In Konoha, the first round of matches was drawing to a close for most groups.
This tournament was nothing like the previous Chunin and Jonin exams. There were no rank divisions, and anyone could enter.
As a result, participants came not only from Konoha's various departments but also from the regular Ninja Corps.
Minato had defeated another opponent. Three more victories would see him advance.
He suspected Choza Akimichi and Uchiha Fū had the same plan.
The three knew one another by reputation. Two were Fugaku Uchiha's disciples, while the third was the next head of the Akimichi clan.
At a Training Ground in Konoha, Minato and Choza Akimichi faced each other.
Minato smiled warmly. "I didn't expect us to meet here. Since we're in the same group, this is the perfect chance to settle who's stronger."
Choza Akimichi looked wary. He did not underestimate Minato for being a Civilian; Konoha had produced several powerful ones.
Besides, the Akimichi clan's strength took time to develop. Its members rarely stood out when they were young.
Minato drove off the ground and vanished. Choza Akimichi tracked his movement closely, leaped up, and thrust out his right hand.
"Partial Multi-Size Technique!"
His right hand and arm swelled in the blink of an eye and came down on Minato.
The force stirred a fierce gust, but Minato remained unfazed. He pushed off the ground again, leaping through a gap in Choza Akimichi's attack.
He kept his speed and charged onward. The enormous palm struck the ground, leaving a giant handprint.
Choza Akimichi retreated quickly. Close-quarters exchanges were not his strength; he was better at fighting from middle to long range.
As Choza withdrew, Minato hurled two Kunai in succession. They collided in midair, changing direction.
It was a Kunai-throwing technique Fugaku had taught him