled in a way Naruto was ignorant of. It was as if he could taste the betrayal, loneliness, and despair from Gaara. It seemed to be tempered by a cold intelligence, a mind that had been forged by pain. But at the end of this wave Naruto felt malice. The negativity of his life had made Gaara aim it outwards. He had rejected his humanity, he hated humans. He intended to change the world for those who suffered his burden. Yet it was done not out of any love or sense of justice. Gaara intended to do so by any means necessary. Violence wasn't a drastic measure for the redhead. Gaara used it as a mere tool. He wanted to make Naruto see his logic, to join him as a brother. Not only to help him in his goal. But Naruto could almost swear he could feel Gaara needed companionship.

Naruto felt almost smothered by the presence, his jutsu even flickered. He growled as he focused and sent out his own wave. Just as Gaara had done with him, Naruto sent a primal wave of intent. He showed the love he had experienced, the side of humanity that Gaara had never been exposed to. Happiness, loyalty, and the most human of all emotion; hope. His will flared and his chakra seemed to do the same. He sent his defiance, his refusal to allow Gaara to continue, that he wished to be there for the lonely monster. He saw Gaara blink as if shocked. Their momentary link, unintentional as it was, had faded. But Naruto's full power did not.

Chakra, powerful, plentiful, seemingly suffocating. It surged throughout Naruto, its power weighing on everyone present as if it was imbued with Naruto's power and pain.

He felt odd as his full power flew through his chakra pathways. In the month it seemed his chakra had become more powerful, his mind sharper and a cold focus would cover him. He felt it now, his mind becoming more focused and logical. Naruto's eyes seemed to almost glow as if they had spotted his goal and knew how to reach it. The same mindset that had taken him in training settled over him now. Naruto welcomed it.

It was time to show them.

Tenten's POV

She barely crawled to her feet glancing upon her shield as she did. Tenten winced as she saw it was dented and nearly fragmented. It had been her strongest shield… and the blonde had somehow kicked it apart… she was low on chakra, and Naruto had seemed to somehow become even stronger. He had been holding back this much? Why did he seem like a different person? Were his eyes always this intense?

Tenten decided his eyes unnerved her. This was a completely different person from what she had seen before the Chunin exams. That person was…terrifying. Still, she regained the gleam in her eyes. As much as she would have liked to say, she was afraid. The adrenaline running through her veins wouldn't let her back down. She formed a desperate plan as she resummoned her goblets. She flared her chakra into them overloading them, Danzo had always approved of sacrificial plans afterall.

Naruto landed and slowly marched forward. He had deactivated that absurdly powerful wind technique, likely realizing the goblets may cause such to backfire. But Tenten was under no illusion they were on even ground. Naruto seemed to be fresh as ever and had shown that he was much more of a threat than she had believed. He knew this as well, clear from his cautious yet confident approach. Tenten grimly smiled as her goblets bubbled menacingly. Naruto's eyes widened as he somehow caught on. He managed to form a simple seal but that was all.

Her goblets spilled over in a more enormous explosion than any previous ones.

Hundreds of blondes flew through the cloud. Most were crushed and burnt by the explosion but Naruto had somehow summoned hundreds to effectively smother the explosion. Her mind warned her but it did little good. Naruto grabbed her by her shirt. With a grunt of effort he hauled her around to build force before spiking her into the ground. Tenten did not even feel the impact, just an explosion of darkness in her vision. Tenten was sure she was dead at first before the shock wore off. 'This… new technique… must make me more durable…' her tired mind decided. Naruto landed slightly behind her in a slow controlled fall. Tenten somehow crawled to her feet instinctively.

Her world was spinning with all the blood rushing through her mind. Her balance was gone. She stood up on wobbly feet…before a silhouette of the man came into view, whispering ..." You're in the way."

That was all she got before she was knocked unconscious by his blade.

Naruto's POV

Naruto sighed as he lowered Tenten onto the ground gently. He had intended to make her surrender but she had pushed his hand and forced him to knock her out gently. So out of it, the shockingly powerful Tenten had been, that he merely jabbed his handle of Riptide into her gut.

Kakashi poofed in behind him with his classic orange book in hand and looked at it all as if he was uninterested. But Naruto could see the eye smiles the man somehow communicated with. He was even prouder than he had been.

Naruto smiled but the moment was somewhat ruined by the stony silence of the audience. Some muted applause from shinobi in the crowd who had no choice but to respect a battle that was clearly Chunin level but there were a silent minority and seemed to only spotlight the majority silence.

Kakashi crouched down to check on Tenten, gingerly doing so in case she was injured before nodding allowing several medical officials to come onto the field and aid Tenten off it.

Kakashi then stood straight and flared his chakra as he had done before to get the crowd watching.

"The first round of the Chunin Exams Finals is complete. The victor: Naruto Uzumaki!"

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Hiruzen's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Hiruzen smiled slightly, proud of both Genin. They had fought well, conducted themselves proudly, and ended a battle as Hiruzen wished all fights would with smiles and companionship being found in battle. His happy mind was interrupted by Yagura this time.

"So that is your jinchuriki then? He acts as if he's human. Nor did he show its power. How odd." Yagura offered as the fight wrapped up.

"As always, you damn tree huggers make everything so emotional." A complained. "And your weapon has a bleeding heart like that? He could've ended the fight before it began if he hadn't held back."

"It is certainly a foolish trait for shinobi." Rasa agreed.

"One could argue he is saving some techniques for later. Wouldn't be the first time that's happened in these exams." Onoki countered.

"The strong have no need to hide their strength." A countered.

"True, only the weak need such a strategy." Yagura seemed to agree.

Hiruzen barely paid attention, seeing yet another one of his was up to bat. "It seems the next match is set to begin." The other Kage all locked eyes on the next match.

Gaara of the Sand VS Kiba Inuzuka

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Kiba's POV (Entry to Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

"You must listen, my dear student, for before you stand a wall. Too high to climb over, too wide to go around, too… eh- down to get under. Yes, many would call it insurmountable. Most, in fact, luckily, you have the guidance of Konoha's Sexy Beast. Indeed, you are armed even further, the power of You-"

Might Gai continue to lecture Kiba much to the Inuzuka's chagrin, Gai habitually did so. Even the most benign of activities were treated so particularly. Standards are to be held at all times, even throughout his hellish training. Kiba stayed with the team due to his friendship with Lee and Sakura, but it was hard. If Gai wasn't an oddly good sensei somehow, Kiba would've surely snapped by now. Well, good in the training, it had turned Kiba into a beast, able to keep up with Lee with his weights. Without it, he hadn't seen a Genin he could keep up with Lee then. But his advice or teachings often meant little to Kiba. Most of the time, he found some absurd way to tie it into the power of "youth." And the rest, some ridiculous moral code, that seemed needless to him. He was jealous of the other teams with a more standard Jounin sensei. Jealous of Naruto and Tenten, as much as it hurt to admit, Kiba wasn't sure he would have defeated either. It made his blood boil; Naruto was his friend, but he was always slightly behind him for the entirety of the academy. Friendly and competitive yet safe, he never truly stood a chance in Kiba's eyes. Yet Naruto had somehow surpassed him, so much so that the weapon girl that would likely leave Kiba bleeding and defeated seemed utterly outmatched by Naruto. Kiba also held no illusion of who between him and Gaara was the favorite, even by his own odds. He felt no humor in the irony of an Inuzuka being considered the underdog.

"Now I know your foe is considerable, likely one of the strongest Genin here. But I know with my training and your yout-" Even his sensei subtly suggested Kiba was outmatched here. Somehow, he had become the runt of this litter. Kiba knew better than most what happened to them.

"Don't worry so much, Gai; I have a secret weapon! No one in the exam is ready for me now!" Kiba roared with a smile that felt only a little forced. It matched the smile Sakura had given him before they had split up, her to the audience area and him to the contestant area. She had said the right words, wishing him well and saying she was confident in him. Yet Kiba had sensed her lack of faith in him. It, combined with Gai, made him seethe inwardly.

"Confidence goes hand in hand with youth Kiba, but-" Gai started but stopped when Kiba shoved himself by him.

"I don't need youth, Gai; I'm not the weakling you all think I am." Kiba said his fear of Gaara was simply smothered by his hatred of how everyone he felt was looking down on him. Kiba tried to stomp his way into the arena, but Gai grabbed his shoulder.

"I understand your emotions; despite what you may think, Lee and I have been there. So I know you won't back down, so let me offer more practical advice. Use that anger and your youth and hit that monster with everything you have with the intent to kill. Even when you do, it may not work; if he survives, he'll likely defeat you. May even kill you, for the sake of Akamaru, if that unyouthful monster should get a hold of either of you, surrender there and then. Kakashi should step in then; I'll be there shortly after. Otherwise, this may be the end of your career." Gai said seriously, eyes boring into Kiba's back intensely.

Kiba held back a growl but nodded, stomping forward. He was done feeling inferior; he would hit Gaara with everything he had, just like Gai had said. And when he did, and it worked, he would revel in everyone's shattered perspective.

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Naruto's POV (Contestant Area of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Naruto walked back into the entry/exit of the arena, heading back to the stands for the Chunin hopefuls. But as he walked through the dim halls, he saw someone standing in the middle of it. It seemed Gaara had been following and had decided to wait for him. Was it time? Had he chosen not to stay and try whatever plan he had now? It would be bad if he had; in the enclosed hall, Naruto thought even his training wouldn't allow him to do too much. Gaara could merely drown the hall in the sand, and Naruto would have nowhere to go. Naruto steeled himself and drew Riptide from his back; maybe he could cause the hall to collapse if he had to. That may slow the monster down.

Gaara, creepy as ever, silently eyed Naruto as he got closer. Not even flinching at seeing Naruto draw a weapon. Naruto understood it; he doubted Gaara's power that he was ever unarmed. Naruto had prepared himself for their eventual fight; he wouldn't fall here.

"Calm yourself. Your time is soon, but I cannot risk taking you yet." Gaara said simply.

"A risk it would be." Naruto replied stiffly.

"Have you learned anything in the month?" Gaara asked with a knowing tone. Naruto felt his frown deepen. Gaara had indeed predicted it.

"I have." Naruto curtly replied.

"And do you see why we cannot exist with humans as is?"

"No, I see that I have to work harder than others." Naruto snapped, his anger towards the villagers bleeding towards Gaara. How dare he mock him now? Did he think he'd lose his mind instantly or something?

"Ha, you hold onto that false hope. Such keeps you human; you think it's good, but you will need much more than humanity to survive our encounter." Gaara promised as he stalked on.

Naruto would've replied angrily, but something about Gaara's words weighed on Naruto. He growled as he marched on reaching the area. He glanced around before seeing. Shikamaru, Shino, Neji, Yuno, Sai, Hinata, and Lee gathered on the left side of the area, standing near the railing and still waiting to notice him. Omoi, Samui, and Fuu sat in the seats chatting. Samui offered Naruto a wink upon seeing him and Fuu an excited wave. Temari and Kankuro sat in the back by themselves, looking bored. Kankuro seemed to make a small stick figure do an impressively dynamic dance. While Temari busied herself by throwing wads of paper at Shikamaru and Sai. Who were, from Naruto briefly heard from her, on her "shitlist." Shikamaru seemed to dodge these effortlessly, always doing so as efficiently as possible. Sai seemed to think this was a game and patiently let her tee off. Each time Sai was hit, he would attempt to bring the wad back. Temari didn't mind the auto-reload much, either. But Naruto didn't see Ino anywhere. He glanced towards the crowd, figuring maybe she had decided to watch with Sakura, the two being good friends. But he didn't see her anywhere. Before he could ponder much further, Naruto felt someone tap his shoulder. He turned to see Neji and Shikamaru both standing before him.

"Come on, blondie." Neji stated before heading back to his spot at the railing. Shikamaru nodded before explaining.

"Very nice victory there; I didn't even know that scary woman was so strong; she's such a drag. Anyway, the next match is about to start. I have a feeling this will be troublesome." Shikamaru said darkly. Naruto nodded and headed over with them. He hoped Kiba wouldn't die here, maybe even do well before losing. But as much as it hurt him to say, he was sure he would lose. Surely, Kakashi sensei wouldn't let him die. But still, Naruto would be ready himself. He could step in if needed; he wouldn't watch as Kiba would die.

As he gazed down into the courtyard, he saw that the match had begun. Kakashi had hidden his presence, and Kiba could be seen tossing something to Akamaru. Suddenly, the dog turned red, and with a bark and roar from Kiba, they both became beastly versions of Kiba. It seemed Kiba was ready…

Somehow, Naruto knew Kiba was wrong.

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Gaara's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

He watched as the human roared and his dog barked before becoming a merge between man and beast. Gaara supposed, for a human, it was interesting at the very least; he certainly wasn't opposed to becoming less human. Yet their so-called beast mimicry was aptly named. He knew the absolute beast; they were much more impressive than this human's mimicry.

The human weaved more hand signs, seemingly aiming to activate another technique. Gaara supposed he could summon his sand to chase the man around, but he was sure he'd be a squirrely one. Better to go with Plan A. So he merely watched as the human finished his signs; he and his dog were in sync.

"You should've stopped me; letting an enemy activate a technique is a dumb move." Kiba roared as he prepared to set off.

"Maybe for weak humans like you. For me, it makes little difference." Gaara lectured simply.

Kiba roared as he raced forward, activating his technique. "First up, Fang Over Fang!" He roared before becoming a tornado of gray. His dog followed up as both slammed towards Gaara. Gaara did not flinch as a wall of sand intercepted them. Nor did he feel any pressure when both made it through the sand. Close but close didn't matter in this cruel world. He attempted to crush them, though both managed to free themselves by flying back. But suddenly, one of the blurs called out. "Wind Style: Air Platform!" Kiba yelled before he suddenly snapped back even quicker. Gaara growled as an even more giant wall blocked it again. The idiot seemed intent on making this last.

Kiba's thoughts were much more straightforward. 'I can keep this up for one minute. Using Fang Over Fang repeatedly and Air Platform for me and Akamaru is draining. If I can just hit him once, it should finish him!'

Gaara was unaware of such, and it mattered little to him. Kiba and Akamaru slammed into his defenses repeatedly. Searching for an opening and never managing to breach his sand. Truthfully, this was boring. Time to stop playing…

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Ino / Gaara's POV (Courtyard / Constestant Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Ino felt terrible as she sat next to Sakura. Truthfully, she had been elated to see Naruto win incredibly convincingly. But she felt panic at meeting him face to face. She felt too ashamed of her words. She would fix things but insisted upon doing so after proving herself. Naruto was the guy who valued action over words.

At the very least, Sakura seemed to appreciate it, seemingly terrified for her teammate. Ino understood it; she feared Naruto facing Gaara, let alone doing so blindly. Kiba was making quite the showing, smashing into the sand at blinding speed and with jarring impact. Yet Ino could not help but notice Gaara had yet to be hit even after thirty seconds of this.

"Kiba's almost as fast as Lee without the weights!" Sakura remarked. "Why can't he hit this guy?!"

"He's not strong enough…" Ino said softly, predicting it would trigger Sakura's temper. Sure enough, the pinkette sent a glare at her. But Ino pushed forward anyway. "This Gaara guy seems to be on a different level."

"I know…" Sakura said sadly. "But surely Kiba can do something with this new method of attack. He's easily twice as fast." She had helped him train and would feel guilty if it amounted to nothing.

"Doesn't he seem too calm, though?" Ino posed. She saw Sakura's eyes narrow, and she focused intently on Gaara. She was going into her more analytical mode.

"He does seem calm yet tense; he might be channeling chakra? But what for…"

Gaara's POV

Gaara sent a meager amount of chakra into the technique his control was surgical, doing so as efficiently as possible. While the dog boy had been flailing around unable to even graze the redhead. He had been grinding minerals and stone beneath the arena into sand. Best to prepare for the more entertaining bouts later and besides he felt the need for an example.

Naruto and his connection had certainly been a surprise, yet he could not say he had hated it. Yet it had only steeled his resolve. Naruto may have been one with the ability to understand his pain, but he had yet to truly experience it. He could not allow such to affect him. He would show Naruto what his attachment to humanity could cost. With any luck this dog boy was a friend of his.

"Stop your infernal squirming." Gaara said darkly finally locking eyes with Kiba.

The dog boy and his mutt attempted to hit him from behind and the front, a wise move if a simplistic one. His eyes slid to the fast moving dog boy. A hand of sand formed and surged forward with a speed it had not shown so far. It was as if a giant made of sand had decided to slap Kiba. He slammed into his dog both forming a mass of tangled limbs. Both scrambled to get to their feet both realizing the danger.

"Too little too late." Gaara responded. With a mere thought streams of sand burst through the stony ground. It flew into the air until billowing to the ground. It formed a quickly growing pile behind Gaara. Kiba and Akamaru managed to crawl to their feet but it was to little effect. Gaara had already finished his hand seals. "Sand Tsunami." Gaara muttered. The pile behind him had formed into a towering pile of sand. It surged to life at his words, parting around him and forming a hill-sized wave. Kiba and Akamaru didn't seem to wish to try to counter him as the foolish swordsman had earlier. Instead they both took off as the wave came close. They had wasted precious second being shocked, it cost them dearly.

As they both ran to opposite sides of the wave to avoid it they were shocked when hands formed from the wave and grabbed both. Throwing them back into the path of the absurd surge. Gaara watched with bored focus as the two were buried utterly in sand. The massive attack had turned one half of the arena into a desert.

Gaara chuckled as he willed the sand to raise dog boy and the mutt to the surface. Both were covered in cuts and bruises, Akamaru had transformed and seemed to be unconscious. Kiba was conscious and swearing wildly, unfortunately clear that he was barely able to move.

He locked eyes with Naruto once again. 'I will show you.' He thought, no link formed this time yet he was sure the blonde understood. Responding dully with a grim shake of his head.

Gaara formed an idea to make a point.

"Time to finish you dog boy." Gaara said with malice as he raised a hand.

He could see the defiance in the boy's eyes. He seemed defiant even now, as if he was willing die as opposed to surrender. There was fear there but the boy seemed to think his pride was more than his life. Yet his gaze landed on his dog. He shook his head sadly before yelling out:

"I surrender!"

Gaara shook his head, this was no game the boy could hope to win. If it was it wouldn't change anything. Gaara played for keeps. He slowly closed his palm to kill the annoying boy who swore angrily as the sand tightened. Before the true fun could begin Gaara felt a presence fly by him, stopping to glare at him and tap his shoulder. A silent warning, Gaara attempted to speed up his execution but the presence quickly jumped to both strands holding his victim. His hand became a ball of lightning, used with expert precision, to cut his two victims free. He easily carried both to the other side of the field while avoiding sand that attempted to teach them. Gaara felt a ping of annoyance. Who was this man to stop him? He was undoubtedly powerful, too powerful? Before he could make up his mind an equally powerful presence formed behind him. Gaara looked up to see an odd man with a bowl cut before him.

"You lack youth." Gai said darky as he glared at Gaara. "Should you ever attempt to harm one of my wonderful pupils again I'll crush you."

Gaara raised a brow but realized he was outgunned for now. Besides the dog boy was hardly rough the trouble.

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Rasa's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Rasa watched with glee as Gaara easily smashed the competition. He wasn't often thankful for failure, but he was glad the assassins hired in the past had failed. Gaara ensures that Sand's recent problems are solved. It wasn't often a Genin so easily bested another. Though he would have to speak with his son about stirring unnecessary trouble. One would think children would be obedient, yet they often were poor tools.

"Another one of us." Yagura stated with interest. "He was holding back considerably as well."

"It's unlikely my son will be pushed much during these exams." Rasa answered back.

"Ha! He'll be unlucky if he runs into one of mine!" A roared.

"We shall see just how good your men are." Yagura inserted. "They have the pleasure of combating one of my heroes eventually."

"We'll see then waterboy." A muttered.

"It seems my daughter is up to bat next." Onoki comments as he reads the next match.

Kankuro of the Sand VS Kurotsuchi of the Stone

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Kurotsuchi's POV (Entry to Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Kurotsuchi had never been an ordinary girl. Perhaps it had been the explosion of her home that had done it. She had been a young girl playing in her room when one of the walls collapsed, sending fire, metal fragments, and bits of her home flying through the air. The shinobi who had found her in the rubble of her shattered burning home. Had said it was a miracle she had survived. Apparently, her father had managed to grab and shield her. Her mother hadn't been so lucky. They had been one family of many victimized by the random bombings of the missing ninja Deidara. It had filled her with the urge to become a shinobi and ensure such violent men would never hurt her home again.

She was here to prove she was ready for the next level. And all she had to do was beat this Sand shinobi. As she walked into the arena, she saw her opponent walk in at much the same time. She had intended to send him a coy and cocky smile, but to her shock, he already had one plastered onto his face. Kurotsuchi shot her own look back at double her normal intensity.

Kankuro seemed to just smile more cruelly.

"Do I need to go over the rules again?" Kakashi asked.

"Not for me, maybe for Sand for Brains." Kurtosuchi offered.

"Now, girly, no need to get all prissy with me." Kankuro countered.

"Girly?" Kurotsuchi asked, suddenly calm.

"Ya." Kankuro doubled down with a shit eating grin.

"With that grim mistake made, I'll start this match." Kakashi said, sounding jovial. "Begin!~"

Kurotsuchi wasted no time; this pig was going down!

"Earth Style: Field of Earth Vents!" Kurotsuchi yelled as she slammed her hands down. The ground rumbled beneath Kankuro, who wisely jumped back, narrowly avoiding being uppercutted by a man-sized tower of earth with a hole on top of it.

"Gonna take more than that-" Kankuro started before he stopped to dodge as more and more towers emerged from the ground. Soon, it had surrounded the man.

"Are you ready to quit?" Kurotsuchi said, simply staring at Kankuro, who was surrounded by towers of earth just like her. "Because either way, this match is over."

"You got that right, girly…" Kankuro stated with a large smirk. "You see, I don't even need puppets to start the show! Puppet Show: Slicing Ending!" Suddenly, Kurotsuchi heard the sound of wire scraping against stone. She trusted her instincts and jumped into the air, watching as one of the towers fell apart.

'Chakra Strings. While dodging my towers, he must've threaded them around him! Now I'm surrounded by razor-sharp wire that he can control!'

Kurotsuchi had no time to consider further as she desperately dodged the wires that flew past her. She ducked two trips over another. Bounced over another set and dropped to her knees to avoid being decapitated. She drew a kunai and attempted to cut the ropes, but it bounced off uselessly. She dodged further, sweating as she escaped the constant assault. 'Need. Cover. NOW!' Kurotsuchi thought as she skillfully leaned out of the way of death while going through hand signs.

"Earth Style: Earthen Shell!" Kurotsuchi smiled as a dome of earth surrounded her. She heard the sound of wires scratching against the dome, but it was thick and sturdy. It would buy her some ti-

There was a buzzing grinding sound as suddenly the wires seemed to focus on one side.

"No hiding from the puppet show!" Kankuro taunted from outside. He used his free hand to summon several puppets, each a copy of Crow. The Clones flew through the air surrounding the dome. "Go ahead, camp all you like. They'll pepper you with weapons whether you surface within or outside the dome!"

Kurotsuchi's smile grew wider as Kankuro doubled his efforts to expose her. She slowly weaved hand signs as her dome started to fall apart. "Earth Style: Earth Shrapnel." She whispered before slamming palms on opposite sides of the dome. The effect was immediate; the falling apart structure suddenly completely fragmented and flew outward in an explosion, shooting shards of earth everywhere. Kankuro growled as it cut his chakra string and his puppets. Leaving the wooden bits falling through the air and dissipating a fair bit of Kankuro's chakra. "Sorry, but I don't play well with toys!" Kurotsuchi taunted.

"That's fine; these ones can be dangerous. They have small parts!" Kankuro countered as suddenly the arms and legs of the destroyed Crows stopped falling with a click, each revealing a blade. "Show's over! Puppet Show: Human Centipede!" The arms and legs turned blade raced towards a wide-eyed Kurotsuchi before they slammed into her. Her body was littered with puppet limbs. She moaned painfully before suddenly becoming a white substance that hardened, holding onto the puppet limbs like cement. "What the fuck?" Kankuro asked before his mind caught up with the situation.

Kurotsuchi suddenly shot from the ground behind Kankuro. A large smile on her face and one fist coated in stone. She slammed this into the back of Kankuro, who cried out in pain. Sliding forward face down. Kurotsuchi looked at her stone gauntlet as it cracked and fell away. "Sturdier than he looked." She joked as she marched forward towards the downed man. "So you wanna give up before the end or?" She asked him. But Kurotsuchi had no time to react when Kankuro's chest opened up, showing a hollow wooden space inside. The henge hiding the trick faded, offering a sizable scorpion-looking puppet. Before Kurotsuchi could react, two wires from it pulled her in.

"Sorry, girly." Kankuro stated cockily as he walked up to the trapped Kurotsuchi. "Surrender, please. I'd hate to clean out Black Ant."

"Never, make-up wearing freak!" Kurotsuchi yelled from inside the puppet.

Kankuro smirked. "Don't say I didn't warn ya." "Black Technique: M-"

"Earth Style: Gas Vent Release!" Kurotsuchi suddenly interrupted Kankuro who raised a brow before he suddenly smelled something odd. He looked towards the towers of stone suspiciously, but nothing new was happening. 'What was the -'

Kankuro suddenly collapsed, and Black Ant did so as well, releasing a smiling Kurotsuchi.

"Sorry, boy, but it was already over, as I said in the beginning." Kurotsuchi remarked.

"What did you do to me…" Kankuro complained from the ground. "Can't move, poison? No, wait, a natural gas?"

"A unique one found deep in the earth." Kurotsuchi answered. "It's odorless and invisible, so great for fights; luckily, it's nonlethal. Unluckily for you, I have a bit of resistance, so this match is over. You'll be lucky to move in a couple hours."

"Hmm, unfortunate kid. But it looks like this one is over. Match Three of the Chunin Exams is over! Kurotsuchi of the Stone is the winner! A brief recess will be had, and we will continue with the next match. Which will be…" Kakashi looked towards a large board that displayed the next match. "Oh, the crowds are gonna love this. THE NEXT MATCH WILL BE:

SASUKE UCHIHA VS NEJI HYUGA

The crowd, who had been mostly silent, suddenly roared in glee.

Neji and Sasuke, both in the competitor's arena, glared at each other as if unhappy the other was in their way.

Kakashi was sure this next one would be a doozy.