Naruto: Destroy the Sarutobi Clan At the Beginning

In the central tower arena, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, stood before the gathered Genin, addressing them with his usual pipe in hand. His once-proud appearance had withered over the years; deep wrinkles lined his face, and age spots betrayed the toll of time.

To his left stood Morino Ibiki, the stern examiner of the first round, alongside Iruka Umino, who had volunteered to guide the young Konoha Genin. To his right were Hayate Gekkō, the coughing proctor, and Anko Mitarashi, the second exam's examiner.

Behind Hiruzen stood the Jonin mentors, including Kakashi Hatake, Might Guy, Asuma Sarutobi, Kurenai Yuhi, Maki, and Orochimaru in disguise as a jonin from Otogakure.

Kirito, standing at the front of the Genin line, observed them all with mild interest. His gaze met Kurenai's for a moment, catching the worry in her eyes. He gave her a reassuring look before shifting his attention to Hiruzen and Asuma.

Hiruzen looked much older than Kirito remembered, but Asuma's appearance was even more striking. The once rugged and masculine Jonin now had softer features, pale skin, and an unsettlingly feminine aura. The goatee was gone, replaced by light makeup. Kirito had to suppress a grimace.

After Hiruzen finished his speech, Hayate explained the rules of the third round preliminaries. The large screen above the arena lit up, randomizing the names of the first match.

The results displayed: Yamanaka Ino vs. Shigure.

Gasps echoed among the Genin as they turned toward Ino, many with pity in their eyes. Even her own teammates, Shikamaru and Choji, looked uneasy.

Choji sighed in relief, "That could've been me. Poor Ino…"

Ino glared at him, punching his arm. "Idiot! Do you think I want to go up against that monster?"

Shikamaru placed a hand on her shoulder. "Ino, listen. He's dangerous. Don't show any killing intent toward him, or he might actually kill you."

Ino's eyes widened. "Are you serious?"

Shikamaru nodded. "Just do your best to stay alive."

Kirito overheard their conversation and smirked faintly. He appreciated Shikamaru's quick assessment of his character.

Elsewhere, Kiba exhaled in relief. "Phew, dodged a bullet. Now we just need to avoid the Sand ninja with the gourd."

Neji watched Kirito intently, his Byakugan scanning the chakra swirling within. He frowned deeply. "This chakra… it's absurd. He's no Genin."

Meanwhile, Sakura, ever the optimist regarding Sasuke, turned to him with a nervous smile. "Sasuke, isn't it great? At least we didn't have to face him."

Sasuke smirked. "I wouldn't mind. It'd be a good test of my power."

His arrogance didn't last long. The curse mark flared, sending pain through his body. He staggered, gasping.

"Sasuke!" Sakura rushed to him, but Sasuke pushed her away. "Stay back!"

The rejection stung, and Sakura's eyes filled with tears. "Sasuke, I just want to help…"

"Don't. If you tell anyone about this, I'll kill you," Sasuke hissed through gritted teeth, his voice trembling from the pain.

Sakura stepped back, tears streaming down her face.

In another corner, Gaara stood with his siblings, his aura colder than usual. His mind replayed his earlier encounter with Kirito.

"He lied to me," Gaara muttered, trembling with rage. "That guy isn't 'Sandaime Aidanzo.' His name is Shigure."

Temari and Kankuro exchanged nervous glances. Kankuro cautiously tried to calm his brother. "Gaara, don't let it bother you. He's not worth your anger."

Gaara's eyes glowed with bloodlust. "Shut up, or I'll kill you."

Temari thought quickly and offered a suggestion. "Gaara, don't waste your energy now. He'll be in the final round. You can face him then."

Gaara considered her words, his expression murderous but controlled. "Fine. I'll kill him later."

(End of Chapter)

Want to read 50 more chapters check out my patreon!!!

https://www.patreon.com/john_smith_