The Hokage said a great deal. Although the contestants below did not really understand, they all thought it sounded very impressive. In any case, they just had to fight with their lives on the line!
Actually, even if the Hokage had not said all that, they would still have chosen to risk their lives. After all, that was the worldview they had been steeped in since childhood!
In any case, they could hardly wait to take the exam and be promoted to Chunin!
The impatient Kiba Inuzuka was still the first to speak. "Lord Hokage! Then hurry up and announce the rules for the third exam!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi took no offense. On the contrary, now that he was an old man, he was especially fond of these spirited boys and girls. He said, "Ah, well, although I would also like to announce the contents of the third exam right now, however..."
Before Hiruzen Sarutobi could finish, he was interrupted. A figure abruptly appeared, crouching on the ground between him and the contestants.
The newcomer slowly stood, then faced Hiruzen Sarutobi with an exceedingly impressive air. "Lord Hokage, forgive my impertinence, cough, cough, but from here on, allow me, Gekko Hayate, the appointed referee, to take over!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi did not look surprised either. Instead, he said, "Then I'll leave it to you!"
Having received the Hokage's approval, the man turned to face the candidates. Only then did everyone see what he looked like. He was undoubtedly a Konoha ninja, though they did not know whether he was a Chunin or a Jonin. What drew particular attention, however, was his pale complexion and the severe dark circles beneath his eyes. He had also coughed intermittently while speaking with the Hokage. Was this man really going to be all right?
Although he