Convergence of Souls

Trials of Spirit and Steel

I DO NOT OWN NARUTO OR ITS CHARACTERS ALL RIGHTS BELONG WITH KISHIMOTO, VIZ MEDIA, AND SHONEN JUMP. PLEASE SUPPORT THE ORIGINAL RELEASE!

Welcome to Chapter 4, thus far we've seen various battles take place. The last remaining fights will take place here for the preliminary matches. Unfortunately for Hinata Fans, I think going the Sakura X Sasuto route is better, at least for this story. However, the half of Naruto will decide to clobber Neji in this story like in the original due to Naruto's will being stronger than Sasuke's at that point in the match.

Arc 1: Chunin Exams
Chapter 4: Trials of Spirit and Steel
The silence that followed the conclusion of Sakura and Ino's match hung in the air as the medical ninjas carried both kunoichi away on stretchers. Sasuto sat quietly, the intensity of the fight still fresh in his mind. His pride for Sakura's growth was palpable, and despite the draw, he knew she had proven her strength.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, standing at the podium, waited for the murmurs to die down before speaking again. His voice was calm but authoritative, cutting through the low buzz of conversation. "A valiant effort from both Sakura Haruno and Ino Yamanaka. Their growth as kunoichi is commendable."
As the screen above flickered to life once more, the tension in the arena rose once again. Each Genin, eyes locked onto the display, awaited their fate. The hum of the machine grew louder, and soon, the next names were revealed: Tenten vs. Temari.
Sasuto's attention snapped back to the screen, excitement building within him. "Now we get to see what the Sand team can really do," he murmured to himself, leaning forward in anticipation.
"Temari, huh?" Shikamaru muttered, eyeing the screen with a frown. "I'm not sure what to expect from her. I haven't seen any of her skills so far."
"Pfft, she'll win," Kankuro said from the Sand's section of the stands. He crossed his arms, a confident smirk playing on his lips. "Tenten's got no chance."
Down in the arena, Tenten, the weapon specialist from Team Guy, stood tall, her gaze unwavering as she faced Temari, the confident kunoichi from the Sand Village. The tension was thick, like the air before a storm, as the two opponents squared off.
"You ready?" Tenten called, her voice filled with determination. She had spent countless hours honing her skills, and now it was her time to show the fruits of her labor.
Temari, casually resting her hand on the large fan strapped to her back, gave a lazy smile. "Ready when you are. This won't take long."
"Begin!" Hayate's voice signaled the start of the match.
Without wasting a second, Tenten leaped into action, summoning a barrage of kunai and shuriken from her scrolls, hurling them toward Temari with expert precision. The sound of metal cutting through the air echoed throughout the arena, the sharp weapons gleaming in the sunlight.
Temari, unimpressed, simply unfolded her giant fan, the weapon casting a long shadow across the battlefield. With a single swipe, she unleashed a powerful gust of wind, deflecting all of Tenten's projectiles with ease. The weapons clattered to the ground harmlessly, and Tenten narrowed her eyes, gritting her teeth in frustration.
Up in the stands, Sasuto watched with wide eyes. "Whoa, that fan is no joke," he muttered.
Rock Lee, standing beside Sasuto, nodded, his fists clenched tightly. "Tenten's strong, but Temari... her wind style is a bad matchup for her weapons."
As the match continued, Tenten tried various angles and strategies, launching more weapons and even attempting to use her specialty, the Twin Rising Dragons technique. She leaped into the air, releasing a storm of weapons from both sides, hoping to overwhelm Temari with the sheer volume of attacks.
But Temari was calm, almost bored. She flicked her fan again, the powerful wind tearing through the air, sending Tenten's weapons scattering in all directions. The kunoichi from the Leaf landed back on the ground, breathing heavily, sweat dripping from her forehead.
Temari smirked, finally opening her fan fully, revealing the three stars painted on its surface. "That was fun, but now it's over," she said, her voice dripping with arrogance.
With a final, powerful swing of her fan, Temari summoned a massive gust of wind, sending Tenten flying backward, her body slamming into the ground with a heavy thud. The crowd winced at the impact as the wind subsided, leaving Tenten motionless on the arena floor.
Hayate stepped forward, raising his hand. "Winner: Temari."
The genin in the stands were quiet, though the quiet was mixed with murmurs of surprise at how one-sided the battle had been. Temari casually slung her fan over her shoulder and walked off the battlefield, barely acknowledging her victory.
Kankuro, still smirking, crossed his arms and leaned back in his seat. "Told you."
Rock Lee frowned, his worry for his teammate evident on his face. "Tenten did her best..."
As the medical team hurried over to assist Tenten, Sasuto shook his head. "That was... brutal," he said quietly. His respect for the Sand team had grown considerably, but so had his wariness.
Just as the tension began to settle, the monitor whirred to life once more. The arena fell silent, the Genin's eyes drawn to the screen as it revealed the next match: Shikamaru Nara vs. Kin Tsuchi.
"Of all the times to be picked," Shikamaru muttered as he stood, hands tucked into his pockets. His shoulders slumped, and a look of pure annoyance crossed his face as he made his way to the arena floor.
"Shikamaru's always complaining," Choji said with a small chuckle from the stands, "but he's probably already thinking ten steps ahead."
Shikamaru descended the steps lazily, giving a disinterested glance to his opponent, Kin Tsuchi from the Sound Village. Kin stood ready, her fingers wrapped around a set of bells attached to thin wires. A smirk tugged at the corner of her lips as she sized Shikamaru up.
"You don't seem too motivated," Kin taunted, spinning one of the small bells between her fingers. "Shouldn't take too long to beat you."
Shikamaru let out a sigh, scratching the back of his neck. "Yeah, yeah, let's get this over with. I'd rather be back up there doing nothing," he said, glancing back up at Choji and the other spectators.
Hayate Gekko stood between them, signaling the start of the match. "Begin!"
Kin immediately swung into action, throwing several small senbon needles, each attached to a thin wire lined with small bells. The air was filled with the soft, rhythmic ringing of the bells as they sailed toward Shikamaru.
"Bells?" Sasuto raised an eyebrow, watching from the stands. "They've gotta be more than just for show."
Shikamaru sidestepped the incoming attack with minimal effort, but as the bells rang, his steps faltered for a split second. The sound seemed to reverberate unnaturally in his ears, and for a moment, he felt his focus waver.
"Genjutsu?" Sasuto murmured, now realizing the purpose of Kin's weapons. "She's using the sound of the bells to throw him off balance."
Kin smiled confidently as she pulled back on the wires, the bells ringing once again. "You see, once you hear the sound of these bells, your body's movements will become slower and slower. In no time, you won't be able to keep up."
Shikamaru remained calm, his eyes scanning the arena floor as the bells continued their hypnotic toll. "Genjutsu, huh? Troublesome..."
He bent his knees slightly, sinking into a shadow-like stance, his hands forming the familiar seal of the Nara clan. "Guess I should get a little serious."
From the stands, Choji's face lit up. "He's going to use the Shadow Possession Jutsu!"
The shadow at Shikamaru's feet slowly began to stretch forward, creeping across the ground toward Kin, but she was prepared. With a quick flick of her wrist, she sent the bells flying again, their ringing growing louder, more persistent.
Shikamaru moved to dodge the wires, but the genjutsu took effect again, causing him to misstep. Kin seized the opportunity, rushing in to close the distance. "You can't escape the sound of these bells!"
Shikamaru's shadow halted just inches from Kin's feet, unable to reach her as she approached. "Too slow," she taunted.
But Shikamaru's eyes remained calm, almost bored. "Not quite," he muttered under his breath.
Suddenly, Kin's body froze, her limbs locking in place. Her eyes widened in confusion as she looked down and realized, too late, that Shikamaru's shadow had already reached her. The realization hit her just before Shikamaru spoke.
"You're within my range," he said, his voice devoid of emotion. "Shadow Possession Jutsu: Complete."
Kin's body moved involuntarily, her arms rising and falling in sync with Shikamaru's movements. She struggled to break free but found herself completely immobilized. "What... how?"
From the stands, Sasuto smirked. "Shikamaru's strategy is always brilliant. He let her think she had the upper hand just long enough to get her where he needed her."
Kin's frustration grew as she strained against the jutsu. Shikamaru sighed, raising his free hand. "It's troublesome, but you've been caught. There's no point in continuing."
With a quick motion, Shikamaru forced Kin to raise her hand, signaling her own defeat. Hayate stepped forward, confirming the end of the match. "Winner: Shikamaru Nara!"
The crowd erupted into light applause, though most were still stunned at how easily Shikamaru had turned the tide. Choji clapped enthusiastically from the stands. "Way to go, Shikamaru! You made that look easy!"
Shikamaru released his jutsu, letting out a deep sigh as he walked back toward the stands. "What a drag," he muttered, though there was the faintest hint of satisfaction in his eyes.
As Shikamaru made his way back to his seat, Sasuto gave him a nod of approval. "Smart move, Shikamaru. You didn't even break a sweat."
Shikamaru waved off the compliment, slumping into his seat. "Too much work for something that only got me more battles. What a pain."
Sasuto chuckled. "You've got the brains to back it up, though. Now we just have to see what's next."
The screen above flickered once more, signaling the end of this match and the beginning of the next. The atmosphere grew thick with anticipation once again as the monitor whirred to life, preparing to reveal the next set of combatants.
As the names Neji Hyuga vs. Hinata Hyuga flashed on the monitor, a cold silence settled over the arena. The murmurs and cheers from previous matches seemed to fade into the background as the gravity of the match ahead took hold.
Sasuto's eyes narrowed as he leaned forward, already sensing the tension that was about to erupt. Neji, with his cold demeanor and unyielding strength, versus Hinata, whose quiet determination belied her own inner struggles. The Hyuga clan's internal divide was known by many, but this was going to be the first time many of the Genin would see it unfold before them.
"She's got to dig deep for this one," Sasuto muttered to himself, his eyes darting between Neji and Hinata as they stepped into the arena.
Hinata's heart pounded in her chest as she descended the steps, her palms clammy as she clutched her hands together. She could feel the weight of every step as though the entire Hyuga clan was watching her. Her cousin Neji stood across from her, his Byakugan already activated, veins bulging around his eyes, and his expression cold and unfeeling.
"Neji," she whispered to herself, her breath catching in her throat. She could feel the judgment in his gaze, a sharp contrast to the warm encouragement she was used to from Naruto, Naruto-kun.
Despite Sasuto being both Naruto and Sasuke, Hinata couldn't see the fusion as anything other than Naruto. Her admiration for him had long since blossomed into something more, and now, standing across from Neji, all she could think of was proving her worth—to Naruto.
I'll show you I can be strong, Naruto-kun, she thought, determination flashing in her pale eyes.
In the stands, Kakashi crossed his arms, his single visible eye reflecting a calm understanding. "Hinata's different from the others. She's not fighting for glory or status, but for acceptance—something far more personal," he murmured to Guy, who stood next to him.
Guy nodded, but his gaze never left Neji. "Hinata has determination, but Neji's hatred toward the main branch runs deep. He won't hold back."
Down in the arena, Neji's cold voice cut through the air, his eyes narrowing. "You should forfeit now, Hinata. We both know you don't have what it takes. You're not cut out to be a ninja, let alone a Hyuga."
Hinata bit her lip, fighting the urge to back down. Her chest tightened, but she squared her shoulders, steeling her resolve. "I... I won't give up, Neji. Not anymore."
Neji's eyes darkened, his voice filled with quiet disdain. "You're a failure. You've always been weak, Hinata, and no amount of pretending will change that."
"Begin!" Hayate's raspy voice signaled the start of the match, and Neji moved faster than a blink, closing the gap between them with lightning speed.
Hinata barely managed to dodge his first strike, but Neji was relentless. His Byakugan allowed him to target her chakra points with precision, and each time his Gentle Fist landed, a surge of pain radiated through her body. She gasped, trying to keep up with his movements, but Neji's attacks came faster than she could counter.
"You don't belong on this battlefield," Neji spat, his strikes unrelenting. "You've always been a failure, destined to stay in the shadow of the main branch."
From the stands, Sasuto gritted his teeth, his hands clenched into fists as he watched Hinata struggle against Neji's brutal attacks. "He's not just trying to win, he's tearing her apart."
Kakashi nodded slightly. "Neji's fighting with more than just technique. His anger is controlling him. Its just as when Sasuke would be triggered by Itachi's name." Sasuto reflected about it.
Blow after blow landed on Hinata, her chakra points shutting down with each of Neji's strikes. Her breathing became labored, her legs trembling as she fought to stay upright. Blood trickled from her mouth as she staggered back, each step heavier than the last.
But she refused to give up. Her mind was filled with one thought, one image Naruto. She wasn't going to fail him. She couldn't.
"Hinata, come on!" Sasuto's voice rang out across the arena, louder than the murmurs of the crowd. "Don't give up! You can still win this!"
Hinata's eyes widened at Sasuto's words, and for a moment, everything around her seemed to blur. All she could see was Sasuto, Naruto-kun, and his words echoed in her mind. His belief in her, even in the face of overwhelming odds, ignited something deep within her.
A new surge of energy rushed through her veins, and Hinata activated her Byakugan, her vision sharpening as she refocused on Neji.
Neji's eyes narrowed, sensing the shift in her chakra. "Still fighting?" he sneered, though there was a flicker of surprise in his gaze. "It doesn't matter. Fate has already decided this outcome."
"I... I won't let fate decide anything," Hinata said, her voice shaking but determined. "I'll keep fighting... because I want to change my path!"
She charged at Neji, her strikes more controlled, her resolve strengthening with every step. The crowd watched in stunned silence as Hinata fought back, managing to deflect a few of Neji's attacks and even landing some of her own. For the first time, the fight became even, and Hinata pushed forward with everything she had.
Sasuto's eyes widened in amazement as Hinata landed a solid blow on Neji's side. "She's really holding her own now," he muttered, his heart racing.
But Neji's anger only grew with every strike Hinata landed. His resentment for the main branch of the Hyuga clan surged, fueling his movements with an intensity that bordered on hatred. His strikes became faster, more vicious, as he lashed out at Hinata with everything he had.
"You can't change fate, Hinata!" Neji roared, delivering a flurry of rapid Gentle Fist strikes to her chest. Each hit sealed more of her chakra points, sending waves of pain through her body.
Hinata gasped, blood spilling from her lips as she staggered back. Her vision blurred, her legs gave out beneath her, and she collapsed to the ground, her body trembling with exhaustion and pain.
Neji stood over her, his eyes cold, emotionless. "This is your fate."
He moved in for the final blow, his hand poised to strike her heart. But before he could land the fatal attack, three figures appeared in the arena, Kurenai, Guy, and Kakashi, all of them moving to intervene.
"That's enough!" Guy shouted, standing between Neji and the fallen Hinata. His voice was firm, filled with disappointment and disapproval.
Kurenai knelt beside Hinata, her hands trembling as she checked her pulse. "She's hurt badly," Kurenai muttered, her voice barely containing her worry. "We need to get her to the hospital, now."
The medical team rushed in, lifting Hinata onto a stretcher. Her breathing was shallow, her face pale as she was carried out of the arena.
Sasuto watched, his heart pounding in his chest. Without a second thought, he leaped from the stands, landing in the arena in front of Neji. His fists were clenched at his sides, his eyes burning with anger as he stood mere inches from Neji.
"Why?" Sasuto demanded, his voice low and dangerous. "Why would you do that to your own cousin? What's wrong with you?"
Neji met Sasuto's gaze, his expression unflinching. "You wouldn't understand," he replied coldly. "It's her fate. She's weak, and she always will be. That's the way it's meant to be."
Sasuto's Sharingan flared to life, the red tomoe spinning angrily in his eyes. "That doesn't give you the right to treat her like that."
Neji's Byakugan remained activated, the veins around his eyes bulging as he stared Sasuto down. "This is none of your concern. Stay out of Hyuga affairs."
The two stood there, their dojutsu activated, locked in a silent confrontation. The tension between them was palpable, each of them refusing to back down.
From the stands, Orochimaru watched the exchange with interest, his lips curling into a twisted smile. Neji Hyuga... he thought, his mind already working on a plan. Such potential. If Sasuke proves difficult, Neji could make for an interesting backup.I really should start working on a way to remove that seal on Neji's forehead
The air between Sasuto and Neji crackled with intensity, their chakra flaring as they stood face to face. It was clear to everyone watching that this battle wasn't over—not by a long shot.
As Hinata was carried away, Sasuto's eyes flicked briefly to her retreating form before locking onto Neji once more. The weight of the Hyuga clan's internal strife hung heavy in the air, and everyone knew that this moment would leave a scar far deeper than any physical wound.
The curse mark pulsed on Sasuto's neck, a constant reminder that he must always keep his emotions in check.
The Jonin and other higher ups were now more interested in seeing the potentail battle between Neji Hyuga and Sasuto Uchimaki.
Kakashi went in and broke up the stare down and walked Sasuto back to the stands. Neji went on his own side as well.
As the names Kiba Inuzuka vs. Choji Akimichi flashed across the monitor, Sasuto leaned back in his seat, his expression neutral, but his mind was a storm of conflicting thoughts. The Sasuke side of him regarded both Kiba and Choji with mild indifference—he didn't think much of their skills. They were Genin, sure, but neither had ever shown anything that could rival true strength or discipline. In terms of potential, they were leagues below him.
But the Naruto side of Sasuto tugged at his memories of friendship and camaraderie with both Kiba and Choji. He remembered sparring with them, laughing alongside them. Choji's endless kindness and Kiba's wild energy had made them good friends to Naruto. Despite that, though, Sasuto couldn't help but see their weaknesses.
They're good people, Sasuto thought, his eyes narrowing slightly. But they're weak. Good hearts, but not enough skill or willpower to stand out.
Kakashi, standing just behind Sasuto, noticed his student's silence and glanced down at him. "What do you think, Sasuto? Which one will come out on top?"
Sasuto shrugged slightly, his voice calm but tinged with subtle detachment. "Does it matter? Both of them are decent enough, but they're not on the same level as most of us."
Kakashi raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the blend of arrogance from Sasuke and the sense of camaraderie from Naruto that made Sasuto so unique. "Still, they're both capable. This match should show where their strengths lie."
Down in the arena, Kiba had already crouched low, his hand resting on Akamaru's back as he grinned across the battlefield. His excitement was palpable. "Get ready, Choji. I'm not holding back!" His voice was filled with energy, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
Choji, on the other hand, appeared less enthusiastic. He descended the steps slowly, his feet dragging just slightly, and his face etched with uncertainty. He wasn't a natural fighter—at least not in the same way that others in the arena were. The thought of going up against Kiba, with his fast, aggressive style, made Choji's stomach churn.
From the stands, Shikamaru sighed, knowing Choji well enough to see that his friend was already second-guessing himself. "Come on, Choji. Don't hesitate," Shikamaru muttered under his breath.
Choji glanced up at Shikamaru, who gave him a lazy wave of encouragement, though his expression remained unreadable. "Do your best, Choji. You've got this," he called out, his voice calm and level.
Sasuto watched the exchange, his thoughts flickering between Naruto's affection for Choji's loyalty and Sasuke's growing impatience with his weakness.
He hesitates too much, Sasuto thought, observing Choji's slow movements. That's going to cost him.
As Choji reached the center of the arena, Kiba, full of energy and confidence, straightened up, giving Akamaru a quick nod. "Alright, Akamaru! Let's show him what we're made of!"
The small dog barked in agreement, its tail wagging furiously. Kiba's excitement was infectious, and even the crowd seemed to buzz with anticipation as they waited for the match to start.
Hayate Gekko, watching the two competitors, cleared his throat before raising his hand. "Begin!"
The moment the word left his mouth, Kiba was already in motion, dashing toward Choji with Akamaru at his side. He was fast—faster than most of the Genin in the preliminaries—and he was eager to end this quickly. His plan was simple: overwhelm Choji before the larger boy had a chance to get serious.
"Let's see how fast you can move, Choji!" Kiba shouted, his voice brimming with energy. He closed the distance with a wide, sweeping kick aimed at Choji's midsection.
Choji barely had time to react, his arms coming up to block the kick at the last second. The force of the blow sent him stumbling backward, his feet skidding against the dirt. He grunted in discomfort, his brows furrowing as he tried to maintain his balance.
"Not fast enough!" Kiba called out as he followed up with a flurry of quick strikes, Akamaru darting around Choji's legs, nipping at his heels to keep him off-balance.
From the stands, Sasuto watched with a critical eye. Kiba's speed was impressive, but it lacked the precision that a fighter like Sasuke would have had. Meanwhile, Choji's movements were sluggish, and he seemed to be hesitating with each step.
Kiba's fast, but he's predictable. Choji... he's just slow, Sasuto thought, a hint of frustration tugging at him.
"Choji, don't let him get to you!" Shikamaru called from the stands, his voice more urgent now. "Use your strength!"
At that moment, Kiba leaped back, grinning as he clasped his hands together. "Time to take things up a notch! Akamaru, let's go!" In an instant, Kiba and Akamaru performed their signature technique, transforming Akamaru into an identical clone of Kiba. Now, two Kibas stood in the arena, circling around Choji like twin whirlwinds.
Choji eyes widened slightly. "W-Wait, which one is which?"
"Doesn't matter! We're both going to beat you!" Kiba taunted, his clone barking in agreement.
The two Kibas charged at Choji from opposite sides, moving too fast for him to react in time. Choji's large frame made it difficult for him to dodge the incoming attacks, and he found himself taking blow after blow, each strike pushing him further back.
From the stands, Sasuto narrowed his eyes, his expression unreadable. "Choji's losing this... but he's got more in him. If he could just stop hesitating."
Suddenly, something shifted in Choji's stance. He stopped backing away, planting his feet firmly into the ground. His hands curled into fists, and a spark of determination flickered in his eyes. He could hear Shikamaru's voice, reminding him of his strength, reminding him of his worth.
With a deep breath, Choji activated his clan's signature technique. "Expansion Jutsu!" he called out, his body suddenly growing in size, his arms thickening as his muscles expanded.
The two Kibas, caught off-guard by Choji's sudden transformation, found themselves facing a much larger opponent than they had expected.
"Whoa! Choji's pulling out the big moves!" Sasuto muttered, slightly surprised.
The massive version of Choji reached out with his now-expanded arms, sweeping both Kibas off their feet with a single swing. Kiba and his clone were sent flying through the air, crashing into the ground with a thud.
Kiba groaned as he pulled himself to his feet, dusting himself off. "Okay... maybe I underestimated you a little bit," he muttered, shaking his head to clear the dizziness.
Choji, still in his expanded form, stood tall, his eyes locked on Kiba. For once, there was no hesitation in his stance, just determination.
From the stands, Shikamaru smirked. "That's it, Choji. Don't hold back."
Choji stood tall in his newly expanded form, his massive figure casting a long shadow across the arena floor.
Kiba groaned as he pulled himself up, a little dazed but still determined. He glanced over at Akamaru, who had also taken a hit. "You okay, boy?" he asked, and the small white dog—still in his clone form—barked, shaking off the dirt.
"Don't think that's the end, Choji!" Kiba shouted, brushing himself off. "I'm not going down that easy."
In his expanded form, Choji remained calm, his eyes focused and his breathing steady. The nervous hesitation from earlier had faded, replaced with quiet determination. He had heard Shikamaru's encouragement in his mind and remembered what mattered most: doing his best, not just for himself, but for his team.
Kiba and Akamaru circled around Choji once more, but the larger boy didn't seem fazed. This time, he was ready.
From the stands, Shikamaru watched with a small smile playing on his lips. "Choji's always underestimated," he murmured. "But when he gets serious, there aren't many who can stand against him."
Sasuto observed Choji's movements with a slight nod of approval. Despite the Naruto side of him remembering Choji as a loyal friend, the Sasuke part of him had often looked down on the Akimichi boy's skills. But now, Sasuto could see that when Choji actually used his strength and technique, he was far more formidable than expected.
There's more to him than what meets the eyes, Sasuto mused, his eyes narrowing slightly. Still...
Kiba wasn't done yet. He and Akamaru darted in, weaving in and out of Choji's range, attempting to wear him down with their speed. "Let's show him what we've got, Akamaru!" Kiba called out, launching into another *Fang Over Fang* attack, spinning toward Choji like twin drills.
Choji narrowed his eyes, watching the two Kibas spiral toward him. With a deep breath, he braced himself. As the twin drills closed in, he used his larger arms to form a powerful barrier, blocking their attack with a resounding crash. Kiba and Akamaru rebounded off Choji's defense, unable to break through his expanded form.
"Your speed is good," Choji muttered, his voice low and focused, "but it won't be enough."
As Kiba and Akamaru came in for another attack, Choji shifted his weight, pivoting with surprising agility for his size. He swung his massive arm in a wide arc, catching both Kiba and his transformed dog with a powerful strike that sent them tumbling across the ground once again.
The crowd gasped, many of them now fully aware of the strength Choji possessed. Even Sasuto, who had initially written off both Kiba and Choji as unremarkable, now found himself intrigued.
"Not bad, Choji," Sasuto muttered, his lips curling into a faint smile. There's more fight in him than I gave him credit for.
From the ground, Kiba groaned again, his body aching from the repeated hits. He slowly pushed himself up, wiping a bit of dirt from his face. "Damn it... I wasn't expecting this," he muttered to himself. His usual bravado had started to slip away, replaced by a grim understanding that Choji wasn't going to go down easily.
Akamaru barked, his clone form wavering as he struggled to stay upright.
Kiba grit his teeth, determination flashing in his eyes. "Fine, you want to play tough? Let's finish this!"
But Choji was ready. As Kiba and Akamaru rushed him one last time, Choji's hands began to move, gathering momentum for his next attack. "You want to see real strength? Alright, Kiba! This is for you!" Choji called out, determination blazing in his eyes.
With a powerful roar, Choji activated his clan's signature technique once more, this time with even more force: Human Boulder. His body morphed into a gigantic rolling ball, tearing through the arena floor as he barreled toward Kiba and Akamaru.
Kiba's eyes widened as he saw the massive human boulder speeding toward him, and for the first time in the match, a flicker of panic crossed his face. "Akamaru, move!" he shouted, but it was too late.
Choji's rolling form smashed into Kiba with overwhelming force, sending him flying across the arena. Akamaru was flung aside as well, his clone jutsu dispelling as he returned to his normal form. Both Kiba and Akamaru hit the ground hard, groaning in pain.
The entire crowd fell silent, stunned by the display of strength. Choji's Human Boulder finally came to a stop, and as his body returned to normal size, he stood over Kiba's fallen form, breathing heavily but victorious.
Hayate Gekko stepped forward, his voice raspy but firm. "Winner: Choji Akimichi!"
The crowd erupted into applause, and in the stands, Shikamaru let out a breath of relief, his lips curling into a rare smile. "Nice job, Choji," he muttered to himself, his eyes watching his friend proudly.
Sasuto watched in silence, his expression thoughtful. He may not be on the same level as me, but there's something about Choji. A quiet strength.
As Choji stood tall, Kiba groaned from his spot on the ground, still dazed from the hit. "Man... that hurt," Kiba muttered, wincing as he sat up, rubbing his head.
Akamaru whined softly at his side, nuzzling him as if to comfort his wounded pride.
Choji, ever the kind-hearted one, walked over and extended a hand to Kiba, a small smile on his face. "Good match, Kiba. You really had me on the ropes for a bit there."
Kiba blinked, then chuckled weakly, taking Choji's hand and pulling himself up. "Yeah, you too... I wasn't expecting you to hit that hard."
The two exchanged a nod of respect, and as they made their way off the battlefield, Sasuto's gaze followed them, his expression unreadable.
The arena was filled with murmurs as the names Dosu Kinuta vs. Kabuto Yakushi flashed on the screen. The spectators were eager to see what the mysterious Kabuto would bring to the fight, especially after his reputation of being a capable Genin with years of experience.
Sasuto's eyes flicked to the screen, his interest piqued. He didn't know much about Kabuto, but he could sense that there was something off about the older Genin. He had been keeping a low profile, but Sasuto's instincts, especially the Sasuke side of him, told him that Kabuto was hiding something. Meanwhile, the Naruto part of him was more straightforward, wondering why Kabuto seemed so nonchalant about his matches.
He's hiding something, Sasuto thought, his brows furrowing slightly. But what's his game?
Kakashi stood quietly behind his students, his single eye watching Kabuto with a subtle curiosity. "Kabuto's a strange one. He doesn't show much, but something tells me he's not to be underestimated," Kakashi muttered, mostly to himself.
Opposite Kabuto, Dosu Kinuta stood tall, his bandaged face impassive but his sound amplifier humming faintly. Dosu wasn't the type to waste words, but his presence was enough to make it clear that he was ready for a fight.
"Kabuto Yakushi," Dosu spoke, his voice low and cold. "I've been waiting to see what you can do. But I'll make this quick."
Kabuto's usual calm smile crossed his face as he stepped forward, adjusting his glasses casually. He glanced at Dosu for a moment, then back up at Hayate Gekko, who was standing between them, ready to start the match.
"I'm afraid this won't be much of a show," Kabuto said, his voice level and polite. "I'm forfeiting this match."
The crowd erupted into shocked murmurs, surprised that Kabuto, known for his experience, would bow out so quickly. Dosu's eyes narrowed, his body stiffening with frustration. "What?" he spat, his tone filled with disdain. "You're forfeiting? What kind of ninja gives up without a fight?"
Kabuto chuckled lightly, adjusting his glasses again. "I've already been through enough today, and I'm not exactly in top condition. There's no point in risking injury for a meaningless match." His tone was smooth, unbothered by the accusations.
But Sasuto's eyes narrowed further, something about Kabuto's explanation striking him as off. He's not tired, Sasuto thought. There's more to this.
Kakashi observed quietly, his thoughts running in a similar direction. "Kabuto's experienced, but for someone so skilled to give up so easily..." His voice trailed off. Could he be hiding his abilities on purpose?
Dosu clenched his fists, the sound amplifier attached to his arm vibrating with barely contained energy. "You're just a coward," Dosu sneered. "I was looking forward to tearing you apart."
Kabuto didn't flinch, simply smiling in response. "I'm sure you would have put on quite the display. But this match is yours."
From the stands, Sasuto crossed his arms, watching Kabuto closely as he casually walked away from the arena. "He's not tired," Sasuto muttered, his voice barely audible. "There's something else going on here."
Kakashi nodded slightly, also sensing that Kabuto's forfeit wasn't due to mere fatigue. He's following orders from someone, Kakashi thought. But who?
Hayate Gekko, looking slightly puzzled, raised his hand to officially call the match. "Winner: Dosu Kinuta, by forfeit."
The crowd's reaction was subdued, many of the Genin in the stands disappointed that they wouldn't get to see what Kabuto was truly capable of. Sasuto remained silent, watching as Kabuto disappeared into the shadows, his calm demeanor never wavering.
From the stands, Orochimaru, disguised as the Grass Village ninja, watched the scene unfold with an approving smile hidden behind his facade. Kabuto's forfeit had gone as planned. Good... he followed the order to perfection. Orochimaru thought, his eyes gleaming with hidden intent. No need to reveal his skills here. His true purpose lies elsewhere.
Dosu, clearly displeased with the outcome, stormed off the arena floor, his frustration evident in the heavy steps he took. He had wanted to prove himself, and Kabuto's calm refusal to engage had left him with an empty victory.
As Kabuto returned to the stands, Sasuto continued to watch him with a mixture of suspicion and curiosity. He knew there was something about Kabuto that didn't add up, but for now, all he could do was wait and watch.
The arena grew quiet again as Hayate stepped forward to announce the next match. But in the back of Sasuto's mind, Kabuto's strange forfeit lingered like a puzzle waiting to be solved.
The arena was filled with anticipation as the names Rock Lee vs. Gaara flashed across the monitor. The atmosphere shifted, and whispers began circulating among the Genin and their sensei. No one really knew what Gaara was capable of, and Rock Lee's relentless training in taijutsu had already made him a crowd favorite. This was going to be a match no one wanted to miss.
Sasuto watched the two competitors closely, his eyes narrowing. Gaara had been a mystery throughout the exams—calm, distant, and unreadable. Both Naruto's curiosity and Sasuke's instincts warned him that this fight wasn't going to be like the others.
Gaara... what's your deal? Sasuto wondered.
Kakashi, standing behind his students, said nothing at first, but his eyes were fixed on Gaara. "This match will be interesting, but Gaara... there's something unsettling about him."
Guy's voice broke the silence as he cheered for his student. "Lee! This is your moment! Show them the power of hard work and dedication!"
Lee's face was intense with focus, his fists clenched as he prepared for battle. He had trained his whole life for moments like this, where his taijutsu could shine against unknown odds. He glanced up at Guy, his eyes filled with determination. "Yes, Guy-sensei! I'll show them all!"
From the stands, Neji watched the scene with his arms crossed. "Lee's fast, but against someone like Gaara, I wonder how long that speed will last."
Meanwhile, Temari and Kankuro exchanged uneasy glances. Gaara had always been a mystery, even to them, but they both knew what he was capable of.
Kankuro frowned, his arms folded tightly. "Gaara's fighting again. Do you think that Lee kid has a chance?"
Temari glanced down at the arena, her sharp eyes studying Gaara's calm demeanor. "Lee's fast, but no one's ever really seen Gaara fight seriously. I don't know what to expect."
Kankuro grimaced. "I hope Gaara doesn't go too far. You know how he gets when he... loses control."
Temari's expression darkened slightly. "Yeah. I hope Lee knows what he's up against."
In the stands, Sasuto couldn't help but feel the same apprehension. Gaara is an unknown, but Lee's the type to never back down. Still... something feels off about Gaara.
The proctor, Hayate Gekko, stepped into the middle of the arena, glancing at both competitors before raising his hand. "Begin!"
In an instant, Lee shot forward, his body moving faster than anyone expected. His feet barely touched the ground as he sprinted toward Gaara with a speed that made the crowd gasp. With a powerful leap, Lee launched a flying kick aimed directly at Gaara's head, aiming to end the match quickly.
But Gaara didn't flinch.
His calm expression never wavered as Lee's foot made contact—not with Gaara, but with a wall of sand that suddenly rose between them, blocking the attack entirely.
The arena fell into stunned silence. The sand had moved on its own, forming a barrier without Gaara even raising a hand.
"What the—?" Lee gasped, quickly leaping back to gain distance.
Sasuto's eyes widened as he watched the sand move. "It's protecting him. Without him even moving..."
Temari's eyes narrowed as she muttered to herself, "That's Gaara's sand... it always does that."
Kankuro, on the other hand, tensed up, knowing exactly what was coming. "That's just the beginning," he murmured under his breath. "Gaara's barely started."
Lee, determined to push through, wiped the sweat from his brow and prepared for another attack. "I won't give up that easily!"
He shot forward again, this time weaving and dodging, aiming to confuse Gaara with his speed. He delivered a series of rapid punches and kicks, each aimed at different parts of Gaara's body. But the sand moved faster, blocking every strike with ease.
From the stands, Kakashi's visible eye narrowed. "The sand... it's protecting him automatically. Lee's speed might not be enough to get through."
Neji watched with his Byakugan activated, his expression thoughtful. "No wasted movements from Gaara... His defense is almost perfect. Lee won't land a hit like this."
Guy remained calm but spoke quietly, his confidence in Lee unwavering. "Lee has something up his sleeve."
Below, Lee skidded to a stop, breathing heavily as he assessed the situation. "None of my attacks are getting through..." His eyes locked onto Gaara, who remained completely still, arms crossed and eyes cold as ever.
Finally, Gaara spoke, his voice low and emotionless. "Is that all?"
Lee's eyes burned with determination. He couldn't give up now. He had promised himself, promised Guy-sensei, that he would show everyone the strength of hard work. He clenched his fists, and with a deep breath, he reached down to his legs, loosening the straps on his weights.
The crowd murmured in confusion as Lee removed the heavy weights from his ankles, letting them fall to the ground with a resounding thud. The arena floor cracked under the impact, and the dust rose around his feet.
Sasuto's eyes widened in surprise. "Those were weights?"
From the stands, Temari's mouth dropped open. "What... what kind of training does this guy do?"
Guy grinned proudly, his voice booming across the arena. "Now, Lee, show them your true speed!"
In the blink of an eye, Lee vanished. His speed was now unmatched, far beyond anything the audience had seen before. He reappeared behind Gaara, delivering a powerful kick that sent the Sand ninja flying through the air.
For the first time, Gaara was caught off guard. His sand struggled to catch up, barely cushioning his fall as he slammed into the ground.
Temari gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "He actually hit Gaara!"
Kankuro's eyes were wide with shock. "No one's ever done that before..."
Sasuto leaned forward, his attention fully locked on the match. "Lee... he's faster than I thought."
Lee didn't waste any time. He was on Gaara again in an instant, delivering a barrage of punches and kicks, each strike powerful and precise. Gaara's sand tried to keep up, but Lee's speed was overwhelming. The audience was on the edge of their seats as Lee's relentless assault continued.
In the stands, Orochimaru, still disguised, watched with growing interest. So, Gaara isn't invincible after all, he thought, his eyes gleaming with excitement. But how long can this mere boy lastagaisnt such a force like Gaara?
Gaara, however, wasn't done. As Lee prepared for another strike, the sand around Gaara exploded outward, creating a barrier that finally slowed Lee's movements. Gaara stood up slowly, his expression unchanged, though his cold eyes seemed to burn with a new intensity.
"You're fast," Gaara said quietly, his voice barely a whisper. "But you won't survive this."
The sand around Gaara began to swirl, rising like a living entity. The crowd watched in awe and fear as the sand took on a life of its own, creating tendrils that reached out toward Lee.
Lee leaped back, trying to maintain his speed, but the sand was faster than before. It lashed out at him, trying to catch him in its grip.
Sasuto's fists clenched as he watched the battle unfold. "Lee... don't get caught."
Temari's hands gripped the edge of the railing, her knuckles white. "Gaara's serious now..."
Kankuro shook his head. "Lee better be careful. Once that sand catches him..."
The sand swirled faster and faster, and Lee's movements became more frantic as he struggled to stay ahead of it. But with every dodge, the sand got closer, and soon, it would be impossible to avoid.
Lee was fast-faster than anyone had anticipated-but Gaara's sand was relentless. It twisted and lashed out like a living creature, seeking to ensnare him with every passing second. The tendrils of sand snapped at Lee's feet, each one missing him by mere inches as he leaped and twisted in midair.
"Lee! Stay focused!" Guy shouted from the stands, his voice filled with urgency. He knew just how dangerous Gaara's abilities could be.
Sasuto watched, his heart pounding.
Lee's fast... but this sand is like nothing else. The Sasuke side of him recognized how methodical Gaara was, while Naruto's side admired Lee's tenacity, hoping his friend could somehow break through.
From the stands, Kankuro muttered under his breath, his fingers gripping the railing. "Gaara's not messing around anymore. He's going to crush that kid if he catches him."
Temari, her expression a mix of concern and awe, watched silently.
"Lee's fast, but... he doesn't know what he's up against."
Gaara, standing at the center of the arena, his expression cold and detached, raised his hand slightly.
The sand began to move even faster, responding to his unspoken command. He hadn't even broken a sweat. To him, this fight was little more than an inconvenience.
"You're tiring yourself out," Gaara said quietly, his voice carrying an eerie calmness across the arena. "This is pointless."
Lee gritted his teeth, his breathing heavy but his spirit unbroken. He could feel the weight of Gaara's words, but he wasn't about to give up.
He had trained for this, for moments like this-moments where his strength of will would be tested.
Without a word, Lee leaped back, creating some distance between himself and the swirling sand. His eyes were filled with determination, even though his body was clearly reaching its limit. He had to do something, something drastic. There was no other choice.
Guy, sensing what Lee was about to do, gripped the edge of the railing in the stands. "Lee... you're not going to...?"
Lee took a deep breath and slowly began unwrapping the bandages around his arms. The crowd murmured in confusion, but those who knew Lee-and knew what was coming-watched with bated breath.
Kakashi's eyes widened slightly.
"He's... taking off his restraints."
"Lee's going to do it," Neji muttered under his breath, his usually calm expression faltering for just a moment. Even he hadn't expected
Lee to resort to this.
Guy clenched his fists. "Lee... make sure it's worth it!"
With a final pull, Lee finished unwrapping his arm bandages. His breathing steadied as he dropped into a low stance, his eyes locked onto Gaara. His body trembled slightly, but not out of fear —it was from the sheer energy now coursing through him.
Sasuto watched intently. What is he doing...?
In the stands, Temari's eyes widened in disbelief. "He's not... He can't be serious!"
Kankuro swallowed hard. "He's going to use that?"
Gaara, seemingly unfazed by the change in Lee's stance, tilted his head slightly. "What now? More pointless effort?"
Without warning, Lee's body erupted in motion. But this time, his movements were far beyond what anyone had seen before. He vanished from sight, his speed now almost impossible to track with the naked eye.
In a flash, Lee appeared behind Gaara, delivering a powerful kick to the side of his head. The impact was so strong that it sent Gaara flying, crashing into the arena wall with a thunderous boom. The crowd gasped in shock, unable to believe what they had just witnessed.
Even Gaara's sand hadn't been able to keep up with Lee's speed.
Temari's hand flew to her mouth. "No way... Gaara actually might lose?"
Kankuro stood frozen, wide-eyed. "That kick... it's like Gaara didn't even see it coming."
But Lee wasn't finished. He shot forward again, delivering a barrage of punches and kicks, each one faster and more powerful than the last.
Gaara's body was tossed around the arena like a ragdoll, his sand struggling to catch up.
Guy grinned proudly, his heart swelling with pride. "Yes! That's my Lee! Show them the results of your hard work!"
Sasuto was on the edge of his seat, his eyes glued to the fight. Lee... he's breaking through.
But despite the brutal onslaught, Gaara's expression remained unchanged. Even as Lee's strikes landed, there was no sign of panic or pain in his cold, empty eyes.
Then, with a sickening crack, Gaara's body stopped moving. Lee's fist had connected with Gaara's face, but instead of blood, a large chunk of his skin crumbled away, revealing nothing but sand beneath.
Lee's eyes widened in shock. "What..?"
Gaara's body collapsed into a pile of sand, and before Lee could react, a massive wave of sand erupted from the ground, encircling him in an instant. The real Gaara emerged from the sand, standing a few feet away, his arms still crossed, his expression as cold as ever.
"You're fast," Gaara said calmly, "but it's over now."
The sand tightened around Lee, constricting his movements. He struggled to break free, but the more he moved, the tighter the sand became. He was trapped.
Guy's eyes widened in horror. "No... Lee!"
Kakashi, for the first time, looked visibly concerned. "Gaara's sand... it's stronger than I thought."
Sasuto's heart raced as he watched
Lee struggle against the crushing force of Gaara's sand. Lee... don't let it end like this.
Gaara's eyes gleamed with malice as he slowly raised his hand, commanding the sand to tighten further. "Sand Coffin," he whispered, his voice dripping with cruelty.
The sand constricted even more, and Lee's face contorted in pain as the pressure mounted. It felt like his entire body was about to be crushed.
But just as the sand was about to crush him completely, Lee's body moved. With a surge of desperation and strength, Lee activated the Eight Gates, forcing open the third gate. His chakra surged, and with a mighty roar, he broke free from Gaara's sand, sending the sand flying in every direction.
The crowd gasped in shock as Lee stood tall, his body trembling with the overwhelming power of the gates. His muscles bulged, his skin flushed red, and his eyes burned with intensity.
This was the power of the Eight Gates a power that came at great risk, but one that gave Lee the strength to stand against even the most powerful opponents.
Guy's heart swelled with pride, but there was also fear in his eyes. "Lee... don't push yourself too far."
Sasuto's eyes widened in disbelief. That power... where did it come from?
Temari and Kankuro exchanged horrified glances. "He's still fighting?" Temari whispered, her voice shaking slightly.
Gaara, for the first time, looked surprised. His sand quivered, as if responding to the unexpected power Lee had unleashed.
Lee wasted no time. With the gates open, his speed and strength were now on a completely different level.
He charged at Gaara with blinding speed, delivering a crushing punch to Gaara's midsection. The force of the blow sent Gaara flying across the arena once more, and this time, even the sand couldn't protect him fully.
Gaara crashed into the arena wall, and for the first time, a crack appeared in his cold demeanor. His breathing became slightly uneven, and his eyes gleamed with something akin to frustration.
But Lee wasn't done. He launched himself at Gaara again, moving faster than anyone could see.
His fists and feet became a blur of motion as he pounded Gaara with everything he had
I, each blow more powerful than
the last.
Sasuto could barely keep up with Lee's movements. "He's... he's going beyond his limits..."
In the stands, Orochimaru watched with dark amusement, his eyes gleaming beneath his disguise. So, even Gaara can be pushed this far... fascinating.
As Lee prepared for his final strike, his body began to tremble. The strain of using the Eight Gates was catching up to him. But he didn't care. This was his moment.
With one final, powerful kick, Lee launched Gaara into the air, spinning him around with incredible force.
"Primary Lotus!" Lee roared, sending Gaara crashing into the ground with an earth-shattering impact.
The entire arena shook, and a cloud of dust rose into the air, obscuring the battlefield.
When the dust settled, Lee stood in the middle of the arena, breathing heavily. His body was trembling from the strain, and his legs wobbled beneath him. But he remained standing, his eyes still burning with determination.
Gaara lay in the crater, his body limp, his sand scattered around him. For a moment, it looked like the match was over.
But then, Gaara's hand twitched. Slowly, he began to rise, the sand reforming around him. His eyes were filled with fury now, his calm facade shattered.
Sasuto's heart raced as he watched Gaara stand. "He's still... standing?"
Gaara's sand began to swirl violently, creating a massive wave that threatened to engulf Lee. His eyes were wild, filled with bloodlust. "'ll kill you," Gaara hissed, his voice trembling with rage.
Lee tried to move, but his body wouldn't respond. The strain of the Eight Gates had taken its toll, and he was completely drained.
"Lee!" Guy shouted, his voice filled with panic.
Before Gaara could deliver the finishing blow, Guy leaped into the arena, grabbing Lee and pulling him to safety just as the sand crashed down.
The arena was silent, the tension thick as everyone processed what had just happened.
Gaara stood in the middle of the battlefield, his sand swirling around him like a storm. But his eyes weren't on Lee anymore.
They were on Sasuto.

Well thats it for this chapter. This really showcased everyone else. The next few chapters will be the 1 month training the finalist get. Honestly writing the character of Sasuto is extremely fun. I have to keep both personalities a constant in the chapters. As you seen earlier, the Naruto side prevailed and he stood up for Hinata, something that Hinata will come to find out later on, maybe motivating her to come forward with her feelings for Naruto. The world will never know. As always i hoped you enjoyed the read, and i will see you in the next one.

Did you enjoy the chapter? This chapter is nearly 10k words. To put it into perspective, that would be double what my usual chapters are. I am attempting to make chapters longer due to my upload schedule. I know if i was reading this story, I would want it to be uploaded more consistently on a near weekly basis. However, due to my schedule with my career and life as a whole, I can only put out a chapter each month or every 3 weeks. I am getting better on prewriting my chapters again. The only issue is that i wont get to see feedback for these chapters until later and by then im already focused on chapters that are three more chapters up already. Anyways, remember you can always reach out to me on X (@PRH4LiF3) or PM here to talk.