Naruto: Zanka No Tachi

Following the conclusion of the second round's survival test, the initial ninety participating teams were reduced to fewer than thirty, with over two-thirds of the teams eliminated from the competition.

Given that the third round's individual matches would be witnessed by a large audience, including dignitaries from the Land of Fire and the Land of Wind, as well as high-ranking officials such as the Hokage and Kazekage, the third round was scheduled to commence three days later.

Furthermore, to manage the influx of spectators and alleviate potential seating constraints, entry to the third round's individual matches would require ticket purchases for all attendees except for those who were already participating in the joint Chunin Exams.

This dual approach would not only effectively manage the seating capacity but also generate a significant revenue stream for Konoha.

On the same day that the second round concluded, the list of genin who had successfully advanced to the next stage was promptly released.

Diligent information brokers immediately updated the genin strength rankings, and various gambling establishments, taking into account the latest rankings and combat reports circulating from the examination grounds, promptly announced the odds for the third round's individual matches.

The allure of the competition extended beyond the realm of professional gamblers; many ninjas, finding the prospect of wagering on their favored contestants intriguing, placed their bets on the individuals they deemed most likely to succeed.At that moment, the strength rankings were being meticulously studied by the Kumogakure ninjas.

Within the Kumogakure delegation's lodging, Samui was diligently reviewing the updated rankings with her team of participating genin, strategizing for the upcoming third round. Samui's expression was one of grave concern, as the rankings clearly indicated a significant number of formidable contenders posing a substantial threat to their aspirations of securing a top-three finish.

The current individual strength rankings placed Yakumo Kurama at the top, followed by Gaara, Sasuke Uchiha, Ōmoï, Suigetsu, Kurotsuchi, Naruto Uzumaki, Yota, Natsuhi, Fū, and Neji Hyūga.

While Ōmoï's fourth-place ranking was noteworthy, it was crucial to acknowledge that this ranking did not entirely reflect the true distribution of strength among the participants. The ranking was merely a preliminary assessment based on a combination of village reputation, clan lineage, and observed performance during the previous stages of the competition.

For instance, the individuals who compiled the rankings were unaware that Gaara, Fū, and Naruto were all jinchūriki. Had this information been known, the rankings might have placed these three individuals directly in the top three positions.

"Ōmoï," Samui inquired, her gaze fixed upon Ōmoï, "do you believe you have a reasonable chance of securing a top-three finish?"

Ōmoï shook his head, his expression reflecting a realistic assessment of the situation. "I have no guarantees of success," he admitted, his voice measured and devoid of any false bravado. "These are all elite genin, the cream of the crop.

Until we engage in actual combat, it's impossible to definitively predict the outcome. All I can do is give it my absolute best."

After a brief pause, Ōmoï continued, his voice laced with a hint of cautious optimism. "However, as long as I avoid facing Yakumo Kurama from Konoha, I believe I have a fighting chance against the other contestants."

Samui nodded in agreement, proceeding to systematically explain all the collected intelligence she had gathered to her team. She consciously refrained from reiterating the importance of the individual matches, mindful of the potential for placing undue pressure on her team members.

Similar briefings were taking place within the various villages' delegations, although none exhibited the same level of intensity and focus as Kumogakure. Meanwhile, some particularly diligent and dedicated ninjas were utilizing these three days to engage in rigorous training, striving for that final push to enhance their skills and readiness for the upcoming individual matches. Rock Lee, for instance, was currently engaged in an intense speed-training exercise with Might Guy, running laps around Konoha village.

The three-day period passed swiftly, and on the eve of the final individual matches of the Chunin Exams, Konoha hosted a spectacular fireworks display. This special event was meticulously planned to welcome the teams from various ninja villages participating in the joint Chunin Exams, fostering camaraderie and allowing for greater interaction among the participants.

The fireworks display also served as a means of relaxation for all the contestants participating in the third round, providing them with an opportunity to unwind before the pressure of the final stage of the competition.

The streets of Konoha buzzed with excitement, illuminated by a vibrant display of lights. Many of the villagers and participants alike donned festive attire, exchanging pleasantries and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Not only the Konoha ninjas but also a large number of ninjas from other villages had temporarily shed their ninja uniforms in favor of more comfortable and festive clothing, mingling freely in groups and strolling through the streets to witness the dazzling display of fireworks.

"Konoha has quite a few beautiful women," Ōmoï murmured to himself, his eyes lingering on Ino and Sakura as they walked past. He was enjoying a lollipop. "Unlike our team, where it's mostly guys except for Samui."

Suddenly, a loud thud echoed through the air, followed by Karui's cold snort as she walked away, leaving Ōmoï with a sizable bump on his head.

On another street, Sasuke and Naruto were engaged in their usual playful sparring, with Yota silently following behind them, fulfilling his role as the ever-present third wheel.

On the same street, Neji and Tenten were enjoying some street food, complaining about Guy giving Lee extra training instead of letting him enjoy the fireworks.

However, if Guy had actually tried to take them for training during the fireworks, they would have certainly declined.

Kurotsuchi from Iwagakure had become quite close to Yakumo Kurama, initially drawn to her strength but developing a genuine friendship.

The thought of Kurotsuchi leaving Konoha after the Chunin Exams filled Yakumo with a sense of bittersweet longing.

Fū from Takigakure was exploring Konoha, her three accompanying jōnin wearily trailing behind her, silently vowing never to accept another mission that involved escorting Fū on a sightseeing excursion.

Following their successfull advancement to the second round, Fū's two jōnin companions had actually decided to forgo participation in the third round's individual matches. Their primary purpose was to accompany their young mistress on this expedition, not to actually participate in the competition and potentially lower their rank to chūnin.

Yusuke, in a rare display of casual attire, donned a relaxed and comfortable yukata, his hands casually tucked into his sleeves as he strolled through the bustling streets of Konoha. As he was meandering through the vibrant atmosphere, Yusuke encountered Hiashi Hyūga, the head of the Hyūga clan, accompanied by Hinata and Hanabi.

"Clan Head Uchiha," Hiashi Hyūga began, his voice measured and respectful, "I must say, I am quite impressed by the remarkable resurgence of the Uchiha clan under your capable leadership. Not only has your reputation grown significantly, but your younger generation, including Itachi and Izumi, have already proven themselves to be highly capable and independent ninjas."

Given that Hiashi Hyūga was considerably older than Yusuke, and that the Hyūga clan had always harbored a sense of rivalry with the Uchiha clan, he refrained from using the more formal title of "Chief Advisor to the Hokage" and instead addressed Yusuke by the more traditional title of "Clan Head Uchiha."

Yusuke, eager to reciprocate the compliment, responded, "Clan Head Hyūga, the Hyūga clan is also thriving under your guidance. For example, your clan has produced such exceptional individuals as…"

Yusuke paused, momentarily taken aback. He had intended to offer a complimentary remark by citing specific examples of talented individuals within the Hyūga clan, but he found himself struggling to recall any prominent figures who had particularly impressed him.

"Ah, yes, Neji Hyūga is quite exceptional," Yusuke finally stated, settling on the younger generation. "I have high hopes for his performance in this Chunin Exam."

Hiashi Hyūga, upon hearing Yusuke's mention of Neji, shook his head in a gesture of disappointment. "While Neji is indeed a talented ninja, it is important to remember that he is merely a member of the branch family," he explained, his voice laced with a hint of melancholy. "Unfortunately, the main branch of the Hyūga clan has yet to produce an individual who is truly capable of shouldering the weight of leadership."

Hinata, standing silently behind her father, lowered her head in response to her father's words. Despite her unwavering dedication and diligent efforts, Hinata's natural talent was unremarkable, and her strength remained consistently at a middling level. While not weak by any means, her abilities were hardly commensurate with the expectations placed upon her as the heir apparent to the Hyūga clan's leadership. Even with Hiashi Hyūga's dedicated guidance and mentorship over the past several years, Hinata's progress had fallen short of his expectations.

"With all due respect, Clan Head Hyūga," Yusuke interjected, his voice measured and direct, "if you fail to acknowledge and address the significance of the branch family's contributions and their rightful share of resources and opportunities, the Hyūga clan, relying solely on the main branch, will find it exceedingly difficult to overcome its current limitations."

Had the Hyūga clan still been actively vying for supremacy with the Uchiha clan, Yusuke would have refrained from uttering such frank and potentially provocative statements. However, with the Uchiha clan's resurgence under his leadership, Yusuke no longer viewed the Hyūga clan as a significant rival. In his broader strategic vision, the Hyūga clan was merely a subordinate entity under his overall command, and he no longer felt constrained by the need to maintain diplomatic niceties.

"The strength of a clan is derived from the collective contributions of all its members," Yusuke continued, his voice carrying a tone of conviction. "My efforts to cultivate and nurture the talents of Itachi, Izumi, and Kabuto are driven by the need to ensure that the Uchiha clan has a sufficient pool of capable individuals to support its operations and sustain its growth. Beyond these individuals, we continue to actively seek out and cultivate new talent within the clan, striving to enhance the clan's overall strength and capabilities."

"The Hyūga clan, however, due to its rigid structure of main and branch families, has historically concentrated the majority of its resources on the main branch. Talented individuals within the branch family often struggle to gain recognition and advancement, and in some cases, they may even face persecution from those within the main branch who are jealous of their abilities."

Many prominent clans had a division between main and branch families, but the Hyūga clan's division was particularly extreme, often creating conflict and resentment between the two branches. If it weren't for the "Bird Cage" jutsu, which granted the main branch absolute control over the branch family, such a clan structure would have long since crumbled.

Yusuke's words resonated not only with Hiashi Hyūga, who was deeply engrossed in contemplation, but also with Hinata, who found herself lost in thought. Hanabi, being too young to fully grasp the complexities of the situation, remained largely oblivious to the gravity of the conversation.

"If I ever become the head of the Hyūga clan," Hinata resolved silently within her heart, "I will change all of this." She could sense Neji's growing resentment towards her, a consequence of the Hyūga clan's discriminatory system.

After a moment of thoughtful silence, Hiashi Hyūga spoke, his voice laced with a newfound respect. "Uchiha Yusuke," he acknowledged, "you possess a vision and ambition that surpasses all others. However, the title of Konoha's foremost clan is one that the Hyūga clan will not relinquish."

Upon hearing Hiashi Hyūga's declaration, Yusuke erupted into a hearty laugh. "The title of Konoha's foremost clan is yours to keep, Clan Head Hyūga," he conceded, his voice laced with a playfull challenge. "However, that is contingent upon the Hyūga clan not succumbing to decline and being surpassed by other clans."

Hiashi Hyūga's brow furrowed in response to Yusuke's subtle yet pointed remark. "What do you mean by that?" he inquired, his voice laced with a hint of suspicion. "Do you believe that the Hyūga clan is unworthy of competing with the Uchiha clan for such a prestigious title?"

Yusuke shook his head slowly, his gaze unwavering. "My statement is not intended as a slight against the Hyūga clan," he clarified, his voice measured and calm. "Rather, it stems from the simple fact that the Uchiha clan is destined to become the foremost clan in the entire ninja world."

The impact of Yusuke's words was profound, leaving Hiashi Hyūga momentarily speechless and stunned. His sudden halt caused Hinata and Hanabi to stumble into him, their momentum carrying them forward.

"The foremost clan in the entire ninja world?" Hiashi Hyūga repeated, the words echoing in his mind. This was a title the Hyūga clan had long aspired to but lacked the audacity to openly claim.

Yusuke, unfazed by Hiashi's stunned silence, continued his leisurely stroll through the bustling streets, leaving the Hyūga clan head to grapple with the implications of his statement. The conversation had reached its natural conclusion, and Yusuke's primary focus now shifted towards enjoying the evening's magnificent fireworks display.

For some inexplicable reason, Yusuke felt a growing sense of unease, a premonition that something unexpected and potentially disruptive might occur during the following day's individual matches of the Chunin Exams. Despite the vibrant spectacle of fireworks illuminating the night sky, Yusuke could not entirely shake off this unsettling feeling.

"Konoha, as it stands today," Yusuke declared confidently, pushing aside his apprehension, "is capable of withstanding any unforeseen challenges."