Ch. 541Unwritten Rules, the Tenth Question Filled with Darkness
Key Plot Points and Events
- The first exam of the Ninja Academy is held, with Morino Ibiki, a torturer, as the examiner.
- Hyuga Sho uses his Byakugan to observe the exam from another room, confirming Orochimaru's presence in disguise.
- The exam focuses on cheating, with nine written questions and a tenth question with severe penalties for failure or refusal.
- Uchiha Itachi and Uchiha Izumi, both knowledgeable beyond their Genin level, complete the first nine questions easily.
- The tenth question is revealed: choose not to take it and get zero, or take it and get it wrong to lose Chunin Exam eligibility forever.
- Uchiha Itachi chooses not to take the tenth question, shocking the candidates and examiners.
Character Developments
- Hyuga Sho: Confirms Orochimaru's presence and shows awareness of other ninjutsu with similar abilities to his Byakugan.
- Uchiha Itachi: Demonstrates his calm and collected demeanor, adhering to the ninja rule of not showing emotion. He makes a strategic decision not to take the tenth question.
- Uchiha Izumi: Shows anger towards Itachi but remains observant of others' cheating methods.
- Morino Ibiki: Reveals a gentler side, caring about the candidates' futures. He internally disagrees with Itachi's decision.
Significant Themes
- The importance of knowledge and preparation in ninja exams.
- The consequences of failure and the need to make strategic decisions.
- The harsh reality of ninja life and the necessity to face challenges head-on.
Character Interactions
- Hyuga Sho and Orochimaru: Exchange words about their abilities, with Orochimaru dismissing other ninjutsu as uninteresting.
- Uchiha Itachi and Uchiha Izumi: Their gazes meet, hinting at tension between them. They both complete the first nine questions easily.
- Uchiha Itachi and Morino Ibiki: Itachi's decision not to take the tenth question surprises and internally displeases Morino Ibiki.