SHADOMUM Chapter 4: Preliminaries, a naruto fanfic

Shadomum

TDR: Sorry it took so long, been a little busy lately. I'll keep this short and simple (You are welcome Foxxel). The last chapter was about the gang going through the first two parts of the Exams and three new Zan-pak-tos appearing. No one won my little contest…infact only Foxxel even took a guess so Foxxel if you'd be so kind as to choose which male (Kiba or Shikamaru only) and which female (Tayuya, Temari, Yugito, Tenten, or Kin). Just message me your choices. Now on with the story.

Human talking: "Blah"

Human thinking: 'Blah'

Zan-pak-tos talking to owner face to face or using owner's body to speak: "Blah"

Zan-pak-tos talking to its owner in its owner's head: 'Blah'

Demon talking in vessel's mind: 'Blah'

Demon talking to vessel (or Zan-pak-tos) face to face: "Blah"

Chapter 4: The Preliminaries

Naruto started to pay attention as Hayate was finishing, (AN: BTW I am not adding Hayate's cough to the dialog. Simply because it is a pain in the ass and I refuse. However I will place a * in his dialog where he coughs so I'm not completely lazy.) "So when your * name appears on the * board above me you will * come down here and * fight your opponent *. Any * questions?" When no one raised their hands he continued, "Then * let's begin." The board began to flash through names until it stopped on two:

Kiba Inuzuka (Konoha)

Ganba Kyro (Kumo)

Kiba visible flinched when he saw his and Ganba's names appear, 'Great I gotta fight sparky again. I'm starting to hate Kumo ninja.'

Hayate nodded, "Ok will * everyone except * the two participants move * to the viewing stands." Naruto's squad moved to the right viewing stand along with Shikamaru's, Gaara's, Kiba's team (minus Kiba/Akamaru), and their sensei. On the left stand were Kabuto's, Rando's, Zaku's and Neji's teams (Minus Ganba) along with their sensei. Once everyone was in their proper spot Hayate continued, "The two of you * will battle one on * one. The winner will * be decided by knocking your opponent * out, killing * your opponent, giving up, or if * I've decided that * one of u is * unable to continue. * If I say to stop I expect you * to obey." Kiba and Akamaru faced Ganba and waited for the signal. "Ready? Start!"

Kiba wasted no time and popped a soldier pill while tossing one to Akamaru. Akamaru's fur turned red and he jumped on to a crouching Kiba's back.

"Beast Mimicry! Man Beast Clone!" Suddenly Akamaru transformed into Kiba and both looked more animal like; more noticeable fangs and claws. "Now to show you why with Akamaru on my side you can't win this time! Fang over Fang!" Kiba and Akamaru leaped forward and began to spin until they looked like drills. They headed towards Ganba who, throughout all this, just stood there.

Ganba suddenly leaped straight up with a chakra enhanced jump and touched the ceiling. He hung from it and began to fly through hands signs as his opponents changed directions to move towards his new position. Before they could get to him he finished jutsu, "Lightning Style: Electro Net" He then fired the same electric net that had caught Kiba last time. This time Kiba and Akamaru stopped spinning to move out of the way.

Kiba chuckled as the net flew past him, "Like I'll fall for that again." He turned back just in time to see Ganba's lightning covered leg connect with Akamaru's face. Akamaru returned to his normal form and fell towards the ground. Kiba tried to get there in time to catch him.

He barely managed to grab Akamaru before he heard Ganba's voice, "Lightning Style: Spear Shot!" Knowing what was coming Kiba tried to leap out of the way but was blasted by the jutsu's impact on the ground. He tried to get up only to find Ganba's Lightning Saber an inch away from his throat. "Give up young Inuzuka, save at least a little of your pride and honor." Kiba growled before turning to Hayate and nodding.

"Winner by forfeit, Ganba Kyro!" Rando, Heriko, and a black haired Jonin with a Kumo head band clapped and congratulated Ganba. "The * next match will begin now." The board began to flash again as the two Genin returned to their teams. It stopped on two new names;

Temari (Suna)

Tenten (Konoha)

(AN: Sorry but I do not want to type up this fight since I've left it unchanged so please just pretend it happened)

Sakura Haruno (Konoha)

Ino Yamanaka (Konoha)

(AN: Sorry but I will not be typing this on either)

Shikamaru Naru (Konoha)

Kin Tsuchi (Oto)

Shikamaru groaned at having to fight a girl but walked down to fight anyways. Kin leaped over the rail while Shikamaru took his time and went down the stairs slowly.

"Ready?" Hayate asked, "Start" Kin tossed several senbon needles at Shikamaru who easily dodged but didn't counter. Kin seemed to get a little angry and began to throw multiple senbon needles at him.

'Mind explaining what the hell you are doing Master?' Shikamaru's Zan-pak-to asked him, 'Defeat her.'

Shikamaru dodged a senbon with a bell attached to it, 'I see no point in winning.' Suddenly Shikamaru's vision began to blur, 'Damn sound jutsu. I'm going to quit.'

Before Shikamaru could forfeit his sword spoke again, 'Defeat her and I'll play shogi with you anytime you want.'

Shikamaru's eyes widened and he stood straight, "Time to fight back." Kin went to throw more senbons but found her unable to move. "Shadow procession success. Stupid girl, you didn't even notice that the string attached to the bells shouldn't give off a shadow." He then unclipped his Zan-pak-to from his belt and aimed it at Kin who was mimicking his actions, minus the Zan-pa-to.

"Relax, Tamashī." The black energy blade appeared, "Now let's see if this works." The energy blade began to extend until the tip was at Kin's throat. Hayate, realizing Kin was unable to move, called the match in Shikamaru's favor.

Rando (Kumo)

Choji Akimichi (Konoha)

Rando was about to leap the rail to the ground when he noticed Naruto looking at him intently from across the room. Rando frowned before returning his intention to Choji. He jumped down to land next to Choji.

Hayate glanced at each opponent, "Ready? Begin!" Rando quickly pulled out a small scroll and rolled it open. He bit his thumb and wiped it across the open scroll to release a small cloud of smoke. When the smoke vanished Rando was holding a new sword was in his hands. The sword was a huge broadsword but this one was the size of Zabuza's sword. He moved towards Choji who stepped back in fear. Suddenly Rando stopped and looked up at Naruto.

"Yo, Uzumaki, is this dude a pal of yours?" Rando asked and Naruto nodded. Rando then stabbed the giant sword into the ground before turning back to Choji, "Fine, I'll go easy on you but only because I'd rather fight Uzumaki without him feeling the need to avenge you." Rando rushed at Choji and slugged him in the gut. Choji's eyes bugged out as he gasped for breath and Rando stepped back. However that would prove to be a mistake as Choji quickly used his partial expansion jutsu to grow his right arm and smack Rando away.

Shikamaru raised an eyebrow, "I'm surprised that Choji was able to use that so easily. He normally has trouble doing that."

Rando landed next to his sword and pulled it out of the ground. He sent it swinging horizontally at Choji who leaped over it. However the moment the sword left his hands Rando began to flash through hand signs. He aimed his right hand at Choji and made sure all his fingers were pointed at Choji as well. "Lightning Style: Electro Streamers." Five lightning bolts fired out of his fingers and blasted Choji who was still in the air. Choji twitched in the air for a moment or two before hitting the ground, hard. Rando sighed before walking over to his sword. He was half way to it why he heard a strange sound and turned around to find a very fat Choji using his Human Boulder jutsu while rolling towards him. Rando leaped back while forming four hand signs. He then faced the rolling ball of meat that was moving towards him while cocking back his right fist.

"Lightning Style: Bolt Punch!" He swung his now electricity covered fist into the rolling Choji. Rando's fist seemed to have no effect as he was being pushed back so he pulled back his left fist and performed his Bole Punch again. He struck Choji again and like before it had no visible effect as Choji continued to move Rando until they slammed into a wall. Choji rolled in reverse and returned to normal.

Choji panted and twitched a little, "Don't underestimate the power of fluffy." Choji turned to move away but stopped as a chuckle was heard.

"That was the power of fluffy, huh?" Rando crawled out from the hole the two had made in the wall, "It's more powerful than Heriko ever could begin to explain. He was right about not underestimating you. Ganba also said the same about the pineapple haired kid and that seems true too. Too bad you are finished." Choji seemed confused when he started to twitch even more, "My punches may not have been able to stop your attack but there are consequences for having that much electricity course through your body. Now give up."

Choji shook his head and stood, "Never. I won't lose, not when barbeque is on the line! Expansion Jutsu!" Choji's body became huge and round again as he prepared to start rolling again.

"So you do have something to fight for, well so do I. Let's see whose will is greater. Feel honored because you have forced me to use my special technique. It's based off of a jutsu I saw our village's Raikage use." Rando removed his vest and both of his arms began to become covered in electricity. "Rando lightning Style: Lightning Speed Barrage!" Rando leaped at a now spinning Choji and his arms became a blur as he threw electric punch after electric punch at Choji at extremely high speeds. This time Rando was not pushed back but instead after a second or two Choji's rotation was stopped and with one final swing he was sent flying back where he returned to normal. Choji tried to stand but failed so Hayate called the fight in Rando's favor. Once he was called the victor Rando canceled the electricity and several people flinched as they saw that his arms had massive 2nd degree looking burns. Medics came and picked up Choji and placed him on a stretcher but before he could be removed from the room Rando walked up to him.

He gave Choji a grin, "Great job big guy. How about we get some barbeque after the second exam is over? You know, to celebrate my victory. It'll be my treat." Choji smiled but glanced at his team. Rando followed his gaze and nodded, "Bring your team if you want. I'll bring mine and still pay. What do you say?"

"Sounds like fun. Let's do it." Choji told him as the medics removed him from the room. They tried to take Rando out as well but he refused. Rando walked over to his vest and used his foot to kick it into the air where he grabbed it with his mouth. He looked up at Naruto again before glancing at his team and sensei. His sensei shrugged so Rando leaped up and landed next to Naruto while Ganba retrieved Rando's sword. Rando then set his vest on the rail.

He turned to Naruto's and Choji's teams, "I hope you don't mind if I stand with you guys."

"It's cool." Naruto told him before holding his hand out, "That was a great fight."

Rando glanced at Naruto's hand before looking at him in mild regret, "Sorry but I can't shake your hand. That last move temporarily paralyzed my arms. They'll be fine in an hour or so."

Asuma frowned, "Then why use such a move? You could have used your sword to defeat Choji without having to use that."

"Where is the fun in that though? Besides it was a great fight and that Choji has the potential to become a formidable ninja. It was a worthy and honorable battle." Rando told him much to Asuma's surprise, "By the way I'll be treating your team and mine to barbeque when this part of the exam is over." He glanced at Naruto and Kiba, "If you want your teams can come as well, also my treat." Naruto grinned while Kiba shrugged. Suddenly a muffled gasp was heard and they all glanced at Hinata who had her mouth covered and was staring at the board in what seemed like fear. They turned to the board and Kiba cursed.

Neji Hyuga (Konoha)

Hinata Hyuga (Konoha)

Kiba moved towards Hinata and grabbed her shoulders, "Forfeit Hinata, you can't beat him and he won't hesitate to hurt you." Hinata didn't reply so Kiba shook her a little but stopped when Kurenai pulled him away.

"Kiba stop it. You are making it worse." She told him.

Kiba growled, "I know but he'll win no matter what. She doesn't need to get hurt over this Sensei." He turned back to find Hinata walking down the stairs, "Hinata don't!" He moved to stop her when Shino moved in his way, "Move Shino, we need to stop her!"

Shino shook his head, "It is her choice Kiba. Let her go." Kiba's body shook but he nodded and Shino put a hand on his shoulder, "Besides we know she can fight, she's even beaten you a few times."

Hinata stood in front of Neji and listened to him preach about fate and destiny while she felt the pain in her chest spread, 'I can't beat him so why am I here? Why do this?' She was ready to forfeit when she saw Gaara watching her. She looked up at him and their eyes connected. They held each other's gaze for a moment before Gaara gave her a small nod. However that simple nod seemed to fill her with courage for she turned and faced Neji. When the battle began the two Hyuga's engaged in a battle using only their Byakugans and gentle fist style taijutsu. The battle seemed even until it was revealed that Hinata's blows were all ineffective while Neji's were the exact opposite. Hinata however continued to get back up after every hit and it began to piss Neji off.

"Stay down Lady Hinata. It is your destiny to fail." Neji told her as she stood once again.

Hinata panted hard as she stood straight and got back it to her taijutsu stance, "I don't believe that Neji. Anyone can change their destiny if they fight for it. I know you hate me but Uncle Hizashi would never have wanted to see you like this."

"Don't you dare you speak his name!" Neji moved closer and went for a blow to her upper left torso.

Hinata's eyes widened, 'If that lands it could stop my heart!' she tried to move away but the damage to her body was hindering her. She could only watch with fear as his hand move in for the kill. She closed her eyes and waited…...but a blow never came. She opened her eyes to find that Neji's hand had been stopped half an inch from her chest, but not by the proctor Hayate or any of the Sensei. No, the hand was stopped by sand pouring from a gourd worn by none other than the red-haired quiet psychopath; Gaara of the desert. Baki, Temari, and Kankuro were in shock as was most of the room.

Gaara looked Neji in the eyes, "I wouldn't do that if I were you. I didn't save her in the forest just to let her die by your hand." Gaara released the sand that was around Neji's wrist and stepped between the two cousins.

Hayate stepped forward before the two males got into a fight, "Winner by interference, Neji Hyuga." Neji smirked at Gaara and Hinata before returning to his team. Gaara placed a hand on the injured Hinata and in a swirl of sand the two appeared next to her team. Kurenai began to heal her wounds while Kiba attempted to thank Gaara. Gaara turned to leave when Hinata grabbed his sleeve. He looked at her and she released him with an apology.

He gave her a nod and in another swirl of sand he appeared next to Temari as Hayate stepped forward, "Ok let's * continue." The board started up again.

Kankuro (Suna)

Kabuto (Konoha)

"I forfeit." Kabuto said before Kankuro could move. Hayate nodded and the board continued.

Rock Lee (Konoha)

Dosu Kinuta (Oto)

Lee was about to leap over the edge when Gai stopped him, "Lee, from the looks of his comrade he will most likely use sound and since you are bad against genjutsu try and end it quickly. You have permission to use the first gate and the Primary Lotus. Got it Lee?"

"Don't worry Sensei." He told Gai with a grin, "It's time to show them that I can do more that use taijutsu." Lee leaped to the ground leaving Gai confused.

Neji snickered at Lee's attitude but Tenten smiled as she remembered Lee's new power, 'I'll let Lee show Gai his power rather than tell him.'

Hayate sighed, "Ready? * Begin!"

Lee leaped upwards til he was over Dosu and drew his katana, "Strike, Hasu!" To most people's shock (Minus Tenten and Sakura who had witnessed the katana's transformation before as well as Shikamaru, Naruto, Sasuke and Kakashi who were told about the ability.) Lee's sword melted to form his gauntlets. Dosu, who had raised his shield like Melody Arm to block Lee's sword, was too stunned to move so Lee's right fist smashed into his Melody Arm and shattered it. Dosu tried to leap back but he was unprepared for Lee's speed and took a left uppercut that knocked him out before he even hit the ground. The room was silent as Lee sheathed his now reformed katana. Hayate snapped out of it first and declared Lee the winner. Lee glanced up and upon looking at the shocked (Gai), uncaring (Neji), and almost adoring (Tenten) looks on his team's faces, he found himself with the urge to be with his fellow soul reapers. So he leaped upwards and landed next to Sasuke and Shikamaru who both congratulated him as did Naruto and Kakashi. Before Gai could move to the other stand to speak with Lee, the board popped out two new names.

Tsurugu Misumi (Konoha)

Shino Abrame (Konoha)

Kabuto's teammate Tsurugu raised his hand, "I am not about to fight an Abrame, I quit." Dosu's Sensei glared at Tsurugu for some odd reason but Hayate shrugged it off and continued.

"Winner by forfeit, Shino Abrame." Shino put his hands into his coat and shrugged.

Akadou Yoroi (Oto)

Gaara (Suna)

Gaara appeared before Hayate as Akadou leaped down, "Ready? Begin!" Gaara sent his sand out and captured Akadou easily. He raised his hand and the sand holding Akadou began to float upwards.

Gaara could feel his blood lust rising and he opened his hand wide, "Sand Coff-"

'Wait!' the newer voice in Gaara's head shouted, interrupting Gaara's move, 'Before you do that look at her.' Gaara knew who the voice spoke up and glanced at Hinata and saw that she was on the verge of a panic attack. 'Seeing your sand coffin is about to give her flashbacks to the rape attempt.' Gaara nodded and dropped Akadou. He waited for Akadou to give up.

However what he didn't know was that he had wounded Akadou's pride and that the guy had a huge mouth, "So the girl is your weakness huh?" Akadou pulled out several kunai and tossed the in Hinata's direction. Gaara quickly used his sand to block them then had his sand crush Akadou's right arm. Gaara began to move towards a crawling Akadou and as he got closer a dark gold chakra like substance began to pour from Gaara's body. With a swing of his hand the sand ripped off Akadou's destroyed right arm then wrapped around his left arm and legs. In a single close of a hand all three limbs were crushed. Gaara then made sure to rip them off as well. He then picked the now crippled ninja up by his neck with his sand and brought him closer to Gaara. Gaara then began to do something he had never done before….he started to beat Akadou's face in with his fists. After a moment Hayate once again reacted first and ordered Gaara to stop. Which, surprisingly, he did. Gaara dropped Akadou and just stared at his knuckles that were bleeding slightly.

'Is this my blood? How is this possible?' Gaara thought to himself as he walked up the stairs to his concerned team after being declared the winner.

'Simple, with me holding mister raccoon at bay your shield has a new hole in it. It will only defend you if you want it to. However in your rage you wanted to feel your fists hit his face so the sand didn't stop you.' The voice told him. Gaara sighed and realized he had a lot to ponder. Hayate started the board once Akadou was removed.

Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga (Konoha)

Zaku Abumi (Oto)

Zaku leaped over the edge as Naruto walked down the stairs, 'So will he use sound? If so is it genjutsu or some other kind? Better just wing it.'

"Ready? Begin!" Zaku wasted no time and aimed the palms of his hands at Naruto.

"Decapitating Airwaves!" He shouted and a huge blast of condensed air blasted Naruto and sent him flying into a wall. Naruto quickly got up and drew his sword. "Don't bother with the sword kid. You'll never be able to cut me. You're just a pathetic Konoha dog."

Naruto was about to rush Zaku in anger when Shadomum spoke up, "Wait, I have a plan. Follow my instructions carefully.'

After a moment Naruto gave his trademark grin 'Roger that partner. Let's go.' Naruto formed a one handed hand sign, "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" In a puff of smoke twenty Naruto's appeared. "Here we come!" The Naruto's split up and attacked Zaku from two different sides.

"Nice try!" He aimed his hands to said different sides and fired two Decapitating Airwaves at the two groups of clones, destroying them. "Easy." He then turned to find the original was gone. He heard a whistling sound and stepped back just in time to dodge Naruto's thrown sword. Zaku aimed his hands at the midair Naruto and sneered, "Take this, Extreme Decapitating Airwaves!" A much stronger and larger blast of condensed air struck Naruto and began to tear him to shreds. However Zaku's sneer vanished when the Naruto he had blasted vanished in a puff of smoke, 'a clone?! Then where?' Before Zaku could do anything the sword infront of him became a puff of smoke and to reveal a sword less Naruto in its place that in a flash had made two more clones. The three clones all kicked Zaku upwards, high into the air. Zaku however was not stunned and fired his Decapitating Airwaves at the three only to find out they were clones.

Then a calm voice spoke from above him, "Shine in the everlasting darkness, Shadomum." Zaku looked up to see Naruto falling towards him with his sword in hand with the wraps on as well. For some reason the sheath was still on his sword though. "Now to end this, Dragon Galaxy Style Form Two: Falling Dragon Strike!" Naruto began to spin vertically at high speeds until he reached Zaku. At the last moment Naruto swung his sheathed sword downwards onto Zaku's head. Thanks to the power gained from the momentum from spinning, Zaku flew back down to the ground like a speeding bullet. Naruto landed next to Zaku who was unconscious, "I win." He turned only to find Hayate in his face.

"Where did you learn the Dragon Galaxy Style?" Hayate asked without coughing once.

Naruto deactivated his sword and sheathed his sword, "Zabuza Sensei taught me."

Hayate nodded, "Well I'm glad that a ninja of Konoha has learned it. Winner by KO, Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga…* (AN: Faker!)" Naruto returned to his team as the board started up again.

Sasuke Uchiha (Konoha)

Heriko (Kumo)

Sasuke stretched, "They saved the best for last I guess." With that he walked down the stairs and stood infront of Heriko.

"Ready? Begin!" Sasuke drew his sword as Heriko activated his Fire Aura Jutsu. He then eyed Sasuke's sword for a moment before pulling out a scroll and releasing a short Katana from it. The moment he touched it the blade caught fire.

"A flaming sword? Two can play at that. Let the lightning come, Kibō no Engimono." Grey lightning appeared around the blade and the two elemental swordsmen leaped at each other and locked blades. Sasuke quickly disengaged from Heriko and patted his singed shirt. 'That jutsu from earlier burnt me. I guess I can't stay close to him for long.' Sasuke quickly found himself on the defensive against a more experienced swordsman and received several cuts before he got pissed, "That's it! Back off!" Sasuke stabbed his sword into the gound and flashed through hand signs, "Fire Style: Grand Fire Ball Jutsu!" Sasuke fired his clan's special fire ball jutsu at Heriko who had to get back despite his Fire Aura jutsu. The moment Heriko was away from Sasuke he grabbed his sword and raised it above his head, "Here's the follow up! Rasen-jō no arashi!" Sasuke swung and a spiraling wheel of lightning flew at Heriko.

"Not bad but I live in a village and have a team of lightning users." Heriko tossed his sword up and formed several hand signs, "Lightning Style: Static Palms!" Heriko's hands became covered in electricity and he caught his sword, "Fire and Lightning Combo Jutsu: Blazing Electric Sword!" The blade of the sword became covered in thick electricity and fire. Heriko then swung it at Sasuke's Rasen-jō no arashi and batted it away. "And since your teammate broke my sword I'll break yours!" Heriko swung at Sasuke who brought his sword up to block. Shockingly Sasuke's blade was able to hold to the attack for several moments until Sasuke began to doubt his victory. At that moment a crack appeared in Sasuke's Zan-pak-to so Sasuke leaped away, barely missing a swing from Heriko.

"Go ahead and run kid. I'll even give you time to kiss your chances of winning goodbye. You got ten seconds." Heriko told him, "One…Two…Three…Four…Five…Six….Seven…Eig-" Suddenly, the entire room froze as if Kami had hit pause. Sasuke was a little confused until he saw a grey bull appear and walk towards him.

"Is this the limit of your power? How pathetic."

"Yeah, well how do you expect me to defeat that jutsu of his? It even cracked the sword!" Sasuke shouted.

"I know." It said while turning to showing Sasuke its side. On its right flank was a large oddly shaped gash that should have been bleeding. Sasuke glanced at the sword in his hands and saw the gash matched the crack in the blade.

He slowly lifted his head and looked into the bull's eyes, "You're Kibō no Engimono aren't you?"

"Yes Sasuke, I am Kibō no Engimono the sword you carry in your hand."

"So that Jutsu hurt you?"

"No…You did. You doubted your victory, you doubted yourself, and you doubted me. Your doubt weakened me."

Sasuke's hands shook, "I'm a failure, I don't deserve to be a soul reaper if I can't even beat a lousy Genin. I don't know what's wrong. I felt stronger fighting Katsama and he was more powerful than this guy."

"It's your resolve."

"My resolve?"

The bull nodded, "Yes, every soul reaper has a resolve that gives them strength. Lee's is to become a splendid ninja, Shikamaru's is to make an easy life for himself, Naruto's was to protect the people he cares about and yours was what again?"

"To avenge my friends and bring hope back to Ino." Sasuke said, "But then my friends turned out to be alive. So I didn't need to avenge them and Ino didn't need hope."

"We live in a world of hopelessness Sasuke, because everyone doubts themselves all the time. But Sasuke do you doubt me still?"

"No, I have faith in you now, I'm sorry."

"Sasuke listen closely and take this creed I will now tell you to heart. If you do I will never crack again…"

"-ht…nine…and ten! Any last words?" Heriko asked. Sasuke lifted his head and grinned at Heriko while a grey chakra like substance began to flow from his body.

"Yeah I do. 'When there is Hope there can be no doubt!' Kibō no Engimono!" The crack on Sasuke's sword vanished and Sasuke's eye's flashed to reveal his Sharingan. Heriko got a little distracted by Sasuke's Sharingan and because of that he never noticed Sasuke close the distance between them until Sasuke was almost upon him. He then swung his sword at Sasuke only for him to vanish.

Suddenly a voice was heard behind him, "Seiteki Bakufū!" Heriko turned to see Sasuke in a quick draw position so he leaped back as Sasuke drew his sword. The sword missed but the Seiteki Bakufū fired from the sheath and collided with Heriko's Blazing Electric Sword and destroyed it in a small explosion. Heriko managed to somehow land on his feet but he was badly injured. He looked at Sasuke in shock. "I bet you are wondering about my attack, Seiteki Bakufū. It's quite simple; I place my sword in its sheath and use it as a conductor to gather as much static discharge in the air as possible then let it built in the sheath till I'm ready. Then I draw it to release all the built up electricity in one cannon like blast. Since you and your comrades all used plenty of lightning based jutsu I was able to get a massive amount for a powerful attack." Sasuke raised his sword for a Rasen-jō no arashi but Hayate stopped him and turned to Heriko who had passed out during Sasuke's explanation. Sasuke deactivated the lightning and sheathed the sword.

"Winner of the final * match is Sasuke Uchiha. Now will all of the victors please come * down here?" Hayate asked. After all eleven of the victorious Genin were infront of him Hayate held out a box with a hole in the lid. "Each * of you will reach inside and pull a piece of paper from * the box. Who's first?" Rando stepped up and reached inside. The others followed soon after. "Ok tell me the numbers * on your papers."

"Two"

"Four"

"Eleven"

"Nine"

"Eight"

"One"

"Five"

"Ten"

"Three"

"Seven"

"Six"

"Ok then," Hayate said as he began to write on a pad in his hands. "The third exam will be * tournament style. However you do not have to * win all or any of your fights to become a Chunin. You will be judged * by the Hokage, elected examiners, and any Kages that decide to watch. Now * the tournament will go as shown." He turned the pad and showed the Eleven what he had written.

1st Match: 1 VS 2

2nd Match: 3 VS 4

3rd Match: 5 VS 6

4th Match: 7 VS 8

5th Match: 9 VS 10

6th Match: 11 VS winner of 5th match

Hayate nodded, "So the matches are as followed; First match is * Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga of Konoha * VS Rando of Kumo." Rando and Naruto grinned at each other. "Second is Shikamaru * Naru of Konoha VS Ganba Kyro * of Kumo." Ganba glared at Shikamaru who just yawned, "Third * is Shino Abrame of Konoha VS Kankuro of Suna. Fourth is * Sasuke Uchiha of Konoha VS Temari of * Suna." Temari nodded and Sasuke just shrugged. "Fifth Match * is Neji Hyuga VS Rock Lee both of Konoha *." Neji sneered at Lee while Lee got a small smile on his face. "* And the sixth will be Gaara * of Suna VS the winner of * the fifth match. The final exam * will be held in exactly one month from now *. The eleven of you may * do as you wish to prepare for the Exam *. Heal, train, pray, * party, or whatever else you think you need *. Just be at the Chunin Exam * Stadium in one month. You are * all dismissed."

Two Days Later

Sakura was sitting at the Ichiraku Ramen stand just stirring her noodles around while staring at the two empty seats next to her. The owner Teuchi and his daughter Ayame watched her with concerned looks.

After another minute Teuchi sighed, "Sakura what's the matter? Is my ramen that bad today?"

"No it's great as usual. It's just that I miss my team." Sakura told him. "Sasuke is off training with Kakashi somewhere in secret while Naruto decided to also train in secret and solitude with his sword. All three won't be back till the start of the exam."

Teuchi winced, "No Naruto for a month? My sales will drop quite a bit." Ayame smacked him upside the head and Sakura giggled a little.

"Don't worry old man; we'll make up for Uzumaki." A voice said from behind the curtains. It was moved out of the way to reveal Rando and the Kumo Jonin that was his Sensei. The two took Naruto's and Sasuke's seats. "Let me get two large bowls of miso."

"Coming right up." Teuchi told him while getting to work.

Rando turned to Sakura, "I don't believe we've been properly introduced. I am Rando and this is my Sensei Jishaku also known as J." J nodded as Sakura studied the two. J was wearing a long grey top with a sash around his waist and his Jonin vest. His dark skin was marked by many large white tattoos including one on his shoulder that Sakura realized was an Anbu tattoo.

"I'm Sakura Haruno." Sakura told him.

"You are teammate to Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga and the Uchiha as well as student to Kakashi Hatake." J said in a strange accent that Sakura couldn't touch on as Teuchi brought their ramen

"How did you know?"

"Easy. Your team is famous in the wave country. We passed through there on the way here." Rando told her. "Sasuke is already famous for being the last loyal Uchiha as is Kakashi the copycat ninja. Not to mention that Uzumaki has a bridge named after him."

"Why do you call Naruto by his last name?" Ayame asked.

J chuckled, "Don't worry; he's not insulting your teammate or anything. When he meets an opponent that he has incredible respect for he has the habit of calling them by their last name only, its force of habit."

"Yeah like you not saying 'a' right?" Rando taunted before turning to Sakura, "J can't say the letter 'a' by its self. Not sure why." J glared at Rando who ignored him, "So where are Sasuke and Uzumaki?" Sakura gave him a questioning look that made Rando raise his hands in defense, "Hey I'm not planning to do them any harm. Uzumaki is the only one I really want to fight anyways. I don't care either way about the others."

"Why do you want to fight Naruto?"

Rando grinned, "He was the first person outside my village to defeat me in a one on one battle. I want a rematch is all." He then took his first bite of his ramen and froze. After a moment he looked up at Teuchi and grabbed the elderly man by the front of his shirt, "What in Kami's name did you just feed me old man?"

"It's just Miso Ramen." Teuchi told him while his daughter looked on in fear.

"Old man I've had Miso Ramen before and this isn't it. This is the best ramen I have ever tasted!" Rando shouted before releasing the Teuchi and going to town on his ramen. J frowned before trying it himself.

J's eyes lit up and he nodded, "This is indeed great ramen. The ramen in Kumo doesn't come close to it." J began to eat his food almost as fast as Rando. Teuchi, Ayame, and Sakura shared confused looks until both Kumo ninja held empty bowls out to Teuchi who refilled them. After half a dozen bowls later the two stopped.

"Damn that was good." Rando said as he patted his belly, "We got to bring Heriko and Ganba here."

J nodded, "I agree. They will enjoy it as well." J then stood, "I need to go inform the Hokage of 'his' decision so I must be off. Remember to start preparing for the exam Rando." with that J walked off.

Sakura turned to Rando, "What did he mean by 'him'?"

"Well after the first two exams were over J sent a report to our village on how the exam was going." Rando told her as he pulled out a wallet shaped like a cloud, "And this morning we got a message back. Since me and Ganba are both in the Third Exam our Raikage has decided to travel to Konoha and watch the Exam."

Teuchi almost dropped the bowls he had picked up, "the Raikage is coming here? But Kumo is so far away. There has got to be another reason why."

"There is actually. He wants to make amends to the Hyuga clan for something that happened like a decade ago or so. Here." Rando handed Teuchi a wad of bills.

He was about to leave when Teuchi called out to him, "this is three times the bill."

"Consider it pay for Sakura's food as well as well as a tip."

"We can't accept this large of a tip."

"Then accept what you can and put the rest in a tab for my team. See you later." Rando vanished in a flash of lightning.

In the middle of the Forest of death

(Three weeks, five days till exam)

Naruto groaned as he hit the ground hard, 'I still can't repeat that move. But without it I can't keep up with Rando's fast lightning attacks. What enabled them to do it?'

'What are you trying to do, Naruto? Are you talking about the Mikadzuki Sutoraikā?' Shadomum asked.

'No but I do want to talk to you about that. I was actually thing about something else I saw during the exams.' Naruto thought back to the moment.

'I see.' Shadomum said, 'The technique you are looking for is one that any soul reaper can do but most never can for lack of skill and will. It's easier to do if you do it without thinking about it. I'll help you thought. The technique is called…'

A cliff near Konoha

(Three weeks till exam)

"Since you mastered these jutsu so fast I'll teach you something else that might come in handy, Sasuke…"

Special Training Ground

(Two weeks, four days)

Lee held his knees and panted. However despite his exhaustion only one thought ran through his head, 'My new attack is almost ready for you Neji…'

Random Training Ground

(Two Weeks)

Ganba lay on the ground almost unconscious. A battered and beaten J stood next to him. "It's perfect Ganba. It destroyed my strongest shield in a matter of moments. The only drawback is that it's a one shot move. You're pretty much on empty afterwards. You sure you want to use it so soon into the Exam?"

"Yes Sensei," Ganba said before forcing himself to stand, "It's the only technique I have that has any hope of hitting him for sure. I'm going to defeat you, Black Blade of Konoha."

Ichiraku Ramen

(One week, Two days)

"I'm not a ninja or anything but shouldn't he be training for the Exam?" Teuchi asked Heriko as Rando wolfed down his third bowl.

Heriko shook his head while starting his own second bowl, "Even though the members of my team may seem a little different while in battle but it's only because of our Sensei. Through our training with him we each became what you would call 'Combat Junkies'. Pretty much we love a fight and care not for the outcome but how epic the battle is. I can be a real jerk when fighting but I'm actually rather nice. Ganba is all about Honor when in battle but outside of it he's all about winning. However Rando is different than either of us. He loves fighting 24/7 but when in a real sword battle he changes." Heriko was quiet for a moment before shaking his head. 'He never needs to train, after all he is the last of Kumo's…'

Forest near the Naru Compound

(One week)

'Now that's how it's done! Do it again.'

'What a drag…'

Inside of a random building

(Six days)

Baki, Temari, and Kankuro were staring at the couch where Gaara sat, asleep. "No matter how many times I see it I still freak out." Kankuro said.

"I agree that it's a little nerve racking to see Gaara sleep but I'm also happy for him." Temari told Kankuro who nodded in agreement.

"Yeah this village is actually having a good effect on him. He hasn't killed or threatened anyone for weeks."

Baki sighed, "However this changes nothing, the attack begins when Gaara changes during his semifinal match. We will destroy this village and everything in it. Let's go over the new plans once more." While the three studied the plans none noticed Gaara's slight frown…

Unknown Location

(Three days before exam)

"This is bullshit! I've had this plan in motion for years and in less than a month there are huge complications!" Orochimaru ranted to Kabuto, "I mean first Katsama tries to kill Sasuke only to die without bring Sasuke to me so I may mark him. Then these Konoha Genin begin to get strange swords. Now the Raikage is coming to watch the exam."

Kabuto stepped forward, "Lord Orochimaru if I may? I have taken precautions just in case of something like this."

"What precautions?" As an answer Kabuto opened a door and in walked a young girl, "Karin? What's she doing here?"

"I had her and her men bring two dozen of the more 'stable' experiments to compensate for the Raikage's visit." Kabuto told him which made Orochimaru grin.

Orochimaru then frowned, "I'll need sacrifices for the Edo Tensei.

"Do you want me to get Zaku, Kin, and Dosu?"

"Actually no, instead prepare those two useless fools. Akadou and Tsurugu will be punished for their failures. Have Zaku, Kin, and Dosu participate in the attack…"

Hokage Monument

(One Day)

The sun had just gone down when four figures appear in the shadows. One of them was carrying a large box and trying to hand out its contents.

"I'm not so sure about this." One of the other guys said. He held up the item and shook his head.

"He bought it just for us. It'll be great. You guys in?" Guy #1 asked.

A third guy pumped his fist into the air, "Yes!"

"Whatever," Muttered the fourth guy while taking his items.

"Come on, please? It's to honor them." Guy #1 said while pleading with Guy #2

"It's really not that bad." Guy #4 while inspecting the items.

"Fine" Guy # 2 groaned.

Guy # 3 jumped upwards "Yosh!"

Guy # 2 groaned again...

Stadium

(Day of Exam)

The Stadium was packed with people waiting to watch the Exam. In a special seating area sat three of the most well-known men in the world; The Hokage, the Raikage, and the Kazekage. Each Kage had two body guards with them. The Hokage had Ibiki and Genma, while the Kazekage had two men wrapped in cloaks used to protect their bodies from sandstorms. The giant dark skinned Raikage had a blonde light skinned female and a bored dark skinned male with him. The Hokage was between the two other Kages. In the stadiums arena stood Hayate (Thanks to the plan change the whole meeting between Kabuto and Baki never took place meaning Hayate lives.) and the seven Genin…Wait…Seven!? Upon looking again it is obvious that Naruto, Shikamaru, Lee, and Sasuke are not there.

Hayate stepped forward, "The Exam * begins in two minutes. * If any of the participants * are not here then * they forfeit." The crowd began to boo at the decision while in a small section several teams sat in worry. Those teams were; team seven (Minus Naruto and Sasuke), ten (minus Shikamaru), nine (minus Neji and lee), and Rando's (Minus Rando and Ganba).

Heriko turned to Sakura who was biting her fingernails, "Don't worry about it. There are fine."

Sakura nodded but didn't stop till Kakashi put a hand on her shoulder, "Relax, they will all be here on time. Trust me, I know." Kakashi gave her a wink and everyone turned to question him when Hayate began to speak.

"There are * twenty seconds left...Ten second*…Five…One. * Sorry but Rock Lee, Sasuke * Uchiha, * Shikamaru *Naru, and Naruto Uzuma-!"

Suddenly a huge puff of smoke appeared in the arena interrupting Hayate and when it cleared there stood four figures. Each was wearing black sandals with black pants and a loose black long sleeve shirt. A white cloak finished the new style for the four Konoha Genin.

"Sorry we're late, the dope wanted us to get all dressed up for this big entrance he had planned." Sasuke said as Lee and Shikamaru nodded in agreement.

Hayate coughed and shrugged, "Well since you are all here let's get started. Will Naruto and Rando stay while the rest go?" The others left to their waiting area accept Naruto and Rando. Hayate turned to the crowd, "The first match of the Third Exam will be Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga." Naruto was surprised to hear a decent amount of cheering and looked up to see that most of the Hyuga clan was in attendance. "Versus Rando." Rando frowned when more villagers cheered for him than for Naruto, their own shinobi for fuck's sakes. "Begin."

Naruto quickly drew his sword, "Shine in the everlasting darkness, Shadomum." The wraps appeared and climbed Naruto's arm. Rando instead summoned the same sword that he used against Choji.

"Let's get this started." Rando muttered before he rushed Naruto and swung his huge sword. Naruto simply leaped up and over the sword to land behind Rando but before he could attack Rando kicked him in the chest, sending him flying back. Naruto recovered quickly and was able to dodge the next swing easily. However when he moved in to attack Rando slugged him in the face. Naruto then barely recovered in time to block a new sword swing that still set him backwards. 'Damn every time I dodge that sword and try to attack he nails me. I guess close range is out…Or maybe not.' Naruto quickly formed a one handed hand sign, "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" Rando now found himself surrounded by close to twenty armed Naruto's. Rando shrugged and stabbed his sword into the ground.

"Truth fully I was hoping to use this move for later since it's one of my top three but I guess I got no choice." Rando pulled out a blood red scroll and tossed it high into the air. He then formed several hand signs, "Burēdo Style: Swordsmen Graveyard!" The scroll released a huge cloud of smoke and to the shock of most of the spectators; over a hundred swords of all kinds and sizes began to fall to the ground all over the arena. Hayate and the Narutos had to dodge the swords, though several Narutos were destroyed. Rando grinned, "Now the Burēdo's Dance can begin." Rando ran forward and grabbed two swords; a pirate looking saber and a Nagato. He tossed both at two clones killing them then grabbed a pair of dueling swords and began to cut down the rest of the clones. He'd then throw the swords at a clone and grab new ones. He kept this up as Naruto continued to spam clones. After clone number 76 was killed Shadomum Naruto got a little mad.

"I don't get it! How can he use so many different swords at

once?" Naruto wondered out loud as Rando finished the last clone with a tanto to the face.

He then turned to Naruto, "Since I know your name I might as well tell you mine. My full name is Rando Burēdo. I am the last of Kumo's Burēdo clan."

Hokage Box

The Hokage and Kazekage turned to the Raikage. "Is this true?" Konohamaru's grandfather asked.

"Yes, that boy is the last of the Burēdo Clan that made Kumo famous for its Kenjutsu."

Kazekage nodded, "I have heard stories of their abilities. They are able to master any sword with little to no training, correct?"

"Kind of, Rando says it's hard to explain but he says it's like the swords just, 'fit' in his hands." The Raikage told him while turning back towards the battle where Rando just explained the same thing to Naruto."

Arena

"Understand Uzumaki?" Rando asked him. "You can't beat me with a sword."

Naruto grinned, "We'll see if your clan's style can hold out against my Galaxy Dragon Style." Naruto ran at Rando who pulled up a new sword. "Dragon Galaxy Style Form Three: Planetary Dragon!" Naruto began to spin horizontally like a top till he became a blur. Rando took a swing at Naruto only for the sword to be knocked way. Rando leaped up and away so Naruto stopped spinning at dived after him, sword point first while rotating, "Dragon Galaxy Style Form One: Comet Dragon!" Thankfully Rando had picked up a broad sword and was able to use the flat edge to deflect Naruto's attack. However Naruto managed to turn and face Rando, "Dragon Galaxy Style Form Four: Dragon Meteor Shower!" Naruto then began to thrust his blade at high speeds at Rando who did his best to block. After a moment the two separated and Rando was bleeding from several wounds on his body.

"Not bad Uzumaki. I guess it's time to use it, my clan's legacy." Rando bit his thumb and flashed through several hand signs, "Summoning Jutsu! Statue of the Burēdo's Legs!" a cloud of smoke appeared and vanished to statue of a man wearing a pair of Red sandals, red shine guards, and a red belt. Rando removed these items from the statue and began to put them on. "My clan created not only swords but a special armor for the clan head. I'm not ready for all of it but the lower half I can control. Get ready to face the Legs of Burēdo!" once on Rando bent his knees and moved towards Naruto at extremely high speeds. Naruto was unable to move and was sent flying across the arena. Rando picked up two swords and walked towards him slowly, "Come on, fight me for real. Stop all this holding back bullshit. Show me your blood lust Uzumaki." Naruto stood only to have Rando move again but this time Naruto sidestepped him however one of Rando's swords cut deep into Naruto's hip. Rando turned around and got ready to move attack when Naruto held his hand up.

"Why are you fighting so hard Rando? Is it to beat me or to become a Chunin?" Naruto asked.

Rando shook his head, "It's neither, I only wish to have fun fighting you Uzumaki. I want an epic battle that people will speak off for years to come.

"Thanks, now my decision is made." Naruto closed his eyes and took a deep breath. When he opened them a silvery aura began to leak from his body and his eyes began to glow silvery as well, "I can enjoy this battle now, knowing your reasons for fighting. Let's give them that epic battle Rando!" Rando used his speed jutsu to rush Naruto who just stood there. Just before Rando got to Naruto, the blonde vanished and Rando stopped. He turned and found Naruto infront of him in mid swing. Shadomum slashed Rando's chest but when Rando tried to counter Naruto vanished and appeared behind him. He then cut Rando's back. Rando spun around only for Naruto to vanish and reappear thirty feet away from Rando.

"What are you doing? That's not a Substitution Jutsu." Rando asked.

Naruto shook his head, "It's called Shunpo but I call it flash step. It's something I found on accident during the first exam. I would have used it earlier but it's difficult for me to control without being in resolve mode."

"Resolve mode?"

Naruto gestured to the silvery aura pouring off him, "When I harden my resolve about something in battle I can activate this form. It took me awhile to perfect it. Now let's continue."

"Agreed, Lightning Style: Duel Swords of the Thunder God!" Lightning began to build around his swords and he got ready to rush Naruto. "Lightning Style: Storm God X!" Rando swung his swords in an X shape creating a blast of lightning in the shape of an X. 'Heh, he'll use that flash thing and then I'll nail him.' However Naruto simple grinned.

"Just so you know Rando, while in Resolve Mode my special move is amplified, Mikadzuki Sutoraikā!" Naruto swung his sword and the silver crescent shaped slash of energy slammed into the X which held until it began to be pushed back. Naruto had a grin on his face till he heard a chuckle.

A loud rumbling was heard and Rando's chuckling grew, "I expected you to use this move. I also came prepared. Lightning Style: Storm Cross!" Rando swung one sword vertically and the other horizontally creating a large cross of lightning that collided with the other attacks. He then rushed forward as the attacks began to shake. Naruto followed Rando's example and ran forward. Just before the two could reach the attacks it blew up creating a huge cloud of smoke. The crowd sat in suspense and waited for the smoke to clear. As they waited they could hear steel hitting steal. After a few moments the smoke cleared to reveal Rando and Naruto on opposite sides of the arena. Both were bloody and breathing heavy but had huge smiles on their faces.

"I'm just about empty Uzumaki." Rando told him before picking up a samurai sword.

Naruto nodded, "Same here. I got one more good swing in me." The two fighters stared each other down as leaf fell from a tree. They watched it until it was about three feet off the ground and then they made their move. The two pumped all of their chakra into their feet and ran at the other while giving their own battle cries. Rando's blade began to generate lightning while Naruto's glowed silver. The two swung as they past each other. Both stood, unmoving as the now four pieces of the leaf floated to the ground. The moment they hit the dirt Rando's sword broke in half and he went down to one knee while holding his stomach. Hayate moved over to Rando and checked his wound. He then addressed the crowd.

"I hereby declare Rando unable to continue do to his injury. Naruto Uzumaki-Hyuga is the winner." Naruto sheathed his sword as the Hyuga clan cheered him along with his friends and a surprisingly high number of villagers. He walked over to where the medics were taking Rando away.

Rando clasped hands with Naruto, "Not bad Uzumaki, do me a favor and win all your fights till we battle again."

"I will Rando." Naruto watched as Rando was taken away before turning to the competitor's box. He only got three steps before he collapsed. Hayate and a medic checked on him before Kakashi appeared at their side.

Kakashi picked Naruto up and smiled, "He'll be fine in a few minutes. I'll take him to the box so please continue." Kakashi took Naruto to the box as Hayate called Shikamaru and Ganba.

Once the two arrived Ganba began to glare at Shikamaru, "I will regain my Honor and win, Black Blade of Konoha. Draw your sword." Ganba waited as Shikamaru detached the handle from his belt.

"Relax, Tamashī." The black energy blade sprouted from the handle.

"Are you both ready?" the two Genin nodded so Hayate stepped back, "Then * let the 2nd * match begin!"

End of Chapter 4: The Preliminaries

Translations

1) Shadomum: Shadow Moon (Naruto's Zan-pak-to)

2) Konohagakure: Village hidden in the Leafs

3) Otogakure: Village hidden in the Sound

4) Kumogakure: Village hidden in the Clouds

5) Konoha: Leaf

6) Kumo: Cloud

7) Oto: Sound

8) Mikadzuki Sutoraikā: Crescent Moon Striker (A large silver slash of energy fired from a swing of Naruto's Zan-pak-to that makes the sound of a wolf howling as it moves through the air)

9) Hasu: lotus (Lee's Zan-pak-to)

10) Tamashī: Soul (Shikamaru's Zan-pak-to)

11) Kibō no Engimono: Bringer of Hope (Sasuke's Zan-pak-to)

12) Rasen-jō no arashi: Spiraling Storm (A spiraling wheel of lightning that cuts just about anything in its path.)

13) Seiteki Bakufū: Static Blast (static from the lightning on the sword when in its sheath is gathered until it is fully charged and the blade is drawn releasing the gather static in a blast of lightning.)

14) Kusagakure: Village hidden in the grass

15) Kusa: Grass

16) Burēdo: Blade

17) Shunpo: Flash Step

TDR: Well there ends another chapter and now to explain a few things and answer a few questions. First is the whole Naruto's mom being the old fox container and it being a secret thing that WhiteFangDarkClaw brought up. As I see it was Kushina's secret and doesn't really affect Naruto nor does it put him or the village in danger seeing as she is dead, same with Mito. Zabuza got his head buried along with the others because only the 3rd Hokage, Jiraiya, Douzo, a few council members (The 3rd's old teammates I think.), Kakashi, and maybe Tsunade. I couldn't let Zabuza and the others learn the secret. Hope that answers your questions WhiteFangDarkClaw.

TDR: As for you Foxxel thank you for your support and since this story is infact a NaruSaku I expect a follow. Also there will be several more Zan-pak-tos coming. By the way if Foxxel fails to give me his/her choices the person who wins this next contest will be a runner-up. If Foxxel does pick then the contest winner will get to choose the next pairing using the remaining females and male. The question is:

Who do you think will receive the next Zan-pak-to?

(Gaara, Choji, or Neji)

TDR: Also should I add any of the movies? I'd like to hear back from you guys soon.