Mifune's POV (Kage Box - Iron Arena)
How long had it been since he craved action like this? He had lived a long life, a life unfortunately full of violence, but violence with a cause. Mifune had honorably served his homeland well, with grace befitting a Samurai such as him. Within recent years, relative peace has been established. Mifune, a seasoned warrior, had seen the time for peace and had fought hard outside of battle to develop it. He had hung his sword and raised his pen as all good Samurai did. The struggle was never-ending, but often it came to a lull. The job of a true warrior was to adapt as needed. He had recognized that his time as the General Servant of the Land of Iron had ended. He became a politician and then fought for his home with words and pens instead of his blade. But as he aged, it became clear he needed a successor. While his men were brave and indeed skilled, none seemed to have the qualities a leader of his home would need. Far and wide, he had searched his homeland. Seeking the truest of warriors seeking a man worthy of the task Mifune would hand them. He had no shortage of candidates, of course. The Way of the Samurai called to those deserving, and Mifune found some. Then he met Reizo; the choice hadn't been apparent at first.
Reizo had attacked them as they searched; he had been adopted into a bandit group from a young age. Somehow, he had discovered how to use his powerful bloodline; the way of the blade seemed to come naturally to him. Even as a petty bandit, his swordsmanship had shamed some of the men Mifune had brought. His bloodline ensured he could slay even skilled men. Mifune, of course, defeated him; no untrained man could hope to kill him. But Mifune spared him and offered him a purpose; serve the land of Iron as Mifune's private or die by his blade. Reizo had accepted. While rough, Reizo quickly became one with the principles of Samurai, never quite perfect, but no man was. Over the years, Mifune had grown confident that Reizo was the choice. His eventual replacement had brought him peace, knowing he would leave his home with a new warrior to take his place when he died. Then Reizo had been slain, not only him but even their best men killed. A cruel trick from the man Ikam Uzumaki. Mifune felt his rage but held it with iron discipline. He focused back on the Kage before him; he would have time to figure out how to avenge him later.
"My question was simple: give me one reason not to remove your kid's head, Yagura? You think we have forgotten the Rain of the Cloud incident?" A asked with only mild contempt, more looking to start an argument than earnestly raising a complaint.
"While that event was certainly villainous, my predecessor ordered it. If you remember, I killed that villain myself." Yagura countered calmly.
"Villain? Peh! You youth forget yourselves. It's never black and white. Life cannot be so definitively defined." Onoki interjected.
"Onoki speaks with wisdom; such titles are meaningless and subjective." Hiruzen agreed with a smile.
Onoki sighed with a frown; having Hiruzen agree with him felt wrong.
Rasa noticed this and allowed a microscopic smirk. "That's why they call you the Fence Sitter, I suppose."
Mifune sighed inwardly; his home often hosted these sorts of meetings. A neutral and powerful ground they could meet and count on to keep the peace. They always seemed to start bickering like children. He supposed Rasa, and Hiruzen seemed somewhat better and less likely to seethe about the past. Though both were manipulative and had their own flaws. Rasa tended to snipe at all parties, seemingly content to keep everyone tense. Hiruzen also had a habit of playing devil's advocate. This all amassed into a massive headache for the Samurai.
"Kage, may we perhaps focus a bit?" Mifune interjected patiently and politely.
Each nodded their head, instantly putting aside their squabbles for the moment. Despite their penitence for violence, there was no doubting the wisdom or power of the Kage. They were prepared to discuss business.
"I will start if no one objects?" Hiruzen began. "Excellent; as always, we should celebrate another successful Chunin Exam. Let it be a testament to the tense peace we have achieved."
"Keep the tree-loving gospel for home." A rudely interrupted.
"He's crass, but it would be nice to stick to the point. There is no need for such formalities between us. We are all familiar with the game of politics you play. Heroes have no need for mincing words." Yagura added. Mifune and several of the Kage gave him odd looks for this, but he seemed unaffected.
Hiruzen, with a weary sigh, continued. "The Exams present an opportunity to increase the bonds between our villages and display our shinobi's unique strengths and talents. This would suggest the villages with shinobi do well, which will surely lead to an increase in business. As such, as the Five Kage or at least the forces present, we meet and discuss the exams ahead of time to address any specific issues that may need addressing. As such, are any such concerns to be raised?"
"I have nothing. I prefer to watch my shinobi show your weak men up." A answered shrewdly.
"Your men will soon meet some of my own; they will be lucky to survive the encounter," Yagura answered with a sneer. "I have no such concerns. Heroes need not be political."
"I don't know if it's politics, but we are doing the standard fine for needless killing?" Onoki asked.
"Of course, I would not be here otherwise. Anyone responsible for slaying my kin will pay dearly." Rasa darkly answered.
"Then I am content for now." Onoki finished with a nod.
"I have nothing to add. Do you, Rasa? You've yet to truly answer, " Hiruzen said.
"I, in fact, do, I would like to propose an informal wager to you all," Rasa answered. "You, of course, Mifune, would be free of this." Mifune nodded to show his agreement. "But I am rather confident in my son's or other two children being the "victor. "" Rasa said, adding air quotes to the victor. "So much so I offer a friendly wager."
"What did you have in mind, ginger?" A asked with a raised brow. Mifune, Onoki, Yagura, and Hiruzen stayed silent, content to hear them out before interjecting.
"Simple," Rasa said, now smirking openly. Seemingly unphased by A's jab. "Whoever's men in the tournament or finals, you refer to it. Wins and or performs the best. They earn their village a small trade agreement with the other four villages. The specifics of such, of course, would be decided at a later date, but an agreement toward some sort of deal would be in place."
"A hero never backs down from a challenge," Yagura said defiantly. Seemingly unable to let such provocation stand.
"I'm no hero, but I'm no coward either." A also responded in compliance.
Mifune watched as the faces of Onoki and Hiruzen tensed. They were wise to think it over, unlike the other two. Doubtless, they had as well, just as he had gained wisdom from his long life. But truthfully, he knew they would accept. Such a deal was undoubtedly risky, but the benefits outweighed the risk. The winner would receive a great deal of profitable trade and a reputation boost. It would be a massive boon enough to have a noticeable effect. Along with the pressure of not having it themselves was the pressure of allowing the others to have it. It was no great shock to Mifune that both eventually offered consent.
"Then I am also content," Rasa stated, smiling openly. Mifune had the oddest suspicion. Rasa seemed sure of his own victory.
"Then let's begin," Mifune offered. The five leaders nodded and rose; all stood before the vast glass double door that provided access to a large platform hanging slightly over the arena, made specifically to deliver speeches.
Mifune marched forward slightly ahead before turning gracefully and respectfully, bowing to the five. They each matched one before returning to the crowd of various citizens and shinobi from all over the world. Each watching with rapt attention, the gathering of all Five Kage was a rare thing after all, even more occasional than the combined presence of Samurai. Below in the field, in a straight line, stood the Genin; each looked different from when Mifune had first laid eyes on them. Obviously, each had worked themselves to the bone for this opportunity. Mifune smothered his rage and grief over Reizo and his other men. Instead, he served as he always had.
"Welcome one and all to yet another Chunin Exams!" Mifune hollered, his voice echoing throughout the Arena. He paused as rampant cheering went off. Civilians loved a few events like the Chunin Exams. After all, it offered them a relatively safe view of the shinobi world. "We will soon begin testing our Chunin hopefuls by combat, but first, a word from the five leaders of the shinobi before us!" With this, Mifune stepped back. A located at the left end of the line of Kage stepped forward first.
"A of the Cloud, the Fourth Raikage. I'm not one for formal speeches. I am a man of action, not empty platitudes. But let me assure you that today, you will witness the strength of the Cloud. We will strike out and show our superiority. For those not one of us, we offer you a welcome for witnessing us." A said simply before stepping back. Rasa, located next to him, walked forward next.
"Rasa of the Sand, Fourth Kazekage. The Sand is a group of diligent and durable people. Today, we will show as such; I thank you for coming today and wish all those who seek glory a successful attempt." Rasa said simply, seemingly pulsating smugness as he spoke before falling back. Next was Yagura, who marched forward with grim determination.
"Yagura Karatachi, Hero of the Mist and Fourth Mizukage. Today, we will discover those who are strong and those who are weak. The strong will trample the weak today, and such is just. Might decide right in this world." Yagura said many of the crowd could be seen confused by this. But his speech continued, and the man was unaffected by the reaction. "Let us know who is mighty and, as such, just!" He stepped back, seemingly pleased with his words.
Onoki floated forward, hovering at the same height as the other Kage. Mifune's supposed image was everything as a leader. "Onoki of the Stone, Third Tsuchikage. Conduct yourselves as expected as with your responsibilities, and you will surely see success."
Finally, Hiruzen stepped forth. "Hiruzen Sarutobi, Third Hokage. I wish all combatants to do well and end these exams well. I want to see each village grow closer through this peaceful practice. And I know these exams will be quite the spectacle indeed." With all Five Kage haven spoken, they filed into the box for them, settling down to watch the events unfold.
Mifune stepped forth yet again. Addressing the crowd and feeling the tension of the Genin, crowd, and Kage as they awaited for it to begin.
"With that being said, please, all Genin except for Tenten of the Leaf and Naruto Uzumaki, vacate the field! The exam referee shall appear and give a breakdown of the rules!" Mifune then marched into the room and sat. His mind wondered now if he could afford it, too. He did not wish to listen to the endless childish bickering that often became a meeting of the Five Kage.
Kakashi's POV (Courtyard - Iron Arena)
Kakashi watched as all the other Genin vacated the courtyard, leaving only Naruto and Tenten. Both stood at a distance of about ten feet, locked into a staring match that often began fights. Kakashi felt excited to see his students finally show off their growth. He was worried if they were truly ready, but he willed such emotions to the sidelines. While he may have been unable to ensure their success, his duty was to ensure they lived with their failure. Furthermore, he could not afford to show his students any favor. Despite that…
Kakashi poofed into the arena, smoke billowing from around him as he posed to look nonchalant. His body flicker had been intentionally misaimed to land him to the left of Naruto instead of between the two. The crowd, more than a few, likely recognizing the infamous Jounin, roared in approval. Kakashi nonchalantly waved at the crowd, seeming to maintain his aloof demeanor, but he subtly whispered to him as he passed his student. Kakashi's mind swirled as he did, attempting to discover the best words, advice, and plan he could offer his students. But that would only be allowed if he thought he could provide more to Naruto. The young man had always held an internal strength that showed in his eyes. Wary but determined, he boldly stared past Tenten, seemingly towards the crowd. It was clear he needed not a plan, simply reassurance. He spoke the only words he could offer now.
"I'm already proud of you. Just be yourself; they'll see what I see in time." Kakashi whispered his mask, helping disguise his discreet last-minute words to his pupil. He side-eyed Naruto and saw him seemingly straighten up from the words. His eyes seemed brighter; somehow, his gaze was more intense. Kakashi smiled inwardly as he settled himself between the two and then stood alert, flaring chakra and killing intent in equal measure to grab the audience's attention. He felt their gaze settle on him and the two Genin before them.
"I won't waste too much time here; my name is Kakashi Hatake. I will serve as the referee to these matches; there is no need for a tournament that is too bloody today. So, let's talk about the rules and get to it. Ne? Firstly, and hopefully, obviously, the first rule is no needless killing. If a Chunin candidate decides to surrender, the match is over. And I will move to ensure no unnecessary damage is done. That being said, in such a move, if needed, I will not hesitate to repel your attacks and painfully discourage you from continuing. Secondly, if I deem a candidate unable to continue at any time, I have the right and responsibility to end the match. That is my call alone, only able to be disputed by the Kage. Killing and other such considerable injuries are within the rules as long as they do not violate previously stated rules. You are limited to the area of this courtyard and unable to receive outside aid. Tools of any kind are permitted but must be checked in on your arrival. Finally, any such order given to me during these matches is not to be disputed. If my orders are ignored or rules broken, you will face immediate disqualification and further punishment, depending on the severity of the crime. This includes, but is not limited to: Career Termination, Banishment, Incarceration, and good old Execution. Now that the rules have been established, allow me to ask. Tenten of the Leaf, do you understand and swear to uphold these rules?" Tenten nodded, laser-focused on Naruto. "Are you prepared for combat?" She nodded again, seeming impatient. Kakashi turned his gaze towards Naruto, asking him the same and getting a similarly tense confirmation. Kakashi nodded as he raised his hand, the crowd lifting in volume as he did so. "Then let the Chunin Exams Begin!"
Naruto / Tenten's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena)
Naruto had rarely been an anxious person. He craved attention, seemed to lack fear, and often acted impulsively. Anxiety and Naruto Uzumaki were not usually looped together. Yet his heart pounded inside his head as Kakashi appeared and slowly trudged forward, seemingly unconcerned despite all the chaos. But Naruto could only gaze at the crowd. Such a public revealing ensured that even all the civilians in the crowd knew what he was. It was the only explanation for the silent fury they gazed upon him with. Civilians and shinobi alike seemed to have a distaste for him. While he had prepared for this, seeing it in such a volume was disturbing. He was still determined to do this; it would be the best way to win them back over, advance his career, and help/survive Gaara. But would his first goal be impossible? Kakashi suddenly whispered at him as he walked by.
"I'm already proud of you. Just be yourself; they'll see what I see in time."
Kakashi said subtly as he walked toward a decidedly neutral spot. The words were simple, not overly thought out or comforting. Yet Naruto felt the confidence return more robust than before. Things may be messy, perhaps even in disarray. Yet Naruto still had those who supported him. Words from within his mind sounded off from others who had shared their support for him.
"How to win people over? Well, I suppose you could be charismatic, handsome, powerful, and intelligent, you know, traits I have in spades. But if, for whatever reason, you lack that, then I offer one piece of advice! Live gutsy and proud; people will always cheer for a gutsy hero!" Jiraiya had said half drunk at the time. Naruto then had thought little of the words. Jiraiya had a habit of going off on tangents, and while Naruto enjoyed them, a lot of them just seemed to go over his head. But now, the words filled him with more determination. Guts and effort he could do.
"Son… I'm sorry about this… that you have to suffer this. But I know that despite it all, you'll somehow find a way to bounce back and shine. I just know you'll shine just as bright as your father." His mother had told him while serving him some sandwiches she had brought for an exhausted Naruto and Jiraiya. The words nearly made the blonde cry, yet it also made him want to scream. Yet now, they excited him to defy the expectations of those around him again.
Naruto allowed a smirk to settle on his face. He palmed Riptide, sheathed on his back as always before he relaxed, and lowered himself into a relaxed stance.
"Then let the Chunin Exams begin!" Kakashi sounded off.