The arena was abuzz with excitement, its circular structure towering above the countless spectators who filled every seat. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation. The esteemed guests were adorned with rich tapestries and banners bearing the symbols of the Hidden Leaf and Sand Villages. The Third Hokage and Kazekage's seats were at elevated positions.
The Kazekage sat with his face concealed by his mask and robes. Guards, skilled shinobi from the Sand Village, stood vigilant around him.
Each Kage observed the matches and communicated with their respective entourages without interruption, while still maintaining a clear view of the entire arena.
"Lord Hokage," the Kazekage began, his voice steady but cautious. "I understand the need for increased security, but I sense there is more to this than what you have shared."
Hiruzen met his gaze, his eyes hardening. "Sasuke Uchiha has gained the support of a terrorist organization that seems to be quite formidable according to intelligence. They are also after the Tailed Beasts. I believe that by working together, we could avoid some of the potential losses."
The Kazekage nodded, his mind racing with concerns. After seeing the Hidden Leaf's preparations, he wanted to withdraw, but bound by the contract, he had no choice but to go with the flow.
For the audience, looking at the candidates for the match, there was disappointment on their faces. This continued as, in the first match, Shikamaru, after just trying one move, gave up the match against Gaara.
The Kazekage, looking at his son, had a relieved expression as Gaara's situation seemed to be better after fixing his seal. His face was still fed with agitation, but he didn't go around trying to kill Shikamaru after he gave up the match, which was quite an improvement for Gaara.
The arena buzzed with angry shouts as the next match was announced: Naruto Uzumaki vs. Neji Hyuga.
Naruto stepped into the arena with determination etched on his face. As he looked back, finding no familiar face, his mood dampened. Across from him, Neji stood calmly. The two shinobi faced each other, the tension palpable.
"Begin!" the referee shouted.
Naruto immediately dashed forward, determined to close the gap between them.
"Shadow Clone Jutsu!" he shouted.
In a puff of smoke, multiple Narutos surrounded Neji, each one mirroring the original's fierce expression. They charged at Neji simultaneously, hoping to overwhelm him with sheer numbers.
Neji activated his Byakugan, his pale eyes scanning the clones with ease. He moved gracefully, his hands a blur as he countered each attack with precise strikes.
One by one, the clones disappeared, leaving Naruto momentarily stunned. But he quickly regained his composure, knowing he couldn't afford to waste any more time.
Naruto created more clones, but this time, instead of attacking head-on, they spread out, creating a distraction. The real Naruto circled around, watching for an opening.
Neji maintained his defensive stance. He was confident in his ability to repel any attack.
"Your fate was decided the moment you were born. You are destined to fail," Neji said.
Naruto's eyes narrowed. With a burst of speed, he launched himself at Neji from behind, aiming a punch at his opponent's back.
Neji spun around, his hand moving to intercept. But just as he was about to strike, Naruto smirked.
"Substitution Jutsu!" Naruto shouted.
The real Naruto appeared above Neji, descending rapidly with a powerful kick. Neji raised his arms and caught the leg, then slammed Naruto on the ground. The impact almost made Naruto lose consciousness, but he quickly regained his footing.
Naruto jumped and quickly stood up. A dome of swirling red chakra erupted around Naruto. Surprisingly, even with two tails of chakra manifesting behind him, he was in complete control.
The three generations at the top of the audience stood up, surprised at seeing Naruto able to use the Nine-Tails' chakra. The Third Hokage subconsciously waved his hand, alerting the Anbu to prepare for any mishap.
Using Eight Trigrams Palm Rotation Neji barely block naruto's punch power up by Nine-Tails
force.Neji's eyes widened in horror as multiple chakra tails from Naruto back, whipped towards Neji with incredible speed and force.He attempted to dodge, but the chakra tails were too fast and numerous. One by one, they struck him, trying to knock him out as a tail finally struck Neji squarely in the chest, sending him crashing to the ground. He lay there, dazed and barely conscious,Naruto stood over him, the red chakra slowly receding. He looked down at Neji, his face filled with happiness.
Third Hokage watching Naruto win had a happy smile feeling atleast he didn't disappoint naruto's father unfortunately for him this was the last time he would smile as soon as a deafening explosion rocked the village. The ground trembled, and a plume of smoke rose from the direction of the village gates. Panic ensued as villagers screamed and scattered, the festive atmosphere turning into chaos in an instant.
Hiruzen's face darkened, as he look explosive tag falling from the above
Hiruzen clenched his fist, his mind racing. "Seal the village! No one enters or leaves without my command. Prepare the emergency protocols and mobilize all available shinobi!"
As the orders were issued, Sasuke appear attracting everyone as stand middle of the arena Hiruzen, seeing Sasuke Third Hokage finally stand up feeling uneasy.
Sasuke's eyes, now blazing with the Sharingan, were fixed on the Hokage's office. He knew this was moment as he give the signal from above the sky Konan descended and stand beside him.
One by one Anbu arrived front of them drawing their swords but soon the find their self covered with explosive tag by Konan Sasuke's with flick of his hand send them into air so they can peacefully explode.