Silence fell over the arena.
No one had imagined that Naruto, long dismissed as a "dead last," could use such powerful Wind Release ninjutsu-and defeat his opponent in a single move!
"That was amazing, Naruto!" Shikamaru said with genuine admiration. "When did you learn ninjutsu that powerful?"
Naruto scratched his head, a smug grin spreading across his face. "Hehe, it's my secret weapon! Pretty cool, huh?"
But the joy of victory soon went to Naruto's head. He looked around at the awed gazes directed his way, an unprecedented sense of accomplishment swelling inside him.
"Did you see that? That's the power of Naruto Uzumaki!" he declared loudly. "I'm the man who's going to become Hokage, and that's no empty boast!"
In the spectator stands, Kakashi Hatake frowned. He could tell that Naruto's sudden victory had made him overconfident, a dangerous mindset for any ninja.
Toru Kujyo noticed it from the second floor as well, a thoughtful glint crossing his eyes. Naruto was impulsive by nature. If he let victory cloud his judgment, he could suffer badly in the matches to come.
The large screen cycled through the names one last time. When they stopped, the excitement in the hall reached its peak.
Match ten: Toru Kujyo vs. Rock Lee
Every gaze settled on the two of them. One was an enigmatic powerhouse; the other, a genius forged through tireless effort. This showdown was destined to be the most spectacular finale of the day!
Rock Lee's body was buffeted by the powerful gale in midair, his green training suit snapping in the wind, but an even fiercer fighting spirit burned in his eyes. The instant he was blown away, he forcibly twisted his body, planted both hands on the ground, and regained his footing with a perfect backflip.
"What incredible Wind