Third examination ground.
It was larger than either of the first two grounds.
So...
Natsu Hyuga, Rin Nohara, and the others were called in directly and simply gathered around to watch the examination together.
Being able to witness the Graduation Exam up close
was a valuable experience for everyone.
After the buildup from the first two rounds,
everyone naturally assumed that the focus of the third round would still be on the three of them, including Jueming.
"Next comes the free-form portion."
Funano Daikoku looked at the examinees.
In truth, those who had passed the Transformation Technique test in the Second Round were already considered qualified.
That was how it had been in previous years.
This third round was an added extra.
It was meant to determine the rankings.
"The third round is an unrestricted battle..."
Funano Daikoku said.
"Taijutsu, Illusion Techniques, Ninjutsu, ninja tools... use whatever you like until one side falls, surrenders, or even 'dies'!"
As he spoke,
he looked at Jueming.
To the others, this third-round examination was merely a free-form test.
But Senju Jueming had once promised him that he would take first place in this examination.
So... for Jueming, victory or defeat would be decided here.
If he took first place, his skipped classes would be written off, and he would graduate as a genin.
If he failed to take first... he could only drop out.
"Practical combat?"
Kakashi's eyes widened.
Hearing that the Graduation Exam would involve fighting to the death,
the crowd immediately began discussing it.
"Ninja is a dangerous profession."
Funano Daikoku nodded.
"If you lack the resolve to kill and be killed, you cannot become a true ninja..."
Funano Daikoku's words put everyone's concerns to rest.
Jueming looked at Kakashi and Tekka Uchiha. "I will take first place in this examination."