Chapter 53 : Chunin Exam Continues...
The third round of the Chunin Exam was about to begin.
"In the first match, Haruto Itsuki vs. Sochikyo."
Hearing the opponent's overbearing name, Haruto blinked in confusion. A moment later, he remembered—Sochikyo was one of the nobodies from Kusa's team. Just lucky to make it this far.
The fight ended in moments. Haruto didn't even draw Murasame.
Sasuke followed, dispatching his own opponent with ease.
Soon after, Kakashi summoned both Haruto and Sasuke to a sealed room to examine the curse marks. After a quick check, Kakashi reinforced the seal on Sasuke's neck.
"Sasuke, the seal's weakening again. I told you not to rely on this kind of power. There's no such thing as strength without cost."
Sasuke looked down, silent. His thoughts returned to that helpless moment against Haku. He still remembered the bitterness. He said nothing—but his silence said plenty.
Kakashi turned to Haruto.
"And you. The chakra erosion in your body is worse than last time. This curse mark is invading your very cells. It's not just dangerous—it's irreversible if it goes on. I told you not to activate it unless absolutely necessary."
Haruto shrugged.