Naruto; Emperor

Chuunin Exam

Naruto followed Hiruzen to the Central Tower in the Forest of Death. He knew that Chuunin Exam can be dangerous, deadly even. So though he attended the Chuunin Exam held in Kumo as a civilian, only attending the Final, he had never been thorough in his observation. No to mention, this time it's in Konoha. Since he once aspired to be a Shinobi of Konoha, he wanted to see how it was done in his village when compared to Kumo. He didn't make it in Iwa and Kiri had been too broiled in what can only be civil war for him to travel to their village. Suna has yet to make it because it wasn't their turn.

So Konoha would be his first thorough experience. The First Phase was a little bit boring as it's just written exam but the twist of actually having to cheat was just so Shinobi. The 10th question being a mind game and psychological twist was definitely something else. Though the Jounin in the room wondered about his presence in Hokage's seat. Kurenai shared a look with her comrades and it seemed that only Kakashi and Asuma beside Hiruzen knew what was going on. Since the Hokage had willingly give up her seat, she kept her tongue.

Naruto breathed out in relief the moment Morino Ibiki passed them, "Whew! That was certainly something. I'm not even in there but I can definitely feel the pressure!" He looked on a Kunoichi crashed through the window and raised a brow at her flag, "Really? Quite the character,"

After the examines left the hall for the Forest of Death, Naruto decided to wait for the final day of the Second Phase. So he waved at Hiruzen, "I'll meet you on the last day outside the forest, alright?"

But later that night, he received a troubling news, "Orochimaru's here?!"

So that's how he found himself following Hiruzen to the Central Tower in the Forest of Death earlier than scheduled. Behind him was some of the strongest of his Oniwaban; Shinomori Aoshi, Kuchiki Byakuya, Kanda Yu, Seta Soujiro, Himura Kenshin, Urameshi Yusuke, Imiko Hiei, and Minamino Shuichi. They acknowledged the danger of Orochimaru and had insisted being mobilized. Besides, there will be inexperienced Genin there and Naruto refused to suffer needless death if he could avoid it.

He cannot stop the deaths that happened in the Forest of Death during Chuunin Exam. But if someone interfere then he would step in and have his Oniwaban clear the forest. Upon arrival, he listened as Mitarashi Anko informed her clash with her former mentor to Hiruzen. Though she was confused by his presence behind the Hokage, she could not refused his presence as the Hokage does not seem to mind his presence. After she was sent to the medic, Naruto looked at the troubled Hiruzen.

Then he watched as a glazed look haunted the man's eyes before he frowned, pinching his nose bridge. There was a suspect but he could not make the connection. Naruto informed him, "The Oniwaban will gather in Konoha,"

Hiruzen looked at him, "Will that be wise?"

Naruto shrugged, "I was born here. My parents died for this place. I might not have as much fond memories in it as I would have had they not died, but it is still my home. Though they could no longer recognize me, I have precious people who lives here. My treasures. It is only right that I defend it from whatever scheme Orochimaru had prepared," He looked at Hiruzen, "He would not expect me,"

Hiruzen studied him before smiling, "You have grown,"

Naruto replied, "I have no choice but to grow,"

Hiruzen felt a pang of regret but knew that it was too little too late for that. Instead he asked, "Will you stay for the Prelim then?"

Naruto nodded, "Of course! I might not be qualified to be s Shinobi, but I would hate to miss being at least a little part of the Chuunin Exam experience!"

Hiruzen chuckled, "Of course. I supposed this is just your way of living that old dream of yours,"

Naruto smiled a bitter smile, "Yeah. Just a bit,"