shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 34: Promotion to Chūnin

Uchiha Tsukiko had made up his mind to take the Chūnin Exam. He could hardly wait to inform Hatake Sakumo of his decision.

At the training grounds, he found Sakumo instructing other ninja.

"Sakumo-sensei," Tsukiko greeted respectfully, bowing slightly. "I have a request."

Hatake Sakumo paused, turning to face him with a look of quiet admiration. He had already noticed Tsukiko's remarkable progress over the past months and was genuinely impressed by his growth.

"What is it, Tsukiko?" Sakumo asked calmly.

Without hesitation, Tsukiko stated, "Sensei, I believe I have the strength and experience required to be promoted to chūnin. I would like to take the Chūnin Exam."

Sakumo's gaze sharpened slightly as he considered Tsukiko's words.

He knew very well that Tsukiko's abilities had long surpassed the level of an average chūnin—perhaps even most jōnin. The Chūnin Exam was merely a formality at this point.

Beyond raw power, Sakumo had seen Tsukiko develop composure and tactical intelligence in battle—both essential traits of a true ninja.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Sakumo nodded with a smile. "Tsukiko, your progress has been extraordinary. Not only have you grown stronger, but you've also matured as a strategist and leader. Frankly, I believe you've been ready for quite some time."

Hearing Sakumo's affirmation filled Tsukiko with both satisfaction and excitement.

Sakumo continued, "Not just you—Hinata Ayane and Yamanaka Chinatsu have also improved tremendously. Your entire team has exceeded the chūnin level. It's only natural for you all to move forward."

Tsukiko nodded with determination. "Thank you for your support, Sensei."

Sakumo placed a hand on his shoulder. "Go find Ayane and Chinatsu. We'll head to the Hokage's office together and submit your applications."

Without delay, Tsukiko tracked down his teammates, Hinata Ayane and Yamanaka Chinatsu.

He found them training at another part of the training grounds. As soon as they saw him approaching, they paused.

"Tsukiko, what's going on?" Chinatsu asked curiously.

Tsukiko grinned. "I just spoke with Sakumo-sensei about taking the Chūnin Exam. He agreed that we're ready, and now we just need to submit our applications. Are you both prepared?"

Ayane's eyes widened slightly before filling with excitement. "Really?"

Tsukiko nodded.

Chinatsu's face lit up with enthusiasm. "Of course! I've been waiting for this!"

Ayane, though typically reserved, smiled and nodded firmly. "I'm ready. Let's go."

With their team gathered, they followed Sakumo to the Hokage's office.

As they walked through the bustling streets of Konoha, Tsukiko felt a mix of excitement and nerves.

The Hokage's building loomed ahead—a grand structure that symbolized the village's authority and strength.

Upon reaching the entrance, the guards, recognizing Sakumo, immediately stepped aside and saluted.

"Welcome, Sakumo-sama."

Sakumo nodded in acknowledgment before leading Tsukiko and his team inside.

In the main hall, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, was reviewing documents when he noticed their approach.

A warm smile spread across Hiruzen's face as he observed the young ninja.

"Sakumo, to what do I owe this visit?" Hiruzen asked, his gaze shifting to the three genin.

Sakumo bowed slightly before responding, "Hokage-sama, I'm here to recommend Tsukiko, Ayane, and Chinatsu for the Chūnin Exam. Their skills have far exceeded the required level, and I believe they're ready."

Hiruzen stroked his beard thoughtfully before nodding. "I've heard much about this team's achievements. If even Sakumo believes they are prepared, then I have no reason to doubt it."

Turning to the trio, he gave them an encouraging look. "I approve your applications. Do your best in the exam."

Tsukiko and his teammates bowed in unison.

"Thank you, Hokage-sama," Tsukiko said firmly.

Hiruzen smiled. "Go forth and make Konoha proud."

With their applications approved, Tsukiko's team officially entered the Chūnin Exam.

The Chūnin Exam was not merely a test of individual strength. It evaluated teamwork, adaptability, and intelligence in high-stakes situations.

On the day of the exam, Tsukiko's team was faced with an intense real-world combat simulation.

Their examiners—high-ranking jōnin—had designed a battlefield full of traps, enemy ambushes, and sudden rescue scenarios.

Despite the challenging conditions, Team Tsukiko operated with flawless coordination.

Tsukiko's Three-Tomoe Sharingan granted him near-perfect battle awareness, allowing him to predict enemy movements and command his team with precision.

Ayane's Byakugan and Gentle Fist made her a formidable close-quarters fighter, easily neutralizing enemies.

Chinatsu's Mind-Transfer Jutsu provided unparalleled battlefield control, disrupting enemy strategies.

Tsukiko blended his Shadow Moon Taijutsu and Sword Style with his Wood Release, turning the battlefield into his domain.

By seamlessly weaving together various techniques, he led his team to flawlessly complete the mission objectives.

At the end of the exam, the examiners were left thoroughly impressed.

Their performance was exceptional.

Shortly afterward, the results were submitted to the Third Hokage's desk.

Hiruzen, in the middle of his administrative duties, glanced at the report and paused.

Reading through the evaluations, a pleased smile crossed his lips.

"Tsukiko, Ayane, Chinatsu…" he murmured, recognizing the names.

He had long heard of their remarkable abilities, and now, they had officially proven their worth.

Examiner reviews praised their combat efficiency, teamwork, and strategic thinking.

Tsukiko, in particular, was highlighted for his leadership skills—something far beyond what was expected at this level.

"Their results leave no room for doubt." Hiruzen smiled approvingly. "This team is truly something special."

Without hesitation, he took his pen and signed off on the promotion papers.

Uchiha Tsukiko, Hinata Ayane, and Yamanaka Chinatsu were now officially Chūnin.