Kakashi's gaze lingered thoughtfully on Satoru, who stood not far away.
If that's the case, then Sasuke must have had contact with him.
That would explain why the attack style matches.
Did Satoru orchestrate this? Could he be the one Orochimaru is targeting?
Kakashi couldn't shake the nagging suspicion that Satoru was somehow unrelated. It was just a hunch, but a strong one.
"Is that so?" Kakashi muttered slowly, as though testing his own thoughts.
Nearby, Hichi the ape caught the conversation but chose to remain silent, releasing a long sigh instead.
Who else could momentarily halt Orochimaru's schemes? Only someone exceptionally skilled could manage that.
A Rare Genius
The mysterious figure's approach to Sasuke seemed intentional. Was it for the same reason as Orochimaru—his Sharingan?
Satoru scratched his chin thoughtfully, his pale blue eyes narrowing slightly as he watched Sasuke emerge from the examination room.
"Not bad," he commented casually.
Sasuke, still catching his breath from his recent battle, didn't respond. His hair, ruffled from the fight, gave him a disheveled appearance. Despite his usual composure, Sasuke felt an odd mix of relief and irritation at Satoru's offhand remark.
"You look ridiculous, Sasuke!" Naruto teased mercilessly, his wide grin lighting up his face, blue eyes sparkling mischievously.
"Idiot," Sasuke retorted coldly but couldn't help the faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
The Next Match
"The next match should be announced soon," Satoru said, glancing at the flickering electronic screen.
"Who's next?" Naruto leaned closer, watching intently.
The names finally appeared, and Naruto shouted, "Shino versus Shiro!"
"Shiro? Isn't he that bandaged guy's teammate?" he asked.
"Looks like it's his turn," Satoru remarked with mild interest, adjusting his bandage as he spoke. "If we all finish early, we can leave sooner and hit the store sales. That's efficient."
Naruto's face twisted in disbelief. "That's all you care about?!"
Shiro remained silent as he walked toward the examination arena.
The Battle Begins
In the arena, Shiro faced Shino Aburame, both standing cautiously apart, their eyes locked.
The battle began swiftly, with Shiro executing a one-handed seal. "Water Release: Thousand Needles of Death!" he called out.
Water coalesced into countless needles, firing at Shino in a rapid, all-encompassing attack.
Shino's eyes widened. So fast! Is this truly the speed of a genin?
Reacting quickly, Shino summoned his insects. "Secret Technique: Insect Wall!" The swirling mass of insects formed a barrier, intercepting the high-speed needles.
Observation Room
High above, the Hokage and the examiners watched intently.
"Ice Release?" the Hokage murmured, stroking his beard. "It's been a long time since I've seen that."
"It's no wonder Orochimaru has taken an interest," he added gravely.
Beside him, Mitarashi Anko rested her chin on her hand. "Who knew a new village could produce someone like him?" she mused.
Kakashi, his expression hidden behind his mask, interjected, "Don't forget Sweet Ninja Village's nature—it's a haven for wandering ninja. Anyone could show up."
"Then what about his teammates?" asked Mori Hibiki. "If he's this good, what about the others? The team captain must be even stronger."
Kakashi's mind flickered to Satoru. So far, he hasn't made a move. How strong is he really?
The Outcome
In the arena, Shiro delivered the final blow with a calm, "Ice Release."
Shino was defeated. The match ended, and Shiro emerged victorious. The audience erupted into chatter.
"That was incredible!"
"Is this really the level of genin?"
"What kind of kekkei genkai is that? It's so unique!"
Shikamaru frowned in thought. "Losing isn't surprising," he muttered. "But what's remarkable is how quickly Shiro finished the fight."
Meanwhile, Hinata whispered nervously to Inuzuka Kiba, "I didn't expect Shino to lose so decisively."
"It's unexpected," Kiba admitted, his face serious. "That Ice Ninja is no joke."
"He's with Naruto's friend," Hinata noted, pointing toward Satoru.
"The white-haired guy?" Kiba asked.
"His name is... Satoru," Neji interjected coldly as he passed. "Only the weak worry about their opponents. Focus on your training instead."
His words left Hinata uneasy, but Kiba glared after Neji. "Arrogant jerk!"
More Eyes Watching
Elsewhere in the crowd, Orochimaru watched with a sinister grin.
"Ice Release... what a treat," he hissed softly. "This Chunin Exam is full of delightful surprises."
The Next Match
Back in the waiting area, Naruto approached Satoru. "Mr. Bandage, I didn't know Shiro was so strong!"
Satoru grinned. "Of course—he's my student." His tone was smug as his white hair fluttered.
Naruto blinked in disbelief. "Your student? Really?"
Satoru nodded confidently. "I gave him some training, didn't I?"
Naruto and Sasuke exchanged looks, remembering the chaotic "training" Satoru once led.
The electronic screen flickered again, revealing the next match: Ghost Lantern Hozuki versus Akimichi Choji.
Satoru glanced at the screen. "Ah, Hozuki's turn," he said nonchalantly.
In the arena, Hozuki quickly overpowered Choji with her clan's secret technique, which turned her body into liquid, making her immune to physical attacks.
As Hozuki claimed victory, the crowd buzzed with excitement.
"Isn't she from Sweet Ninja Village too?"
"First Ice Release, now this... what a team!"
"Do you think their captain is even stronger?"
From his spot, Satoru smirked faintly, unfazed by the speculation. What a hassle, he thought. When's my turn? I want to nap already.
Meanwhile, the tension in the Chunin Exams continued to rise, with both contestants and observers waiting to see what would unfold next.
>>>>>
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