Bab 86: Rare Event
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The Chunin Exams were more than just a test; they were a stage where the future of the ninja world would be showcased. Horyu's performance could draw unwanted attention, not just from allies but from potential enemies as well. "Even if Orochimaru does not come, Shisui and others in Konoha will be here. Not to mention spies from other villages. If I show too much potential, other villages might come after me." He knew the risk was low, but it wasn't non-existent.
The other looming question was about Orochimaru. "Is Orochimaru in the village? Will he still impersonate as a Genin to join the exam? Will they attack the village?" Horyu weighed each possibility, his analytical mind dissecting every potential scenario. "If he even dares, he will realize how different Shisui is from Sarutobi, but that is still an option. Orochimaru is dangerous after all."
The risks of participating in the exams and excelling were manifold. On one hand, it could lead to recognition, growth, and advancement within the shinobi ranks. On the other, it could paint a target on his back, drawing the eyes of those who would see his abilities as a threat or a tool to be used for their own ends.
Sitting in the darkness of his room, Horyu's eyes glinted with a hard resolve. "But hiding in the shadows isn't my style either," he whispered to himself. "If I'm to make a mark in this world, I need to be seen. I need to be recognized." It was a risky game, but he was no stranger to risks. His entire existence in this world was a testament to that.
"The Chunin Exams... they are not just a challenge. They're an opportunity." His voice was barely audible, a murmur in the stillness. The exams could catapult him into a position of influence and power, a chance to shape not just his destiny but potentially the future of Konoha itself.
He stood up, pacing the room, his mind working through the layers of strategy and potential outcomes. "I need to be smart about this. Show enough to gain recognition, but not so much that I become a target."
Horyu's decision was clear. He would participate in the Chunin Exams, but he would do so on his terms. He would control the narrative, reveal just enough of his skills to make the desired impact without exposing his full capabilities.
Horyu rose from his thoughts, the clarity of his decision guiding his movements. He took a quick shower, letting the water wash away the weariness and the lingering doubts that clung to him. Dressed and ready, he grabbed his tools and slung Chucky over his back. His mind was focused, his resolve firm as he stepped out of his house and made his way towards Training Ground 8.
The morning air of Konoha was crisp, the village slowly stirring to life. Shopkeepers were opening their stores, and early risers were beginning their daily routines. Horyu moved through the streets with a quiet purpose, his steps taking him swiftly to the designated meeting point.
Upon arriving, he found Hinata and Shino already engaged in a discussion. Their status as clan heirs afforded them more insight into the workings of the Chunin Exams, and their conversation was a low murmur of theories and expectations. Horyu approached them, his presence drawing their attention.
"Good morning," he greeted.
Hinata offered a small smile in return. "Good morning, Horyu. We were just discussing the exams."
Shino nodded in agreement, "There's much to consider."
Before Horyu could delve into their conversation, Kurenai arrived, her expression serious. "Team 8," she began, gathering their focus. "As you're aware, the Chunin Exams are upon us. These exams are not just a test of skill but a showcase of Konoha's strength and the potential of its Genin."
She paused, ensuring she had their undivided attention. "The exams are divided into multiple stages, each designed to test different aspects of a shinobi's capabilities. From intelligence and strategy to combat skills and survival instincts."
Kurenai took a deep breath, her gaze sweeping over her team. "This time, the exam is a little different."
Horyu, upon hearing this, looked at Kurenai, his eyes reflecting a keen interest. Hinata, with a hint of apprehension in her voice, asked, "How so, Sensei?"
Kurenai sighed, her expression serious. "As you may know, Chunin Exams are held in different villages, but villages do not usually send their key players to the exam."
Shino, his voice calm and analytical, added, "It is dangerous, not only the path but also the rivaling village. If key Genin are sent, there is always the possibility of foul play. Assassination on the way, in the village, during the exam, or on their way back."
Kurenai nodded in agreement. "Exactly, Shino. Additionally, villages don't want other villages to know their key players. They prefer to hide them as much as possible."
Hinata continued. "Also, the exams are a showcase. Villages don't want to reveal their strategies or the strengths of their potential future leaders."
Kurenai nodded again. "Correct. But as I said, rarely, all the key players appear in the same exam. They are the highlights of the decade, where the most promising Genin convene. It usually follows another rare and important event."
Horyu, his voice low, almost a whisper, said, "Five Kage Summit."
Kurenai turned to him, a flicker of surprise in her eyes, then nodded. "Yes, that's true. Hokage-sama is holding a summit and has invited Genin from other villages to participate in this exam, ensuring no foul play. Thus, Shisui-sama wants us to bring out the best of our abilities to show other villages the promising future of Konoha. In this exam, holding back is not an option."
Horyu's mind processed the information quickly. The stakes were higher than he initially anticipated. His previous thoughts about potentially holding back to avoid drawing too much attention now seemed irrelevant. If the Hokage himself expected them to showcase their full capabilities, then it was a direct order, a mission in itself. He could still go against it, but that wasn't wise at all.
Shino adjusted his glasses, a thoughtful look on his face. "This changes our approach to the exams. We need to be prepared for not only the tests themselves but also the political implications of our performance."
Hinata nodded, her resolve firming. "We'll need to train harder, then. We can't afford to be unprepared, not when the eyes of the Five Great Nations will be on us."
Kurenai's expression softened slightly, her pride in her team evident. "We have a week before the exams begin. Use this time wisely. Train, strategize, and rest. I expect each of you to perform at your best."
The trio nodded in understanding, and Kurenai offered a reassuring smile. "Hokage-sama has instructed the clans to take part in your training for the exams. Hinata, Shino, you should return to your clans and train with your clan jutsu. Horyu, please stay."
Hinata and Shino acknowledged her instructions and bid farewell, leaving Horyu standing alone with Kurenai. A flicker of curiosity sparked in Horyu's eyes. If Shisui wanted them to be trained by their clans, why was he asked to stay?
Kurenai seemed to read his mind. "Horyu, have you awakened your Sharingan?"
Horyu wasn't entirely surprised by her question. Awakening the Sharingan gave a noticeable surge of power, and his spike in power could be felt keenly. So he nodded, activating his Sharingan, revealing the two swirling tomoes.
"Two tomoes already?" Kurenai gasped, visibly impressed.
"I awakened like this, Sensei," Horyu explained, his voice betraying a hint of pride.
"When did this happen?" Kurenai inquired, her eyes studying him closely.
"Yesterday," Horyu replied.
Kurenai nodded thoughtfully. "In the village, there aren't many Genjutsu specialists, especially among Genin. So far, only you and one other have shown real aptitude."
Horyu understood. Genjutsu was a powerful yet intricate art, often overlooked for more direct forms of combat.
"That's why Shisui-sama wants you to focus on Genjutsu. I've already informed him of your prowess in it, and he believes you should focus on mastering it. While Sasuke will concentrate on Ninjutsu and Taijutsu, you will represent a different aspect of the Sharingan. Together, you'll display to the rest of the world the diverse power of the Uchiha Clan and Konoha," Kurenai explained.
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