Chapter 142 - 37: Why Are You Pointing at Me?
The first match concluded with thunderous applause. The masterful swordsmanship and dazzling techniques displayed by Sakumo Hatake and Seieki had thoroughly captivated the audience. Common civilians had rarely witnessed such an electrifying display of life-and-death combat, where steel clashed with lightning. They responded with enthusiastic applause, their anticipation building for the upcoming matches.
Jinghang offered a brief tactical analysis while Hiruzen Sarutobi and A gradually settled into their roles as commentators.
"In my assessment," Hiruzen remarked diplomatically, "these two shinobi are remarkably well-matched. Their prowess in both swordsmanship and ninjutsu is exceptional. In actual combat, the outcome would be far from certain."
"With all due respect," the Third Raikage A responded frankly, "I must disagree. Victory is absolute—in real combat, even half a move's difference determines life or death. Lord Hokage, there's no need for modesty. Your subordinate clearly demonstrated superior experience."
A appeared unconcerned about Seieki's defeat, which was understandable. Being seven or eight years younger than the legendary White Fang of the Leaf, even such a narrow loss suggested Seieki's immense potential.
Noting the intermission's end, Jinghang leaned toward the microphone. "Now for our second match—Kōichi Tsukigami of Kumogakure versus Shōchō Aburame of Konohagakure! Contestants, enter the arena!"
As the fighters appeared, Jinghang's eyes widened in recognition.
Damn! This Kōichi is the future Fourth Raikage!
He matched his manga appearance perfectly—golden hair, built like a young bull. At barely twenty, he lacked his future beard and stress lines, but his mere presence exuded natural authority. Every casual stance proclaimed his status as Kumogakure's crown prince.
In contrast, Shōchō Aburame cut a less impressive figure. Like all Aburame clan members, he wore their signature long white hooded jacket and dark sunglasses, his posture slightly hunched. Yet beneath that unremarkable exterior lurked one of the ninja world's most formidable weapons—swarms of chakra-feeding insects. The Aburame clan had perfected their insect-based techniques to handle any battlefield situation. As the saying went: "Throughout Naruto, Shino never tasted defeat!"
"Begin!" Jinghang activated the signal.