DISCLAIMER: I DON'T AND WILL NEVER OWN NARUTO, I JUST OWN MY PERFECT KIYOMI FAMILY! TOODLES~!

How Does It Feel by Tonight Alive

Ch 17: The Chunin Exams Pt. 5

A/N: Sorry, if I change POV's a lot. It's just between First person and Third.
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RIKO's POV
After the fight with the Amegakure team, I obtained their Heaven scroll and finally made my way towards the tower. Though, the only thing on my mind wasn't the completion of this exam, no, it's about the disgusting sensation on my hands. No matter how many times I clean them, the feeling never goes away.

Is it because I killed them, my mind immediately ponders. Is it because I finally have blood on my hands?

I shake my head to rid myself of those thoughts. Those everlasting, and haunting thoughts. Mental ramblings that will forever remind me that I finally killed someone. Murdered them in cold blood, to be more precise.

Sighing, I finally make it to the tower's entrance. Pushing away my inner conflicts, I walk inside and eventually find myself in a sole, empty, room. Before I can call out to someone, writing on the upper wall, towards the ceiling, catches my attention.

'If qualities of Heaven are your desire, acquire wisdom and knowledge to take your mind higher. If Earthly qualities is what you lack, train your bodies in the field and prepare to attack. When both Heaven and Earth are opened together, the path of peril will revert to the righteous path forever. This " " is the secret way that guides us from this place today. -The Third Hokage '

I read the quote over and over as I try to process it. I know that Heaven is speaking of the intelligence of our minds and that Earth is talking about the strength of our bodies. So, I theorize, that with the both of them our path to becoming a true shinobi will become easier? Sighing, I shake my head.

"All right! Let me just get this over with," I mutter as I reach into my utility belt.

Pulling out the Heaven and Earth scrolls, I study them in my hands. Reeling through my memories, I recall the rules of this exam and nod to myself. Kneeling on the floor, I rearrange one scroll in each hand. Picking at the end of each scroll with my fingers, I pull them open at the same time.

Watching with a keen eye, I see that nothing happens at first. Though, I think otherwise when smoke starts to rise from the sealings. Mentally cursing for not recognizing it as a summoning seal, I stand up and jump back to create a fair distance. I immediately inch my right hand towards my utility belt, ready to pull out a kunai.

What is it summoning?! Is this part of the exam, I question myself.

But the anticipation becomes anticlimactic as a sudden poof reveals my sensei. I deadpan, dropping my hand and stare blankly at Kakashi.

"So, the scrolls summon a person," I ask him as a greeting.

"Well, hello to you, too, Riko. And for your question, yes, they do. If you have opened them before reaching the tower, I would've knocked you unconscious and you would automatically fail," he explains.

I smirk, crossing my arms. "Well, good thing I didn't. Though, seeing as I'm here before the five-day time limit, what am I supposed to do for the remaining time," I question.

I watch as Kakashi shoves his hands into his pockets, and his sole eye looks me up and down. "Hmm, I would recommend you to go see the medical ninjas so they can heal you," he states.

"Yes, of course. I only healed them quickly, maybe they could do a better job than me," I say, looking at myself.

I assume he nods because a silence overcomes us. I bite my lip as I raise my hands, looking at them once again. My arms tremble and my vision becomes blurry. Then, and there, my facade breaks away. I go from the stoic shinobi to a weak girl.

"Can I ask you a question," I ask in soft voice, without looking up.

"What is it," Kakashi questions.

"H-how do y-you wash it off? T-the b-blood? Is there a way to w-wash it off," I look up as my voice cracks.

"Riko," he says, walking closer to me.

"I-I killed them. I k-know I'm supposed to kill others as a shinobi, but how? And I-I know I'm n-not supposed to cry, shinobi aren't allowed to show their emotions, i-it's stated in Rule 25 of the shinobi handbo-"

I get cut off when Kakashi places his hands on my shoulders. "Shh, Riko. You're allowed to show your emotions, even if you are a shinobi, you're still a person. A kid at it. Someone as young as you isn't supposed to bottle something like that in. In fact, the way you're behaving is expected," he tells me.

"It is," I ask.

"Yes, you made your first kill, and you're probably going to make a lot more, but you're right to cry. It's a lot to process. You took a life and as a shinobi, especially as a kid, you lost your innocence," he explains softly.

"Yeah," I mutter with a bitter smile.

"And as for your question, I don't think there's a way to wash away the blood. It's more like guilt that you're feeling, just find a way to get through it. Everyone deals with it differently," he gives me a sad smile.

I nod, giving the same smile. "Thanks, sensei. I think it's time I got my wounds properly treated," I laugh, trying to lift my mood.

"Yeah, you look horrible," he states with a closed eye smile.

I deadpan, "gee, thanks for the compliment."

"You're welcome. Oh, and Riko," Kakashi states.

"Yeah?"

"Congratulations on passing the Second Exam," he tells me genuinely, patting my head.

I smile, feeling proud. "Thank you, sensei," I also state genuinely.

And before I know it, he poofs away.

# # # # # #

Eventually getting all my lacerations healed, well except for my newly attained face scar, the remaining days pass by so quick. The thing with my scar is that they healed it, but the wound was too deep and left the remaining mark that will forever stay on my face. Of course, I saw the other teams who passed, like Team 8. I don't know what happened to them, but they seemed skittish, and that's something because Kiba's usually cocky.

Though, on the last day, I finally saw my original team. Well before I can have a rendezvous with them, all the teams were called into the large room - arena.

Once, I walked in, my eyes immediately darted towards the Kirigakure Nin - Akano, Karasu, and Shinkai. Akano was the one who spotted me first, and let's just say that she gave me a malicious grin. To scare me even more, she ran her index finger across her throat in a threatening manner.

Yup, I'm totally terrified of her, I think as I try to swallow my fear.

Lining up with the rest of the Genin, I stand alone since I'm the solo participant. Next to me, is Team 10 - Asuma. Standing in the front next to Ino, I watch as Chunin, Jounin, and Proctors all line up around the Hokage.

"Congratulations to you all," the old man speaks up. "On passing the Second Exam!"

"Sasuke's team made it," Ino exclaims in a whisper.

I roll my eyes at her antics. "They barely got here today, but yes, they made it," I state lowly.

THIRD POV
The team leaders of all the Genin who passed look towards their students, but it's Might Gai who speaks first.

"Your students made an impressive showing! I wonder how much of it was dumb luck," he states towards his rival, Kakashi. "Not that it matters, my team is bound to knock them out in the next round! In the next round, it's all about their abilities...or lack thereof. Ah, well sometimes being young is about learning all about heartbreak, eh Kakashi?"

The said man finally acknowledges the Taijutsu master. "Huh? Did you say something," he asks, clearly not hearing a single word.

All of Gai's boasting confidence washes down the drain as he looks incredulously at his rival, his silent anger building. Heh, good one! As annoying as ever Kakashi! You always try to get under my skin with your aloof act, he rages in his mind, bringing up his fists as he turns away.

Wow! So that's Gai Sensei's archrival? He beats Gai Sensei in the hands down in the looks department, TenTen muses as she looks between the two Jounin.

None of the other Senseis are as cool as Gai Sensei! Not even close! He's the man, Lee states to himself, admiring his teacher. Just wait, Gai Sensei, I'll make you proud!

So now only the real players are left. Also, Uchiha Sasuke made it, Neji ponders, looking at the tired Uchiha before glancing towards the Kiyomi. And Riko, looks like she made it, too.

Amazing. There was 27 teams along with the solo at the start, and only eight teams made it. The solo girl, too, Temari mentally says as she looks around.

So, you came through without a scratch afterall, Gaara, Baki, the Sand Siblings sensei, frowns.

Akamaru's acting strange, Kurenai assesses, looking at the cowering ninkin.

Those guys from the Sand village, Kiba narrows his eyes.

Naruto passed too! I'm so glad, Hinata smiles, looking at her blond crush.

What the..?! All of the applicants from Konoha are here, Sakura notices, seeing Teams Asuma, Kurenai, Gai, and Kabuto, along with her other teammate, Riko.

Hey, check it out! Lord Hokage, Iruka Sensei, Kakashi Sensei, even that Mega-Brow guy are all here gathered together! It's like a dream team, Naruto exclaims in his head with a wide grin.

"Hmm, I've got a bad feeling about this," Sasuke mutters, rubbing the sore spot of his neck.

Heh, it looks like my daughter passed the exam after all. Alone, while at it, Ren, Riko's father, muses proudly.

Riko crosses her arms and looks up, feeling eyes on her. Meeting the crimson eyes of her father, she gives him a smile to reassure him. Man, I wonder what he's thinking. What are we going to do? Everyone's here, so what now, she questions, looking at the different teams.

"Now the Lord Hokage himself will explain about the third exam! Listen up and take every word he says to heart! They're all yours, my lord," Anko announces before acknowledging the Third Hokage.

"Very well. The third examination is about to commence, but before I go into the specifics of how it will be conducted, let me make one thing perfectly clear! It pertains to the underlining purpose of the exam," Hiruzen informs.

The two Kunoichi's of Team Kakashi raise their brows. T-the purpose, Sakura questions. So there's a purpose to this whole thing? Of course there is! I bet there's a whole long explanation about it, too. Goody.

And Riko was right.

Not wasting a single breath, the Hokage begins the lesson of the Chunin Exams and how they were made as a substitute of cross nation wars. Though, he explains how the exams were also made to create friendships with other nations. But most importantly, it's a way that all the different nations, villages, show their display of honor and potential to the visiting guests; not just in power and strength, but also having the intelligence to succeed as a Chunin. And blah, blah, blah.

Well, that's until a Chunin, by the name of Hayate, interrupts the Hokage. "Forgive my interruption, Lord Hokage, but if you don't mind handing the rest of the proceedings over to me, Gekko Hayate, Proctor of the Third Exam," he informs.

"Go ahead," Hiruzen permits.

"Good to meet you, everyone, I'm Hayate. Uhh, before we start the exam, I must ask you all to do something for me," he states towards the waiting Genin.

Riko narrows her eyes in confusion, along with the rest of the crowd.

"Umm, you see there are some preliminaries to the exam proper and whether you proceed to the main exam is contingent on how well you manage those," the coughing proctor continues.

"Preliminaries," Sakura questions, confused.

"Preliminaries?! Like what," Shikamaru calls out.

"Hayate Sensei, I don't understand what you mean by preliminaries. Why can't all of the remaining applicants proceed directly to the next exam," Sakura continues to pester.

"Well, I don't want to say that the two first exams weren't demanding enough, but the truth is, we still have too many applicants," the proctor inform, gravely.

Demanding enough? Is he saying that the two first exams were easy, Riko mentally ponders, rubbing her chin.

"Under the traditional rules of the exam, we have to have a preliminary test to reduce the number of applicants who will proceed to the third exam," Hayate continues, coughing between his explanations.

"B-but," Sakura tries to process.

"As Lord Hokage mentioned, a number of honored guests will be observing you during the third exam. So, we must make the exam intense, tight, and fast moving," he explains, before having another coughing fit. "Hmm. So, anyway, now that you know something of what it's really all about, anyone who doesn't feel up to the challenge, either physically or mentally, can walk away. Just take one step forward because the preliminaries start, right now!"

"What?! Now," Kiba exclaims, incredulously.

All right! That Kabuto guy and I made a pact, and so I'll definitely give this test my best, Naruto tells himself.

There's a silence in the room, deafening to everyone, like a weight on their shoulders as they wait. Stiff in their postures, the Genins linger in the quietness - so silent that they can hear the moths buzz around the ceiling lights.

But like all silence, this one also breaks.

"Well, I'm outta here," Kabuto chuckles with a closed eye smile, stepping forward.

"W-what?! Kabuto," Naruto questions.

Riko narrows her eyes in suspicion. She always found him as a shady character ever since he stepped towards them in the first exam. Plus, the holes in his story made her especially wary, and now this!

He's stepping out, why? Is he wounded? Or how he stated before, is he done collecting data? And how did he get Naruto to trust him, well this is Naruto I'm talking about, he trusts everyone who's nice to him. But that's it, why was he nice to Naruto, is it part of his scheme? Or I could be completely wrong about this and he can actually be a good guy? Am I overreacting, Riko mentally attacks herself with questions.

"Uhmm! Aren't you Yakushi Kabuto of Konoha? Okay, you can go," Hayate states with a cough. Well, that's before he continues. "In case I forgot to mention it, from here on in, you fight as individuals, not as members of teams. So, you can make the decision that's right for you without worrying about anyone else. So, anyone else want out? Show of hands..."

"Hey! Kabuto! What's up with you quitting," Naruto yells preposterously at the older Genin.

"Naruto, I'm sorry, but those guys we fought beat the crap out of me. And ever since my scuffle with those ninja prior to the first exam, I've been totally deaf in my left ear. And now, they're saying this could be a fight to the death, and I just don't think I'm up for that," he explains, completely lying to the blond's face, but of course Naruto doesn't know that.

Up on the stage, Anko marks him down and she notices the pattern. She brings this up to the Hokage and she takes a look at his history, noting that there isn't anything interesting. The only thing that intrigues her is his early childhood. She tells Hiruzen that Kabuto was taken in by an elite - medical- Jounin after being found in the battlefield of Kikyo Pass.

Kabuto then turns to his teammate, Yoroi, and passes his responsibilities onto him, knowing that Orochimaru is disguised as a Jounin leader, and him no longer being needed for his spy work. They have a petty argument and Kabuto states that this test is more in Yoroi's skill set, especially his part for play. Walking away, Kabuto turns to Team Kakashi, apart from Riko, and waves to them.

I look forward with pleasure to the day of our next meeting, Sasuke. You, too, Naruto. Plus, I can't forget about the Kiyomi heiress and all the secrets she holds, Kabuto muses with a sinister smirk, walking out of the room.

Riko is too caught up with figuring out Kabuto's schemes that she completely missed Sasuke's and Sakura's argument. She feels like she's missing the big picture, the obvious, the important clues as she recalls every detail of the exams.

Kabuto. The Ninja Info cards. His attack from attack from the Sound team. The Sound team themselves. They mentioned Orochimaru. Sakura mentioned Orochimaru, also Sasuke having a mark on his neck. The Sanin himself is somehow a part of these exams, probably wearing a disguise. Orochimaru and the Sound team...Riko then looks up, her eye glancing towards the Otogakure Jounin. He looks awfully familiar, but how?

Though, the Kiyomi perks up when she heard the raised voices of her teammates. She tilts her head and strains to hear what they're saying.

"..member what I told you, Sakura? I'm an avenger. This is more than just a test for me and I don't care if I achieve the level of Chunin or not. 'Am I strong?' Finding that out is all that matters to me now. I'm here to test myself against the best of the best. And all the best opponents I could find are all around us, here and now," Sasuke states, which makes Riko smirk because it's true.

Sasuke says his part and immediately looks to his competition, recalling his moments with them. With Gaara when they introduced each other, he recalls his steely persona. To Lee, he remembers their fight, the brute force of his strength and his burning determination. Neji, his equal arrogant attitude, but he knows just by that, that he's a formidable opponent. To Dosu, he remembers his threatening promise to never refuse at a chance to fight. And lastly, his very own teammate, Riko, even if she stands on the sidelines he knows how much power she holds, the many skills. Each and every one is strong on their own levels, competition and obstacles to his own goal. He needs to fight them.

Wants to fight them.

And after more talk of this and that, something about the curse mark, Sasuke's well being, Orochimaru, and you know the usual...Hayate finally speaks up.

"Ahh, well then. We'll now begin the preliminaries which will consist of individual combat matches, as though this were part of a tournament. As the total of 24 of combatants remaining, we will hold a total of twelve matches. And the victors of those bouts will advance to the Third Exam," he informs the crowd of Genin before pausing to cough. "This is no-holds barred combat. Each air of combatants will fight until one of them is dead or unconscious, or admits defeat. Uhh, since we don't want a total bloodbath in our hands, there may be cases where we ascertain that there is an undisputed winner and step in to stop the match, but don't count on that. From here on out, the key to your fate is held in..."

"Open it," Anko orders through her com-link.

After a few short seconds, a panel opens from the wall and the Genin spot a screen.

"Umm, this is an electronic scoreboard. At the beginning of every round, we will display the names of the combatants competing in that match. So, uhmm, not to hurry you to the slaughter, but let's begin. We'll now announce the first two names," Hayate informs through his coughs.

The scoreboard turns on and all the names of the Genin flash through in a frenzy. Though, that's before it stops, announcing the first match.

SASUKE UCHIHA vs. YOROI AKADO

"Wow, right off the bat," Riko mutters, reading the name of her teammate.

Heh, right off the bat, eh, Sasuke muses.

Couldn't have planned it better, Yoroi states, pleased with the result.

RIKO's POV
I watch from my spot as Sasuke smirks in his usual arrogant fashion before rolling my eyes. Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention that I'm no longer wearing a bandage on my face.

Anyways, I observe as the two competitors step out of their lines and up front, towards Hayate. Standing on each side of the Chunin, Sasuke and Yoroi face each other, each sizing their competition.

"Akado Yoroi, Uchiha Sasuke, you two have been selected for the first bout. Any objections," Hayate states, asking the duo.

"None," I hear the gruff answer from the older Leaf Genin.

"I'm good," Sasuke smirks.

"Uuhh, it's time for the first round to commence, all right? Everyone other than the two combatants should move to the upper gallery now," the sickly Proctor ushers us to the stairs.

Sighing, I cross my arms and walk towards my remaining teammates. Though, as I take a step, I also notice Kakashi walking in our direction. I smile at Naruto's outburst as he calls to our sensei, waving like a maniac.

"Hey, Sakura, Naruto," I smile as soon as I reach them.

"Riko! Man, I missed you and your earthy powers," Naruto exclaims, waving his hands around.

"Gee, thanks, I feel loved that you only care about my jutsus," I laugh.

"Riko, you made it! When did you get here," Sakura asks.

"On the third day, I think? I'm not sure, the days got blurred together," I inform with a nonchalant wave as we make our way up to the gallery.

Once everyone clears from the arena, Hayate speaks up. "All right. Please begin," he says between the two competitors before jumping a fair distance.

"Shall I begin," Yoroi states arrogantly, already making a hand sign.

I notice that it's a single handed hand sign. So, he's more skillful than he looks. Though, good for him, it's not so good for Sasuke. Who knows what skills that Leaf Nin has? Focusing my attention solely on he fight, I watch with keen interest.

"Go for it," Sasuke urges with his usual smirk.

But that's all they say when Yoroi suddenly throws a barrage of shuriken towards my Uchiha teammate. Luckily for Sasuke, he manages to block them all, using his own kunai to deflect the stars. Though, that's all that happens when I notice him suddenly wince in pain. I guess it's too great that it manages to make Sasuke drop to the floor. I also watch as Yoroi ducks underneath his own shuriken as they fly towards him.

Not blinking, I catch the sudden quick movements of the older Leaf Genin as he rushes towards Sasuke. Reaching the Uchiha, he directs a downwards punch. Sasuke barely, I mean BARELY manages to move out of the way as Yoroi's fist punches the floor next to his head, creating a dent in the cement.

Well, that's until Sasuke turns the tables and grabs him in a chokehold with his legs. Though, that's what I thought, until Yoroi started, to what I assume, drain Sasuke's chakra. Sasuke manages to push the older Nin away, but he's weak, falling back to the floor.

"Sasuke," Sakura cries from besides me, I ignore the sinking feeling in my chest as I hear her desperation.

And as Yoroi goes for the finishing blow, seeping all of Sasuke's chakra in one swift move, the younger Nin kicks him away. Around me, I hear scoffs and murmurs of disbelief as people watch the fight, unimpressed with Sasuke's show of strength, seeing as he's the Number One Rookie this year.

"How can you still call yourself Uchiha Sasuke?! You're a disgrace to yourself! Aren't you embarrassed to have everyone see you as a big loser," Naruto yells, chastising his own rival.

Sasuke looks towards our area, and I watch as his eyes widen, realizing something.

What? Did Naruto's attack on his ego awaken something in him, I muse.

Ignoring Yoroi's yell about who knows what, I watch as he runs towards Sasuke, ready to end it. Though, that's before my own crimson eyes widen with surprise.

Sasuke performs Lee's move.

Lee's move!

As in Rock Lee.

I watch as Sasuke kicks Yoroi in the chin, making the man fly up at the momentum and Sasuke wastes no time following him. It's exactly what Lee did to Sasuke earlier this week.

"Ooy! Stop showing off with someone else's move! That's Lee's move! The nerve of you to copy a sacred form of Taiju-"

I get cut off from my jeers as someone hits me in the back of my head. Biting my tongue, I wince and immediately stop shouting.

"Shut it," Kakashi comments to me.

Pouting, I stand in silence as I continue watching the fight. I don't need to be close to Sasuke as I see him wince again. Though, I do narrow my eyes when I spot something on his skin moving. Squinting my eyes to get a closer look, I see some strange mark spreading on his skin. Well, that's before they disappear again.

Huh, now that needs some explaining, I frown in confusion.

Eventually Sasuke tries to perform the move by spinning Yoroi with a kick, unfortunately he latter blocks the attempt. Calling Sasuke an amateur, which Kakashi agrees to, Yoroi is soon met with the Uchiha's fist to his face.

"And now," Sasuke yells, delivering a swift kick to Yoroi's torso. "Lion's Barrage!" He announces as he kicks the older Nin against the floor.

Surprisingly that impromptu performance made Yoroi pass out, unconscious. Sasuke falls to the floor, but I watch as he weakly kneels off the ground.

"I'm halting this match before it goes any further. In other words, Uchiha Sasuke is the winner of this battle and advances past the preliminaries to the next level," Hayate informs the crowd, announcing Sasuke winner.

"He did it," Naruto cheers the loudest.

"Good job, even though you copied most of Lee's technique," I shout towards the relieved Uchiha.

"Hey Sasuke! You won, but in such an uncool way. And you came out like you're the one who got beat up," Naruto continues yelling at our teammate.

"Shut up, you clowns," Sasuke comments towards Naruto and I with his usual smirk.

I turn towards the Taijutsu fighter and gleam. "Hey Lee! Even though Sasuke used your technique, he couldn't have used it if you didn't beat him up earlier in the exams," I tell him, my eyes sparkling with admiration. "Though, now that we're on that topic, how long did it take you to learn such an impressive technique?!"

"Thanks, Riko-chan," he smiles, giving me a thumbs up. "And to answer your question, it takes hard work and dedication," he vaguely answers, but it still pleases me.

Gai Sensei turns to our conversation, grinning as usual. "Is one of Kakashi's students interested in Taijutsu," he asks, his hands raising to fists.

My red eyes sparkle, resembling rubies. "Yeah! I was already good in Taijutsu, but Lee opened my eyes to another world of different, wondrous, techniques," I exclaim, raising my own fists as I tremble in excitement.

Though, our conversation is interrupted by Ino's yell. "Oh, Sasuke! You're the best," she marvels.

I turn my head and find her practically drooling at his amazement. Shaking my head in amusement, I turn to look down at Sasuke, who has Kakashi standing behind him by now.

"I'm starving! My stomach can not be more empty," Choji whines.

Patting down my pouches, I find two peaches and pass them towards the Ackimichi, who nods in thanks. I didn't need them anyway, plus he needs food for his literal strength.

"Well then...right! Let's start the next match," Hayate announces with a cough.

And not a second too soon, both Kakashi and Sasuke leave to some other place to do something  could care less about. I watch in anticipation as the names, once again, shuffle.

ZAKU ABUMI vs. SHINO ABURAME

Ugh! That dude! He really posses me off with his cocky attitude, I practically hiss as I eye the Otonin.

# # # # # #

The match, well let's see, it was interesting. Again, Zaku underestimated his opponent and not only does he have a broken hand, but Shino used his bugs to rip his other arm off. I mean, literally rip Zaku's forearm from his elbow. This somehow made me respect the Aburame. He may not be the strongest, but heck, he's very intelligent in his battle tactics.

Though, I may never look at bugs the same again.

After announcing Shino as winner, the next fight was between Kankuro and Tsurugi Misumi, also known as Yoroi's teammate. I didn't really pay attention, all I know is that Kankuto confirmed my assumption of him being a puppeteer. Though, Kankuro's opponent did something that the other previous fighters haven't done. He gave up.

Well, that was only because Kankuro's puppet was crushing his bones. So, I guess pain won over his desire to win.

"In any event, it's time for our fourth match," Hayate says, informing us of the obvious.

"Whoa! Whoa! This is like a never-ending freak show," Naruto exclaims, turning to us.

"Look who's talking," Kakashi retorts.

"Good one, sensei," Sakura laughs, while I chuckle.

"I don't think you'll be laughing in a minute, Sakura," Kakashi points out.

Eyes widening with realization, I turn my head towards the scoreboard.

SAKURA HARUNO vs. INO YAMANAKA

"Wow, now that's interesting," I mutter.

Though, I also think that it's necessary. I mean, these two are rivals, in practically everything. Love, looks, strength, etcetera. I watch as they make their way towards the arena. They stand on each side of Hayate, facing each other.

"So, Sakura, it's you and me. Going head to head, I never saw that coming," Ino comments.

"I did," I mutter to myself. "It was meant to happen sooner or later."

I now watch as Sakura takes off her headband, narrowing her eyes at the platinum blonde.

"What the heck," Naruto exclaims, confused.

"Of all people for Ino to go up against, it would have to be Sakura! What a mess," Shikamaru complains.

"Do you think Ino will win," I hear Choji ask, concern in his voice.

I frown, not knowing what to think. Ino takes life as a Kunoichi more seriously, so that makes her better in my favor. Though, recently in these days, Sakura's been showing impressive skill, well that could be because Sasuke was in danger. And even though, I say that I'm completely over my feelings for the Haruno, my heart is still yearning for her affection.

Gripping the rail with my hands, I then turn my crimson gaze to the Yamanaka. She's a beautiful blonde bombshell, she's strong, intelligent, and she accepts people's feelings. So, yes, maybe I've been having recent feelings for her, and maybe she'll fair more better than Sakura.

Maybe Sakura is better as a friend, but why does a part of me still want her to be the one?

I sigh, should I tell her how I feel about her? Maybe.

"Understand this," Sakura speaks up. "I'm never letting you anywhere near Sasuke."

My eye twitches at her announcement. Why did I think that this was gonna be any different from their other fights? Always bringing up Sasuke!

Frowning, I continue watching.

"W-what?!" Ino questions incredulously.

"You're not even his type! And I'm not the weak, needy, little girl I used to be! You're a not even on my radar," Sakura yells at her rival.

"Sakura, I think you've forgotten who you're talking to! Don't cop an attitude with me, you crybaby," Ino retaliates, glaring at the Haruno.

"Aw man, Sakura just crossed the line! That Ino chick scares me silly," Naruto cowers.

"Hmm, Sakura's not one to throw her weight around and she's not the kind to bully someone just to be cruel. She's just making sure to rile Ino too much so she won't think to go easy on her, for old times sake," Kakashi assesses.

Tightening my grip on the rail, I look towards the girl who will always have my heart. "Sakura! I don't care what you do, but I'm rooting for you to kick Ino's butt," I cheer, trying to motivate her.

She turns and gives me a dazzling smile, the very one I love. Damn it, why do I still care?

The fight started quickly, as Sakura created two clones and they all ran towards Ino. At the very last second, Sakura's clones disappeared as she focused her attention by punching the Yamanaka cross the face. Ino was sent careening towards the floor, and a distance away.

It was pretty much the same for the rest of the ten minute fight. The two Kunoichi were equal in strength. It was a battle of fists, kunai, and shuriken. That was until Ino used her clan's Mind Transfer technique. At that I though Sakura was done for, but with Naruto's yelling, she broke free. I was silent, too preoccupied by watching to say anything.

Though, I never expected Sakura and Ino to be neck and neck with equal strength. I always thought one was stronger than the other.

But the anticipation of this match ended with an epic exchange of suckerpunches. They K.Oed each other with one swift move.

"Neither candidate is able to continue. As a result of simultaneous knockouts, neither combatant of the fourth battle moves past the preliminary round," Hayate informed, drawing it to a defeated tie.

Sigh, even if it was interesting to watch, it was a waste of time, I muse to myself as I watch the two senseis carry their unconscious students.

"The fifth match of the preliminaries, Tenten versus Temari. Please step forward," Hatake announces with a slight cough.

I lean forward against the rail, tightening my grip, interested for their match. I watch as the brunette and the sandy blonde step into the arena. But I'm sad to say that the match didn't even last that long.

To sum it down, Temari wiped the floor with Tenten.

I stand impressed with the Sand Kunoichi, as she ruthlessly remarks how easy the match was. Tenten had no chance, she's a weapon's master while Temari used her Wind ninjutsu to her advantage.

"The winner of the fifth round match, is Temari," Hayate announces to us, the audience.

Then, Temari wastes no time to discard an unconscious Tenten from her fan, and basically throws her to the floor. I'm appalled by her disrespect, but luckily Lee speedily jumps down to the arena and catches Tenten before her body hits the ground.

I watch as Lee and Temari have a stare down, before Gaara interrupts, chastising his older sister for wasting time with a no-talent. Then, it changes to Lee and Gaara who're having a state off. The Taijutsu fighter glares heatedly while the Sand Nin keeps a stock face. Even if it is a stare off, the tension of the room rises tenfold, suffocating us. I can literally feel the hostility in the air.

"Okay! My turn! Who thinks he can beat me," Naruto basically screeches from my side.

"Who's next?! I have a feeling that it's me," Lee announces, also ready to rumble.

"There's still a lot of people left, it can be anyone," I comment, also anticipating my turn.

I feel a tap on my shoulder. "Like you," Kakashi's voice tells me.

I follow his pointed to the scoreboard and flinch at the names.

RIKO KIYOMI vs. KARASU YIN

Indistictivly, I softly touch the scar on my face, worry coursing through my veins. Clenching and unclenching my jaw, I release a sigh.

"Riko, are you alright," Sakura asks.

Immediately, I pull a facade and smile to reassure her. "Yeah, I'm always alright," I tell my teammate before turning to walk away.

Making my towards the arena, I keep my head high as I build my confidence. Karasu, I barely know of his skills. He only revealed his swordsmanship, what else is he hiding?

Stepping next to Hayate, I stare into the eyes of my opponent, noticing the sadistic glint in his black orbs.

"The sixth match of the preliminaries, Riko versus Karasu. Are you both ready," the proctor asks.

"Definitely," the Mist Nin smirks.

"As I'll ever be," I nod, narrowing my crimson gaze.

"All right. Begin," Hayate announces.

I immediately jump back to create distance, to which Karasu laughs. "If this is anything like in the Second Exam, this will be easy! I'll enjoy cutting you even more," he grins maliciously.

"That was when it was three against one. Now, it's one on one, so I have a chance," I glare.

This is where we stop talking and actually start fighting. I watch as Karasu unstraps his sword and runs towards me. He moves fast, I think faster than Akano. He swings his sword down, directed in a horizontal slice.

Thinking fast, with my heart beating in my ears, I bend back as I use my flexibility to dodge the sword. I watch as the weapon passes above me, and I use the advantage of his open side. Reaching my hand towards the floor to stable myself, I direct a kick to his side.

Hearing him grunt in pain, I flip my whole body back, and make quick hand signs.

"Earth Release: Stone Spear," I mutter.

Immediately, a section of the ground beneath me molds itself into a spear. Wasting no time, I grab my newfound weapon and run towards my opponent. But by then he's already restabled himself. Our weapons clash and we move quickly against each other's weapons. It's a dance similar to the one I had with Akano.

But his sword is steel, and my spear is earth based. His is the stronger element.

With enough force, my spear snaps in two. Karasu grins at this and makes his quick move to attack me. Not having enough time, he manages to slice at my body. From my left collar bone to my right ribs I feel the fresh, hot, pain.

Gritting my teeth, I jump back and I hear the crowd above me gasp at the sight of blood. Looking down, I quickly assess the new wound and glare at the semi-deep incision.

Think, Riko, think! Don't let this match get to your head. Be calm! Use what you're good at, I remind myself.

Putting my hands down to my sides, I stare blankly at my opponent. Smirking, I quickly dash forward. Taijutsu, that's what I'm good at.

Speedily running at him, he moves to swing again, but this time I spin on my heel and jump. I direct, and land a swift kick to his face. He crashes to the floor and I waste no time by making my next move. Rushing, I concentrate a steady level of chakra to my right fist and direct it towards him.

Unfortunately, for me, he rolled away in time so my punch hit the ground. Immediately, the ground breaks and creates a large crator.

THIRD POV
The crowd, well mostly the Leaf Genin, gasp at her strength, impressed. Her father, who was a proctor in the First Exam, grins since he knows that she worked for that strength.

"Whoa! Since when did Riko-Chan get that strong," Naruto shouts with wide eyes. 

Kakashi shakes his head at his starstruck student. "Naruto, Riko comes the Kiyomi clan, one of Konoha's honorable clans. She's received training most of her life growing up, especially when she's the clan's princess," the sensei explains in simple terms.

"She's a princess," Naruto shouts, causing everyone to look at him.

Riko, who's dodging Karasu's sword again, scoffs at Naruto's exclamation. Riko wants to fight with her all, but at the same time she doesn't want to reveal all her skills at once. The people in the crowd are her possible opponents if she defeats Karasu, they can take mental notes. So far, Riko exposed herself that she knows Earth ninjutsu and is above average in Taijutsu. And that's all she's going to show.

Though, her team, and the Sand Siblings, know that she use her clan's Kekkei Genkai, Shizen' noishi.

Okay, and maybe the Mist team.

Karasu's sword crashes against the floor, embedding itself into the stone. Riko uses this as an opportunity to seperate the user and his weapon. Again, rushing forward, Riko moves quickly to make a series of attack. First, a kick to the side to which her opponent jumps away from. She mentally smirks, noting that he discarded his sword. Next, she delivers a punch to his face. He also moves quickly, managing to take hold of her clenched hand.

He tightens his grip and Riko uses that for her next move. Turning her back, Riko steps backwards into his chest and brings their connected hands over her shoulder, around her neck. Smirking, she then uses all her upper body strength to pull his body up and over her own, and onto the floor.

"Let's see how you fair without a sword," Riko states to the winded Kirinin.

Growling, Karasu glares up at the purple Kunoichi. "Just because I'm a sword user, I won't let a simple weapon define me or my skills," he grunts, getting up from the floor.

Standing, he rearranges into an offensive position. Making a series of quick hand signs, he grins sadistically. "Especially, when you know nothing about me! Lightning Release: Lightning Beam Technique," he announces as the electric chakra becomes visible in his right hand.

Red eyes widening in shock, Riko didn't expect a Kirigakure ninja to know Lightning style. A large, wide, beam of electricity hits Riko straight on. Feeling hot, instantaneous, pain shoot throughout her whole body, she stumbled back and falls to her knees.

Riko huffs at the pain, flinching at every sharp pain that shoots through her. Glaring at Karasu, she get up with wobbly legs, and even though she looks physically exhausted, she gets into a defensive position.

"You know what's so great about this match set up? I'm a Lightning user and you're a Earth based user! We're opposites! Though, lightning is superior and that shows how I'm going to defeat you," Karasu boasts, crossing his arms in an arrogant manner. "Then, there's the fact that you're fast, but here's the thing. I'm faster."

And in a flash, Karasu disappears from his spot and reappears in front of her. Before Riko can process what happened, Karasu punched her across the face which makes her fly back into the wall.

Creating a crator on impact, Riko grunts in obvious pain before falling forwards on the floor. Gritting her teeth in pain, she shakingly gets back up and raises her fists, glaring at her opponent.

"Oh, getting back up? May I ask why," Karasu asks, tauntingly, tilting his head to the side.

"We, Konoha, have a handbook full of Shinobi rules, and there's one rule that fits this situation. 'A Shinobi must never show any weakness.' And no matter how much pain I am in, I will never let it affect me," Riko admits, fixing her beaten posture.

"You asked for it," Karasu glares.

Running towards her in a flash, he misses the single hand sign that Riko makes. Smirking, he wastes no time to deliver another hit, but what Karasu doesnt know, is that he walked straight into her trap.

Letting him punch her again, Riko mentally smirks. On impact, her body, or should I say her Substitution, triggers an explosion similar to a paper bomb. The sudden assault sends Karasu flying back across the room as he crashes against the floor, burns raking his body.

Through the smoke, Riko appears as it dissolves into the air. She gives the Kirinin a dangerous smirk. "Here's something my sensei told to my teammate. 'In the real world, those with no talent often bark the loudest.' That's a lesson I took in, and for you, it applies," Riko states, narrowing her eyes at her opponent. "Even if you are a Lightning based user, everything and everyone has a weakness."

Making some quick handed signs, she performs a jutsu that will make the blood on her hands even thicker, even redder.

"Earth Release: Hell Zone Rock Shard," Riko performs a previous jutsu, one she used to kill a ninja in the Second Exam.

Immediately, the floor of the arena shakes, it also causes the room itself to quake. Most of the crowd in the gallery hold onto the railing to prevent themselves from falling. Her team watches in marvel as the shards of all the crators created rises into the air, surround the two opponents. Kankuro swifts on his feet a little, this jutsu reminds him too much of his brother, Gaara and how coldblooded he could be.

Karasu looks into Riko's red eyes, and glares into them. "You think that just because you come from the honorable Kiyomi clan, you're suddenly so strong. Your clan is nothing, but weak, it should have died along with rest of the Uchiha!" The Kirinin shouts.

"Is that what you think," the heiress says, stoically.

"Yes! And you're the weakest. You'll never make it as a Shinobi," Karasu continues.

"That's where you're wrong. You're an enemy, you're insulting my clan which is part of my village. And as a Shinobi of the Leaf, I eliminate all threats to this village,"Riko states with no emotion.

"Wait wha-"

He gets cut off as Riko suddenly clenches her hand into a fist, initiating the jutsu. Immediately, the floating shards of concrete all fly towards the standing Karasu.

It happens so fast.

The crowd all react.

The Leaf Genin gasp, horrified.

The older Sand siblings both flinch at the similarities.

The two remaining Mist Genin stare, angry, rageful.

Kakashi stares worriedly at his student, knowing the state of her mentality when it comes to killing.

The shards of concrete all fly towards Karasu, embedding themselves into his body, piercing his skin and organs. A look of pain washes through his face as he states wide eyed at the Kiyomi heiress. The last thing he saw was the stoic, blank, look on her face, and her heartless eyes, cold as ice.

Blood splatters around the arena, some landing on the tanned skin of Riko's hand. On her outstretched arm, stains the evidence of her fourth, and latest, kill.

The Chunin Exams are making her killer.

But that's what it means to be a Shinobi.

To kill.

Her crimson gaze stares at the mutilated, dead, body of her opponent, and it finally triggers into her mind that she killed, yet another person. On the outside, she's seen as a cold hearted killer, no remorse. She's seen as the perfect Shinobi.

On the inside, she's breaking herself down. Carving more insults about being a monster in her mind. Riko's ridding herself with more guilt, attacking herself. She's questioning everything. Inside she's the little thirteen year old girl, the one afraid of everything bad.

The innocence of the little girl is long lost as Riko keeps transforming into the perfect Shinobi tool.

She's growing up too fast. She's killed.

Not one.

Not two.

Not three.

But four.

That's four too many.

"Seeing as he's no longer alive, Riko Kiyomi is winner of the sixth match and advances to the final round," she's too distracted and barely hears the muffled voice of Hayate announce.

Looking up, she barely had enough time to process his words before someone quickly flashes towards her.

"Akano," Riko recognizes the voice of Shinkai call out.

Though, before she knows it, a katana points directly at her face. Following it, she finds an angry, death glaring, Akano at the other end.

"Not only did you hurt my other teammate back in the forest, but now, you killed Karasu. I, Akano Senshi, swear upon my life that I will kill you. It may not be today, tomorrow, but it will happen," she threatens, fury in her silver eyes.

"Is that a threat," Riko questions, stoically. In the inside she's actually terrified since Akano is a book full of mystery.

"No, it's a promise. You made an enemy with the wrong person," Akano informs.

The two Kunoichi have a stare off, and immediately the tension in the room intensifies. It's even greater than when Gaara and Lee had their own moment. This time, it instills fear into everyone.

Just what did I get myself into, Riko thinks to herself.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Well, that's the chapter! How did you enjoy the 8,186 words I produced for you!

Did you like it?

And wowza! What will happen between Riko and Akano?

Should Riko confess to Sakura about her feelings? And when?

Should Riko train with Gai Sensei in the one month interval between the Third Exam?

Did you like when Kakashi gave Riko advice at the beginning?

What about when she yelled at Sasuke for using Lee's technique?

Should Lee and Riko become Brotp?

Anyways, don't forget to

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ADIOS, My amigos!

?¿WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB, AND WHY?¿

ME, I WANT TO BE AN ARTIST (GRAPHIC), A TEACHER, OR A THERAPIST. It's because I love drawing, it's always been a passion. Teaching (English, or art) because I want kids to know that those two are really interesting if you actually want it to be. And therapist because I identify and understand feelings really well (Even if I don't myself, but for other people).