The Good and The Bad

Chapter 18

I don't own Naruto. Masashi Kishimoto-sama owns him

(Queue in – Departure to the Front lines – Lars Sorensen, if you wish)

The Chunin Exam Finals stadium was a colossal structure, a testament to the grandeur and prestige of the event. Situated within the heart of Konohagakure, it was a circular arena surrounded by towering stone walls adorned with intricate carvings depicting legendary shinobi battles from the village's history. The arena floor was a massive circular platform, ringed with seating tiers that rose gradually upward, accommodating thousands of spectators.

At the center of the arena, Hayate Gekko stood announcing the beginning of the chunin exams.

"GREETINGS! Citizens, fellow shinobis and well renowned Leaders! I, Hayate Gekko, Welcome you all to The Chunin Exam Finals!"

Surrounding him were the competitors, nervously awaiting their turn to prove their mettle. The shinobi teams were positioned on one side of the arena, their sensei watching intently from behind them. The civilians and dignitaries occupied the opposite side, their seats providing an excellent view of the proceedings.

the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, welcomed the other Kages to the event with a respectful and warm greeting.

"Welcome esteemed Kage," Minato began, his tone carrying the weight of his position and the honor of hosting the event in Konohagakure. "It's an honor to have you here to witness the Chunin Exam Finals. Your presence adds prestige to this momentous occasion, and I hope that together, we can witness the incredible talents of our young shinobi."

As for the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, he sat in a specially reserved section in the midst of the other Kage, just above the regular VIP seating. To his right was the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, his expression a mix of wisdom and pride. To Minato's left, there was the Fourth Kazekage. On the other side of the arena, the Fifth Mizukage, Mei Terumi, held her seat, her vibrant presence adding a touch of elegance to the gathering of the Kage. Together, these leaders observed the Chunin Exam Finals, united in their shared interest in the next generation of shinobi.

As the Chunin Exam Finals unfolded in the grand arena, the Kages engaged in a hushed yet intense discussion about the potential outcomes of the upcoming matches.

Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, leaned forward, his eyes fixed on the arena below. "Neji Hyuga versus Sasuke Uchiha," he mused, considering the clash of two prodigious talents. "Sasuke's Sharingan gives him a significant advantage, but Neji's Byakugan and precise Gentle Fist techniques make this an intriguing match."

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Sasuke's Sharingan has grown formidable, but Neji's keen observation skills and experience could level the playing field."

he Fourth Kazekage, leaned in closer, his eyes glinting with a hidden agenda, and emphasized Sasuke Uchiha's Sharingan

"Let's not forget," he said with a subtle grin, "Sasuke Uchiha's Sharingan. It's a formidable bloodline limit, one that grants him unparalleled visual prowess. He can see through genjutsu, copy techniques instantly, and even predict an opponent's movements. It's a power that could change the course of this tournament."

As he spoke, Minato Namikaze, the Fourth Hokage, couldn't help but notice the unusual emphasis on Sasuke, given that the Fourth Kazekage should have been more focused on Gaara, who was representing the Sand Village.

Minato furrowed his brow, a subtle suspicion creeping into his thoughts. "You make a valid point about Sasuke's Sharingan," he replied, his tone measured. "However, it's curious that you seem more interested in Sasuke's abilities when your own village has a formidable contender in Gaara, the Jinchuriki of the One-Tailed Shukaku. Gaara's power is not to be underestimated, and he's a source of great pride for the Sand Village."