Chapter 34: Well ,That Was Quick....

Hyuga Neji lay unconscious in the transformed battlefield, overwhelmed by Sato's powerful Water Style, the Eight Trigrams Palms Revolving Heaven. The impact of the water not only submerged Neji but also knocked him out with its relentless waves.

"The winner is Sato," declared the announcer.

Might Guy checked on Neji's condition, cleverly positioning himself near the Eight Trigrams Palms Revolving Heaven on the second floor.

The battle between the previous year's top student and Sato ended in a matter of seconds, leaving everyone in awe and etching Sato's name in their memory as this year's top student. His immense chakra reserves and extraordinary Water Style mastery distinguished him as a civilian genius comparable to the Fourth Hokage.

After the battle, Kurenai, full of surprise, approached Sato and asked when his Water Style had become so powerful. Sato, feigning shyness, explained that he had recently discovered his ability to manipulate water and turn the surrounding air into water. He had never exerted such strength with his Water Style techniques before and was pleasantly surprised by the result.

Impressed by Sato's talent in Water Style, Kurenai promised to find more Water Style ninjutsu for him to specialize in, expanding his repertoire beyond illusions.

Unable to contain her excitement, Ino rushed over to Sato, praising his impressive performance and declaring him victorious over the previous year's top student. Hinata, too, looked at Sato with admiration, her sparkling eyes reflecting his handsome and powerful display. Though her reserved nature and familial connection prevented her from openly cheering, Hinata felt a surge of excitement within her.

As Hyuga Neji was carried away on a stretcher by the medical team, the list for the fourth battle was revealed: Shino versus Zaku. Kurenai noted the surprising dominance of their eighth-class team, with three members appearing in the first four matches.

Sato leaned close to Shino and asked for his assistance in defeating Zaku, seeking retribution for the trouble caused by the trio from Otogakure during the journey to the central tower. Shino understood Sato's request and calmly made his way to the arena.

True to expectations, Shino employed his signature insect techniques to neutralize Zaku's special device and incapacitate him. Additionally, he implanted parasite worms into Zaku's body, slowly draining his chakra and weakening him over time.

This strategy, unique to Shino, rendered Zaku not only defeated but also subject to prolonged suffering. The parasitic worms absorbed the opponent's chakra and energy, growing within their body and tormenting them until they became weak and virtually powerless.

Sato expressed his gratitude to Shino for his actions, patting him on the shoulder with a smile, understanding their unspoken bond. Ino and Hinata, however, were left perplexed by Shino's mysterious actions.

Before Ino could inquire about the matter, the list for the fifth battle was revealed: Kankuro versus Misumi Tsurugi. As expected, Kankuro emerged victorious in a battle that lacked suspense.