On the high platform, Orochimaru, disguised as the Fourth Kazekage, watched the battle with interest.
Hinata's performance had clearly exceeded expectations.
---
Turning Point
Facing Neji, Hinata steadied her breathing.
Her Byakugan locked onto his chakra points.
She raised both hands—
Chakra gathered around her palms.
"Gentle Fist…"
Her stance shifted.
---
Final Clash
Neji's expression hardened.
"Rotation!"
He released chakra from every tenketsu, forming the defensive sphere of the Eight Trigrams Rotation.
Hinata stepped forward without hesitation.
Her attack collided with Neji's defense.
A powerful shockwave spread across the arena.
---
Result
When the dust settled—
Neji collapsed to the ground.
The arena fell silent.
"I… lost…?" Neji murmured before losing consciousness.
---
Victory
Hinata stood, breathing heavily but still conscious.
The proctor raised his hand.
"The winner—Hinata Hyuga."
The crowd erupted in surprise.
---
Aftermath
Hinata returned to the stands.
Hanabi rushed forward and hugged her tightly, tears in her eyes.
Hinata gently comforted her.
Chen Xing smiled faintly.
"You've grown stronger, Hinata."
She lowered her head slightly, a soft smile appearing on her face.
---
Next Match
The proctor's voice echoed again.
"Next match—Sasuke Uchiha versus Gaara."
However—
Sasuke had yet to arrive.
Even Kakashi Hatake frowned slightly.
The arena grew restless as time passed.
The match was about to begin.