blogombal Chapter 419, the third exam, has officially begun!
Chapter 419, the third exam, has officially begun!
The circular arena was like a boiling vortex, absorbing all the noise and fervor of Konoha and even the entire Land of Fire.
The sun was blazing, but the scorching sunlight did nothing to dampen the volcanic enthusiasm of the tens of thousands of spectators in the stands.
The sound waves were like a tsunami, one after another, making people's eardrums buzz.
Colorful flags waved in various areas of the stands, bearing the names of different ninja villages or popular candidates, creating a vibrant and bustling sea of flags.
Many young women, wearing T-shirts printed with their favorite ninja images or holding up carefully crafted signs and glow sticks, formed small support groups and shouted their supporters at the top of their lungs.
"Sasuke! Sasuke! Sasuke!"
"Ah~~ Sasuke is so cool~~~"
The television station's broadcasting equipment was set up in the best position, and the camera kept panning across the boiling stands and the solemn stadium below, transmitting this grand occasion to thousands of households in the Land of Fire and even further afield.
On the edge of this bustling sea, near a relatively secluded railing close to the top floor, two figures leaned against the cold metal railing, maintaining a subtle distance from the frenzy below.
"Wow..." Boruto's bright blue eyes widened, his mouth slightly open, as he looked down at the massive arena below, large enough to hold tens of thousands of people, and the bustling crowd within.
Even in his more technologically advanced era, a ninja tournament of such scale and enthusiasm was extremely rare.
"Master, is the Chunin Exams this exaggerated in your time? This is several times more exciting than the finals back in our year!"
In his memory, his Chunin Exam finals, while attracting much attention, were nothing like the spectacle of all nations paying tribute and the entire city celebrating.
The diverse outfits worn by spectators from all over the world in the stands, along with the dazzling array of internationally themed support items, all underscored the extraordinary significance of this event.
Standing beside him was the young Sasuke, who wore a black overcoat and a black wide-brimmed hat with the brim pulled low.
He did not respond to Boruto's exclamation. His left eye, which was the only part of his face, narrowed slightly, his brows furrowed, and his gaze swept across the vast scene below like that of a hawk, a hint of doubt flashing in his eyes.
In his memory, the third round of the Chunin Exams in that original timeline, although also held in a special venue and with many spectators and envoys from other countries, could not compare to what he was seeing now in terms of scale and atmosphere.
He remembered that during the Chunin Exams finals, the audience consisted mostly of Konoha villagers and a small number of nobles from the Land of Fire. Although the atmosphere was lively, it was far from being a "celebration for all people."
Not to mention these fan-circle-style support teams.
Moreover, the proportion of people in the stands whose clothing style clearly did not belong to the Land of Fire was abnormally high.
However, after a moment's thought, he felt somewhat relieved.
This timeline is already far off track. The rise of the Star Country, the destruction of Sunagakure and the Land of Wind, and the shake-up of the Five Great Nations have made this Chunin Exams a gathering of almost all the existing influential ninja villages. Its political and symbolic significance far exceeds that of ordinary selections.
It makes sense that Konoha would use this opportunity to flex its muscles, reassure allies, and deter potential opponents, elevating the tournament to such a high level.
only……
Beneath this overwhelming clamor, he always felt that there was some unsettling restlessness lurking beneath.
Orochimaru's "Konoha Crush Plan"...
And what about Urashiki Otsutsuki, who has been missing for a long time? Will he really let go of such a stage?
The two businessmen in the front row, who were excitedly discussing something, turned around when they were drawn by Boruto's undisguised amazement.
These are two typical traveling merchants: one is plump with a ruddy complexion and wearing a long silk gown; the other is lean and capable with lively eyes.
They saw Boruto and young Sasuke's attire, and noticed that the two seemed quite surprised by the scene. The fat merchant wore a worldly and kind smile.
"Is this your first time seeing such a grand event?" the portly businessman asked in a booming voice, carrying the hearty tone of someone who had traveled far and wide.
"That's understandable. Konoha really went all out this time, and they've learned a lot from that Star Country to the west."
"But if you ask me, Konoha only learned the basics." He clicked his tongue, a look of reminiscence on his face.
"The real spectacle, however, has to be the Star Country's triennial 'Ninja Sword Tournament'! That's when the crowds are absolutely massive, a sea of heads! The entire Star Capital is like a festival!"
"The Ninja Sword Tournament?" Boruto's curiosity was piqued, and he temporarily snapped out of his shock at the scene.
"That's right!" the thin businessman next to him chimed in, his voice a little higher-pitched, but his explanation was more detailed.
"The Land of Stars possesses four legendary ninja swords, each wielded by a powerful master. Every three years, the Land of Stars holds an open tournament for these swords. Any ninja from the Land of Stars who believes themselves to be skilled can register. After rounds of fierce selection, a winner is chosen and earns the right to challenge the current wielder of the sword!"
"The victor will become the new wielder of the ninja sword!"
The portly merchant added, his tone filled with admiration: "However, the strength of those four current holders is truly unfathomable."
"In these past few competitions, there have been many exceptionally talented challengers, but so far no one has been able to shake their position. The competitions are exciting, but as for the results, well..." He shook his head with a smile.
The skinny businessman's eyes lit up. He lowered his voice, as if sharing a secret: "But things have changed in recent years! I've heard that several remarkable figures have emerged from the younger generation of the Land of Stars! Those lads from the Uchiha and Hyuga clans are all incredibly powerful! Who knows, maybe a new face will actually win the Ninja Sword Tournament! I'm already prepared; I absolutely can't miss this spectacle!"
As Boruto listened to the two merchants' enthusiastic recounting, he became increasingly interested in this suddenly rising, mysterious, and powerful Star Country.
Ninja Sword Tournament?
It sounds like a peculiar system that combines honor, power, and spectacle.
When young Sasuke heard the name "Uchiha," his one eye flickered slightly.
The Uchiha clan of this timeline not only survived, but also continued to write their glory and power in another way in the newly rising Star Country.
His gaze involuntarily drifted back towards the VIP viewing platform.
That's due north of the circular track, where a classical pavilion with upturned eaves and brackets, covered with bright yellow glazed tiles, serves as the highest-level VIP viewing platform for today's event.
The view here is excellent, overlooking the entire stadium, yet it maintains a perfect distance from other stands, highlighting the extraordinary status of the people inside.
At this moment, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, had taken his seat in the main position in the center of the viewing platform.
Today he was dressed in the formal Hokage robes and wearing the Hokage hat. Although his face showed signs of age and deep wrinkles, his back was straight and his gaze was calm. The majesty of someone who had long held a high position and the composure of someone who had weathered many storms naturally emanated from him.
He was slightly turned to the side, talking quietly with two Konoha advisors and an Anbu ninja beside him, his face bearing his usual gentle and welcoming smile.
Suddenly, a slight noise came from the entrance to the viewing platform.
Accompanied by several Konoha ninjas and two expressionless Kusanagi ninjas, a middle-aged man dressed in a magnificent silk robe, wearing a tall crown, and carrying an exquisite folding fan slowly walked in.
This man was tall and thin, with a fair complexion and a short mustache. His eyes were gentle but carried a hint of aloofness from someone who had long held a position of power, and the corners of his mouth held the arrogance of someone in a superior position.
It was none other than Yamada Nobuyuki, the daimyo of the land of fields.
Upon seeing the newcomer, Hiruzen Sarutobi's smile widened. He stood up, took a few steps forward, and said in a loud and enthusiastic voice, "Lord Yamada, you must be tired from your journey. Your busy schedule makes it all the more honorable for Konoha to have the opportunity to come and watch our humble Chunin Exams!"
Yamada Nobuyuki quickened his pace, a slight smile appearing on his face. He unfolded his folding fan with a "whoosh" and gently waved it: "Third Hokage, you are too kind. I have long admired Konoha for hosting such a grand event, gathering the young talents of the ninja world. It is my honor to witness the brilliance of the future pillars of the ninja world today."
The two held hands and exchanged pleasantries in the center of the viewing platform, displaying an intimate demeanor and setting a fine example of neighborly friendship.
Other distinguished guests, envoys from various countries, businessmen, and noble representatives also turned their attention to the scene, some smiling and greeting, others whispering among themselves.
Among all the distinguished guests present today, the Daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields is the only "head of state" who is present in person. Although the Land of Rice Fields is of medium national strength, in the ninja world where bloodlines and hierarchical systems are strictly enforced, the Daimyo's status is naturally the most prestigious.
Therefore, his seat was arranged to be to the right of Hiruzen Sarutobi.
The guests and hosts took their seats.
The waiter served tea and exquisite refreshments.
Hiruzen Sarutobi and Nobuyuki Yamada continued their pointless but necessary social exchanges, and the topic gradually shifted to today's match.
Yamada Nobuyuki picked up his teacup, gently skimming off the foam with the lid. His gaze casually swept over the examinees who had begun lining up to enter, lingering particularly on the Konoha teams. In his gentle voice, he said, "The Third Hokage's rule is truly remarkable, producing so many talented individuals. I've heard that Konoha accounts for three of the eight teams that have made it to the final exam; it's truly astonishing."
Hiruzen Sarutobi chuckled, his humility tinged with pride: "You flatter me. It was just that the children were lucky, and the elite teams sent by each village were not many to begin with, which is why Konoha had the numerical advantage."
"Those who have made it to the finals are all elites among the new generation from various countries, and they should not be underestimated. The outcome of today's battle is unpredictable, but more importantly, it is to give these young people experience and broaden their horizons."
Nobuyuki Yamada nodded slightly in agreement, but his eyes, hidden beneath a gentle smile, were as deep as a still pool.
He gently shook his folding fan, seemingly casually changing the subject: "With the Third Hokage in charge, Konoha is naturally as stable as a mountain, and talented people gather here. Speaking of which, the Third Hokage is not young anymore. I wonder if he has considered the matter of succession? I have heard that Konoha does not seem to have decided on the next Hokage yet?"
This question is quite direct, and even a bit presumptuous.
"Thank you for your concern." Hiruzen Sarutobi's smile remained unchanged. He picked up his teacup, took a slow sip, and then said slowly, "Although I am old, I feel that these old bones of mine can still work for another ten years."
"Perhaps... we'll even see these children grow into towering trees, taking over from us old folks and continuing to protect this village." His gaze fell upon the vibrant young faces below, his tone filled with anticipation.
"Hehe... I see." Yamada Nobuyuki chuckled softly, his laughter low and carrying an indescribable meaning.
He stopped asking questions and simply turned his gaze back to the arena, as if he were truly captivated by the upcoming match.
"In that case, Master... let me, your disciple, personally see you off on your final journey."
Just then, an even more enthusiastic cheer erupted from the stadium below.
Led by Moonlight Gale, all eight teams, comprising twenty-four examinees who had passed the second exam, had entered the arena and stood in formation in the center of the spacious arena.
Sunlight shone on their young faces, revealing expressions of tension, excitement, composure, and eagerness, all brimming with a desire for victory and aspirations for the future.
Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly rose from his seat.
He didn't use any amplification equipment; he simply took a few steps forward to the railing at the very front of the stands. His voice, not particularly loud, but steady, powerful, and clear, resonated throughout every corner of the vast stadium.
"I hereby declare—"
The sound paused briefly, and the enormous roar subsided slightly as tens of thousands of eyes focused on the aged figure beneath the bright yellow tiles.
"The Chunin Exams, Third Round, Final Round—"
"Let's begin!!"
"Ooooooooooo!!!"
The final announcement was like a fuse igniting a powder keg, and the long-suppressed enthusiasm in the stands erupted!
Applause, cheers, whistles, shouts...
The various voices converged into a raging storm that nearly overturned the arena!
Ribbons and petals were scattered from nowhere, fluttering and dancing in the sunlight.
The curtain has been fully raised on this grand event.
And the undercurrents beneath the surface of the feast began their final surge.
To the left of the VIP viewing platform, there is a relatively independent area where the seats for the Star Kingdom's diplomatic delegation are located.
The location here is excellent, offering a clear view of the arena while maintaining a polite distance from the Hokage and other VIPs.
Uchiha Shisui stood in front of the railing, his arms casually crossed in front of his chest.
Today he was dressed in the blue-gray uniform of the Land of Stars, and the five-pointed star on the Star Ninja headband on his forehead gleamed coldly in the sunlight. He stood tall and his expression was calm.
However, his gaze did not linger too long on the young genin below who were about to fight for the honor of the Land of Stars. Instead, it drifted across the arena several times towards the daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields, who sat beside the Third Hokage and was waving a folding fan in the main stands.
As the leader of this operation, Shisui naturally knew about Orochimaru's "Konoha Crush Plan" and guessed that the abnormal daimyo of the Land of Rice Fields was probably Orochimaru in disguise.
Surrounding Zhi Shui were the elites who had accompanied him on this trip.
This includes members of the Ninja Swordsmen such as Sato Sagumo and Morishita Toshito, as well as special Jonin and Jonin such as Suzuhara Ai, Hyuga Neji, and Kaguya Kimimaro.
Morishita Toshito, a burly man with black hair and black eyes, crossed his arms and casually commented on the arena: "This place is sturdy enough; it'll probably be quite exciting to fight here!"
Neji was much quieter. He wore a blue-gray vest from the Land of Stars, and his white eyes calmly scanned the entire room. His gaze lingered for a moment, especially on the Hyuga main family seat in Konoha and on Hinata Hyuga below, his expression complex.
Kimimaro, dressed in simple white, exuded a cool and aloof aura. Beside him, Shiro smiled gently, occasionally clapping softly for the outstanding performances of the examinees below, such as Naruto playfully waving to the audience.
The youngest member, Toneri, sat quietly in a seat further back, curiously observing the Hyuga main family's seating arrangement.
The petite Chino Miyajo stood at the very front, almost leaning on the railing.
Her short white hair stood out in the sunlight, her purple eyes were fixed on the ground, and her small face was full of joy and longing. She clenched her fists and loudly encouraged her companions, "Go for it! Karin! Kurotsuchi! Ranmaru!"
Also included are Ida Suke and Yukimi, who serve as instructors for the two Genin teams from the Land of Stars.
Itada Suke was more composed, his sharp gaze sweeping over the other ninja village contestants around his student, assessing their strength.
Xuejian, on the other hand, was much more lively. Her medium-length brown hair was tied into a neat ponytail, and the freckles on her face seemed more prominent in her excitement. She shouted down, "Gaara, Temari, Kankuro! Give them a good beating!"
This drew attention from other delegations in the vicinity.
Just then, Kaguya Kimimaro, who had been silently observing, showed a slight change in expression.
He casually raised his hand and adjusted the miniature communicator by his ear, receiving the encrypted information stream transmitted by chakra fluctuations.
Kimimaro's cool expression vanished instantly, replaced by an extreme solemnity.
He immediately turned around, quickly walked to Uchiha Shisui's side, slightly turned his body, and whispered quickly and clearly in a voice that only the two of them could hear: "Lord Shisui, urgent communication."
"Intelligence indicates that a new high-risk target may intervene in today's match, and the opponent is extremely strong."
"Lord Shura has ordered us to proceed with the planned operations related to the 'Konoha Crush Plan' as scheduled, but all personnel must be on high alert at the highest level."
"In the event of a sudden and powerful enemy, the top priority should be preserving our forces and rescuing key personnel. Avoid direct confrontation with the enemy, and be especially aware of any potential spatial-temporal capabilities they may possess!"
Upon hearing this, Shisui tightened his arms slightly, and the gentle calm on his face changed.
An enemy that Lord Shura would use the word "extremely strong" to describe and specifically issue an order to avoid prolonged combat—an order that is almost a retreat...
That's incredibly strong!
Shisui was confident that the team he led possessed the power to destroy a nation!
Even if the Third Hokage suddenly launched an attack with Konoha's elite Jonin, they could calmly break through the encirclement and even leave a deep scar on Konoha.
"What kind of enemy is it?" Shisui's voice was low and cold.
Kimimaro raised his eyes, his pure white pupils meeting Shisui's gaze, and uttered three words:
"Otsutsuki!"