Chunin Exam Finals Begins

In the early morning, the bustling streets of Konoha were filled with people anticipating the finals of the Chunin exams. Additionally, it was a significant day as the leader of Shigaraki was about to visit the village for the first time, a moment that would be witnessed by the entire world. The Third Hokage stood at the gate, ready to welcome her, accompanied by the elders Koharu, Homura, and Danzo. Joining them were the Kazekage and his escorts.

Despite none of their respective teams making it to the finals, the Third Hokage had proactively invited the Kazekage to the Chunin Exam. The primary purpose of this invitation was to put pressure on the leader of Shigaraki. Secretly, they also had ulterior motives—an intricate plan to capture the leader within or outside the village.

After Orochimaru's departure, the Third Hokage, the elders, the Kazekage, and the sand elders had collectively decided that capturing the new, unidentified leader would bring them significant benefits not believe her to have more than Kage Level strength. They sought to potentially hold her hostage, leveraging her for the knowledge of the Shigaraki ninja's sage mode and any information concerning the mysterious creature that disappeared in their village.

The Kazekage, while openly agreeing to the idea proposed by Konoha, decided to adopt a wait-and-see approach. He wanted to genuinely assess the strength of the new Shigaraki leader before taking any action. His determination stemmed from his commitment to serving the best interests of the Sand Village, even if it meant aligning with a different village, irrespective of their existing alliance with Konoha.

As the leaders of the two villages stood together at the gate, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Shigaraki leader, a sudden commotion occurred. The Hyuga Clan head Hiashi Hyuga, a jonin ninja, was utilizing his powerful Byakugan, peered into the distance and urgently shouted, "They are coming!" Hiashi's exclamation caught the attention of the Hokage, the elders, and the Kazekage.

"They are approximately seven kilometers away, and at their current speed, they will arrive in around five to six minutes," Hiashi informed, visibly shocked and slightly pale. He couldn't help but be taken aback by the sheer amount of Chakra emanating from these approaching ninjas, even the ones supposedly at the genin level, especially the leader in the center.

Observing the concerned expression on Hiashi's face, the Third Hokage called him over, hoping to gather more information about what they had seen through the Byakugan. "Hiashi, can you please enlighten us? Is there anything you can tell us before they reach the village?" inquired the Hokage, piquing the interest of the Kazekage and the elders standing nearby.

"Lord Hokage, I can confirm that their leader is an Uzumaki," Hiashi began, his voice betraying a hint of surprise. "However, what's peculiar is that she possesses even more chakra than Kushina Uzumaki herself." Hiashi recalled the person with the most impressive chakra reserves he had ever encountered up until that point.

The Third Hokage grew increasingly concerned as he comprehended the significance of this revelation. He knew that Kushina possessed a unique chakra, even among the extraordinary Uzumaki clan members. Her chakra reserves were unmatched in Konoha, especially due to her role as the Jinchuriki of the Nine-Tails.

Koharu, astonished by Hiashi's statement, decided to speak up, seeking validation. "Hiashi, are you absolutely certain? We all know the extent of Kushina's chakra capacity. Are you truly implying that this woman possesses even more?" Koharu questioned, hoping to uncover a different interpretation.

Unperturbed, Hiashi maintained his stance and replied with a touch of attitude, "I have no doubt in my abilities. Having witnessed Kushina's chakra firsthand and comparing it to what I see now, I can attest that the leader of the Shigaraki ninja possesses a greater chakra pool." His words carried a hint of annoyance, as someone had dared to question the accuracy of his Byakugan's observations.

As the gathered individuals absorbed the revelation about the tremendous chakra reserves possessed by the leader of the Shigaraki Village, the Kazekage's conviction in his wait-and-see approach solidified. Simultaneously, doubts began to creep into the Third Hokage's mind, challenging their prospects of successfully apprehending and holding the Shigaraki leader hostage. He realized that making any move within the village was entirely out of the question.

Seeking to gain further insights into the makeup of the Shigaraki team before their arrival, the Third Hokage inquired, "Can you provide any additional details about the non-genin members accompanying the Shigaraki leader?"

Hiashi proceeded to elaborate, shedding more light on the team composition. "Aside from the returning nine genin and their three sensei, there are also two escorts accompanying the Shigaraki leader," he began.

"The genin possess chakra levels surpassing that of our average chunin, while the sensei boast chakra equivalent to elite jonin. As for the two escorts, their chakra levels are just shy of yours, Lord Hokage." Hiashi's detailed description painted a vivid picture of the considerable power possessed by the Shigaraki team.

As the information sank in, a somber atmosphere settled upon the Hokage and the elders. The realization that every Shigaraki ninja had access to Sage Mode weighed heavily on their minds, due to it increasing the threat level of each ninja. Meanwhile, the Kazekage maintained a neutral expression, staying true to his original wait-and-see approach.

Surprised and taken aback by the evident strength of the small team approaching them, the Third Hokage acknowledged that they needed to be prepared for any scenario—both peaceful or otherwise. Recognizing the need for heightened security measures, the Third Hokage had already mobilized various clans, including the Uchiha, Nara, Akimichi, Yamanaka, Hyuga, and Sarutobi, placing them on standby for potential ambushes. However, given the current circumstances, their primary responsibility would be security.

Directing his attention to Hiashi, the Third Hokage commanded him to notify the other members of the Hyuga clan to be prepared for any situation. However, he emphasized the importance of them awaiting orders solely from him.

Hiashi acknowledged the order and swiftly made his way to inform his clan members. His mind still grappled with the incredible sight he had witnessed through his Byakugan, contemplating the formidable lineup of the Shigaraki ninja.

Turning his attention to the Kazekage, the Third Hokage sought assurance of his assistance in case of any eventualities. He reminded the Kazekage that Konoha had fulfilled their part of the alliance agreement.

The Kazekage, though inwardly disdainful, maintained a neutral expression and responded with a flat tone. He affirmed his commitment, stating that he would stand with the Hokage in their time of need, but advised against needlessly provoking the Shigaraki leader.

Understanding the underlying meaning behind the Kazekage's actions, the Hokage realized that the Kazekage would not support Konoha as the aggressor. It was becoming apparent that the Kazekage was not backing any plans to ambush the enemy.

While the Hokage felt fury, he knew he couldn't voice his discontent now as the Shigaraki ninja were approaching. It was crucial to project a strong front, especially considering that the leader of the Shigaraki was at least on par with a Kage in terms of chakra level.

The Third Hokage fervently hoped that this Uzumaki, Rin, would have knowledge of her clan's relationship with Konoha and willingly join forces in an alliance. They couldn't afford to engage in a conflict within the village, for the sake of its inhabitants' safety.

Rin had set off early in the morning towards Konoha and now stood before the village gates, having sensed the presence of high-level ninja awaiting her arrival. She couldn't help but scoff at the fact that they were awaiting her visit, given that when she was held captive and used by the Grass ninja, Konoha did nothing to aid the Uzumaki clan, except for the one they could exploit.

Upon reaching the gate, Rin was greeted by the Third Hokage and what seemed to be the Fourth Kazekage of the Sand village. However, she felt no fear dealing with these two, already aware of the disparity in their strengths.

"Welcome to Konoha, Rin Uzumaki. As the Third Hokage, I am delighted to welcome a member of the Uzumaki clan to the village they helped create," the Third Hokage declared, attempting to showcase the established relationship between the village and the Uzumaki clan.

"Lord Hokage, thank you for welcoming me to the village. Now, can we commence the finals? I have duties back in my village," Rin responded with a dismissive attitude towards the mention of her clan, indicating her lack of interest in dwelling on it.

The Hokage couldn't help but feel a tinge of displeasure at Rin's attitude, though he kept his emotions hidden. Meanwhile, the Kazekage found her demeanor quite amusing, especially in her interactions with the Third Hokage. Refusing to dwell on it, the Third Hokage spoke once again, attempting to move past any tension. "Yes, I understand you must be busy. Just follow me to the stadium, and we will begin as soon as we arrive," he said, leading them towards the venue.

Upon entering the stadium, the genin remained on the lower level while the three leaders and their escorts were guided to the highest viewing position, where three throne-like chairs had been arranged. The Third Hokage had set this up as a gesture of goodwill, demonstrating that he regarded Rin as an equal to himself and the Kazekage.

Without saying a word, Rin made her way to the nearest chair and took a seat, with her escorts flanking her on both sides. Observing this, the Third Hokage could only let out a sigh and take his place in the center seat, with his escorts positioned on either side. Meanwhile, the Kazekage occupied the remaining chair, accompanied by his own escorts.

Down below, the genin were being overseen by the new proctor, Haruki Nakamura, a civilian jonin ninja. He proceeded to explain the rules of the tournament.

"Alright, we will have five first-round matches. The winners will advance until we have one victor. Anything goes, and the matches only end when someone can no longer fight, surrenders, dies, or if I decide there is a clear winner. Once I determine a clear winner, no killing is allowed afterward. Any act of killing will result in disqualification," Haruki explained, emphasizing his words particularly towards the Shigaraki ninja.

There were only twenty participants remaining in the tournament. Itachi's teammate, Shinko Inari, dropped out following the tragic death of Tenma at the hands of the Shigaraki ninja. This left Itachi as the sole representative from their team. The other Konoha participants also withdrew from the tournament but were swiftly replaced by Root members of special jonin caliber.

This substitution was made to prevent Konoha from appearing weak. The Third Hokage couldn't manipulate the matchups like he did in the preliminary round, but he ensured that Itachi's first opponent would be a Root ninja, showcasing the future of Konoha.

Haruki went over the match order and then instructed those not involved in the first match to leave the area. Itachi had a sense that something was off about this match because his opponent was not who they appeared to be. However, he understood the significance of the village's reputation for the sake of peace. Haruki looked at both participants and asked if they were ready, receiving nods in response. He then positioned himself at a distance from the two fighters, signaling the start of the match.

Itachi, wanting to expedite the battle, activated his three-tomoe Sharingan, carefully observing his opponent. He noticed that they avoided direct eye contact, indicating some familiarity with the Sharingan. The mission given to the Root ninja was to make the match appear impressive for the Hokage, but Danzo also wanted to genuinely test Itachi's strength, so they held nothing back.

Utilizing the skills that set him apart as a special jonin, the Root ninja swiftly moved towards Itachi, releasing a barrage of kunai in his direction. Simultaneously, the ninja began performing hand seals for a wind-style jutsu, aiming to accelerate the kunai towards Itachi.

However, Itachi had received exclusive training from his father, Fugaku, over the past month. With his enhanced Sharingan, Itachi easily surveyed his opponent's actions. He swiftly removed a handful of shuriken from each hand, calculating the trajectory of the kunai and readjusting their positions to evade them. Itachi then mimicked the hand seals performed by the ninja.

Despite starting later, his superior dexterity allowed him to complete the hand signs just as quickly as his opponent did. Both released their jutsus simultaneously, resulting in the cancelling out of each other without causing any damage. The audience in the stands became increasingly excited by the energetic start of the fight, passionately cheering for their favored combatant.

In the spectator booth, the Third Hokage attentively observed the match, impressed by young Itachi's abilities. Curious to hear the opinions of others, he asked the Kazekage and Rin for their perspectives.

"What do you think of young Itachi down there? I believe he has shown considerable skill thus far, and if he continues to impress, he could make an exceptional chunin," inquired the Hokage.

The Kazekage nodded in agreement and added a brief statement, "I concur with Lord Hokage, but I am curious to hear Lady Rin's opinion," and turned the discussion over to Rin.

Rin, unimpressed by the display, didn't hold back her opinion and spoke honestly. "He's competent for a genin, but if he wants to survive, I suggest he withdraw after this match," Rin stated in an indifferent tone, displaying her lack of interest in the fight. She was only here to uphold their village's reputation, and if Konoha were to make any hostile moves, they would have the opportunity to showcase their strength.

The Third Hokage frowned upon hearing Rin's response but still attempted to maintain politeness as he sought clarification. "Lady Rin, if I may ask, why do you recommend Itachi to withdraw? I can vouch for him being the strongest genin in our village," the Third Hokage stated confidently, believing that Itachi could at least put up a fight against the Shigaraki ninja.

Rin took this moment to gaze at the Third Hokage, her voice carrying a hint of pride as she replied, "If this is your strongest, then yes, he will die. I have instructed my ninja not to hold back and to bring an end to the match swiftly." There was a touch of ridicule in her eyes as she locked her gaze with the Third Hokage.

In reality, Rin had not given any specific instructions to her ninja. Kurogiri, with his ever-evolving subconscious mind, controlled the actions of all the ninja under Rin's command. They had always fought without holding anything back, going for quick and lethal strikes.

As the Kazekage witnessed the unfolding events, he became even more convinced that with Rin as the leader, the Sand Village may be able to form an alliance with Shigaraki. In the arena, the battle between Itachi and the Root ninja intensified, with an intense taijutsu clash.

The Root ninja found themselves on the defensive, believing that even if Itachi was strong, he wouldn't be able to keep up with their speed. However, they soon discovered that this assumption was untrue. Itachi not only matched their speed, but he surpassed it, leaving them struggling to keep up.

Unable to match Itachi's speed and constantly having their defenses shattered, the Root ninja attempted to create distance by retreating. While their guard was lowered, Itachi swiftly performed a series of hand signs, whispering, "Fire Style: Giant Fireball Jutsu." Inhaling deeply, he unleashed a massive fireball, over ten feet wide, towards his opponent.

The Root ninja, caught off guard, activated a substitution jutsu at the last moment, replacing themselves with a log. However, they couldn't entirely evade the attack, showing signs of burn damage on their clothing. Despite this, they remained uninjured.

Before they could fully recover, they looked up to find Itachi already focusing his gaze in their direction, making eye contact. This allowed him to cast a genjutsu upon them, seizing control of their senses using his sharingan to cast it.

"Demonic Illusion: Shackling Stakes Technique," Itachi quietly declared as he launched his genjutsu. The Root ninja found themselves trapped, feeling the piercing pain of black stakes penetrating their body. As a special jonin, they possessed enough chakra control to quickly flare their chakra, breaking free from the genjutsu.

After escaping the illusion, the Root ninja felt a kunai pressed against their neck, realizing that they had been defeated. Itachi retracted his kunai and stepped back, while Haruki approached and announced Itachi as the winner of the match. The crowd erupted in cheers, chanting Itachi's name.

The Third Hokage couldn't hide his satisfaction as he watched Itachi's performance. He turned his gaze towards Rin, but noticing no change in her expression, he decided to inquire once again about her thoughts.

"So, Lady Rin, what do you think of young Itachi now? How would you compare him to the strongest genin in your village?" questioned the Third Hokage.

Rin Uzumaki responded with a clear disdain in her voice, "As I said before, if he wishes to continue living, he should withdraw as soon as possible. And comparing him to the strongest genin in my village would be an insult to them."

The Third Hokage and the Kazekage were shocked to hear that Itachi couldn't even be compared to Rin's strongest genin. The Kazekage had to acknowledge Itachi's strength and potential, recognizing that he surpassed any of their genin in the Sand Village. Rin's comment further solidified his determination to earn her favor for the benefit of his own village.

Meanwhile, the Third Hokage was taken aback by Rin's disdainful response. Suppressed anger welled up within him, unaware that Rin possessed the ability to sense his emotions. She took pleasure in his anger and frustration, relishing the power she had to affect him. The Third Hokage continued attempting to win her approval, but it became increasingly evident that she had no intention of showing him any respect.

"Well, in that case, I suppose I should pay close attention when your ninjas participate in the upcoming matches. I'm curious to see just how skilled they truly are," the Third Hokage remarked with a slight undertone of anger in his voice. Rin chuckled to herself, choosing not to respond.

She already knew that the next matches wouldn't take much time, even if they were arranged and the opponents were not genuine genin. Rin had sensed that among the Konoha ninja, only Itachi truly possessed the skills and abilities of a genin, while the others lacked emotion and exhibited an abundance of chakra.

Rin remained unabashed, showing no concern for their opponents as she brimmed with confidence in her own ninja abilities, particularly after flawlessly applying her new seals earlier. As the participants for the next match converged towards the arena's center, a wave of anticipation swept through the crowd.

This impending battle would unveil the true might of the Shigaraki ninja to the rest of the world, as they faced off against a formidable Konoha ninja. It was bound to be an awe-inspiring showcase of the Shigaraki ninja unparalleled power offering the world's first close look at their abilities.