In a large village surrounded by dense forest and towering fences, the genin exam was underway. Academy students were being tested on the leaf concentration exercise, but all eyes were on a single boy in the center of the training ground. A small leaf was firmly stuck to his forehead, unmoving despite the passage of time. The other students watched in awe, while even the examiners exchanged surprised glances.
“How long has it been?” asked one of the examiners.
“It’s been two hours, sensei, and he’s not even sweating,” replied a wide-eyed student.
“That’s enough, Itachi. Thank you,” the examiner finally said, motioning for the boy to stop. Then, turning to the class, he added, “Kids, the leaf concentration exercise is one of the key reasons why Itachi is so skilled at chakra control.”
[That, and the fact that he’s an unparalleled genius,] the examiner thought silently.
Konoha was putting a tremendous effort into nurturing its next generation. The recent war, followed by the Nine-Tail’s rampage, had left the village vulnerable. They were far from the strength they once held, and tensions with other nations were rising. The Hyūga clan had recently been targeted by Kumogakure shinobi, resulting in Hiashi Hyuga killing their head ninja in self-defense. Despite Kumogakure being the aggressor, Konoha had been forced to offer Hiashi’s twin brother Hizashi as a sacrifice to avoid war.
With the village in such a weakened state, the Third Hokage was sparing no expense to ensure the next generation of shinobi would be stronger than ever. It was under his direct request that seven-year-old Uchiha Itachi, already a genin and considered the rising star of Konoha, had made an appearance at the exam to inspire his peers.
“Itachi-san, will you be participating in the upcoming chunin exams?” a girl asked shyly, her cheeks flushing red as her gaze lingered on him.
“Probably,” Itachi replied, offering a warm smile. Then, he bowed politely to everyone as a farewell, leaving the room as gracefully as he had entered.
—
The council was gathered, and Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, sat at the head of the table.
“Are we truly going to cancel the Chunin Exams this year and host it exclusively for our village?” Danzo asked, his tone laced with disdain.
“If other villages use it as an opportunity to cause trouble, we might end up in a situation similar to before, Elder Danzo. I only had one twin brother, after all,” Hyuga Hiashi responded coldly, his words dripping with contempt. He had neither forgotten nor forgiven Hiruzen’s stance during the Hyuga incident, where his family was attacked, and his daughter was almost kidnapped. While Hiashi would never rebel, his respect and trust for the Third Hokage had been nearly eroded.
“I must side with Elder Danzo on this,” Homura said, surprising everyone in the room. Homura was known for his cautious and peace-loving nature, and siding with Danzo was entirely out of character. Eyes widened around the table as he continued, “If we retreat even now, the other villages will only grow bolder. Instead of buying time to recover, we could end up accelerating the next war.”
Hiruzen, clearly uneasy, turned to Shikaku Nara. “Shikaku, what is your opinion?” he asked, hoping the Nara clan head would advocate for the safer option. But Shikaku offered a pragmatic response.
“We need to showcase Itachi Uchiha to the world. It’s vital to restore Konoha’s image by demonstrating that we still have genius shinobi in the younger generation,” Shikaku said calmly.
Even though on the surface what he said made perfect sense, his words carried hidden intentions. First, by highlighting Itachi’s talent, he sent a clear message that Konoha valued the Uchiha, subtly implying trust in Fugaku Uchiha’s innocence. This was no small matter, as the Uchiha had been under suspicion ever since it was revealed that the Nine-Tails was controlled using the Sharingan and the only known Mangekyo Sharingan user capable of putting Nine-tails under Genjutsu was sitting next to Shikaku - Fugaku Uchiha. Second, Shikaku’s plan would force the Uchiha to rely on Konoha. Making Itachi the focus of global attention would turn him into a target for other villages and rogue shinobi alike, ensuring the Uchiha couldn’t isolate themselves. And finally, elevating Itachi as a rising star would shield him from Danzo’s machinations, effectively cornering the elder into inaction. While Shikaku lacked concrete evidence against Danzo, he was sharp enough to sense the man’s dangerous ambitions.
Fugaku Uchiha was far from pleased. He understood the ramifications of Shikaku’s suggestion but had no power to oppose it. Ever since Minato’s death, his role on the council had been reduced to a token position.
“Lord Hokage,” Tsume Inuzuka interjected, her voice bold and direct, “I think a vote is pointless. It’s clear the majority wants to proceed with the Chunin Exams as usual.”
Tsume was against canceling the exams as well, though her motivations were different. Ever since the Hyuga incident, she had openly expressed her dissatisfaction with Hiruzen’s leadership. However, there was no alternative candidate for Hokage—Jiraiya being the only viable option, and he had no interest in the role.
Hiruzen sighed deeply. “Very well. It’s settled. The Chunin Exams will proceed without changes, and all villages will be invited.” His voice carried resignation as he sealed the council’s decision.
<<<>>>
In a dimly lit chamber in Iwagakure, Onoki sat at the head of the table. His small stature was a stark contrast to the commanding aura that filled the room. Authority emanated from him, as unshakable as the mountains he ruled over.
“So, Konoha decided to proceed with the Chunin Exams,” Onoki muttered. He had expected Hiruzen to play it safe. A smirk tugged at the corners of his lips. “It must be Danzo’s influence. It seems Hiruzen has lost support in his council.”
Within Konoha, the Third Hokage’s decision to surrender a jonin to avoid war had drawn ire and disappointment, shaming the village. But outside Konoha, the situation was entirely different—Hiruzen Sarutobi was despised, not for his failures but for his strength. Even in his old age, his reputation as a fearsome S rank kept other nations from setting foot in the Land of Fire with ill intent. The shadow he cast was long and intimidating.
“Are we sending our genin to participate?” Roshi, the Four-Tails’ jinchuriki, asked.
“Yes, we are,” Onoki replied after a brief pause. “And you’re going with them.”
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Roshi raised an eyebrow. He hadn’t expected this.
“I’m not sure if anything will happen during the exams,” Onoki continued, “but I’d rather not take chances. Especially since Akatsuchi will be part of the team.” His voice grew heavier, weighted with the burden of leadership. [There are too few talents in Iwagakure’s new generation,] Onoki thought grimly. [I can’t afford to lose even one.]
The room fell silent again, the weight of Onoki’s decision hanging in the air. He might have been old and small in stature, but his foresight and strategic mind remained sharper than ever. In the world of shinobi, it was never just about strength—it was about survival. And Onoki would do whatever it took to protect his village and its future.
<<<>>>
Sunagakure and Kirigakure also decided to participate in the upcoming Chunin Exams, and like Iwagakure, they chose to send their strongest shinobi to accompany their genin teams.
Kumogakure, however, took a different stance.
“What could Konoha be scheming?” Raikage, A, muttered. While it seemed like he was thinking out loud, his sharp eyes were fixed on Dodai, an experienced advisor, expecting his answer.
Dodai thought for a moment. “I don’t believe Konoha is planning anything outright. However, to be cautious, I suggest we refrain from sending anyone.” He paused. “Considering the humiliation they suffered against us, any action on our part will either be seen as us uncovering a potential scheme or as a blatant display of disrespect. Either way, it won’t harm our reputation.”
A leaned back in his chair, considering Dodai’s words. “Alright. That’s what we’ll do,” he said. “I’m not about to risk the lives of our youngsters for something like this. Kumo has the upper hand right now, and I’ll be damned if we waste it.” A rare smile crossed his face, one of pride and determination.
Kumogakure’s position was indeed enviable. While Konoha had been in the best shape following the war, the loss of the Fourth Hokage during the Nine-Tails’ rampage had severely weakened their strength. Iwagakure, though not significantly weakened by the war, had seen little growth in power, as their new generation was notably unremarkable. Sunagakure was the weakest, with only one S-rank shinobi—their Kazekage—left to hold their crumbling forces together. Kirigakure, though strong, was teetering on the edge of internal conflict.
In contrast, Kumogakure stood tall, its forces and leadership intact, and its momentum growing. For A, the path forward was clear: Kumo would use this time to prepare for the next war, solidifying their dominance while their rivals remained in disarray.
<<<>>>
“What’s the point in not participating? Our existence is already widely known. Shiomura warned us that Mizukage attempted to win them over. It’s clear Kiri is moving against us, so we might as well make our presence known to other villages,” Maki argued passionately.
“Kiri will be hunting us now. Leaving with talented kids would make you the biggest target possible, Maki,” Suiren countered, her usually calm demeanor cracking with irritation. This time she had no support and that angered her.
“Let them come, if they dare. I’m not the same as before,” Maki retorted, puffing out her chest. Her confidence was undeniable. She’d been sparring relentlessly, pestering everyone in the village to challenge her—and she’d won every single time. To be fair, her new technique made her nearly invincible in friendly spars, as breaking her defenses without lethal intent was almost impossible. Even so, it was clear that Maki had become one of Takimura’s strongest.
“So you’re saying you’ll go with the kids?” Meruem interjected. For once, he found himself siding with Maki.
“Yes, I will. Shin is coming too,” Maki said firmly. “Honestly, I’d prefer to take Mei with me since her long-range attacks complement my fighting style, but unfortunately, Mei needs to stay and finish working on her new jutsu.” She smirked as she said this, she was enjoying that she had ignited the competitive spirit in her friends. Shin, though still focused on his students, had grown restless, dissatisfied with his own strength. And Mei, after bringing Uzumaki Yko to the village, had been training like a lunatic, barely pausing to eat or sleep after her humiliating defeat at Maki’s hands. Meruem couldn’t have been prouder of Mei’s progress—and he was secretly grateful to Maki for sparking it.
“Grandma, you’re the only one who disagrees,” Maki continued, addressing her directly. “If we vote, your voice alone won’t be enough to change anything. Why not trust me? You know I’d never put Kaoru’s life in danger.”
It was Maki’s ultimate trump card. Every time a discussion grew heated, she reminded them of her unwavering priority: Kaoru’s safety. Everyone in the room knew she’d risk everything else before putting her brother in harm’s way.
Takimura’s council was more like a family meeting than a governing body. There were no schemes or egos clashing, only genuine concern and love for their people. It was their strength—and their weakness.
Suiren sighed. “Tenma, send an Oinin squad to tail them,” she ordered. It wasn’t an objection, but a compromise, something to ease her mind. This time, even Meruem agreed. While his connection to Akane wasn’t as strong as Maki’s bond with Kaoru, he still recognized Akane as one of the Terumi clan’s brightest talents—and he had Kaoru to thank for much of her progress.
“It’s decided, then. I’ll go tell Kaoru,” Maki said with barely-contained excitement. It was clear that the thought of sharing the news with her brother thrilled her even more than the decision itself.
“Wait, we still need to discuss the matter regarding the Durinu clan…” Suiren began, but Maki was already gone, disappearing in a flash. Suiren sighed, shaking her head with a hint of exasperation. “She’ll never change, will she?” she asked, her voice laced with both fondness and helplessness.
“Don’t worry, Suiren. I can handle it,” Akura reassured her with a chuckle. “I bonded with their leader on the way here—he’s the same age as me.” Durinu clan, the skilled blacksmiths Maki and Akura had brought to the village, was already settling in comfortably. The houses for them had been prepared in advance, thanks to meticulous planning.
Takimura’s layout was carefully designed, with ample open areas reserved for new residential developments and even isolated spots bordered by water canals—perfect for accommodating new clans like the Durinu.
“They’re requesting some specific materials for their work and a proper space to set up their forge and shop,” Suiren explained, moving the conversation back to practical matters.
Akura nodded. “They’ve already been scouting locations near the central market. If we clear one of the empty lots near the water canals, it would be perfect for their shop. The canals would make transporting materials much easier, and the location keeps the noise away from residential areas.”
The council continued to discuss the Durinu clan’s integration, focusing on the resources they’d need and how their renowned skills could contribute to Takimura’s development. While Maki’s impulsive energy was already focused elsewhere, the rest of the council quietly laid the groundwork for the village’s growth, brick by brick.
<<<>>>
“Ru, I’ve got great news!” Maki shouted as she practically barged into Kaoru’s room. Her excitement, however, was short-lived—the smile on her face froze, and her jaw nearly hit the floor.
Kaoru was sitting cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by a shimmering water sphere. Hovering around the sphere were eight small orbs, each a different shape and density. But what truly left Maki speechless was the sight of one of the orbs slowly freezing, its surface turning into solid, glistening ice.
“You... you created a new Kekkei Genkai?” Maki whispered as her eyes widened in disbelief.
**
A/N -
I bet you didn’t see that coming at the end of such a chill chapter, huh? 😏
Oh, and I’m thinking about creating an auxiliary page, kind of like Kaoru’s stat window. It would include his techniques, elements, inventory, and other details. What do you guys think? If it’s not something you’re interested in, I won’t waste time on it! Let me know!
Character Note:
Maki - Disbelief - “So, I create my own Jutsu and this brat creates Kekkei Genkai? The universe is unfair!”
Kaoru - Smug - “What should I create next?”
**