SWNOVELXO Chapter 66: Chunin Finals Starts
The following days felt fairly normal for me, though there were a few exceptions. I took Temari around the village, showing her the sights and places that made Konoha unique. We spent time walking through the bustling streets, visiting shops, and even enjoying some local snacks. I wanted her to see more than just the training grounds and exam hall—to get a sense of what the village was like beyond the competition.
I also had a conversation with Haku. "After this week, you won't need to go to the academy like usual," I told her. Her eyes widened with curiosity, but I didn't share everything, only giving her a hint of the changes that were coming. "There's a lot happening, but trust me, it's for the better," I reassured her.
Around us, the village was alive with energy. The atmosphere resembled that of a festival, with villagers celebrating and vendors setting up stalls, anticipating the upcoming Chunin Exam finals. Colorful decorations adorned the streets, and the excitement in the air was palpable. It felt like everyone was caught up in the festivities, unaware of the storm brewing beneath the surface.
As the days passed, I prepared myself mentally and physically for what was to come, knowing it would soon be time to reveal the truth and change the course of history.
The arena where the fights would take place had been transformed, adorned with decorations that made it look grand and appealing to all the visitors. This was a significant event, happening only once every few years, so the village was bustling with laughter, excitement, and celebration. It felt like a festival, with everyone eagerly anticipating the upcoming battles.
As the week came to an end, the time for the Chunin Exam finals arrived. Clan leaders and other important figures from various villages gathered at the arena, taking their places in the viewing stands. Among them were Tsunade and Jiraiya, who had come as I had asked Mom to contact them. Their presence added a sense of gravity to the occasion, making it clear that this was more than just an ordinary exam.
With the sound of the crowd buzzing in the background, we made our way toward the arena. The other participants and I marched in together, our eyes set on the battleground where our skills would be tested. I glanced around, spotting familiar faces in the audience, each person unaware of the truth I was about to reveal.
The time had come, not just for the fights, but for the start of a new chapter in Konoha's history.
The arrival of the Hokage and Kazekage brought a wave of silence over the bustling crowd. As they entered the arena, all eyes turned toward them, the leaders commanding respect with their presence. They each made their way to the center of the battleground, where they addressed the gathered spectators.
The Hokage spoke first, his voice steady and commanding. "Welcome, everyone, to this year's Chunin Exam finals! It is an honor to have all of you here to witness the strength and growth of the next generation of shinobi. Today, you will see not only the skills of these young warriors but also the bonds of friendship and rivalry that make our villages stronger."
The Kazekage followed, his voice calm and measured. "We gather here not only to celebrate these young talents but also to strengthen the ties between our nations. May the best among them shine, and let this be a testament to the continued alliance and prosperity of our villages."
With their addresses complete, the two leaders took their seats in the VIP section, overlooking the arena. The crowd erupted into applause, the anticipation in the air growing thicker as the final matches drew near. It was almost time for the true test to begin, and for the secrets to slowly unravel.
The arena was packed with spectators, their excitement palpable as they eagerly awaited the start of the matches. The air buzzed with anticipation, the crowd's cheers and chants echoing throughout the space. Some shouted the names of their favorite genin, rallying for who they hoped would claim victory, while others called out to the Hokage, showing their support and enthusiasm for the village.
Amidst the noise, I could hear my own name being called out. It seemed I had gained a bit of fame over the years, and now many were eager to see what I could do. The cheers brought a sense of pride, but also reminded me of the weight of expectations resting on my shoulders.
Standing there, I took in the atmosphere, feeling the energy of the crowd surge around me. I glanced up toward the VIP section where the Hokage, Kazekage, and other dignitaries were seated, knowing they were watching closely. This wasn't just about proving my strength in battle—it was also about the plan I'd set in motion, the truth that would soon come to light.
As the announcer prepared to begin the first match, I steadied my breathing and readied myself for the events that were about to unfold.
As the Hokage and Kazekage took their seats, they signaled the start of the event, their voices ringing out across the arena: "Let the Chunin Exam finals begin!" The crowd erupted in cheers, the anticipation reaching its peak.
The proctor stepped into the arena, raising his hand to call for attention. With a nod, he signaled the first fighters to prepare. The matches were about to commence, and all eyes were on the young genin who would soon step onto the battlefield.
While the spectators and officials focused on the excitement unfolding in the arena, something far more significant was happening behind the scenes. The Uchihas, under the leadership of Fugaku, had made their move. Clad in disguises, they stealthily infiltrated Root's hidden bases. Their target was clear: Danzo and his forces. It was time to strike back and weaken the grip of the hidden organization that had operated in the shadows for far too long.
The Uchihas moved with precision, taking advantage of the village's focus on the finals. As the young genin clashed in the arena, a different kind of battle was underway—a fight to dismantle the darkness that had threatened Konoha from within for years. The stage was set for a day of revelations and confrontations.