Chapter 27: Exams
Sunlight roused Arthur awake.
The first day of the Chūnin Exams had arrived. He rose, performing a quick set of stretches. A quick breakfast later, he found himself amidst the gathering hall where the first part of the Exams would be held.
Outside the entrance were two unfamiliar figures. Both were middle-aged, based on their attire. One sported a neatly trimmed beard, the other a fierce scar running down his cheek. They looked annoyed as they surveyed him.
"You Arthur?" the bearded one grunted.
Arthur remained stoic, saying, "Yes, I'm him."
The scarred one rolled his eyes and said, "Well, you're late. We've been assigned to the same team for the first part of the Exams."
Arthur raised an eyebrow.
The thing he'd forgotten was that solo participation in the Chūnin Exams wasn't allowed. Each Genin needed a team of three. Hiruzen must have been the one to orchestrate this team together to allow him entry—an unexpected turn of events, to be sure.
"I wasn't aware solo participation was an option," he said, a tad amused.
The bearded Chūnin snorted, "Solo participation? This isn't kindergarten, kid. It's a team effort." He then gazed at Arthur's frame and youthful features. "Just make sure you don't drag us down."
Arthur held back his grin. It was clear that these two could see how dense his muscles were underneath his shirt. Seasoned Genin perhaps, but they were utterly oblivious to his capabilities.