Naruto and Shira's first match completely ignited the atmosphere in the arena.
Even after Naruto and Shira had both left the field, the cheers in the arena continued without end. Clearly, the rare sight of a Jinchuriki transforming into a Tailed Beast and a secret technique like the Seven Heavens Breathing Method had been a feast for the spectators' eyes.
Before long, Itachi, serving as the chief referee, announced the match-up for the second bout: "Deidara of Iwagakure versus Fū of the Waterfall Ninja!"
In Iwagakure's waiting area.
After seeing Naruto's performance earlier, Kurotsuchi said uneasily, "Be careful. She's a Jinchuriki too!"
Yet Deidara acted as though nothing was wrong. With a flicker, he arrived in the arena.
Fū also leaped down from the Waterfall Ninja waiting area, but she did not land on the ground. Instead, two thin wings extended from her waist and back, allowing her to hover in midair.
Deidara raised his head to look at Fū in the air, the corners of his mouth slowly curling up. "She can fly, huh..."
As he spoke, he slipped both hands into the Ninja Tool Pouches at his waist and fiddled around for a moment before tossing something into the air.
Bang! Bang! Bang...
Amid a series of bursts of white smoke, seven or eight Clay Birds appeared in the arena.
Seeing Deidara produce so many Clay Birds at once, the captain of the Barrier Team panicked and shouted, "What are you standing around for? Activate the Four Violet Flames Formation, now!"
In an instant, the Four Violet Flames Formation rose up, separating the battlefield from the stands.
In the arena.
Deidara jumped onto the largest Clay Bird and grinned. "Today, I'll let you witness my art, yeah!"
Fū laughed brightly. "I'm not that easy to deal with!"
In