The Chunin Exam, also known as the "Allied Nations Joint Chunin Selection Exam," might seem like a simple test for promoting genin. However, it carries much deeper implications.
The allied nations of the ninja world were once neighboring countries engaged in constant warfare. After forming alliances to avoid mutual destruction, they established specific battlegrounds and ninja participants for these exams.
This is the origin of the Chunin Exam.
Over time, the content of the exam has evolved, but its essence remains unchanged—it is a microcosm of war among the allied nations.
During the Chunin Exam, the daimyos and notable figures from various countries attend to observe and evaluate the strength of each ninja village.
Villages with strong ninja forces gain more mission requests and development opportunities, further solidifying their power.
Weaker villages face setbacks and could even drag their respective countries into diplomatic disadvantages, deepening tensions with neighboring nations.
If such tensions cannot be resolved, war may inevitably break out.
Although the scale of the Chunin Exam is small, its impact is profound.
This is why genin, bearing the reputation of their nations and villages, go to great lengths to perform well in the exam, even risking their lives in battle.
This year's Chunin Exam is hosted by Konohagakure.
The participating allied ninja villages include Sunagakure, Amegakure, Kusagakure, Takigakure, and the newly established Otogakure from the Land of Rice Fields.
With six villages participating and hundreds of genin competing, this Chunin Exam is grander than ever before.
Once the ninjas from all villages arrived, Hiruzen Sarutobi announced that the exam would begin in one week, outlining the test structure and assigning proctors for each stage.
As in the original story, the first written test was proctored by Morino Ibiki and his team from Konoha's Interrogation and Torture Division.
As the division leader, Morino Ibiki excelled at applying both physical and psychological pressure on his opponents.
Even when facing a group of genin, he showed no leniency.
The test he designed was extraordinarily difficult, consisting of nine questions that targeted the knowledge gaps of most genin.
Adding to the pressure, his elimination rules involved group consequences, putting immense psychological strain on the participants.
This made the first written test exceptionally challenging, earning it the nickname "a hellish beginning."
Genin after genin were eliminated, leaving fewer than 100 participants in a short time.
Yet Morino Ibiki wasn't finished.
Near the end of the test, he presented the infamous tenth question:
The genin had to choose whether to answer the question.
If they chose not to answer, their entire three-person team would be eliminated, losing the chance to advance to Chunin—but they could try again next year.
If they chose to answer but got it wrong, they would be barred from ever taking the Chunin Exam again, forever remaining genin.
This impossible choice added even more mental stress, leading to further eliminations.
But then, an unexpected event occurred.
Just as Naruto raised his hand, seemingly ready to give up, he changed his mind in an instant.
Slamming his hand on the desk, he shouted:
"Don't underestimate me! I won't back down! Even if I have to stay a genin for life, I'll become Hokage someday! No problem at all!"
Standing up, he looked directly at Morino Ibiki and declared:
"I'm not afraid of anything!"
His words not only bolstered his own courage but also inspired the other nervous genin, dissipating their thoughts of giving up.
Noticing this, Morino Ibiki applied more pressure.
"I'll say it again: this is a life-altering decision. If you want to quit, now's your chance!"
Naruto immediately responded:
"I'll never quit! Sticking to my word—that's my ninja way!"
With Naruto's bold declaration, smiles spread among the remaining genin, and none chose to quit.
Seeing this, Morino Ibiki couldn't help but view Naruto differently.
"Interesting kid. He erased everyone's fear in an instant. Although there are still too many left, continuing is pointless now."
With this realization, he exchanged glances with the other proctors, who seemed to share his thoughts.
He then announced:
"Your resolve is commendable. Everyone still here passes the first test!"
His words caused an uproar among the participants.
Sensing their confusion, Morino Ibiki explained further:
"Compared to the first nine questions, the tenth was the true test of this round. It was designed to torment your minds with a difficult choice.
Those who didn't answer would drag their teammates into failure. Those who answered wrong would be forever banned from promotion.
Such dilemmas are a test of your resolve. As chunin, you may face missions where you lack information about the enemy's numbers, abilities, or traps. Can you avoid those tasks just because they're dangerous? The answer is no!"
Ibiki's voice grew passionate.
"There are missions you cannot refuse, no matter the danger. In such moments, the courage to face challenges and the ability to persevere are vital qualities for a chunin leader.
Hesitating and retreating in the face of hardship disqualifies one from becoming a chunin!
By choosing to face this test, you've demonstrated the spirit required to tackle future obstacles head-on!"
Surveying the remaining genin, Ibiki revealed a hint of admiration and declared:
"You've passed the first gate. The first stage of the Chunin Exam is over. Best of luck in the next round!"
As he finished, applause erupted from the doorway.
"Clap, clap, clap..."
Turning, Ibiki saw Aburame Shigeo, wearing sunglasses and the Konoha Police Force uniform, clapping as he entered.
"A fantastic test, and an even better speech, Ibiki!"
The proctors rose, their expressions respectful or admiring.
Ibiki straightened and bowed slightly.
"You're too kind, Chief Aburame. The first stage is complete; we're ready for the second."
Even genin unfamiliar with Konoha recognized that this newcomer was someone of great importance.
The exam room fell silent.
Aburame Shigeo lightly patted Ibiki on the shoulder.
"Good work!"
Turning to the remaining genin, he smiled and announced:
"Participants, I am your head proctor, Aburame Shigeo. Please assemble at Training Ground 44 by noon tomorrow for the second stage of the exam. Rules will be explained then. If there are no questions, you are dismissed!"
*(End of Chapter)*