The group arrived at the location where the second phase of the Chunin Exams would take pce. In front of them stood a dense forest that immediately reminded them of Konoha’s Forest of Death.

  The teams that had passed the first test were gathered, and it was evident that many had been left behind.

  —The second test is simple —the instructor announced firmly—. You must infiltrate the forest without being detected. Your objective is to find and obtain a scroll.

  As he said this, he held up a scroll for everyone to see clearly.

  —They will be scattered throughout the area, but it won’t be as easy as it seems. Ninja patrols will be guarding the area, and if you are discovered, you will be automatically disqualified. —He continued. —You may use any method as long as you are not detected. Of course, killing is not allowed.

  —Once you obtain the scroll, you must leave the forest quickly. I wish you all the best of luck —he said, raising his hand. —The Second Test of the Chunin Exams has begun.

  Immediately, everyone started running from their positions, using movement jutsus.

  Aiko, leading the team, moved at once. As soon as he stepped into the forest, he detected several presences, quickly deducing that they belonged to the patrols. He swiftly changed position, and they hid.

  —What do we do now? —Akihiro asked in a voice that was almost a whisper.

  —Should we wait for some teams to be eliminated? After all, the beginning is the most dangerous moment —Hiroshi commented.

  Aiko nodded. —Yes, but we can’t just wait around either. We don’t know how many scrolls there are, so if the other teams get them all, our waiting will have been for nothing.

  —So, we’re moving immediately? —Akihiro asked.

  —Yes, but very carefully. Don’t use jutsus unless absolutely necessary. We don’t know if there are sensors among the patrol ninjas.

  Everyone nodded and set off.