8 Chapter 7: Exams and Snakes 1/2

Dang. Two days in a row. Go me! This isn't the norm I promise. Government contractor working in a 24 operations facility on a federal holiday = a bored me. So I just went ahead and started... and finished the new chapter.

I really hope you all enjoy reading this chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Without further ado! Voila!

Dear Kenta,

Chunin exams?! Wow, that is awesome! Do your best and I know you'll get that promotion. You're super strong, just not as strong as me! I'm really jealous of you. I asked Shibuki if I could compete this year, and being his usual overprotective self he shot me down. Oh well, they're held every six months so I'll get my shot sooner than later!

Things have been as good as can be expected. I'm still the village Pariah. Still have no friends. But it's OK! I have you, and Naruto, and Ami! Three friends is more than I ever thought I'd have, even if I don't get to see you all the time. Sis Chomei and I are getting closer though. Ever since we met Naruto, she's been talking to me more and more. It's nice to at least have one person to talk to. I would rather it was you, but I'll make do with what I have and our letters!

The one thing I've noticed is that our council have been meeting more and more with Shibuki. Shibuki looks sadder each and every meeting. I wish I could help him, but I know he wouldn't want me to but in or worry about him. I'll just try to be there if he needs me! Count on me!

My training is also going really good! Ever since me and Chomei started talking more, my techniques have all gotten stronger and easier to control! It's really cool! I'll show you how hard I've been working next time we meet. I'll kick your ass again just like last time, hehe! I really do miss you, Kenta. And Naruto and Ami. The three days I spent with you were the happiest of my life. I sometimes dream of just running away and coming to live in Konoha with you guys. I know that would make Shibuki sad, and me a criminal, so I'll just have to hope and pray things start changing around here.

Anyway, do you best on your exam. I'll be rooting for you! Send my love to Naruto and Ami! Good luck you guys and kick ass!

The Prettiest Kunoichi in Taki,

Fú

P.S. Your new personal summons is such a sweet little thing and the cutest! Give her a treat for me when you read this! Ok Bye!

*****************************************KY*****************************************

I stood in the training field, panting, sweat rolling off my brow. I collapsed onto my back, attempting to catch my breath. The last two weeks replayed in my mind. Mastering the techniques I'd learned. Fine-tuning my control. Increasing my reserves. It all led to this moment. I grinned and pushed myself into a sitting position. Staring at the results of my training, I couldn't help the happy laughter that escaped my lips. I'd done it. Almost four months of constant training. Four months of pushing myself to my breaking point day in and day out. Four months of electric burns, partial drowning, chakra exhaustion, and bone-deep weariness. It was all worth it.

I started making my way home. I took one last look over my shoulder. Even from this distance, the perfectly spherical hole that pierced the fully matured Oak tree was noticeable. With one more grin for my triumph I walked out of the clearing.

The Storm was rolling in over Konoha once again.

***************************************NU*******************************************

My eyes snapped open and I shot up in bed. My heart was beating frantically in my chest, but for the life of me I couldn't' remember what I was dreaming about. The only thing I remembered was two, bright lights rapidly approaching me before I was jolted back to consciousness. I had a feeling this wasn't the first time I'd had that same dream. Oh well, no time to dwell on it. Today was the day! I jumped out of bed and rushed to the bathroom to get ready for the day.

Twenty minutes later I was standing in front of my mirror giving myself a last minute once over before I joined the family for breakfast. I'd decided for simple and practical for the exam. Nothing that would set me apart from anyone else. I kept my black cargo pants, taped around the ankles for support and to keep them from snagging or making noise. A mesh undershirt worn underneath a black, sleeveless hoodie with our clan symbol emblazoned on the back in white. Two, 5x5 pouches rested on my hips to carry my assortment of ninja tools and seals. To most it would seem that I was ill prepared keeping such small pouches, but when your teammate is a budding seal master, you can fit a lot in small spaces. Wrist tape under metal plated black gloves completed my ensemble. The gloves were a gift from Naruto for my 13th birthday. Each gloves held 6 small storage seals. Each seal could hold up to 100 senbon. I had, literally at my fingertips, access to over 1000 senbon. From plain simple needles, to ones coated in poison potent enough to kill a grown man. I was more than prepared. A simple scroll hung at the base of my back with enough supplies to last me a month should I need. I never went anywhere without it.

After checking my equipment and supplies one more time, I turned back to the mirror and studied my features once more. My olive toned complexion was finally explained after my maternal heritage was revealed. I'd always stood out in my clan, as the overwhelming majority were quite pale, but I liked being a little different. My dirty blonde hair hung shoulder length and was pushed back and kept out of my face by my forehead protector. Tall and lithe just like my father, I'd grown a few inches since graduation, standing at a respectable 5'5"; the tallest in my class. Once last glance revealed teal, pupil-less eyes staring back at me. I smirked to myself. Yeah, I was a fucking stud. No doubt.

I opened my door and walked to my baby sister's room. Unlike a normal 7 year old girl, my sister's room was covered top to bottom with posters of famous Kunoichi through the ages. Training weapons littered the floor and opened scrolls could be spotted here and there. As for my sister, she was standing in front of her own mirror, fashioning her waist length hair into a loose bun. She smiled when she say me leaning against her door frame.

"Ready for today, Big Bro?" She asked in her quiet voice.

"You bet, kiddo. I'm gunna kick ass and take names. You gunna cheer me on when I make it to the finals?"

She rolled her eyes and scoffed. "Of course, dummy. Who am I going to cheer for, cousin Ino?" She rolled her eyes at that notion as well. I can swear to every god in existence, I in no way had anything to do with my little sister's opinion of our cousin. Kono saw firsthand how Ino conducted herself and was just as embarrassed to be related to her.

I smiled at my future badass Kunoichi sister. "Good point. I'm grabbing breakfast quick then I gotta head out. If I don't see you, I love you and good luck on your test today. Also, clean up your room! This place is a pigsty!" I laughed heartily as Kono had seamlessly grabbed a senbon from her dresser and chucked it at me in response. I easily bat it out of the air. She was getting damn accurate with those, but still not much oomph behind them.

"Love you too, big idiot!" She called to my retreating form.

I found both my parents in the kitchen when I entered. Mom had a spread of food already prepared and was finishing the fish. Dad was, as always reading the paper.

"Morning, Mom. Morning, Dad." I greeted both my parents.

"Morning, sweetie!" Mom smiled over her shoulder at me. "Ready for today?"

I nodded vigorously. "Ready to kick ass and take names!"

"Kenta Yamanaka, Language!" She reprimanded primly. I snickered as I grabbed a cup of coffee. "Can you see who's at the door?" Mom asked as there was a loud knock.

I grabbed my coffee and made my way to the front door. Opening it to be greeted by both my teammates. Both my teammates had been in the same mindset and had opted for new threads for the big occasion.

Ami wore a dark blue, almost black loose fitting battle kimono. Embroidered into the fabric was a swirling pattern in a dark grey that was easy to miss if you weren't looking. Underneath you could spy the mesh jumper she wore. She wore heeled kunoichi sandals and wore here long hair in a loose ponytail today.

Naruto had also made a change. Gone was the all black track suit I had convinced him was much better than the orange monstrosity. In its place he wore black cargo pants similar to mine, taped just the same. He wore a loose fitting, black, long sleeved shirt that had a single stripe of dark orange (much better) that ran the length of it. A single large scroll hung from his back, reminiscent of his second teacher. Standard shinobi sandals and similar to my own black gloves completed the new look.

I rolled my eyes. "You two knew mom was making a good luck feast, didn't you." Their only reply was twin smiles and pushing past me into the house.

"Morning Uncle Inoko! Aunt Tori!" Naruto greeted enthusiastically. He ran over to my mom and gave her a peck on the cheek. She giggled and gave him a one armed hug.

"Good Morning Naruto, Ami. You both ready for the big day?" Mom asked my teammates.

"Yes, Ma'am." Ami replied poliedly.

"Hell yeah! Ready to kick ass and take names!" Naruto all but shouted.

"Naruto Uzumaki! Language! My goodness between you and Kenta you're going to give me gray hairs!"

We burst out laughing at that as Naruto dodged the spatula mom swung his way. An excited squeal interrupted our teasing.

"Big Bro Naruto! Big Sis Ami!" Kono squealed, crashing into Naruto in a bone crushing hug. Naruto laughed good naturedly and squeezed her back.

"Dang, Kono. You're getting strong. I need to up my training or you're gunna pass me up!"

Kono giggled. "Darn right, Big Bro!" She then ran and gave Ami a much more subdued, but still loving hug. "Big Sis. I'm counting on you to show those boys us girls are just as strong!"

Ami returned the hug with a bright smile. "I plan to, little flower. We can't let these boys' heads get too big, can we?" Kono shook her head vigorously.

"Ok, Breakfast is ready. You three dig in and eat quickly. You don't want to be late. Tardiness to a Chunin exam is an automatic failure!" Mom scolded while serving all the dishes. We all complied and dug in. 10 minutes later and we were bidding the family goodbye and on our way to the first test. Time to get this show on the road!

******************************************AK*****************************************

The three of us arrived at the academy with plenty of time to spare. I glanced at both teammates, excited and nervous smiles in place. We made our way into the building. Before we opened the front doors, a gust a wind heralded the arrival of our team captain. Cpt Genma smiled down at the three of us.

"Proud of you brats, no matter what happens. However, don't embarrass me and make sure you win. No pressure though." He finished with a smirk. "Test is in room 303. I know I don't need to tell you, but still, good luck."

We saluted our captain and pushed the front doors open. Making the trek up to room 303. When we arrived at the second floor, a group of people had gathered and seemed to be held up. Noticing two older genin blocking the door to a room whose nameplate clearly read 303. I snorted. I felt a nudge from my right and heard Naruto's whispered voice.

"Ok, I might be dumb, but even I'm not this dumb. Hopefully the rest of the competition is like this. We'll breeze through."

I smirked and in a hushed voice gave the orders. "Casually go by. Don't draw attention. Let the idiots who can't even count floors fail." Ami and Naruto both nodded and we continued on our merry way to the correct room. We opened the door and realized just how early we were. Only 4 other teams had made it here before. I took a cursorily glance around, sizing up the competition. None of the teams impressed me all that much. All except one. A team from Suna. The older boy and female of their team stood confidently. They were definitely strong but they weren't the ones who worried me. The small red headed boy, he was the one who truly made me nervous. The bloodlust and malice leaking off him in waves was only one part of what made me cautious of the unassuming red head. Though his face remained a blank mask, his eyes spoke of unhinged madness and death. I shivered before turning to my teammates.

"Watch out for that team from Suna. That red head… He seems off. There's a madness in his eyes that gives me goosebumps."

Naruto and Ami stole a quick glance their way and nodded vehemently at my suggestion. I took a look around once more and noticed that more and more teams were filing in one by one. Turning back around I went to engage my teammates once more before my senses were firing on all cylinders. I turned back around to engage the threat when a green blur crashed into me. I looked down at the small object that had just knocked the wind out of me and my eyes locked with a pleasant shade of orange.

"Hi, Kenta! Surprised to see me?!"

"F- Fú?! What are you doing here? Your letter, I thought-"She cut me off with a giggle and another tight squeeze before letting me go and stepping back.

"Obviously I lied, silly. I wanted to surprise you!" She laughed. Her laugh was the most beautiful thing I think I've ever heard. She turned to Naruto and Ami, just now seeming to notice them. "Naruto! Ami! Oh it's so good to see you both!" She gave each of them a hug. I was pleased that Naruto's was just as quick as Ami's was. My hug was definitely the longest.

"Fú! How have you been? How's seven doing? Villagers still a bunch of assholes?" Naruto excitedly babbled away.

As we got reacquainted with Fú, I noticed her two teammates standing off by themselves. They kept shooting us curious yet wary glances. My musings were cut short by the one voice I would have been happy to never hear again in my entire life.

"Well, well, well. Look who's here. Looks like they'll let any trash take the Chunin Exams." Ino said waspishly, eyes trained directly on me.

"Cousin! So good to see you! I almost didn't recognize you with the pound of makeup caked on your face and… is that 3 new ribs showing? You've been keeping to that diet I see. Good for you!" I replied in my fakest cheerful voice.

Her face darkened before she smirked. "Sorry, dearest cousin. Some of us need help to look as naturally feminine as you do."

It was my turn to flush, but before I could reply Ino's face lit up and she raced off.

"Sasuke! My prince oh how I've missed you!"

I laughed uproariously as Sasuke smoothly dodged Ino's love charge, sending her crashing to the floor. He rolled his eyes and kept walking towards our team.

"Sorry about your troublesome cousin, Kenta. I curse the gods every day that we have the wrong Yamanaka on our squad."

I turned towards the heavy lidded Nara and smiled. Shaking his hand I replied "Don't worry about it, Shika. If only her skills were as sharp as her tongue she'd have been rookie of the year."

"Haha! Good one, Kenta. Chip?"

I politely declined the jovial Akimichi's offer just as team 7 made it to our group, a pouting Ino in tow.

"Yamanaka, Kogure, Idiot. Nice to see you all." Sasuke greeted.

I laughed while Naruto bristled. "Uchiha. Sakura. Good to see you both! Who's the new guy?" I asked indicating the pasty teen behind them. The new boy stepped forward, the grossest and fakest smile I've ever seen plastered on his face.

"My name is Sai. It is nice to meet you, Girly-Man." The smile never leaving his face.

It was now my turn to bristle while Naruto cackled madly. Sakura then stepped inbetween Sai and myself.

"You'll have to forgive our new teammate. He seems to have been born and raised by some type of animal. His social graces are non-existent. It's good to see everyone again!" Sakura explained giving us all a quick hug.

"Looks like the gang is all here! Hope you're all ready to get your asses handed to you! Team 8 is going to crush the competition!" Kiba's loud, boisterous voice filled the air.

Conversation between all 4 rookie teams picked up after that. I introduced Fú to everyone and her bubbly personality quickly earned her a few new friends. Even the Ice Queen thawed out a bit around Fú. We were all smack talking and catching up before a new voice interrupted us.

"You must be the rookie squads we've all been hearing about. You should probably keep it down, you're drawing a lot of attention towards yourselves and tension is already high." An older, silver haired teen approached our group. "My name is Kabuto Yakushi by the way."

Naruto was the first to speak up. "Nice to meet you! Thanks for the advice, gramps!"

Kabuto chuckled good naturedly, "I'm not much older than you guys, you know."

"Thanks for the warning. Unless you have anything else to say. Beat it." This came from Sasuke who was looking at the newcomer with a suspicious gaze.

"Oh of course. I actually have this deck of cards. They're my ninja info cards. It's all the information I've collected from previous exams."

"Is this your second time, Mister Kabuto?" Sakura asked, polite as usual.

He smiled sheepishly, "It's actually my seventh time."

"Ha! You suck, dude!" Kiba laughed.

"In my defense these exams are harder than they seem. And I'm not really a frontline fighter. I work mainly at the hospital." Kabuto explained.

"How do they work?" Sasuke interrupted.

"Oh! Well I just push my chakra into the card and voila! All the information on a person I've found. If you have someone in mind just tell me as much information as you can."

Before anyone could make a request, Fú jumped in. "Kenta Yamanaka of team 11, under the command of Genma Shiranui!" She sent a smirk my way.

"Traitor" I muttered. Though I was curious to see what information he'd been able to get on me.

She smiled sweetly and sent a wink "All is fair in love and war!"

"Let's see, Kenta Yamanaka. Ah here we go. Age 13. Teammates are Naruto Uzumaki and Ami Kogure. Mission records indicate 45 D-Ranks, 8 C-Ranks, and oh my goodness 1 A-Rank! Good measurables with speed and flexibility being his strongest points. Average in hand to hand. Average in illusion arts. Dual natured with Lightning and Water which he's quickly developing. Considered a genius of his clan's special techniques. Overall, he is considered an A-Rank threat in this competition.

I closed my mouth that had fallen open at the amount of information Kabuto had somehow collected. There's no fucking way he should know all that. My eyes narrowed in suspicion even as there was an appreciative murmuring from my peers. Sasuke jumped in next.

"Gaara of the Desert, Naruto Uzumaki, Ami Kogure."

"Ok let's start with Gaara. Not too much is known on him as he's a foreign shinobi and he's the youngest son of the current Kazekage. What I have. No D-Rank missions, 20 C-Rank, and 1 B-Rank. There's also a note here that says he's never received an injury on a single mission. Wow, impressive. It also says he's considered an S-Rank threat for this competition and to approach with extreme caution."

Never been injured, eh? My suspicions were being confirmed. That kid was dangerous.

"Now let's see, Naruto Uzumaki. You know his teammates and mission report. Great overall measurables with his stamina and chakra capacity being the biggest standouts. Above-average in hand to hand. No skill in illusions. A solid grasp of ninja techniques. My note here also says that Naruto is the most promising sealmaster Konoha has had since Lord Fourth! Jeez, you rookies are impressive! No wonder you were recommended! He is also listed as an A-Rank threat."

Naruto was blushing at the praise but my suspicions were growing by the second of this Kabuto person, if that's even his real name.

"Finally, Ami Kogure. Unofficial apprentice to Anko Mitarashi. Excellent hand to hand scores. Average illusions. Becoming proficient in Fire Release techniques. No added notes but also received an A threat rank. I think I might just drop out now if all you rookies are this impressive. I don't think I'll have a chance this year!" Kabuto lamented.

Just as I was about to question Kabuto, I sensed three threats approaching rapidly. I jumped back, pulling Fú with me. Out of nowhere a teen wrapped head to toe in bandages swung right at Kabuto. Kabuto dodged effortlessly, but a split second later his glasses cracked and he was on the floor puking.

"Put this on your info cards. The three Sound shinobi will definitely be making Chunin this year!" Mummy boy declared boldly. Before anyone could respond a plume of smoke erupted at the front of the class. When the smoke cleared the most terrifying man I'd ever seen was standing center. Tall and proud surrounded by a dozen Chunin. His sharp gaze scanned the room and locked eyes on the three sound shinobi.

"You three. Cause another disturbance and you'll be paying me a visit down in the torture department. Do I make myself clear!?" Scary man yelled.

The three sound ninja gave quick affirmations before returning to their previous spot.

"Listen up. I don't repeat myself. My name is Ibiki Morino. I am your proctor for the first exam. What I say goes. You're in my domain now. Now, everyone get in line in front of one of the tables and grab a number. Find the seat that matches that number and sit your asses down! The first exam starts now!"

************************************Scary Man***************************************

I'd never met, nor even seen Mom's boss. After seeing him, I'm glad I hadn't. The man was a mountain of muscle and probably would have made me piss myself had mom had him over for dinner. So knowing his reputation, I was extremely disappointed in the test he'd just administered. Upon hearing his explanation it took all my willpower not to laugh out loud. Five, FIVE chances before you get thrown out. I could do it without getting caught once, but five times? I didn't even have to be subtle about this. Regardless I scanned the room and found my target. I waited until he finished his exam before beginning my plan.

'Yamanaka Clan Technique: Mind-Body Transfer'

I was now staring down at a test with perfect answers. I quickly scanned and memorized the important details to the questions. I didn't need all the fluff this nerd added. After I had what I needed, I ended the technique and returned to my body. Jotting down the answers on my own sheet, I quickly located Naruto. Deciding to try a different approach, I executed a recently learned technique.

'Yamanaka Clan Technique: Mind-Body Disturbance'

Similar to the Mind-Body Transfer this technique grants you control over the victim's body. Unlike Transfer though my consciousness remains with me and the target is fully aware that they are no longer in control of their body. I felt Naruto resist me for a moment before it clicked what was happening and he let me guide his hand. I finished writing the answers as best as I could from this distance. Naruto could pretty it up. I then did a scan for Ami. I found her across the room. I discreetly made the seal required before noticing the rustle of her sleeve. A moment later she began scribbling furiously.

'Well done, Ami. I don't know what you did but looks like you don't need my help' I thought to myself, pleased by her growth.

I glanced at the clock and realized only 20 minutes had passed. Still had 40 left to go. Nap time it is!

*************************************Joke Test****************************************

So the final question was a joke. The test was a joke. I was not a happy camper. I mean I guess I could technically see how for some it could be difficult. Not everyone grows up around a clan of mind fucking ninja. Ok, be fair, Kenta.

Suddenly, the windows shattered and a brown blur flew into the room. Four kunai were thrown with expert precision expanding a banner.

"Don't get too comfortable, kiddies. It is I, the sexy and deadly Anko Mitarashi! I'll be your second proctor. I hope… you're… prepared. IBIKI WHAT THE FUCK? 27 TEAMS? YOU SUCK!"

Ibiki just shrugged "Or maybe this year's batch is just that promising."

"Psh, whatever. When I'm done with them, the number will be cut in half, at minimum." Anko replied, a dangerous glint in her eye. "Well if you're done admiring my gorgeous figure, follow me to the next location! If you can't keep up, you're out!" And she dove out the window. I grinned at my teammates and we quickly followed, quite used to Anko's antics by now. The scuffle of chairs and scrambling of feet was the only clue I needed that everyone else's shock had worn off and they were in hot pursuit.

************************************Anko-Bae*****************************************

"Welcome, victims, to training ground 44. Also known as "The Forest of Death!" Anko shouted across the clearing. "This is where your second exam is being held. It's a fun filled forest. Full of cuddly monsters, man-eating plants, and leeches the size of melons that can drain a full grown adult in seconds!"

Next to me, Ami shuddered. In a hushed voice so no one would here she gave us the details. "Cpt Anko has taken me in there a few times. It's far from fun. The sadistic bitch isn't lying though. I've seen the leeches, they are not pretty. I have a pretty good lay of the land in there though. We should be ok."

Naruto and I nodded before tuning back into Anko.

"For the next 5 days, you kiddies will be fighting for your lives, not only against nature but each other. Yes there will be deaths, so after my explanation you will each be given a liability waiver to sign. Three WILLFULLY signed waivers will get you one of these two scrolls." At this she held up two different scrolls. One an off white color, the other a light brown color. "You task is to collect the scroll opposite to the one you were given. Once you have one of each scroll, you will then make your way to the tower located in the center of the forest. Upon completion of this task, you will have passed the second exam."

"Now, onto rules. First, you may get the required scroll your team needs by any means necessary. Yes, some of you will not be walking out of this forest alive. Two, do not, under any circumstances open your scrolls before reaching the tower. I can promise you, you will not like what happens to you if you do. Finally, rule three. All three members must reach the tower ALIVE! Carrying a carcass with you will do no one any good. So stay alive. So. Questions? No? OK! Let's get started. Bring your 3 signed forms to the tent set up over there and get your scroll and gate assignment. Let's go, kids!"

I quickly signed my form and handed it to Naruto. "Hold this and get in line. I'll be right back." Naruto took my form and joined Ami in the quickly forming line. I searched the crowd, finding the mop of mint green hair I was looking for. I rushed towards her.

"Fú! Hey wait up!" I called out. She turned to me, a radiate smiling lighting up her face. It took my breathe away momentarily before I shook myself out of the trance she'd just put me in. "Glad to see you passed the first exam, I know that tests aren't you strong suit." I played teased her.

She puffed out her cheeks, pouting. "Hey, I'm not THAT dumb. Sorry we can't all be geniuses like you" she finished blowing a raspberry my way. Her childish antics just made me laugh. "Good luck on the second test, by the way. Better stay clear of me and my team, no promises we won't take your scroll!"

I nodded and her with a grin on my face. "You too, be careful in there. Ami says it really is as nasty as Anko was saying. If I don't see you in the next round, I'll never let you live it down."

Fú laughed in delight. "The only way I don't pass this part is if dumb or dumber over there gets killed. They're hopeless! You be careful too, Kenta. I know you and your team are strong, but you can't predict everything!" She then surprised me by rushing me and throwing her arms around me in a tight hug. I immediately reciprocated the move, not failing to notice how perfectly she fit in my arms. Her head came right up to my chest. It was as if she were made to be there. I reluctantly let her go and bid her farewell before returning to my team. I was greeted to twin smirks from the terrible twins.

"What?" I snapped.

"Oh nothingggg" Ami sing-songed.

"Kenta and Fú, sitting in a tree! K-I-urk" Naruto's song was cut off by my elbow to his diaphragm.

"Can it you two. She's just a friend."

"Yeah, OK." Ami scoffed.

We bickered the rest of the time before it was our turn to enter the tent. We handed over our waivers and received a white scroll in return. The symbol for heaven was emblazoned on it. I put it in my weapon pouch and sealed it away and we walked out. We were assigned to gate 18 and we quickly made our way to the gate. Once there, we all got into mission mode. Both turned to me.

"Plan?" Ami asked.

I thought for a moment. "The second the gate opens, Naruto make a dozen clones and spread them out. Advanced scouting party. We make directly for a source of water. Any team worth their salt will seek out a source of water. Once there, we rig the hell out of the area. Naruto will then make more clones to scout and hopefully lure teams to our trap. The second we get an earth scroll, Ami will lead us in the most direct route towards the tower. Let's get in and out. The longer we're in there, the lower our chances of getting the scroll we need. Also, the longer we're in there the more desperate the remaining teams will be. Desperation leads to irrational thinking and a dangerous enemy. Sound good?

Both my teammates nodded.

"It's a solid plan. It covers all our bases and is a good starting point. If we don't have any success by tomorrow we can rethink our strategy." Ami supplied.

"I agree. Well game faces ladies, we're going to crush this part."

****************************************SU*******************************************