Hinata's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
The heir of the Hyuga glanced around the field, noting her surroundings. Somehow and impressively, the host likely aided by shinobi, had utterly repaired the field, filled the tunnels, and removed the sand. Hinata was grateful for such; she felt she would need every advantage she could take. Gaara would likely be the greatest challenge she had faced. The arena was again split between forest and rocky climate separated by the river. So the terrain had not shifted much, another small benefit to Hinata. She knew her surroundings. Gaara was tellingly standing in the rocky section. Hinata knew he intended to refill his reserves by grinding the stone beneath. Just as he had in his faceoff against Kiba. She would have to be quick to land something decisive, before Gaara managed to gain absurd defensive and offensive capability.
Hinata was familiar with the feeling settling over her. It was fear. She had spent much of her life feeling such. Fearing her father, Neji, the elders, and her peers, it was an endless list. One that Hinata had worked hard to escape. She was no longer the meek, weak-minded coward she had been. Hinata had felt she had proven such when she had defeated Sai. Yet now, that progress felt small and not at all noteworthy. What did it matter if she had gained confidence? Confidence would not save her today…
The spiteful bravery and hopefulness that had fueled her left her as she faced Gaara. Gaara's eyes were unreadable, seemingly empty. Instead his green eyes gazed at her amused. As if the man was not about to be in combat. But as if he was about to humor a child with only a thin veneer of patience. The second Hinata locked eyes with the man, one thing was clear. Gaara would kill her should she bother him. No he intended to do so either way. His killing intent was barely held back, yet it still suffocated Hinata.
Hinata's painful and endless training with Neji and Sasuke meant nothing. Her surpassing her limits wasn't a factor. Somehow, Hinata knew without a doubt that Gaara would be the victor. She couldn't see herself defeating him. But Hinata could see Gaara killing her…
"Kakashi Hatake, wait before you start the match," Gaara spoke out, breaking the silence of everyone waiting for the match to start. "She has no intent in fighting me. She knows she cannot best me; I can see it in her eyes. She's a mere human and truly cannot be blamed. Besides, If she dared to fight me, she would die."
Kakashi's expression was unreadable, but he tilted his head to subtly ask. Kind of him to do so in a way that spared her the shame of him acknowledging such.
What would be the correct choice?
Was she truly meant to fight that… monster? Would there be any point?
Gaara was right; Hinata was better off surrendering. She had no doubt he would kill her.
Hinata's lack of a response was louder than she could've offered. Kakashi made to speak but was interrupted by Gaara.
"Ah, such a good little human, you know your place in this cruel world." Gaara said snidely with a knowing smile. Hinata stiffened at those words. "Oh, touch a nerve, woman? See, you are a bore, but… I bet the Uzumaki would be motivated if I hurt a weak little victim like yourself. Hell, even the Uchiha would gun for me… luckily, the little princess will scamper away from the; Big. Bad. Wolf."
Hinata was no fool; he had observed Hinata had a temper from her match with Sai. Gaara wished to motivate her teammate in a future fight by first baiting her, then crushing her mercilessly. Yet Hinata felt shame fill her; was she so hopeless as to allow him to belittle her? Hadn't she changed? Hinata had told herself she would become someone her clan and friends could be proud of? Would they ever be proud of a coward? Was this the change she had fought for? No it wasn't, Hinata Hyuga would not allow fear to rule her.
"Kakashi-san, I wish to continue with the match. I feel no need to surrender." Hinata said, her voice much more confident than she had felt. But a familiar anger filled her body. Hinata lost it once, with Neji defeating him in a spar shortly after his defeat to Naruto. Another with Sasuke allowing her to beat him in taijutsu. And lastly, with Sai, she won then, too. Hinata knew she was outmatched and likely to suffer for it. But Hinata wished to be a woman who would fight when needed. She recognized the anger she had careful maintained before could be used. Motivation for Hinata to surpass her past limits.
"You foolish human." Gaara laughed. "You don't even realize you signed away your life."
"Begin!" Kakashi sounded off, body flickering away.
"No, I just refuse to live it in fear!" Hinata yelled as she charged in at top speed. Gaara did not flinch as she drew near; Hinata suddenly stopped chucking kunai in front of her. Sand popped from Gaara's gourd and flowed forward, forming a floating clump that caught the kunai. Hinata had already dived to his left and leaped forward for a palm strike. But this, too, was caught, the blob splitting in two to block her blow. Before Hinata fully recovered, another strand of sand flowed from his gourd and formed into a spike before stabbing down. Hinata leaped back from such, ducked under a third strand that formed into a hand, and attempted to grab her. She charged forward again, this time adding chakra to her palm.
'Let's test how good this defense is!' Hinata decided as she slammed her palm into the formed wall. "Palm Bottom!". The attack made sand fall and fly from the clump but failed to do much more. Hinata desperately backtracked as the three other sand strands attempted to catch her. 'Maybe that will allow me to get closer. Time to see just how good his defense is!' She sprinted towards Gaara once again; Gaara audibly sighed as two sand strands surged forward to grab her. Hinata only smiled slightly as she started to do a handstand flip towards him. Building up speed with impressive skill. She launched herself into the air, vertically spinning as she did so. Suddenly, chakra covered her entire body. Looking like a cylinder of moving chakra slicing through the air.
"Hebunrīsō!" Hinata cried as the saw-like mass of her slammed through the strands with ease. Gaara merely smiled as such before a massive amount of sand burst from the ground around him. It was roughly the size of a building, and it compressed itself and flew toward the attack of Hinata. It seemed he had managed to already increase his stock. The attack made an awful screech as the spinning chakra sliced through the massive mass of sand. It slowed significantly as it sliced halfway through. Dispersing as it finally managed to slice through the attack. Hinata spun through the air as sand fell like rain around her.
"Poor human," Gaara said with false sympathy as the sand that suddenly fell with Hinata froze before it all converged on the airborne young women. "I'll catch you." As he said, the sand had reformed into its mass with Hinata's head sticking out. Gaara smiled horrifically as he raised his right hand and clenched it. The sand compressed with a shift, but instead of blood and gore raining, there was merely a poof of smoke. Gaara's eyes widened at this, and there was an audible gasp from the crowd.
Hinata allowed her chakra to flow as she prepared her counterattack. Gaara had lost her; Hinata had found her opening!
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Naruto's POV (Contestant Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
One thing that disappointed Naruto was the need for a chance to see what Gaara could do. Kiba had done his best but had been far from able, and the bastard had somehow gotten the bye-round in the second. Tactically speaking, it would've been nice for Gaara to fight someone strong enough to showcase some of his power.
Yet Naruto had hoped it would not be the case. He had hoped he would be the one to face Gaara, bar himself Sasuke or Fuu. Naruto did not wanna see anyone die pointlessly, not to the monster Gaara had become. Naruto's heart had dropped when Gaara snagged Hinata; he had nearly interfered. Luckily, he hadn't, he supposed that was why Neji had asked him to teach him the Shadow Clone Jutsu. Though he had never given him permission to teach someone else… Naruto would let it go this time. Naruto was sure Hinata was powerful. Neji nor Sasuke seemed the type to grant such to someone undeserving of it. But Gaara, despite his relative lack of showing, had a presence he couldn't describe. Naruto swore to step in should Gaara try to cross the line, he wouldn't let his "brother" harm someone else just to prove a point.
Naruto and Shikamaru were leaned over the railing as they watched the match. The proximity made the blonde comfortable due to it enabling his potential interference. And it was excellent for the Nara, who seemed determined to avoid his future opponent.
"If she was smart, she'd surrender." Shikamaru said grimly. Naruto whipped his head over, determined to smack the Nara before a surprising voice sounded out.
"You'd be foolish to underestimate her." Sasuke countered as he joined the two leaning on the railing. "Though Gaara certainly is a considerable opponent, Hinata is at her best when it's rough. She seems to find strength in the face of adversity. If anyone can find a chink in that monster's armor, it would be her."
"Don't get me wrong, she's way braver than me; I'd surrender about a minute in," Shikamaru said with a shrug. "But that freak down there is holding back, even while she's outputting some top-level taijutsu. Unless she changes her approach and can survive him getting serious. I'm all about faith, but logically speaking, she's screwed."
"Sometimes you gotta do things regardless of "logic." I respect her for trying her best even when the odds are against her. Besides you doubted I could beat Neji." Naruto sniped at his friend.
Despite how close they were, they often disagreed on matters like this. Shikamaru had always said he was a cynic and Naruto was an optimist. But Naruto felt he wasn't; he just knew sometimes you had to make work even if it seemed like you couldn't. Shikamaru would learn one day.
"Hn feels weird to say. But "Blondie," as you all call him, is right. One cannot surpass their own limits without testing themselves." Sasuke agreed.
"Say you workaholics, but I think you gotta pace yourself, we only get one life, after all." Shikamaru countered.
"Shut up, Pineapple!" Naruto said excitedly, pointing to the courtyard and ignoring the cries of not you too from Shikamaru. They watched as Hinata attempted her new strategy.
Despite Shikamaru's words, Naruto found himself somewhat siding with Sasuke. While he couldn't see a path of victory for Hinata, he wasn't the one down there. Hinata seemed determined and somehow fearless. Naruto was inspired by it; Gaara may be powerful and seem unsurpassable. But seeing Hinata facing it head on, only made Naruto want to do it even more.
Perhaps it wouldn't even be him to defeat Gaara.
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Ino's POV (Back Corridors of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Ino followed Choza as he led her to scarcely furnished or inhabited halls of the back section of the Iron Arena. She assumed these would be used for storage, but Choza told her they would meet in the storage room. Though the man offered little other info. Ino, on the one hand, did not want to miss Naruto's match. But she was confident in the blonde, and Sakura had forgotten to contact her with updates.
Ino must admit to being somewhat unnerved. Choza was a kind and considerate man, known for his jolly disposition and patient nature. Yet now, he seemed snappish and impatient. Despite Choza's large stature, he walked at a brisk pace that she struggled to keep up with. Ino had tried to pry for details, but the man had simply ignored her.
Eventually, they arrived at a dusty set of double doors. Choza stood in front of them, scanned the area around them, and once convinced of the lack of a second party, muttered, "Kai!"
The doors suddenly looked much less dusty. Instead they now appeared wiped down somewhat, and even having lost most of the dust. Clearly, having been used recently. Choza nodded her in, and Ino walked in awkwardly. The man weaved some signs reactivating the genjutsu to make the door seem undisturbed and closed them.
The room smelled of must and dust; it had been somewhat cleaned. This allowed the group to stand in the room with some level of comfort, the walls had various tags posted to the walls. Old tables rested in the room, seemingly forgotten along with the room itself. On one of these tables rested a younger man with dark hair and a scowl that seemed almost similar to one Sasuke would make. Gai, Sakura's sensei, was also seemingly upset in the room.
"Sorry about the oddness of this, Ino; we gotta be careful now," Choza said apologetically. "Things have… well been complicated now. Luckily, we prepared this room for privacy. Those are privacy seals we have around the room."
"You mean have gotten completely fucked up?" Shisui countered angrily.
"Language." Gai warned with a nod toward Ino.
"Now is not the time for this Gai." Shisui countered sharply. "I think we're at the point where some cussing is the least of our concerns."
"Now, now, guys," Choza said with a sigh. "We're all considerably worried about this. No need to argue amongst ourselves." Ino glanced at the room, the tension and silence suffocating her. What had aggravated these more experienced shinobi? Had things somehow gotten worse?
"Is anyone going to tell me what's going on?" Ino asked. "I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume it's not good news…?"
Gai looked to the side, seeming conflicted and unable to speak. Shisui, someone Ino had always heard Sasuke describe as a relaxed man, was tense and seemingly looking for a reason for confrontation. Though he pointed kept his glare from them. Clearly he was struggling to keep his cool.
Choza seemed to have reached the same conclusion as her, for he sighed and answered for the other two. "The Hokage has decided we cannot make a move or investigate this ourselves at the current moment. Worse yet, he has declared the knowledge of such a Village Secret."
"Wait, a village secret? Isn't that a secret that the village protects harshly?" Ino asked in disbelief.
"Violating such is considered a severe crime; it can result in significant fines, imprisonment, or even a death sentence." Shisui said bitterly. "Mikoto, current head of the Uchiha, and Tsume, head of the Inuzuka, did not take this news well. They intended to raise a fuss and were sent home and are now under supervision. While they were spared the full consequences it was more of a message anyway. Speak out and you'll be silenced. Never thought Hiruzen would do such…"
"Worse yet, the problem has grown." Gai added bitterly. "My beloved students Lee and Sakura went to the fair to inform their friends of recent disappearances. Yet no one claims to have seen them there, and they have not returned. We are assuming they are the newest victims. The Anbu have doubled their presence. And while their primary objective is to ensure no more occurrences, they also are actively silencing the spread of the information. Henceforth, our meeting here. Even the Samurai have seemed to forgotten this room. Though even with Youth are options are limited…"
"So we're supposed to know nothing about our friends disappearing?!" Ino yelled.
"None of us are happy about it…" Choza acknowledged.
"But for better or worse, our leader has deemed this our reaction. It is not all for naught though, I must remind you all… the samurai have assured us they're looking into such." Gai tried to lift the mood, but the silence that followed was damning.
"Perhaps," Shisui acknowledged. "Can they perform the search to the level we would, though? Half of them don't even use ninjutsu. They'll be doing it the old fashioned way. I get they have rules, but we're losing soldiers, and they have no experience in tracking shinobi. Surely, we should insist on involvement."
"Exactly!" Ino agreed indignantly. "We can't sit idly by while our own are in danger merely because the Iron are hesitant." How could the Hokage allow this? Ino had always been told Hiruzen was a fatherly and kind man who valued his people. Why do this?
"I hate to agree with Gai, but there isn't much to do now," Choza exclaimed hesitantly. "If I could tell Shikaku, perhaps we could think of a solution. But until we're home I have no way of doing such."
"Ya, anyway, this was nice, and I really enjoyed talking about how useless we are," Shisui said sarcastically. "I'm out here. My student has a match coming up." There was a poof of air as he faded out of the room.
"I should go as well; clan heads like myself are expected to be present for matches." Choza said awkwardly as he marched out of the room. "I will of course offer information learned and keep in touch. Please do the same."
Gai walked by as well, offering some words to Ino.
"Try to distract yourself for now. Youth will ensure our allies are safe."
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Neji's POV (Audience Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Neji could admit to his heart racing as he watched his cousin battle. When he was first inspired to tutor her, it had been out of greed and pity. Neji had figured he would slowly whip the lackluster woman into shape. Subtly influencing her to be empathetic with the side branch. A time-consuming and uninteresting venture. He had been proven wrong shortly into the arrangement. Hinata had proven capable and adaptive, given her teacher was stern but patient. Worse yet, had proven wise and considerate. Truly recognizing the Side Branch as equals to the Main House. Hinata was truly the future of the Hyuga.
Yet now he watched as the woman he suspected would catch up to him one day raced around Gaara, unleashing a string of her best taijutsu from all angles. The speed and skilly of such would make Neji struggle. Trying to use speed and constant switching of angles to bypass his sand. Despite her efforts, Gaara quickly defended himself without even moving. Hinata's forms were flawless and unpredictable; she frequently changed levels and used gentle fists to ensure even a single blow landed would be devastating. 'Can Gaara be beaten… it's like he's on a completely different level…'
"Impressive; it may seem she is simply charging in, but she is testing just how good his defenses are. I wonder if she'll use that technique?" Sai commentated plainly.
"Sheesh, she hasn't started in earnest, and she's that good?" Tenten remarked. "No wonder you lost to her."
"Indeed." Sai agreed easily. Missing Tenten rolled her eyes at him, missing her attempted teasing. There conversation was amusing, but it did not settle Neji's nerves.
"Gaara is holding back, playing with her; she must try something soon. Before he can take her seriously." Neji added. The other two glanced at the other, then back at Neji.
"Isn't family supposed to support each other regardless of circumstance?" Sai asked.
"I merely wish for her to be efficient to ensure her safety." Neji countered.
"She's not some damsel in distress." Tenten snapped back. "Perhaps she'll surprise you." Sai was earnestly confused and Tenten the spirited woman she had always felt the need to contest his doubt.
"His concern seems warranted." Sai chimed in. "Jinchuriki are a threat regardless of their own skill level. Incredible chakra reserves, inhuman durability, an assortment of unique abilities depending on the beast, they shouldn't even be involved in these exams. I imagine Danzo would have a heart attack."
"That would also contain people like Naruto." Neji pointed out with a glare.
"I think he meant more psychotic ones like the redhead down there." Tenten mediated. Neji pulled back his anger a bit.
"Was what I said ill-put?" Sai asked genuinely.
"More like ill-considered," Tenten amended. "Besides, we all know you're worried Neji, but there's no way Hinata will get killed. Kakashi is down there after all."
"I hope so," Neji said grimly. "Otherwise, I'll kill Gaara myself…"
He may have doubted Hinata before, but she had proven herself to be an heir he should support. Now it seemed that same wonderful woman was now facing a monster. Neji was still determining if even he could best. But Neji was confident he would refrain from sitting idly by and allow the future of the Hyuga to be tainted. And if it did, well he would ensure the cost was great…
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Hinata / Gaara's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Gaara had lost her; the shadow clone had worked! Hinata had found her opening! She wasted no time, the monster before her would surely catch on quickly. She needed to hit him hard and fast! "Gentle Fist: Precise Beam!"
A thin beam of chakra sped through the air at speeds even Hinata struggled to keep up with. Gaara had scarcely turned his head when the beam was an instant away from hitting. Yet a stream of sand burst from the ground beneath him, quickly forming a wall to block the attack. The beam speared through the sand with ease, but the mass continued to grow as the stream continued to flow. The sand was being blasted away and melted as the sand and chakra clashed. Yet the sand seemed to hold solidly. Hinata quickly swung her hand away from the sand, tracking the beam to defend their master. But it mattered little to Hinata, she could change the angle of attack. Undoubtedly, the sand can't protect him from this!
"Gentle Fist: Chakra Pathway Total Shutdown!" Hinata called as she twirled on her feet. The beam followed her spin, slicing through stones and trees as she spun. The first rotation hit the same spot, slicing a line through the blob of sand and nearly hitting Gaara. The redhead glared as a wall of sand reformed and reinforced, constantly being carved into by the beam at various levels. 'He already has made an impressive level of sand! Surely, his gourd can't hold this much. Can he do it even faster than he did with Kiba? I have to throw everything I have at him!' "Don't look down at people! It gives us the chance to surprise you!" Hinata canceled her beam, and Gaara dropped his wall of sand to glare at her.
Three clones of Hinata ran out from various hiding points throughout the field surrounding Gaara who was unaware and utterly focused on his death glare at her. They each formed the familiar handhold as they all aimed at Gaara. The man did not realize the danger as he faced Hinata fearlessly.
"That pathetic attack didn't work the first time, human. Do you believe it will work the second? I believe I'll crush you now." Gaara said with a bored tone. He raised his hand as sand surged around him.
"How about multiple attempts at once?" Hinata asked innocently. "Forgive me for this." Gaara's eyes whipped around as he discovered he was surrounded. "Gentle Fist: Cardinal Convergence!"
Each clone shot off their own Precise Beam. Hinata immediately felt some level of exhaustion, spamming Precise Beam with Shadow Clones, which was draining. But Hinata did not hesitate as she and her clones fired.
The Sand around Gaara formed a thick encirclement around him. The four beams hit, slowly drilling into the sand structure protecting Gaara. But the structure grew and repaired itself, managing to outpace the four chakra beams. Hinata grits her teeth; even now she is too weak?! No… she didn't want to use this in a mere competition, but she recognized Gaara intended to kill her. She wouldn't hold back!
The clones had come to the same conclusion as all four Hinata screamed again in unison. "Gentle Fist: Indiscriminate Beam!" The chakra beams widened, each much thicker before the slow drilling became a loud, quicker motion. Sand melting and flying away at much greater speeds. 'Surely he cannot hold out against this!'
Gaara's POV
Gaara growled angrily as the walls around him groaned as what sounded like a much stronger attack slowly eroded away his defenses. 'It seems these humans are particularly pesty.' His annoyance grew even further as the walls started to glow blue with chakra and buckle. 'She actually can breach my defenses. It may be time to take things more seriously.
Gaara raised his hand into the sky. The ground beneath him rumbled as it slowly rose, propelled by a platform of sand beneath it. Suddenly, Gaara shot up on his ride, escaping as the four beams breached the sand and collided, resulting in an explosion. Hinata Byakugan was not distracted by such and dispelled her clones as she locked eyes with the air-borne Gaara.
This woman was weaker than the Uchiha yet had managed to put him on the back foot somewhat. A feat, even if he was significantly holding back. She was a hopeful fool who had worked hard to get where she was. If only she was a jinchuriki she would be worth something. No matter.
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"Your attack was rather quick, I assume costly, but it's good you realize it will take all your strength to beat me. But I must tell you it is a feat you cannot accomplish. No young human could hope to; jinchuriki like I am above humanity. For daring to assume you could ever is arrogant, a common theme for you humans. I will educate you painfully before your death." Gaara promised as he made a hand sign.
"Gold Dust Manipulation: Seeking Orb" A melon-sized golden orb formed next to Gaara. He saw Hinata seem to prepare to dodge, but it mattered little. When Gaara bothered to use his father's technique, it was because he was done. He could not control massive amounts of it like his father. But controlling a small amount of it was within his power. Besides… with a flick of his wrist, the orb shot off with a loud boom. Hinata could barely even begin a rotation to user Kaiten, forming a thin shield, but the orb smashed through the chakra and into Hinata's back. She coughed out blood as she went flying. Smacking into the concrete hard enough to crack it. She bounced and landed heavily on her back. Gaara watched her patiently as he slowly lowered himself to the ground. Once he saw what looked like a painful gasp of air from her, he smiled. It was always preferable to kill humans with his sand. Felt more personal. But he made an exception this time.
To his surprise, though, the human slowly crawled to her feet. Her clothes and skin were scraped and covered in blood. She had spit out so much that some dripped from her still. Her stance was weak and futile, yet she faced him again as if still ready to fight.
"You truly intend to struggle so futilely? Your strongest attack did little to me, yet you pretend to be a true threat? You realize if I had known the power of that cute little jutsu, I would've blocked it with ease, right? You can not even harm me! Admirable, to be certain, but oh so fitting. That's the problem with you humans… the good ones are weak." Gaara ranted manically. "If you must insist, come try to hit me! Prove you aren't pathetic! But now my counter will kill you." He warned. As he did so, the orb dissipated and formed into a golden sash around Gaara. He wouldn't need it to finish her.
To his shock, the woman didn't hesitate to charge.
Hinata's POV
Her body was wracked with pain. Hinata was sure it was only her will that kept her standing. No, she was running, preparing for a palm strike on Gaara. Was there any point in her struggle? Why did she even try?
"How have you surpassed me, sister! You've become so strong… I hate to admit it… but I acknowledge you as the true heir…" Hanabi had admitted such before the finals. She finally stopped challenging her older sister for the rights of the clan. Hinata knew Hanabi was likely plotting, but for her to even say such…
"Hinata, I hated you for so long… perhaps that is why when my ideology was proven wrong I decided to train you… I never expected you would grow as much as you have now… I am now certain you will be the greatest Clan Head the Hyuga will ever see." Neji had admitted during one of their friendly spars. Acknowledgement from someone she admired…
"Hinata. I acknowledged you. So stop worrying if you're good enough; just prove it yourself." Sasuke had chided her before the exams. Even Sasuke held his belief in her openly…
She fought because she wanted to make her supporters proud. To let them know Hinata Hyuga had grown and would continue to do so regardless of the potential harm. She wanted to prove to herself she had changed. Now she was facing potentially the strongest Genin here…
One blow. Hinata could be proud if she could just show him he wasn't untouchable. A single blow would prove her stronger than most. Prove she tried everything. Make Gaara see her! But how could Hinata bypass his sand… it was sand, not a solid substance, but pieces of various ones loosely controlled by chakra… Could she make her chakra travel through it? She had to try…
"Gentle Fist: Gentle Pulse!" Hinata made up as she unleashed a palm strike for Gaara's chest. As expected, the sand blocked it deftly. Hinata did not flinch even as the sand covered her hand and traveled up her arm. Instead, she focused on flowing her chakra through it. It was a slow and difficult process. The sand somewhat constricting before she achieved it. Her chakra used microscopic spaces between the grains to flow through. She could see it as it did and flowed into Gaara. Take that… she thought as she fell face first. The pain faded as her mind dimmed. Hinata did not even feel or realize she hit the ground.
Gaara's POV
Gaara watched as his faithful sand blocked her desperate strike and wrapped around her arm. Perhaps he would remo-. Gaara stumbled as pain flared throughout his chest. 'What is happening!' He thought as he fell to one knee and spat out blood. 'She managed to develop a technique to bypass my sand… fortunately, she has fallen.' He glared at the unconscious woman as he rose to his feet and spat out blood. "Perhaps that would've meant something against one of you fragile humans. Fortunately, we jinchuriki aren't so feeble."
Kakashi poofed in, observed the two, and turned to address the crowd. Gaara smirked at such, it was all the time Gaara needed; his sand surged, grabbed the defeated human, and raised her into the air. Kakashi whipped around and leaked out killing intent, but Gaara merely spoke to dismiss such.
"You can attempt to stop me if you wish; I will survive your attack long enough to kill her. Even if you manage to kill me, the fall will kill her." Gaara said simply. Kakashi froze, now realizing the situation. Gaara was about to mock the Jounin before Neji and Naruto appeared before him, attempting a joint flying kick barely blocked by the sand. The impact of the duel blows nearly broke through the sand and cracked the ground beneath them.
Sasuke appeared from above using his Besmirched Flambe to free Hinata from the sand. Using Gaara's confusion from the other two to do so with ease. Naruto and Neji slid back as they faced Gaara, while Sasuke dropped her off with Kakashi before facing down Gaara with the other two. Kakashi called for emergency care as the wall of Genin stared at him… he did not acknowledge them for now…
Gaara watched as medical staff carted his victim away as Kakashi appeared in between Gaara and his newest victims. Cutting off the stand off and killing the excitement that flowed through Gaara.
"We're done here." Kakashi stated that his Sharingan was fully exposed and glaring at each of them. "You three, well two anyway, are lucky Hinata was defeated, or the lot of you would be disqualified. He turned to Gaara with a glare. "You almost breached the rules of needless killing, so be thankful. All of you return to your proper positions. Any more unsanctioned fighting will result in removal from the exams and a forfeit of promotion." He lectured to the group, trying to get some peace established.
"No one will stop me from getting my prey next time." Gaara warned.
Neji was already being escorted by security due to being a noncompetitor.
Thus it was only Sasuke and Naruto left, and both furious men promised the same thing.
"If I get the chance, Gaara of the Desert, I will avenge my teammate." Sasuke promised darkly. Gaara may be a monster, but Sasuke was willing to surpass his limits to protect his clan and his friends.
"I'm gonna pay you back for that you bastard!" Naruto said threateningly. The blonde felt anger mixed with determination as he faced Gaara. His confidence was reinforced after the bout with Hinata. He saw the path to victory...
"We'll see." Gaara countered as his body flickered away. Gaara had to; the urge to further encourage violence and his fill there now had almost overwhelmed him. Indeed, it would've been a dream to crush the Uchiha as he shattered Uzumaki's worldview. But it was unlikely to be; he had to wait for now. Gaara knew the chance for a proper fight, the opportunity to shed blood and bleed would come. The monster would have its day…
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Mifune's POV (Kage Box of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
"It appears your shinobi are as impressive as they are disruptive," Mifune said while eyeing Hiruzen.
"They certainly are impressive and care a good deal for their comrades. Though I will readily admit they are… a tad bit overzealous," Hiruzen said hesitantly. As experienced and composed as the legend was, no one missed the tension in his voice. Not a single soul in the room had missed the subtle problem arising. All five villages consistently used the Iron as a neutral ground. They were powerful enough to match any of the five and had no interest in their business. To cause an issue here was to risk the wrath of all four other villages in coordination with the Land of Iron. Cautiously, Tsunade and Jiraiya drew close to Hiruzen.
It was fortunate indeed that Mifune had ample reason to grant him a favor; with a subtle look, Hiruzen asked for it. Seeing the potential to smooth over the most recent issue, Mifune subtly did as asked. A man never hesitated to pay his dues.
"While admittedly against the rules, it was done in response to a potential rule break." Mifune reasoned out loud. It's best to simply let it go. A simple bump in an otherwise fine road."
"Don't let this old fool disrespect you." A countered hotly. "Shinobi under my employ never would've acted in such a way."
"I do hate to agree with this reprobate. But A is not incorrect about the conduct of your shinobi. My heroic lot would also behave within the rules given. In a just society, impurity must be punished. Perhaps a public demonstration is in order." Yagura proposed.
"Eh, while I think action is needed, punishing those snot-nosed brats doesn't get to the root of it." Onoki countered. "We need to address the clear failure of leadership this represents."
"Surely, such is an overreaction." Mifune attempted to soothe the irate leaders. He was meant to mediate here and ensure a smooth exam process. So far, Mifune's exams have been subject to various failures. The unnecessary loss of life, the exposure of a Leaf asset, Ikam's lethal trap, not to mention the multiple disappearances/kidnappings of Leaf Genin.
Indeed, Mifune had performed rather shamefully. The least he could do was ensure he repaid Hiruzen while maintaining peace. "There was no harm or injury, and the fight was clearly finished. It was obvious the Suna Genin had intended unneeded violence and experienced a proportionate response to such."
Onoki sighed but was notably silent. The man had a problem with it but deemed his effort to raise a fuss unworthy. Yagura also seemed conflicted but less angry. It seemed Mifune's words had reached him to some degree.
It was the Raikage that spoke out. Determined to pursue the perceived wrongdoing of the Leaf. "Three shinobi interfering? Two of which doing so by launching a direct coordinated assault?" Hiruzen and Mifune now sighed in union while Onoki and Yagura looked intrigued by his points. "Why don't we ask the Kazekage for his opinion? He holds the most weight as the representative of the victim." The tension grew as the occupants in the room knew the likely result.
Rasa smiled magnanimously as he glanced around the room. Unlike the others, he seemed utterly unbothered by the recent events. In fact, Mifune would say he looked pleased. "I see no reason to raise a fuss. I, as his father, know Gaara had anything but good intentions. The interference to save an heir seems reasonable enough. As for the proportionate response, well, simply put. Even if the remaining contenders were to bound together they would still struggle to put Gaara down. My son was groomed to be the ultimate weapon of Suna. A living demonstration of our true power. I do not mind them doing so, for my son was never in danger. No harm, no foul, as they often say."
The Raikage and Tsuchikage seemed shocked by this. The Hokage and Mizukage also seemed confused and bristled at realizing the Kazekage's confidence. But Mifune merely shook his head, having expected as much. It was a common sight, while the exams weren't something he often saw. The one he did often had a competitor far ahead of the others. A sure in one of the villages would build their reputation up with relatively low risk. This exam's sure bet was Gaara of the Sand. It was difficult to tell if they were lucky…
"So both the victim's representative and the host have agreed this minor inconvenience should be acknowledged as the misfortune it was. Surely, with this in mind, we can let the matter go? Of course, any further violation will be met with a more extreme response." Hiruzen asked the room. The group did not seem happy, but the silence left behind was answered. Besides, four of the Kage had to battle with the knowledge the Kazekage had, in his own words, unleashed a weapon into the exams.
'Is there a shinobi in these exams that can best this monster masquerading as a Genin?' Mifune wondered as the uncomfortable silence in the room stretched on, even as the participants of the next bout stepped onto the field.
Luckily, one of the men was not so affected. And more than eager to bait his rivals into foolishness. Mifune felt his patience wane as Rasa poised his poisonous question.
"It may seem poor taste to ask considering the moment…" Rasa spoke, sounding more alive than he had the entire exams. "But I must admit I find myself curious. We've all somewhat wagered on these exams. Obviously we have the foresight we lacked then. So I wonder, who do you expect to be the victors of the Finals?"
The room was silent as they all pondered the question. Though seemingly innocuous, especially considering their earlier wagers. It was a clever trap of a question. Those who had none of their shinobi involved were slighted subtly and were poised to support the intelligent choice in Rasa. Those with shinobi involved would be motivated to defend them. In the process, risking embarrassment. It may seem juvenile or benign, but it was a subtle way of affecting the other's political weight. Reputation was everything to a Major Village, after all.
"I have faith in my soldiers; Samui will shock you all." A assured with an odd smile. Mifune nodded, unsurprised that A would go with the bold response.
Yagura spoke next, nodding as if convincing himself of what he had said. "As much as it pains me to say such, Gaara will surely win. I simply cannot see anyone besting a jinchuriki of his skill. He is somewhat heroic, I suppose." Mifune sensed there was more to his words as well. But the man had gone the safe option all the same.
Onoki merely shook his head, refusing to offer input. Mifune supposed such was why they called him the fence sitter, often unwilling to move riskily.
"I personally choose the Uchiha." Mifune chimed in. "A man pursuing honor passionately will always find victory." While he disapproved of the actions he had heard of the Uchiha Clan, he could not shame one attempting to regain honor. Redemption was a considerable motivator.
Hiruzen hummed out loud as he considered his options. Sasuke had proven himself to have grown into a considerable shinobi. Naruto had managed to trounce each of his opponents, but Gaara was undoubtedly the most likely to win… no his shinobi would surely prosper. The Will of Fire guided them, and when it came to these principles…
"I would pick Naruto Uzumaki myself." Hiruzen stated confidently.
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Sasuke / Shikamaru's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
The Uchiha stood on the field as he eyed his opponent. Sasuke had faced quite an assortment of opponents thus far. Neji had proven skilled beyond belief and had nearly adapted to him. Fuu had proven to be absurdly powerful, such that it had taken all Sasuke had to even put her down momentarily. He was determined to face Gaara in the future, which would indeed be an absurd undertaking. But this…
Sasuke was never one for gossip or much social activity at all, for that matter. It always made him feel ashamed and useless to spend time doing such. He made exceptions for close friends and family. But Sasuke minded little if he interacted with people. Yet even he had heard rumors of the lazy man before him.
Shikamaru Nara was a man Sasuke had encountered a few times. Ever the hard worker, Sasuke had been studious and skilled throughout the academy. Even when it came to testmaking, the Uchiha was often the top student. But whenever Sasuke looked the Nara in the eyes, it was clear the man was intelligent. Sasuke had observed the lazy way he analyzed the world around him. There was no doubt the man was a genius.
Further evidence of such was the one-sided bout against Suigetsu. As much as it seemed he was a threat to the Nara, he had simply played into his hands. Somehow, Shikamaru had even countered Yuno's impressive Genjutsu with nothing more than pure intellect and quick thinking. Sasuke still knew Shikamaru was no match for him.
"I offer this not as a show of arrogance but as a genuine warning." Sasuke spoke as he did, lowering into a stance as if wielding an invisible blade. "I don't intend to play around with you like the others. I intend to taste victory today. Stand in the way of such at your own peril."
"Real cute." Shikamaru casually replied. "But I'm just trying to get promoted here. Besides, it won't be mortifying even for a slacker like me to surrender. Though honestly, I doubt I can realistically do anything here… maybe I should surrender. This fight has trouble written all over it."
Sasuke frowned at Shikamaru's lackluster attitude. While he recognized the Nara simply realized he was outmatched, he found himself miffed at him taking this lightly. "I suppose you should. You don't seem to be nearly powerful enough to face me." He sarcastically spat.
"Preaching to the choir buddy," Shikamaru replied with a sigh. "Hmm, it would be nice to avoid getting my ass kicked…" At this, the Nara shockingly turned and slowly began to walk away.
"Your whole team must be ashamed to be related to a coward like you." Sasuke spat, now thoroughly annoyed. "Perhaps that's simply the way of the entire team, though." He sniped. In truth, Shikamaru's attitude was not all that wrong. Yet it annoyed Sasuke all the same.
Shikamaru's POV
Shikamaru wasn't the type to do things out of anger. He figured it was simply his "intelligence" breaking down emotions too efficiently before they could settle. But he had always been protective, as lazy as he was. While it would've been much more accessible to allow the victim, Choji or Naruto, to be alone when he was a child, Shikamaru had done so. Easy as it would've been to avoid becoming a shinobi, he had felt the need to lead the clan as expected.
Perhaps that explained the rare surge of anger that shot through the Nara. It made him turn and march before his mind could decide the best response. When he decided the wise thing to do would be to ignore the apparent bait, he realized he had walked over and dropped into a combat stance before Sasuke. His anger buzzed as his mind criticized this decision, but the Nara inwardly shrugged. He may be absurdly intelligent, but he always struggled to make the smart choice when his people got involved. So, despite the fear and dread that filled him, Shikamaru settled into the plan he had kicked around for a while for Sasuke. It was a loose one, but Shikamaru had the supplies and besides. Shikamaru protected his friends… though the first step would be the scariest, enjoyable…
Shikamaru gritted his teeth and prepared himself. "Rich coming from the fallen clan member himself." He said with mock mockery.
Sasuke's Sharingan seemed to be activated instinctively to the insult. "Excuse me?" He asked, his voice the definition of calm before the storm.
"Just that, a clan as low as the Uchiha should know not to mouth off to their superiors." Shikamaru continued with a broad smile that looked alien on the Nara. Sasuke didn't seem to notice, having already buried his fist into Shikamaru's stomach. This plan was a painful drag…
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Tenten's POV (Audience Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
"I'm confused, Tenten," Sai started as he scratched his head. "Shikamaru must know that he cannot hope to best the Uchiha. So why not only face but motivate them heavily? If he's trying to bait him into anger, I believe it's backfired."
"I can't be certain… but I think Sasuke said something that upset him? He doesn't care too much for insults against himself… did Sasuke say something about us or Naruto? Normally, he has some sort of plan, but.." Tenten winced as Sasuke kicked Shikamaru away, only to arrive where he flew and kicked him again. Sasuke seemed determined to beat the Nara with his Ash Step alone. And Shikamaru seemed utterly hopeless to retaliate. "Yet I doubt he did so with nothing; he wanted him mad to throw him off his game. Somehow, he has to find a way to deal with his absurd speed…
"Oh, that is why he asked for those!" Sai exclaimed.
Tenten raised an eyebrow as she remembered Shikamaru had asked her for some seal; it was standard for Root members to learn the basics. "I did so as well. So he's plotting something… come on, Shikamaru. You may seem like a bum, but there's a reason Sai and I acknowledge as our leader."
"It's odd Tenten." Sai remarked. "I know full well the odds are unlikely that he can win. Yet I feel an odd confidence in Shikamaru."
"That," Tenten said with a wide grin. Giddy Shikamaru had felt the need to fight for them. Even when he knew it would likely be for naught. Better yet, Sai seemed to be healing from the emotional damage Danzo had done to them. "It's because we're Team Eight."
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Shikamaru's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Shikamaru spat out blood as he was launched back after a harrowing taijutsu barrage from Sasuke. The ability to teleport at a whim was difficult to counter. If you trained yourself to absurd levels like some of these monsters, you could react with pure speed. Shikamaru had no such ability nor will to gain such. Hell, Neji and, to a lesser extent, Fuu had shown this was countable. Mercifully, perhaps the Uchiha had hurt his fist, punching him, and the beating stopped.
"It's time for you to take back what you said and surrender," Sasuke spoke now, somewhat more in control. "I think I've proven my point."
"I certainly feel inclined to agree. Unfortunately, I gotta stand my ground." Shikamaru said as he climbed to his feet. "In fact, I can turn things around with only a couple of moves."
"Already falling back onto manipulation tactics that is a new low even-" Sasuke stopped as Shikamaru whipped a hand-sized orb at him. With impressive reflexes, Sasuke drew and sliced with his kunai in one motion. It split the orb in two and sent both halves on either side of him. Both halves suddenly exploded with smoke as Sasuke was shrouded in a thick cloud. He coughed slightly before activating his Ash Step to allow him to escape the smoke instantly. Sharingan spun and saw a smoke trail quickly heading toward the forest. 'Using smoke to counteract my Sharingan allows him to safely retreat to more favorable ground. Unfortunately, I can use my superior speed to fish you out!' Sasuke Ash Stepped several times in quick succession to close the distance. He activated Besmirched Flambe as he flew through one cloud in a fury of steps.
Shikamaru flinched as Sasuke flew through the smoke with his blade of flames and nearly landed a blind strike. Shikamaru winced further when he ducked and luckily managed to dodge another. Unseen and therefore unburdened with the audience. Shikamaru dropped to the ground and crawled as Sasuke continued to zip through the clouds of smoke, slashing blindly. Shikamaru sighed as he used another smoke to continue to hide himself. Tenten would surely be furious he was being so wasteful. But if Shikamaru fought the Uchiha head, it would likely only last seconds. He needed more obstacles between them, and the forest was the perfect location.
Before Shikamaru could continue his crawl to safety, his entire body ached as he was suddenly launched through the smoke. His rib ached as he flew through the air. 'Bastard found me. Part two then!'
Shikamaru crawled to his feet again and faced Sasuke. He forced his expression to look frustrated and desperate. Even faked a stumble as Sasuke marched out of the smoke cloud.
"Found you." Sasuke said simply.
"D-damn bastard!" Shikamaru said. "Let's see you deal with getting blown up!" He said as he made a show of drawing a kunai and attaching an explosive tag.
"As if that would ever hit me." Sasuke taunted as Shikamaru threw the kunai. He blurred forward as soon as it left the Nara's hand.
Shikamaru merely smirked as the tag suddenly shined brightly. "Let's see you dodge light." He countered as he covered his eyes. Sasuke could do no such thing as he rapidly zoomed in using Ash Step. But it was no mere explosive tag Shikamaru threw. It was a light grenade one. Said light brilliantly shined, causing Sasuke to scream in pain and the audience to gasp. Sasuke, now blind and disoriented, missed his attempted attack on Shikamaru and instead smashed into a tree bodily. The stunned Uchiha stumbled back, heedless of the approaching Nara.
Shikamaru was never much of a taijutsu guy, but… he swept Sasuke's legs and viciously followed it by smashing the down Uchiha with a dropping punch. Not worried about style but beating the Uchiha unconscious, the Nara didn't bother with style. No, as he mounted the downed Sasuke. Instead, he launched a sloppy but powerful ground and pound landing three whole blows before Sasuke recovered.
Said recovery was Sasuke activating Ash Step. This typically propelled him at massive speeds, letting him virtually teleport. But with him being mounted, it sent the two violently careening towards the forest instead. Sasuke smashed into a tree in a collision that nearly knocked him out. Shikamaru was sent skidding across the ground, landing a short distance away. Sasuke Ash Stepped to close the distance and noticed Shikamaru attempting to pull another tag. Sasuke zoomed in and snatched it from his slow hands. "No more flashes!"
"That isn't a flash. Just needed a second." Shikamaru said with a voice full of pain. He was on edge; he had taken much punishment and landed a minor offense. Yet Shikamaru smiled happily. "Thanks for falling for that bluff; look up if you wouldn't mind."
Sasuke did so cautiously, noticing several floating kunai in the sky; each was carried by what appeared to be a small parachute. "Cute craft's project. Any point Nara?"
Shikamaru offered no response as the kunai in the sky were dropped as the parachutes suddenly freed themselves. They revealed each to be much larger than they seemed and momentarily coated the arena in shadows. Sasuke, wisely knowing such would be less than ideal against a Nara, managed to fire off a fireball to destroy such. But Shikamaru didn't care. "Checkmate. Shadow Possession Successful." He informed Sasuke.
"The shadow was up for a mere second." Sasuke stopped as Shikamaru raised his hand, and he followed suit. His expression grew more bewildered when the two crouched in sync. "How?"
"I can't keep up with you, monster, in this exam. But if I can catch you? Well, it becomes my kind of fight. See, the smokes and flashbangs were merely red herrings. Something for you to fixate on until you give me the chance to set it up. Making you angry only ensured you wouldn't catch onto it." Shikamaru explained. "The kunai parachutes I used are perfected and suited to create a moment. I rigged them to explode the cloth outwards, blocking out the sun for an instant."
"Y-you surely can't possess my shadow that quickly," Sasuke remarked.
"No," Shikamaru said with a shrug. "I didn't have to. Our shadows merged when the sun was blocked. It allowed near instantaneous possession. You're undoubtedly the better man, but I win."
"N-no," Sasuke said as he strained against it.
Shikamaru went to counter such before he realized something shocking. Sasuke Uchiha was twitching. Shikamaru sighed as he focused more of his chakra on it. Only for Sasuke to groan in pain as he somehow managed to twitch. "H-how the hell are you doing this? Even with chakra enhancing yourself, forcing your way out should be nearly impossible!"
"I-I've trained every day for y-years, forgone a social life, dealt with the hatred towards the Uchiha, I-I'm used to struggling with all I have. I-it's all I have. I'm w-willing t-to-d-die for this! ARE YOU?!" As Sasuke finished his decree, he flexed his chakra and muscles and managed to break the possession in an impressive display of force. Causing Shikamaru to fall to one knee and both to pant heavily.
"No, I'm not." Shikamaru panted out earnestly. "Can't believe you escaped that, poured all my chakra into it. You damn Uchiha are something else!" He complained. Sasuke chortled at such. "Anyway, I'm out of chakra and have no interest in any more pain. I surrender." Sasuke nodded at such, showing both forgiveness and respect.
Shikamaru would've responded or cheered but was too busy relaxing on the ground. Unlike last time, Kakashi did not remove them; instead, medical personnel came and loaded him on a gurney.
Kakashi announced Sasuke as the winner, but Shikamaru had no complaints. At least he could rest now.
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Naruto's POV (Exit Hall to Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Naruto stretched his body and relaxed as he prepared for his next match. Samui was different from the opponent Naruto had been hoping for. He would've preferred Gaara or Sasuke. Both of them were dicks he would've loved to smack around. But Samui was a friend, a newer friend, but a friend. It wasn't going to be fun to defeat her. It took work. Ino had come quite a long way, yet Samui had defeated her. Naruto wouldn't let his guard down.
Before he could walk out to the field, he heard a voice call for him.
"Oi, you brat! Your wise and noble Sensei has come to offer three pieces of advice and wish you luck! Be excited to see the enigmatic Jiraiya!" Jiraiya roared as he marched down the hall, locking eyes with Naruto.
"Pervy Sage?" Naruto asked, confused. He had grown rather fond of his temporary sensei during their training, and Jiraiya had even offered him more in the future. Yet he hadn't expected to see him during the exams. The man already explained that he would be on guard duty in the Kage Box.
"I keep telling you, add super, or it isn't accurate." Jiraiya joyfully replied. "Besides, I wasted a favor to come talk to you. Don't exactly get breaks on guard duty."
"Right, thanks, Pervy Sage," Naruto nodded. "You said you had advice or something?"
"Like any good sensei would!" Jiraiya agreed with a prideful nod. "Wanna hear?"
Naruto shrugged his shoulders, which Jiraiya balked at.
"Damn youth so indifferent…" Jiraiya complained with a shake of his head. "Though the wisdom shall breakthrough! The first and second both pertain to the match coming!"
"Woah, I assumed it would be something stupid…" Naruto said, surprised.
Jiraiya flinched but confidently continued. "Your opponent is a unique one! A cloud beauty! Do you recognize such a thing?"
"Um, I mean, I guess she's pretty," Naruto answered, confused.
"She already has you!" Jiraiya bemoaned, full of despair. "See cloud kunoichi are known for their rare beauty! Especially the one before you; it could bewitch you."
"Ahuh."
"It could! See, she has the same refined beauty as your teammate. But with peaks of a much higher level!" Jiraiya ranted.
"Watch it."
"Yes, beware, my dear boy, for she may bewitch you-" Jiraiya could not finish this as Naruto promptly kicked him away.
"You damn pervert, I thought you were being serious!" Naruto yelled angrily at the now twitching pile of pain that was Jiraiya. Naruto sighed at his ridiculous sensei before he slowly marched off. "Damn waste of time."
However, the Blonde did not flinch when Jiraiya reappeared before him. The man often let him and Tsunade land hits but never seemed truly affected.
"Violent student…" Jiraiya grumbled. "I was just pointing it out. Anyway, truthfully came to let you know I'm proud of you and counting on you to win me some money~! We'll go to the club and party, right!" Naruto raised his fist warningly, and Jiraiya chuckled before his game face appeared.
Naruto had learned that he could be serious despite the man's goofy nature when he wanted to. Seemingly switching into a professional at will.
"I did wanna let you know I expect you to win. And tell you something about Tsunade." Jiraiya said simply. "She told me about you two's argument. One that likely is one I'm all too familiar with."
"Yeah, she told Ino some crazy shit!" Naruto replied angrily. "What the hell is her problem?" How could anyone be so defeated? Naruto just couldn't understand it.
"It's a story that isn't my place to tell. A by-product of this cold world we live in. But I wanted to assure you, assure you that she has simply lost her way. Tsunade thinks she merely trying to spare you the pain that broke her. Not realizing she has become jaded and bitter. I've tried to break her of such for years but haven't succeeded yet."
Naruto pondered over this. Was this what tragedy did to a person? Tsunade had lived it, but was her state genuinely living? Was this the future of Shinobi? Surely, Naruto could avoid such.
"I see the concern in your eyes, brat." Jiraiya said with a teasing smile. "I have lived something of a comparable life as well, yet I disagree with her. My point is that when it comes to women, anyone, I guess, you can't always listen to what they say. Instead, consider what they haven't said."
Naruto was confused by such, but Jiraiya pushed him on anyone. "Make us Proud!" He called as he shoved him into the Courtyard. Naruto would have to reflect on Pervy Sage's words. But for now…
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Kakashi's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)
Kakashi watched as Naruto walked onto the field. The amount of pride that flowed through him made him feel as if he was buzzing. Neji and Ino had undoubtedly improved and impressed him. But Naruto had blown his expectations out of the water. Naruto had yet to indeed seem troubled or in any actual danger. Kakashi was confident that Naruto may even be a match for Sasuke or Gaara.
It was painful that his sensei or team weren't here to see the next generation begin. To see the son of Minato shine as brightly as he could. But it mattered little; Kakashi was here. And after these exams, it would be fair to get something nice for the blonde. Perhaps a gift?
His mind focused again, noticing Naruto doing odd stretches, seemingly bored. How long had it been? Where was Samui?