The Hidden Leaf Village pulsed with a strange, almost electric energy. The Chunin Exams, a gathering of young shinobi from various lands, had transformed the village into a bustling hub of ambition and hidden agendas.
Team 7, gathered in their familiar training grounds, found themselves facing Kakashi, whose single visible eye held a knowing glint.
"So," Kakashi began, his voice casual, yet carrying an undercurrent of seriousness. "The Chunin Exams are coming up. Interested?"
Naruto, ever the embodiment of boundless energy, practically vibrated with excitement. "Interested? Sensei, I'm gonna rock this exam!"
Sakura, her expression a mix of determination and nervousness, nodded. "I'd like to participate," she said, her voice firm. "It's a chance to prove myself."
Sasuke, his gaze fixed on Kakashi, remained silent. He knew the subtle game Kakashi was playing, the unspoken pressure to ensure all three members participated. "I'll participate," he said, his voice neutral.
Sasuke was actually interested for exams as his stats has been increasing a lot faster, especially chakra reserves.
(Chakra Reserves : 3640/3640 [Elite-Genin])
"Excellent," Kakashi said, his eye crinkling into a smile. "Then let's get you registered for exams."
_ _ _ _ _
The registration area was full of chaotic symphony of voices and movement. Shinobi from various villages, each radiating an aura of confidence, mingled with the locals, creating a vibrant, almost overwhelming atmosphere. Team 7, navigating the throng, felt the weight of the upcoming trials, the unspoken rivalries that crackled in the air. After completing their registration, they stepped out into the bustling street, Kakashi no longer with them.
"This is gonna be great!" Naruto exclaimed, his voice echoing through the crowd. "I can't wait for the first round!"
Sakura, her gaze scanning the crowd, noticed a familiar face. "Hey, isn't that Konohamaru?"
Konohamaru, his face alight with excitement, came running towards them. "Boss!" he exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration. "You guys are here for the Chunin Exams too?"
"Yeah, Konohamaru," Naruto grinned, ruffling Konohamaru's hair. "We're gonna show everyone how it's done."
Udon, his nose dripping, nodded enthusiastically. "We're gonna cheer you on, Boss!"
Moegi, her cheeks flushed, offered a shy wave. "Good luck, everyone."
As they exchanged greetings, a group of shinobi, pushed their way through the crowd. A tall, imposing figure with a sneer etched on his face, stopped behind of Konohamaru.
"Out of the way, brat," he sneered, his voice laced with disdain. "We don't have time for your childish games."
Konohamaru, his youthful bravado momentarily faltering, glared at the imposing figure. "We're not playing games," he retorted, his voice trembling slightly. "We're just… talking to my boss."
The imposing figure chuckled, a harsh, grating sound. "Boss? You call this… genin, your boss?" He then noticed Sasuke, his gaze sharpening. "And who are you, an Uchiha?" he asked, a dangerous glint in his eyes.
"We are from the sunagakure," kankuro said, his voice dripping with menace. "And we will show you the true power of shinobi."
Before Sasuke could respond, a sudden gust of wind swept through the crowd, carrying with it the distinct scent of sand. A group of shinobi, their faces obscured by sand-colored turbans, appeared, their presence radiating an unsettling intensity.
Their leader, Gaara, a young man with crimson hair and eyes that held an unnerving calm, stepped forward.
"Leave them alone," Gaara said, his voice low and menacing.
A visible tremor ran through Temari and Kankuro, their faces paling slightly.
"Yes, Gaara," Kankuro mumbled, his voice uncharacteristically subdued.
"Let's go," Temari added, her voice barely a whisper.
Temari and Kankuro were visibly shaken by Gaara. This is because of Gaara's unstable nature and the sheer, terrifying power he possesses.
They understand that he is capable of extreme violence, even against them, if provoked. They fear his unpredictable outbursts and the brutal consequences that follow. They are aware of the Shukaku inside of him and are scared of losing control.