Chakra Wizard
Active member
Awards
They’re finally over! 
This one ended up being longer than I expected, but I didn’t wanna mess up the flow I had going, so I kept this as a single chapter. Also, I dunno for sure what happens in the canon Exams once the matches end, so I improvised this one a little. Shouldn’t be a problem, though*_* lol Anyways, enjoy
Here’s my previous chapters, for those who missed any:
Chapter 080: The Results
As those below marveled at his abilities once again, Airon struggled to maintain the chakra gathering around his feet, having already descended several inches since he attained his current height.
Airon: (Dang it, my footing’s starting to slip already. …I’m gonna have to make this fast.)
He appeared as little more than a glimmer to most of the audience, but the more perceptive shinobi in the crowd, particularly those with special eyes, could notice his slight declines in altitude every several seconds. Naturally, his uncle-in-law was among this group, and he turned to his father to ensure he was, as well.
Itachi: You saw that, right?
Boruto: Just barely. …If he stays up there too long, he won’t have enough chakra left to make the landing.
A soft trembling against his arm alerted Boruto to his wife’s presence, prompting him to shrink away upon seeing her worried expression.
Boruto: I’m kidding, hon. Even if he did run too low, there’s no way Nakama wouldn’t keep him from falling…and we both know she’s more than capable of stopping that from happening.
She took almost immediate comfort in his words, thanking him with a smile before they both looked back up at their son hundreds of feet overhead. Boruto didn’t realize that Nakama was gazing up at him, too, her hands stuffed in her pockets, and an expression on her face that made it fairly obvious saving Airon if he were to fall was the last thing on her mind.
On the outskirts of the Leaf village, Airon and his two rivals gathered at the Third Training Ground for their routine showcase of one another’s powers. This day and the four that preceded it were different, however, as they marked the beginning of the former’s trials to master his most challenging ability yet, and the latter two took it upon themselves to keep a lookout on the off chance that he lost his footing and fell from too great a height. Manako showed little concern for this, as he did for most things anymore, but Nakama was clearly nervous about Airon’s potential injury. This concern took immediate control over her actions when he suddenly began falling from over one hundred feet in the air, her fluttering hair quickly notifying him of her intentions.
Airon: Wait, don’t-
His words never reached her, cut off by a huge gust of wind that broke his fall before slowly dying down, landing him safely on a pillar of earth uprooted in order to catch him. He immediately began protesting once he safely returned to ground level, but Nakama had no intention of acknowledging any faults in her decision.
Nakama: You were falling!
Airon: (He maintained a playful expression as he held his arms off to both sides.) Then just let me fall!
Manako: Airon, you were a hundred and fifty feet in the air.
Airon: So? I would’ve survived that. I was trying to catch myself, though. That was the whole point of this exercise.
Nakama: (She lowered her head as images of his fall played over in her mind.) You almost turned over on your head…what was I supposed to think?
Airon: Hmhm, well, think better of me for one.
She saw no humor in this and kept her head lowered, prompting Airon’s smile to vanish momentarily.
Airon: Nakama, I’m sorry, alright? Just cause I’m usually reckless, don’t think I don’t think these kinds of things through before I do them. I never would’ve attempted that if I didn’t know I would come out of it okay.
When she didn’t look up, he walked over and set his hand on her shoulder, arching his back slightly to align their eyes.
Airon: Hey, look…you gotta get over this whole desire to protect people close to you, alright?
Manako: Airon-
Airon: No, I’m serious. …Look at Manako. I’ve been trying to get him to laugh for almost eight years now and I’m not even close to doing it. And you know what? I gave up trying a long time cause I know it’s just not his thing. Do I try again every now and then? Yes, cause I’m inconsiderate and like messing with him, but I know and respect that that’s a road he hasn’t quite reached the end of yet.
He turned around to see Manako’s reaction, finding to his amusement that he was shaking his head as he glanced off to the side with a smirk. With little change in Nakama’s reaction, though, he only mused over this for a brief second before shifting his attention back to her.
Airon: My point being…helping others is great, and hey, wanting to is even better. …Not everyone needs help, though, and not everyone needs to be protected. And when it comes down to it, that can be a pretty unhealthy habit to have, especially for a ninja. …How long have we been friends?
Nakama: (She looked up at him briefly after he asked this.) …Six years.
Airon: And have you ever known me not to be able to fend for myself?
Nakama: Yes.
Airon: …Besides that time.
Nakama: Yes-
Airon: AND that time.
Nakama: (She managed a smile at last, unable to hold back her amusement.) …No.
Airon: (He returned the smile, proud of himself for wringing it out of her.) Then there you go. I’m not telling to change your mindset, Nakama, cause it’s a great one to have. Just recognize the people who have everything under control, cause it’s the ones who don’t that need your help most. …Always protect the friends you’ve made in this village, but…do give us more credit than the people you couldn’t, alright?
He hesitated towards the end, scouring his vocabulary for the most sensitive means to get his latter point across. Nakama’s lack of a strong emotional reaction showed that it partially worked, but her melancholic expression also made it obvious that her mind had become filled with thoughts of her late parents. Now feeling somewhat guilty, he shied away for a moment before bouncing back with a grin and another smart remark.
Airon: Heh, at least do it for me and Manako. We’re all supposed to be rivals, after all, right?
He waited patiently for her to lift her head and open her eyes again, half-expecting his attempt at humor had failed miserably. He didn’t see the slight arch in the corners of her mouth, a product of her amazement that he could maintain his positive attitude in virtually any situation. When she finally did look up again, it was with bright eyes and the gentle smile she was always known for, both of which Airon repaid in kind as he pat her shoulder gently and stepped back a short ways.
Airon: So, can I make the climb again now or what?
Nakama: (She exchanged amused expressions with Manako before shoving her hands in her coat pockets and turning back to Airon with a smirk.) Don’t expect a gentle landing if you fall.
Airon: (He answered with a grin as he formed a hand sign.) Hehe, like I said, I have it all under control.
Little more than a second passed before the soles of Airon’s feet became lined with chakra once again, at which point he slowly raised one up a few inches, following it with the other once it had found a strong enough footing. His two rivals watched him carefully as he rose higher and higher into the air. Nakama’s hands trembled slightly from within her pockets, but there were no signs of concern from her otherwise.
Her confidence in Airon having grown over the past two years, even the shaking in her hands had since stopped for Nakama, who stood there silently with a look of anticipation. Approximately one thousand feet above her, her opponent searched through his various pouches and pockets in search of more kunai as he struggled to keep up his footing, finding to his disappointment that nearly all of them had been used up at previous points during the match.
Airon: (Two…three…that’s all I have left. …I hope it’s enough.)
His eyes widened in shock as he slipped another five feet closer to the ground before catching himself, signifying the impending depletion of his entire chakra supply. Still needing time to create a strategy, he began reducing the amount of chakra built up in his feet, causing him to slowly drift back towards the ground. Using her Byakugan to confirm this, Inase turned to Manako for his opinion, as he was also watching Airon with his active Sharingan.
Inase: (That doesn’t look good. It appears even he’s starting to catch onto how little chakra he has left.)
Manako: (He’s probably reevaluating his plans right now. …If I’ve learned anything about him, though, it’s that he doesn’t let one minor misstep turn into a long-term disadvantage.)
Inase: (She noted the smirk on his face and smiled in nostalgic amusement as she looked back up at her brother.) (I suppose that’s true.)
His course of action decided and his stamina at its breaking point, Airon stood up straight and took one last glance down at Nakama, waiting until he was certain their eyes were locked before holding his arms out on either side of him, one kunai in his right hand and two in his left.
Airon: (Alright. Let’s make it count.)
He closed his eyes as he tilted his head back, bringing his body along with it as the chakra in his feet vanished, causing him to plummet to the Earth headfirst. For some, this was clearly another display, but for others – including his already worried mother – it was a sign that his chakra was now completely gone.
Inoue: Oh no. He’s out of-
Boruto: (He tightened his hold on her shoulder and leaned his head next to her ear.) No, no he’s not, hon. I can see him. He’s just freefalling right now.
Itachi: It does seem almost a little too sloppy to be a freefall, Bolt.
Boruto: Shudduuuuup…
Not even seconds later, a subtle motion in his right foot caused Airon to begin spinning uncontrollably through the air, but only a select few could see that his eyes remained shut and his face blank the entire time.
Inoue: See!? What did I tell you!? He’s gonna hit the ground and-
Boruto: Inoue, relax. He’s not falling-
Itachi: Bolt.
Airon’s spinning only grew worse with every passing second, prompting a drop of sweat to run down Boruto’s cheek as he watched his descent grow ever so faster. His obvious struggle to balance out his momentum quickly spread the impression that he wasn’t in full control of his situation out to those who previously thought so, even his grandfather finding it difficult not to bite down on his lip. One of the few to remain calm was Nakama, and she smirked in disbelief as he came within ten meters of the ground, allowing her to clearly the smile now etched across his face.
Nakama: (You’re cutting it close, aren’t you?)
Airon: (Hmhm, don’t I always?)
He allowed a kunai to slip from between his fingers as he fell, pushing upwards slightly to diminish some of its momentum before taking another and channeling lightning-enhanced chakra through it, throwing it towards Nakama at blinding speed as his head came inches from the arena floor. A single strand of hair made contact with the earth as he warped back up to the kunai he had previously discarded, which was still a few yards above the ground. This allowed the lightning-charged more time to close in on Nakama, and he waited until she inevitably caught wind of the element flowing through it before teleporting to it. Unable to grab it now that she had full control of the lightning, he threw one of his two remaining kunai, teleporting to it and landing only a few feet away from her before he was forced to grab it and throw it upward to escape the lightning. He kept this up for several seconds, picking up the kunai as he teleported to them and throwing them again, those in the stands divided by either their amazement at Nakama’s latest ability or their concern for Airon now that she had control over the strongest element in her arsenal.
Manako: (He just gave her lightning…you better not lose cause of that, Airon.)
Inase: (She squeezed the railing as her pupiless eyes followed Airon across the arena.) (Come on…)
Kei: GO, AIRON!!!
Unable to maintain his proximity to her any longer, Airon tossed one of his kunai towards the wall of the stadium as the streams of fire and water she had neglected until now came closing in around him, being forced to teleport away again, as a pillar of earth ascended out from underneath him, leaving him now with four elements constantly on his trail. His ability to keep this up despite having dropped below two percent of his original stamina was arguably the most impressive feat so far in the match, or perhaps the entire tournament as some of the Kage watching overhead would suggest.
Chōjūrō: Such amazing technique…from both of them.
Konohamaru: He’s continually gathering up the kunai he tosses so he can reuse them in order to make up for the few he has. …Very clever. And incredible hand reflexes, too.
Darui: And her skill with those elements. I’m almost amazed that he’s keeping one step ahead of her. …That’d be a pretty dull ending if she won just cause he gave her the final element in her arsenal at the last moment.
Hinata: (She involuntarily wrapped herself around Naruto’s arm as she watched Airon warp across the stadium.) (Go, go…)
Naruto: (He managed a small smile as he looked down at her before turning back to his grandson with a tense expression, his hand squeezing the railing almost to the point of denting it.) (Come on, you can do it.)
This silent cheer filled his mind for more than ten seconds as Airon’s exhaustion finally caught up to him. Two surprisingly sloppy throws left his kunai to be consumed by fire and water, respectively as he crashed against a corner of the stadium wall to escape the incoming lightning. As he moved to start running again, though, he found himself pinned against the wall by an enormous breeze as the four other elements gathered around overhead, like a pack of wolves closing in on their prey. He gulped what air was in his mouth as he looked off towards Nakama, whose long hair swayed violently around her, hesitating briefly before smirking and nodding his head to encourage her to go through with the attack. The gesture brought momentary confusion on her part, buying Airon just enough time to teleport just a few meters behind her – to the kunai she had previously extracted her lightning from.
Kurotsuchi: He got her!
Darui: Sorry, Tsuchikage, but the fight’s not over yet.
As Nakama turned around in shock, Airon pulled out his sword and ran forward with as much speed as he could still muster at that point, the distance between them and her other elements coupled with the amount of time it would take to pull out her matches again leaving her with no choice but to use earth in order to stop him. His moves and reflexes as he inched ever closer to her bore striking similarities to those seen in their first rematch nearly eight years ago, and both of them smiled nostalgically in spite of themselves as these images began to overlap one another in their minds. Within the next twenty seconds, both variations of Airon leapt forward past two final pillars of earth, tackling their respective opponents to the ground as those watching their older variants in the stadium marveled at this shocking turn of events.
Konohamaru: He knew she would just leave his first kunai there after draining it of all the lightning…maybe that’s why he channeled his chakra into it in the first place.
Sasuke: (Leaning in slightly to enhance his view of the current situation, he turned to Naruto when it became clear to him.) You see…
Naruto: (He smiled upon noticing it, as well, proud of the match’s apparent outcome.) Yeah…it looks like it.
His chakra now completely exhausted, Airon almost required more strength to keep his sword elevated than he did to hold it up to Nakama’s neck, their faces just far enough apart to prevent his heavy breaths from reaching her face. She mimicked his breathing to a lesser extent, having used more chakra in the past ten minutes than at any other point in the tournament, but to the surprise of most who could see it, even with Airon’s sword against his neck, her face remained completely blank. Airon found out why moments later as he looked around, finding numerous spiked pillars protruding from the ground, all of them hardly an inch away from penetrating his back or sides. Yet another typicality that traced back to their earliest encounters, both of them couldn’t help but smile through their breaths as they locked eyes with one another.
Airon: Huhh…huhh, guess this one was a tie, too.
Recognizing these words from their very first face-off, Nakama giggled softly in amusement as her hair moved slightly beneath her, taking a moment to remove the sweat accumulating on the tip of Airon’s nose to prevent it from dripping on her face.
Nakama: Don’t worry. …I’ll get you next time.
Airon chuckled softly at this before lowering his head, partly in embarrassment for what she just did. Seeing it was taking all his strength just to keep his current pose, Nakama looked off towards the proctor in order to get his attention, finding him already sliding back down to the arena floor and walking in their direction. He allowed a few more seconds to pass as he examined the current situation, smiling and raising his arm up when it became clear the match’s results were indeed what they were.
Baiko: The final match is a draw! The Chūnin Exams are officially over!
The stadium immediately burst into thunderous applause that rivaled that received by the previous match, although both contestants and Manako were rather certain a fair share of their reaction came from Baiko’s latter statement, smiling in light of this collective understanding. Airon and Nakama weren’t given much time to revel in it, though, before the former’s elbows began shaking tremendously.
Airon: Now, you think you can move before I-
He couldn’t even finish his warning before his joints gave away and his body fell flat against the ground, not even possessing the strength to turn over on his back. To his relief, though, Nakama had already sensed this was about to happen and was quick to push the blade of his sword up slightly and shift the ground directly beneath her upwards, moving her out from underneath him beforehand.
Airon: Huhh…huhh…huhh, thank you…
Over the sound of the cheers coming from directly beneath their feet, the Kage took a moment to discuss the final match as they awaited Baiko’s arrival.
Konohamaru: Another draw, huh? …Hmhm, I guess those three really are deadlocked.
Darui: Sorry, but I wouldn’t say that. Whether the last match was a win by surrender or not, the fact he fought both of them and came out with a draw makes it pretty obvious which is them came out on top.
Kurotsuchi: Well, you can’t really say that either, Lord Raikage. They tied because they were both poised to deliver a killing stroke, not from exhaustion or a knockout. We could’ve easily gotten the same result if they were both at full strength, and I’d say the same could be said if she wound up fighting Manako.
Gaara: I agree. …It’s still so difficult to believe. I never imagined we’d see such immense power levels from the current generation.
Naruto: (While most of the others nodded in agreement, he took offense to a select few remarks he heard throughout the discussion.) Hey, what the hell are you talkin’ about!? The last match wasn’t a-
Konohamaru: (He shook his head in amusement as he interrupted him.) Naruto, just let it go. Manako stepped down cause he was too exhausted to fight Nakama and Airon told him he wasn’t. It’s as simple as that.
Naruto: (Struggling to find a retort as some of those around them chuckled in amusement, he eventually shrugged it off and turned back around.) Fine, whatever. …He’s my grandson, too, so I win either way.
Sasuke: (He smiled in amusement as he continued staring down at the center of the arena.) I assumed you always enjoyed the idea of those three being equals.
Naruto: Rrgh, shut up, idiot.
Sasuke: (He stared at him angrily for a moment, dropping it moments later and looking away with a nostalgic smirk.) …That’s my line.
Seconds after their conversation, they were joined on the balcony by Baiko, prompting all the Kage to fall silent as they began their discussion regarding those contestants considered for promotion. Meanwhile down below, the arena had once again been refurbished by courtesy of Nakama, who turned her attention back towards Airon. Still completely drained of his strength, he only barely managed to turn over on his back and look up at his fellow finalist.
Airon: Mind giving me a ride up there? …Huhh…huhh, I kinda can’t feel my legs at the moment.
Nakama: (She thought back to his trials in mastering air-walking before cocking an eyebrow and chuckling softly.) So you’re actually admitting you need help this time?
Airon: (He shut his eyes and smiled in light of her cheeky remark.) …Huhh, whatever it takes for you to…huhh, take me up there.
Accepting this as a makeshift submission, she smiled in amusement as the ground beneath them began trembling, a shallow section of it rising out of the ground moments later. It carried them all the way up to the balcony, at which point Nakama stepped over before allowing it to drift past it and angling it slightly so that Airon slid off and onto the floor, moving it back and allowing it to plummet to the ground once he was off. Both of them were immediately greeted by their fellow contestants as Airon tried to situate himself against the wall nearest the stands, most of them eager to congratulate them for their amazing match. Once a few minutes had passed of this, the chatter on the balcony returned to basic conservation as Kei and Inase finally found an opportunity to approach their brother, the former doing so first with Kūrogane at his side.
Kei: Man, that was awesome, bro!! She had the ground popping out in every direction and then the fire and water and the lightning flying all around you and you were just like running along the walls and not takin’ any of it!! Then that air walking trick, holy crap!! Freaking awesome!! And you didn’t have a lot of chakra and you did the Flying Raijin going every which way and just landed right on top of her!! I can’t believe you managed to tie it all up, that was just…awesome!!
Airon: (Likening his rant to the reaction a young child would have, he lowered his head and chuckled in amusement before looking back up with a smile.) Thank you, Kei. …And I see you’re still hanging around with the traitor.
Kūrogane: (She stared off to the side with a playful smile as he shot her a glance.) Whatever do you mean?
Airon: Ah, save it for the Kage, criminal.
Kūrogane: I just assumed you would’ve done the same thing if it had been her and Manako. Forgive me for thinking you wanted that.
Airon: (He gazed past her at Nakama and then Manako, smirking in amusement upon realizing how correct she was.) …Hehe, yes, that’s probably true.
Kūrogane: (She returned his smile before turning around to find Inase approaching them.) I suppose I’ll let you two catch up now.
Airon: (Noticing her, as well, he looked up and nodded his head in thanks.) Hmhm, much appreciated.
Kei: (He followed after Kūrogane, having clearly misunderstood certain parts of their exchange.) So wait, you gave her the matches, too?
As Kūrogane attempted to explain what transpired to Kei, Inase walked up to Airon, both of them visibly pleased to see the other again. For the former, this look was immediately replaced by a playful expression.
Inase: Man, you look terrible, big brother.
Airon: (Familiarizing these words with his own following her match with Kei, he looked off to the side with a sarcastic smirk.) Hmhm, please, when have I ever looked terrible during or after anything?
Inase: (She smiled briefly in amusement before replacing it with a look of admiration.) I guess that’s true, too. …That was amazing. Both of those fights…just amazing.
Airon: Hmhm, well, you didn’t do half-bad yourself.
Inase: Please, I was up against Kei.
Airon: Whose stronger than you give him credit for.
Inase: But not the level of Manako or Nakama-
Airon: Inase, come on. You know I don’t like being immodest. …You fought exactly as I expected you would…brilliantly.
Inase: (She glanced down at the floor slightly as her cheeks turned pink.) (Thanks…that does mean a lot when it comes from you, big brother.)
Airon: (He smiled as he looked past her, grabbing his sword as he saw who was approaching.) (Hmhm, which is why I say it as often as I can.)
Using his sheath and Inase’s arm strength to stand up again, he bid her farewell before turning his attention towards Manako, who said nothing as he walked up beside him and leaned over the railing, prompting him to grin in amusement as he joined him in doing so.
Airon: What? Disappointed that I didn’t win as the challenge stated?
Manako: (He looked up as if he were giving it genuine thought before turning to him with a smile.) Mmm, I’d say a tie’s as good as anything against Nakama. We all know you’re the only other person who can pull even that off.
Airon: (He grinned at this as he looked off towards the other end of the stadium.) (Hehehe, will we ever not dominate our competition?)
Manako: (He raised an eyebrow and looked at him with a smirk.) (What happened to being modest?)
Airon: (He returned his expression in kind.) (What? I’m not saying anything.)
They shared a laugh at this before going their separate ways, Manako being approached by Nakama for a brief spell while Airon engaged in a more generic conservation with Minto and Taigen for the next several minutes. When said minutes had passed, those on the balcony looked back down at the center of the arena, where Baiko had just recently reappeared in a gust of wind. Noticing that he was staring up at them, Airon looked over at Manako, who did the same.
Airon: Looks like they’ve already chosen the winners. …How’s about we go see who got their promotion?
Manako: (He smiled before looking behind him.) Hmhm, sounds like a plan. …But first…
Airon and Minto both followed his gaze to Taigen, who was already visibly distraught by the whole scenario. Knowing he’d prefer to be alone rather than remain on the balcony with those who didn’t make the finals after what happened, Airon quickly summoned a clone, which kneeled down in front of him with a gentle smile on its face.
Airon: We’ll be back soon, alright?
After receiving a feeble nod from him, he placed his hand on Taigen’s back and the two teleported away, accessibly to Minto’s home for the time being. With this small matter handled, Airon and Minto followed the remaining fifteen finalists through the corridors and towards the arena, where Baiko was waiting with a recently summoned small table, on top of which sat a stack of brand new flak jackets. Once all the finalists had positioned themselves in front of him, he smiled and began speaking, ensuring he was loud enough for the entire stadium to hear.
Baiko: First and foremost, congratulations to all seventeen of you for your splendid performances in this tournament! This is the highest number of finalists ever allowed into the third round of the Chūnin Exams, though I think speak for everyone in this stadium when I say this may very well be the most exciting year in the Exams’ history!
The audience answered this remark with another large round of applause, one a few contestants visibly appreciated as Baiko continued.
Baiko: Now then, after assessing each of your performances, the Kage have decided that eight genin will be receiving promotions today, based on both their prowess in what skills they showed during the tournament and their ability to assess their situations and act accordingly! …When I call your name, step forward to receive your new flak jackets. …Shikaru Nara!
While the new chūnin seemed less than enthusiastic about the promotion, he couldn’t help but smirk and wave back at the audience as they cheered him on, both his grandparents overcome with nostalgia over the whole turn of events.
Temari: Hmhm, no surprise there.
Too lazy to put it on, Shikaru Nara walked back beside Kūrogane and Hitomi with his flak jacket situated beneath his arm, held there by the fact that his hands were in his pockets, as Baiko called the next name.
Baiko: Kūrogane Sarutobi!
Among the spectators, both Mirai and Shikamaru were singled out as taking the time to stand and applaud as Kūrogane walked up to receive her flak jacket, as was her mentor Katame on the opposite end of the stands.
Baiko: Inase Namikaze!
Airon: (He smiled back at her as he patted his shoulder blade, his other hand clutching his sword as a makeshift support for his still exhausted legs.) (That a girl.)
She blushed in embarrassment as she walked past him and Nakama to receive her flak jacket, her parents and grandparents both standing and applauding from above.
Baiko: Kei Namikaze!
Kei: YEAH!! ALRIGHT!!!
Making as big a showboat of himself as he could as he walked past Inase, the additional volume this brought his applause could’ve been either from mutual excitement or pity at how embarrassing it was to watch, something his siblings both understood as they lowered their heads to hide their amusement.
Baiko: Ide Fujita!
The applause continued as Ide walked up to collect her flak jacket, but it had noticeably grown softer, in part because there were only three flak jackets left.
Baiko: Akame Uchiha!
The applause grew ever softer with the newest name called, and Akame exchanged looks with her cousin as she walked past him, who in turn exchanged looks with his two rivals who appeared equally concerned.
Airon: (What the heck’s going on?)
Manako: (…I don’t know.)
Baiko: Minto Sarutobi!
Despite the anticipation that had been building high for him ever since he was accepted to compete, Minto found himself unable to fully enjoy the moment as he exchanged worried looks with Airon on his way to receive his flak jacket. With several noteworthy contestants having yet to be called, many of them began looking around in confusion as collective whispering echoed from the stands.
Inase: (There’s only one flak jacket left.)
Airon: (I’ve noticed. …Is it for me, Manako, or Nakama?)
Nakama: (It must be one of you. You showed off much more diversity than I did, so it must be you.)
Airon: (Then who between us? I’m not being modest. I think we both showed an equal amount of potential in our matches.)
Manako: (…I don’t think it’s going to either of us, Airon.)
He exchanged looks with Airon as the latter looked over at the table, coming to a despondent understanding upon finding that the last flak jacket was not akin to those worn by the Leaf Village.
Airon: (…Yeah…I think you’re right.)
Baiko: …Ryūza!
The clapping continued for the newly announced chūnin, but it had all but boiled down to the most modest of applause breaks as the audience began to realize that many of their favorites would not be receiving their promotions. Among the most obvious of those disappointed by this outcome, Itachi and Boruto sat in disbelief that their sons failed to be called.
Boruto: …Airon…
Itachi: …Manako…
Despite his typical indifference, even Baiko himself was unable to fully contain his own surprise as he dismissed the table with a snap of his fingers.
Baiko: Congratulations to the new chūnin!! We all look forward to your future progress as shinobi!
The audience gave them one last round of applause, but all the joy had been virtually sucked out of the event by then. As the stadium finally began slowly clearing out, the finalists looked around at one another in search of answers.
Kei: What the heck just happened?
Kūrogane: (She glanced over at Airon, Nakama, and Manako as she struggled to conjure up an answer.) …I don’t know.
Minto: Airon, what-
In the process of walking up to him as he asked, he was stopped halfway by an equally disappointed Inase, her hand rested on his shoulder.
Inase: (Just give them some room, alright? …It’d probably be in your best interest to go see Taigen, anyways.)
Minto: (He looked over at Airon in worry before sighing and turning back to Inase.) (…Yeah, you’re right.)
Six of the nine finalists to not be called cleared out of the stadium along with the others, expressing their complaints and disappointments as they left. The other three, however, remained silent and frozen where they stood, catching the eyes of their respective grandfathers – or surrogate fathers – as they, too, made their way out of the stadium.
Naruto: They look pretty peeved down there.
Sasuke: (He shot them one last glance as he followed Hinata and Sakura down to the lower levels.) Let them be for now…it’s better this way.
Naruto eventually nodded in agreement before walking after him, still hesitant to keep silent about the entire ordeal. When another twenty minutes had passed, the entire stadium was finally barren once more, save for the three genin still standing at its center, disbelief and festering malcontent burning in their eyes.
The new chūnin have been announced – but why have the names of the strongest contestants not been called!!?
The End
This one ended up being longer than I expected, but I didn’t wanna mess up the flow I had going, so I kept this as a single chapter. Also, I dunno for sure what happens in the canon Exams once the matches end, so I improvised this one a little. Shouldn’t be a problem, though*_* lol Anyways, enjoyHere’s my previous chapters, for those who missed any:
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
You must be registered for see links
Chapter 080: The Results
As those below marveled at his abilities once again, Airon struggled to maintain the chakra gathering around his feet, having already descended several inches since he attained his current height.
Airon: (Dang it, my footing’s starting to slip already. …I’m gonna have to make this fast.)
He appeared as little more than a glimmer to most of the audience, but the more perceptive shinobi in the crowd, particularly those with special eyes, could notice his slight declines in altitude every several seconds. Naturally, his uncle-in-law was among this group, and he turned to his father to ensure he was, as well.
Itachi: You saw that, right?
Boruto: Just barely. …If he stays up there too long, he won’t have enough chakra left to make the landing.
A soft trembling against his arm alerted Boruto to his wife’s presence, prompting him to shrink away upon seeing her worried expression.
Boruto: I’m kidding, hon. Even if he did run too low, there’s no way Nakama wouldn’t keep him from falling…and we both know she’s more than capable of stopping that from happening.
She took almost immediate comfort in his words, thanking him with a smile before they both looked back up at their son hundreds of feet overhead. Boruto didn’t realize that Nakama was gazing up at him, too, her hands stuffed in her pockets, and an expression on her face that made it fairly obvious saving Airon if he were to fall was the last thing on her mind.
– Two Years Prior –
On the outskirts of the Leaf village, Airon and his two rivals gathered at the Third Training Ground for their routine showcase of one another’s powers. This day and the four that preceded it were different, however, as they marked the beginning of the former’s trials to master his most challenging ability yet, and the latter two took it upon themselves to keep a lookout on the off chance that he lost his footing and fell from too great a height. Manako showed little concern for this, as he did for most things anymore, but Nakama was clearly nervous about Airon’s potential injury. This concern took immediate control over her actions when he suddenly began falling from over one hundred feet in the air, her fluttering hair quickly notifying him of her intentions.
Airon: Wait, don’t-
His words never reached her, cut off by a huge gust of wind that broke his fall before slowly dying down, landing him safely on a pillar of earth uprooted in order to catch him. He immediately began protesting once he safely returned to ground level, but Nakama had no intention of acknowledging any faults in her decision.
Nakama: You were falling!
Airon: (He maintained a playful expression as he held his arms off to both sides.) Then just let me fall!
Manako: Airon, you were a hundred and fifty feet in the air.
Airon: So? I would’ve survived that. I was trying to catch myself, though. That was the whole point of this exercise.
Nakama: (She lowered her head as images of his fall played over in her mind.) You almost turned over on your head…what was I supposed to think?
Airon: Hmhm, well, think better of me for one.
She saw no humor in this and kept her head lowered, prompting Airon’s smile to vanish momentarily.
Airon: Nakama, I’m sorry, alright? Just cause I’m usually reckless, don’t think I don’t think these kinds of things through before I do them. I never would’ve attempted that if I didn’t know I would come out of it okay.
When she didn’t look up, he walked over and set his hand on her shoulder, arching his back slightly to align their eyes.
Airon: Hey, look…you gotta get over this whole desire to protect people close to you, alright?
Manako: Airon-
Airon: No, I’m serious. …Look at Manako. I’ve been trying to get him to laugh for almost eight years now and I’m not even close to doing it. And you know what? I gave up trying a long time cause I know it’s just not his thing. Do I try again every now and then? Yes, cause I’m inconsiderate and like messing with him, but I know and respect that that’s a road he hasn’t quite reached the end of yet.
He turned around to see Manako’s reaction, finding to his amusement that he was shaking his head as he glanced off to the side with a smirk. With little change in Nakama’s reaction, though, he only mused over this for a brief second before shifting his attention back to her.
Airon: My point being…helping others is great, and hey, wanting to is even better. …Not everyone needs help, though, and not everyone needs to be protected. And when it comes down to it, that can be a pretty unhealthy habit to have, especially for a ninja. …How long have we been friends?
Nakama: (She looked up at him briefly after he asked this.) …Six years.
Airon: And have you ever known me not to be able to fend for myself?
Nakama: Yes.
Airon: …Besides that time.
Nakama: Yes-
Airon: AND that time.
Nakama: (She managed a smile at last, unable to hold back her amusement.) …No.
Airon: (He returned the smile, proud of himself for wringing it out of her.) Then there you go. I’m not telling to change your mindset, Nakama, cause it’s a great one to have. Just recognize the people who have everything under control, cause it’s the ones who don’t that need your help most. …Always protect the friends you’ve made in this village, but…do give us more credit than the people you couldn’t, alright?
He hesitated towards the end, scouring his vocabulary for the most sensitive means to get his latter point across. Nakama’s lack of a strong emotional reaction showed that it partially worked, but her melancholic expression also made it obvious that her mind had become filled with thoughts of her late parents. Now feeling somewhat guilty, he shied away for a moment before bouncing back with a grin and another smart remark.
Airon: Heh, at least do it for me and Manako. We’re all supposed to be rivals, after all, right?
He waited patiently for her to lift her head and open her eyes again, half-expecting his attempt at humor had failed miserably. He didn’t see the slight arch in the corners of her mouth, a product of her amazement that he could maintain his positive attitude in virtually any situation. When she finally did look up again, it was with bright eyes and the gentle smile she was always known for, both of which Airon repaid in kind as he pat her shoulder gently and stepped back a short ways.
Airon: So, can I make the climb again now or what?
Nakama: (She exchanged amused expressions with Manako before shoving her hands in her coat pockets and turning back to Airon with a smirk.) Don’t expect a gentle landing if you fall.
Airon: (He answered with a grin as he formed a hand sign.) Hehe, like I said, I have it all under control.
Little more than a second passed before the soles of Airon’s feet became lined with chakra once again, at which point he slowly raised one up a few inches, following it with the other once it had found a strong enough footing. His two rivals watched him carefully as he rose higher and higher into the air. Nakama’s hands trembled slightly from within her pockets, but there were no signs of concern from her otherwise.
– Present-Day –
Her confidence in Airon having grown over the past two years, even the shaking in her hands had since stopped for Nakama, who stood there silently with a look of anticipation. Approximately one thousand feet above her, her opponent searched through his various pouches and pockets in search of more kunai as he struggled to keep up his footing, finding to his disappointment that nearly all of them had been used up at previous points during the match.
Airon: (Two…three…that’s all I have left. …I hope it’s enough.)
His eyes widened in shock as he slipped another five feet closer to the ground before catching himself, signifying the impending depletion of his entire chakra supply. Still needing time to create a strategy, he began reducing the amount of chakra built up in his feet, causing him to slowly drift back towards the ground. Using her Byakugan to confirm this, Inase turned to Manako for his opinion, as he was also watching Airon with his active Sharingan.
Inase: (That doesn’t look good. It appears even he’s starting to catch onto how little chakra he has left.)
Manako: (He’s probably reevaluating his plans right now. …If I’ve learned anything about him, though, it’s that he doesn’t let one minor misstep turn into a long-term disadvantage.)
Inase: (She noted the smirk on his face and smiled in nostalgic amusement as she looked back up at her brother.) (I suppose that’s true.)
His course of action decided and his stamina at its breaking point, Airon stood up straight and took one last glance down at Nakama, waiting until he was certain their eyes were locked before holding his arms out on either side of him, one kunai in his right hand and two in his left.
Airon: (Alright. Let’s make it count.)
He closed his eyes as he tilted his head back, bringing his body along with it as the chakra in his feet vanished, causing him to plummet to the Earth headfirst. For some, this was clearly another display, but for others – including his already worried mother – it was a sign that his chakra was now completely gone.
Inoue: Oh no. He’s out of-
Boruto: (He tightened his hold on her shoulder and leaned his head next to her ear.) No, no he’s not, hon. I can see him. He’s just freefalling right now.
Itachi: It does seem almost a little too sloppy to be a freefall, Bolt.
Boruto: Shudduuuuup…
Not even seconds later, a subtle motion in his right foot caused Airon to begin spinning uncontrollably through the air, but only a select few could see that his eyes remained shut and his face blank the entire time.
Inoue: See!? What did I tell you!? He’s gonna hit the ground and-
Boruto: Inoue, relax. He’s not falling-
Itachi: Bolt.
Airon’s spinning only grew worse with every passing second, prompting a drop of sweat to run down Boruto’s cheek as he watched his descent grow ever so faster. His obvious struggle to balance out his momentum quickly spread the impression that he wasn’t in full control of his situation out to those who previously thought so, even his grandfather finding it difficult not to bite down on his lip. One of the few to remain calm was Nakama, and she smirked in disbelief as he came within ten meters of the ground, allowing her to clearly the smile now etched across his face.
Nakama: (You’re cutting it close, aren’t you?)
Airon: (Hmhm, don’t I always?)
He allowed a kunai to slip from between his fingers as he fell, pushing upwards slightly to diminish some of its momentum before taking another and channeling lightning-enhanced chakra through it, throwing it towards Nakama at blinding speed as his head came inches from the arena floor. A single strand of hair made contact with the earth as he warped back up to the kunai he had previously discarded, which was still a few yards above the ground. This allowed the lightning-charged more time to close in on Nakama, and he waited until she inevitably caught wind of the element flowing through it before teleporting to it. Unable to grab it now that she had full control of the lightning, he threw one of his two remaining kunai, teleporting to it and landing only a few feet away from her before he was forced to grab it and throw it upward to escape the lightning. He kept this up for several seconds, picking up the kunai as he teleported to them and throwing them again, those in the stands divided by either their amazement at Nakama’s latest ability or their concern for Airon now that she had control over the strongest element in her arsenal.
Manako: (He just gave her lightning…you better not lose cause of that, Airon.)
Inase: (She squeezed the railing as her pupiless eyes followed Airon across the arena.) (Come on…)
Kei: GO, AIRON!!!
Unable to maintain his proximity to her any longer, Airon tossed one of his kunai towards the wall of the stadium as the streams of fire and water she had neglected until now came closing in around him, being forced to teleport away again, as a pillar of earth ascended out from underneath him, leaving him now with four elements constantly on his trail. His ability to keep this up despite having dropped below two percent of his original stamina was arguably the most impressive feat so far in the match, or perhaps the entire tournament as some of the Kage watching overhead would suggest.
Chōjūrō: Such amazing technique…from both of them.
Konohamaru: He’s continually gathering up the kunai he tosses so he can reuse them in order to make up for the few he has. …Very clever. And incredible hand reflexes, too.
Darui: And her skill with those elements. I’m almost amazed that he’s keeping one step ahead of her. …That’d be a pretty dull ending if she won just cause he gave her the final element in her arsenal at the last moment.
Hinata: (She involuntarily wrapped herself around Naruto’s arm as she watched Airon warp across the stadium.) (Go, go…)
Naruto: (He managed a small smile as he looked down at her before turning back to his grandson with a tense expression, his hand squeezing the railing almost to the point of denting it.) (Come on, you can do it.)
This silent cheer filled his mind for more than ten seconds as Airon’s exhaustion finally caught up to him. Two surprisingly sloppy throws left his kunai to be consumed by fire and water, respectively as he crashed against a corner of the stadium wall to escape the incoming lightning. As he moved to start running again, though, he found himself pinned against the wall by an enormous breeze as the four other elements gathered around overhead, like a pack of wolves closing in on their prey. He gulped what air was in his mouth as he looked off towards Nakama, whose long hair swayed violently around her, hesitating briefly before smirking and nodding his head to encourage her to go through with the attack. The gesture brought momentary confusion on her part, buying Airon just enough time to teleport just a few meters behind her – to the kunai she had previously extracted her lightning from.
Kurotsuchi: He got her!
Darui: Sorry, Tsuchikage, but the fight’s not over yet.
As Nakama turned around in shock, Airon pulled out his sword and ran forward with as much speed as he could still muster at that point, the distance between them and her other elements coupled with the amount of time it would take to pull out her matches again leaving her with no choice but to use earth in order to stop him. His moves and reflexes as he inched ever closer to her bore striking similarities to those seen in their first rematch nearly eight years ago, and both of them smiled nostalgically in spite of themselves as these images began to overlap one another in their minds. Within the next twenty seconds, both variations of Airon leapt forward past two final pillars of earth, tackling their respective opponents to the ground as those watching their older variants in the stadium marveled at this shocking turn of events.
Konohamaru: He knew she would just leave his first kunai there after draining it of all the lightning…maybe that’s why he channeled his chakra into it in the first place.
Sasuke: (Leaning in slightly to enhance his view of the current situation, he turned to Naruto when it became clear to him.) You see…
Naruto: (He smiled upon noticing it, as well, proud of the match’s apparent outcome.) Yeah…it looks like it.
His chakra now completely exhausted, Airon almost required more strength to keep his sword elevated than he did to hold it up to Nakama’s neck, their faces just far enough apart to prevent his heavy breaths from reaching her face. She mimicked his breathing to a lesser extent, having used more chakra in the past ten minutes than at any other point in the tournament, but to the surprise of most who could see it, even with Airon’s sword against his neck, her face remained completely blank. Airon found out why moments later as he looked around, finding numerous spiked pillars protruding from the ground, all of them hardly an inch away from penetrating his back or sides. Yet another typicality that traced back to their earliest encounters, both of them couldn’t help but smile through their breaths as they locked eyes with one another.
Airon: Huhh…huhh, guess this one was a tie, too.
Recognizing these words from their very first face-off, Nakama giggled softly in amusement as her hair moved slightly beneath her, taking a moment to remove the sweat accumulating on the tip of Airon’s nose to prevent it from dripping on her face.
Nakama: Don’t worry. …I’ll get you next time.
Airon chuckled softly at this before lowering his head, partly in embarrassment for what she just did. Seeing it was taking all his strength just to keep his current pose, Nakama looked off towards the proctor in order to get his attention, finding him already sliding back down to the arena floor and walking in their direction. He allowed a few more seconds to pass as he examined the current situation, smiling and raising his arm up when it became clear the match’s results were indeed what they were.
Baiko: The final match is a draw! The Chūnin Exams are officially over!
The stadium immediately burst into thunderous applause that rivaled that received by the previous match, although both contestants and Manako were rather certain a fair share of their reaction came from Baiko’s latter statement, smiling in light of this collective understanding. Airon and Nakama weren’t given much time to revel in it, though, before the former’s elbows began shaking tremendously.
Airon: Now, you think you can move before I-
He couldn’t even finish his warning before his joints gave away and his body fell flat against the ground, not even possessing the strength to turn over on his back. To his relief, though, Nakama had already sensed this was about to happen and was quick to push the blade of his sword up slightly and shift the ground directly beneath her upwards, moving her out from underneath him beforehand.
Airon: Huhh…huhh…huhh, thank you…
Over the sound of the cheers coming from directly beneath their feet, the Kage took a moment to discuss the final match as they awaited Baiko’s arrival.
Konohamaru: Another draw, huh? …Hmhm, I guess those three really are deadlocked.
Darui: Sorry, but I wouldn’t say that. Whether the last match was a win by surrender or not, the fact he fought both of them and came out with a draw makes it pretty obvious which is them came out on top.
Kurotsuchi: Well, you can’t really say that either, Lord Raikage. They tied because they were both poised to deliver a killing stroke, not from exhaustion or a knockout. We could’ve easily gotten the same result if they were both at full strength, and I’d say the same could be said if she wound up fighting Manako.
Gaara: I agree. …It’s still so difficult to believe. I never imagined we’d see such immense power levels from the current generation.
Naruto: (While most of the others nodded in agreement, he took offense to a select few remarks he heard throughout the discussion.) Hey, what the hell are you talkin’ about!? The last match wasn’t a-
Konohamaru: (He shook his head in amusement as he interrupted him.) Naruto, just let it go. Manako stepped down cause he was too exhausted to fight Nakama and Airon told him he wasn’t. It’s as simple as that.
Naruto: (Struggling to find a retort as some of those around them chuckled in amusement, he eventually shrugged it off and turned back around.) Fine, whatever. …He’s my grandson, too, so I win either way.
Sasuke: (He smiled in amusement as he continued staring down at the center of the arena.) I assumed you always enjoyed the idea of those three being equals.
Naruto: Rrgh, shut up, idiot.
Sasuke: (He stared at him angrily for a moment, dropping it moments later and looking away with a nostalgic smirk.) …That’s my line.
Seconds after their conversation, they were joined on the balcony by Baiko, prompting all the Kage to fall silent as they began their discussion regarding those contestants considered for promotion. Meanwhile down below, the arena had once again been refurbished by courtesy of Nakama, who turned her attention back towards Airon. Still completely drained of his strength, he only barely managed to turn over on his back and look up at his fellow finalist.
Airon: Mind giving me a ride up there? …Huhh…huhh, I kinda can’t feel my legs at the moment.
Nakama: (She thought back to his trials in mastering air-walking before cocking an eyebrow and chuckling softly.) So you’re actually admitting you need help this time?
Airon: (He shut his eyes and smiled in light of her cheeky remark.) …Huhh, whatever it takes for you to…huhh, take me up there.
Accepting this as a makeshift submission, she smiled in amusement as the ground beneath them began trembling, a shallow section of it rising out of the ground moments later. It carried them all the way up to the balcony, at which point Nakama stepped over before allowing it to drift past it and angling it slightly so that Airon slid off and onto the floor, moving it back and allowing it to plummet to the ground once he was off. Both of them were immediately greeted by their fellow contestants as Airon tried to situate himself against the wall nearest the stands, most of them eager to congratulate them for their amazing match. Once a few minutes had passed of this, the chatter on the balcony returned to basic conservation as Kei and Inase finally found an opportunity to approach their brother, the former doing so first with Kūrogane at his side.
Kei: Man, that was awesome, bro!! She had the ground popping out in every direction and then the fire and water and the lightning flying all around you and you were just like running along the walls and not takin’ any of it!! Then that air walking trick, holy crap!! Freaking awesome!! And you didn’t have a lot of chakra and you did the Flying Raijin going every which way and just landed right on top of her!! I can’t believe you managed to tie it all up, that was just…awesome!!
Airon: (Likening his rant to the reaction a young child would have, he lowered his head and chuckled in amusement before looking back up with a smile.) Thank you, Kei. …And I see you’re still hanging around with the traitor.
Kūrogane: (She stared off to the side with a playful smile as he shot her a glance.) Whatever do you mean?
Airon: Ah, save it for the Kage, criminal.
Kūrogane: I just assumed you would’ve done the same thing if it had been her and Manako. Forgive me for thinking you wanted that.
Airon: (He gazed past her at Nakama and then Manako, smirking in amusement upon realizing how correct she was.) …Hehe, yes, that’s probably true.
Kūrogane: (She returned his smile before turning around to find Inase approaching them.) I suppose I’ll let you two catch up now.
Airon: (Noticing her, as well, he looked up and nodded his head in thanks.) Hmhm, much appreciated.
Kei: (He followed after Kūrogane, having clearly misunderstood certain parts of their exchange.) So wait, you gave her the matches, too?
As Kūrogane attempted to explain what transpired to Kei, Inase walked up to Airon, both of them visibly pleased to see the other again. For the former, this look was immediately replaced by a playful expression.
Inase: Man, you look terrible, big brother.
Airon: (Familiarizing these words with his own following her match with Kei, he looked off to the side with a sarcastic smirk.) Hmhm, please, when have I ever looked terrible during or after anything?
Inase: (She smiled briefly in amusement before replacing it with a look of admiration.) I guess that’s true, too. …That was amazing. Both of those fights…just amazing.
Airon: Hmhm, well, you didn’t do half-bad yourself.
Inase: Please, I was up against Kei.
Airon: Whose stronger than you give him credit for.
Inase: But not the level of Manako or Nakama-
Airon: Inase, come on. You know I don’t like being immodest. …You fought exactly as I expected you would…brilliantly.
Inase: (She glanced down at the floor slightly as her cheeks turned pink.) (Thanks…that does mean a lot when it comes from you, big brother.)
Airon: (He smiled as he looked past her, grabbing his sword as he saw who was approaching.) (Hmhm, which is why I say it as often as I can.)
Using his sheath and Inase’s arm strength to stand up again, he bid her farewell before turning his attention towards Manako, who said nothing as he walked up beside him and leaned over the railing, prompting him to grin in amusement as he joined him in doing so.
Airon: What? Disappointed that I didn’t win as the challenge stated?
Manako: (He looked up as if he were giving it genuine thought before turning to him with a smile.) Mmm, I’d say a tie’s as good as anything against Nakama. We all know you’re the only other person who can pull even that off.
Airon: (He grinned at this as he looked off towards the other end of the stadium.) (Hehehe, will we ever not dominate our competition?)
Manako: (He raised an eyebrow and looked at him with a smirk.) (What happened to being modest?)
Airon: (He returned his expression in kind.) (What? I’m not saying anything.)
They shared a laugh at this before going their separate ways, Manako being approached by Nakama for a brief spell while Airon engaged in a more generic conservation with Minto and Taigen for the next several minutes. When said minutes had passed, those on the balcony looked back down at the center of the arena, where Baiko had just recently reappeared in a gust of wind. Noticing that he was staring up at them, Airon looked over at Manako, who did the same.
Airon: Looks like they’ve already chosen the winners. …How’s about we go see who got their promotion?
Manako: (He smiled before looking behind him.) Hmhm, sounds like a plan. …But first…
Airon and Minto both followed his gaze to Taigen, who was already visibly distraught by the whole scenario. Knowing he’d prefer to be alone rather than remain on the balcony with those who didn’t make the finals after what happened, Airon quickly summoned a clone, which kneeled down in front of him with a gentle smile on its face.
Airon: We’ll be back soon, alright?
After receiving a feeble nod from him, he placed his hand on Taigen’s back and the two teleported away, accessibly to Minto’s home for the time being. With this small matter handled, Airon and Minto followed the remaining fifteen finalists through the corridors and towards the arena, where Baiko was waiting with a recently summoned small table, on top of which sat a stack of brand new flak jackets. Once all the finalists had positioned themselves in front of him, he smiled and began speaking, ensuring he was loud enough for the entire stadium to hear.
Baiko: First and foremost, congratulations to all seventeen of you for your splendid performances in this tournament! This is the highest number of finalists ever allowed into the third round of the Chūnin Exams, though I think speak for everyone in this stadium when I say this may very well be the most exciting year in the Exams’ history!
The audience answered this remark with another large round of applause, one a few contestants visibly appreciated as Baiko continued.
Baiko: Now then, after assessing each of your performances, the Kage have decided that eight genin will be receiving promotions today, based on both their prowess in what skills they showed during the tournament and their ability to assess their situations and act accordingly! …When I call your name, step forward to receive your new flak jackets. …Shikaru Nara!
While the new chūnin seemed less than enthusiastic about the promotion, he couldn’t help but smirk and wave back at the audience as they cheered him on, both his grandparents overcome with nostalgia over the whole turn of events.
Temari: Hmhm, no surprise there.
Too lazy to put it on, Shikaru Nara walked back beside Kūrogane and Hitomi with his flak jacket situated beneath his arm, held there by the fact that his hands were in his pockets, as Baiko called the next name.
Baiko: Kūrogane Sarutobi!
Among the spectators, both Mirai and Shikamaru were singled out as taking the time to stand and applaud as Kūrogane walked up to receive her flak jacket, as was her mentor Katame on the opposite end of the stands.
Baiko: Inase Namikaze!
Airon: (He smiled back at her as he patted his shoulder blade, his other hand clutching his sword as a makeshift support for his still exhausted legs.) (That a girl.)
She blushed in embarrassment as she walked past him and Nakama to receive her flak jacket, her parents and grandparents both standing and applauding from above.
Baiko: Kei Namikaze!
Kei: YEAH!! ALRIGHT!!!
Making as big a showboat of himself as he could as he walked past Inase, the additional volume this brought his applause could’ve been either from mutual excitement or pity at how embarrassing it was to watch, something his siblings both understood as they lowered their heads to hide their amusement.
Baiko: Ide Fujita!
The applause continued as Ide walked up to collect her flak jacket, but it had noticeably grown softer, in part because there were only three flak jackets left.
Baiko: Akame Uchiha!
The applause grew ever softer with the newest name called, and Akame exchanged looks with her cousin as she walked past him, who in turn exchanged looks with his two rivals who appeared equally concerned.
Airon: (What the heck’s going on?)
Manako: (…I don’t know.)
Baiko: Minto Sarutobi!
Despite the anticipation that had been building high for him ever since he was accepted to compete, Minto found himself unable to fully enjoy the moment as he exchanged worried looks with Airon on his way to receive his flak jacket. With several noteworthy contestants having yet to be called, many of them began looking around in confusion as collective whispering echoed from the stands.
Inase: (There’s only one flak jacket left.)
Airon: (I’ve noticed. …Is it for me, Manako, or Nakama?)
Nakama: (It must be one of you. You showed off much more diversity than I did, so it must be you.)
Airon: (Then who between us? I’m not being modest. I think we both showed an equal amount of potential in our matches.)
Manako: (…I don’t think it’s going to either of us, Airon.)
He exchanged looks with Airon as the latter looked over at the table, coming to a despondent understanding upon finding that the last flak jacket was not akin to those worn by the Leaf Village.
Airon: (…Yeah…I think you’re right.)
Baiko: …Ryūza!
The clapping continued for the newly announced chūnin, but it had all but boiled down to the most modest of applause breaks as the audience began to realize that many of their favorites would not be receiving their promotions. Among the most obvious of those disappointed by this outcome, Itachi and Boruto sat in disbelief that their sons failed to be called.
Boruto: …Airon…
Itachi: …Manako…
Despite his typical indifference, even Baiko himself was unable to fully contain his own surprise as he dismissed the table with a snap of his fingers.
Baiko: Congratulations to the new chūnin!! We all look forward to your future progress as shinobi!
The audience gave them one last round of applause, but all the joy had been virtually sucked out of the event by then. As the stadium finally began slowly clearing out, the finalists looked around at one another in search of answers.
Kei: What the heck just happened?
Kūrogane: (She glanced over at Airon, Nakama, and Manako as she struggled to conjure up an answer.) …I don’t know.
Minto: Airon, what-
In the process of walking up to him as he asked, he was stopped halfway by an equally disappointed Inase, her hand rested on his shoulder.
Inase: (Just give them some room, alright? …It’d probably be in your best interest to go see Taigen, anyways.)
Minto: (He looked over at Airon in worry before sighing and turning back to Inase.) (…Yeah, you’re right.)
Six of the nine finalists to not be called cleared out of the stadium along with the others, expressing their complaints and disappointments as they left. The other three, however, remained silent and frozen where they stood, catching the eyes of their respective grandfathers – or surrogate fathers – as they, too, made their way out of the stadium.
Naruto: They look pretty peeved down there.
Sasuke: (He shot them one last glance as he followed Hinata and Sakura down to the lower levels.) Let them be for now…it’s better this way.
Naruto eventually nodded in agreement before walking after him, still hesitant to keep silent about the entire ordeal. When another twenty minutes had passed, the entire stadium was finally barren once more, save for the three genin still standing at its center, disbelief and festering malcontent burning in their eyes.
The new chūnin have been announced – but why have the names of the strongest contestants not been called!!?
The End
Last edited:
