The sun gradually rose, casting beams of warm light into the slightly chilly Konoha Arena.
The security personnel guarding the arena entrance received orders from above and opened the gates. The dense crowd instantly surged into Konoha Arena like looming storm clouds.
A clamor of conversation rose, and in less than ten minutes, the previously empty spectator stands were packed with spectators carrying sunflower seeds and drinks.
Figures wearing ANBU masks wove through the crowded stands. Most people voluntarily made way for them, but there were occasionally a few stubborn ones.
An eyebrow rose beneath an ANBU mask, and those stubborn fools who did not know who was in charge were casually handcuffed, picked up one in each hand, and escorted out of the venue.
High in the viewing stands, Sarutobi and Rasa sat together, with two figures standing beside them.
One was Baki, whose gaze was unreadable, and the other was Kakashi, who looked languid.
"Welcome, contestants, to the third round of the Chunin Ninja Exams. Next, Lord Hokage will address us." As the starting time arrived, a host holding a microphone made his appearance in the ring.
Of course, he was not the star of the moment. The one about to speak was Konoha's Third Hokage.
"It is a great honor that, on this bright and sunny day, everyone can witness here in Konoha an event that lets us once again feel the vigor of youth..."
A slightly exasperated sigh came from inside the Sealing Space.
"Sarutobi is still as long-winded as ever." Through the seal, Hashirama watched Sarutobi speaking animatedly in the stands outside, looking considerably younger, and rubbed his forehead.
"Well, Lord Third is mainly feeling the vitality of the younger generation. It's perfectly normal for him to say a little more..." Minato scratched his hair.