World 64, Land of Fire, Konoha Village, Training Ground 44.
Anko Mitarashi stood before the examination grounds, her hair fluttering in the wind as her sharp eyes swept across the area ahead.
The other candidates had gathered densely before her, each of them looking tense, with anticipation and fear of the unknown challenge shining in their eyes.
Seeing that nearly everyone had arrived, Anko Mitarashi took a deep breath, cleared her throat, and said solemnly, "This is the examination grounds for the second exam. Training Ground 44 within Konoha Village—the Forest of Death!"
As soon as she finished speaking, a cold wind blew past, as if it had come from the depths of hell. Everyone present felt a chill run through their bodies.
Sakura couldn't help shivering. Her voice trembled slightly as she said, "This place feels so eerie..."
Anko Mitarashi seemed to have heard her muttering. The corners of her lips rose slightly, revealing an amused smile. The inscrutable smile only added to the Forest of Death's mysterious atmosphere.
"You'll soon understand why this place is called the Forest of Death!"
Hearing this, Naruto looked toward Sakura, then smiled.
"It's just a primitive forest. There's nothing to be afraid of."
Anko Mitarashi narrowed her eyes slightly. She intended to give Naruto a warning.
The next moment, a kunai sliced through the air, grazing Naruto's face.
Naruto merely tilted his head slightly and dodged it.
Anko Mitarashi raised her brows at this, a trace of surprise flashing through her eyes.
"Interesting, brat. I'm looking forward to your performance in the exam. I hope you don't die~"
Anko Mitarashi appeared out of thin air behind Naruto, then lowered her voice and spoke into his ear.
Naruto smiled when he heard her.
"Don't worry. I'll definitely give you a surprise!"
As soon