96-100

*Chapter 96: You Don't Actually Think You Can Beat Me, Do You?! *

Neji charged towards Sasuke with blinding speed. Every move he made was closely watched by Team Guy.

It's over!  This was the thought echoing in everyone's mind.

And why not? Neji had unleashed the Hyuga's ultimate technique: Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms. This devastating attack could seal an opponent's chakra points, restricting their movements while preserving their life. A perfect technique for capturing enemies alive for interrogation.

It was precisely because of this technique that the Hyuga's Gentle Fist style was known as the strongest taijutsu in the Leaf Village.

But Sasuke wasn't just going to sit there and take it.

Just as Neji's palms were about to strike him, Sasuke's dark eyes flashed crimson red, two tomoe swirling within.

The Sharingan! Sasuke hadn't used it in a while, but now he unleashed its power.

Bam! Bam!

Even with the Sharingan activated, Neji's swift palms connected with Sasuke's body.

"Two Palms!"

Neji's strikes landed on Sasuke's neck and lower abdomen, sealing crucial chakra pathways.

"Four Palms!"

Neji's movements showed no hesitation, growing faster and faster as his fingers struck point after point on Sasuke's body.

"Eight Palms!"

Neji's attacks were a blur, like a raging storm, precisely hitting one pressure point after another.

"Sixteen Palms!"

Neji's speed doubled, his hands leaving afterimages as his powerful blows lifted Sasuke off the ground.

"Thirty-Two Palms!"

Neji's assault intensified, his Byakugan giving him a clear view of every chakra point on Sasuke's body.

"Sixty-Four Palms!"

Neji sealed the remaining pressure points, finishing with a flourish, standing tall and proud.

"Sasuke, you lose. Even if you are the Uchiha genius, I stand at a height you can't reach!" Neji declared coldly.

He felt a surge of satisfaction, the pent-up frustration of recent days finally released.

Team Guy watched, convinced that the battle was over. Neji had won!

Sasuke's body, battered by the relentless attack, was sent flying backward. But just as he was about to crash to the ground, he executed an unexpected backflip, landing gracefully on his feet.

Thud.

With a soft sound, Sasuke stood there, seemingly unharmed. Even his Sharingan remained active.

"Neji, you don't actually think you can beat me, do you?"

Sasuke's face held his usual arrogance and defiance, completely devoid of any sense of defeat.

+10

As Sasuke finished his cocky remark, the number in front of his eyes jumped, registering a successful act of showing off.

"Impossible! How can you still have chakra? I sealed all sixty-four of your pressure points!" Neji shouted in disbelief.

His Byakugan, still active, clearly showed Sasuke's chakra flowing normally, not weakened, but seemingly restored to its peak.

"This is impossible!"

Neji shook his head repeatedly, unable to accept this outcome. His composure started to crumble.

"Nothing is impossible. Why do you think I let you hit me? Did you really think you were that fast?" Sasuke sneered.

Of course, he had deliberately allowed Neji to strike him. It was the only way to achieve the greatest impact.

He had indeed been temporarily paralyzed by the Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms, losing his ability to fight.

But...

Sasuke had a few tricks up his sleeve!

A little point in Vitality, a little point in Spirit!

Not only did this instantly heal his injuries and open his sealed chakra pathways, but it also boosted his chakra to its peak.

+14

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped again.

With renewed strength, Sasuke strode towards Neji. His pace was steady, neither fast nor slow, maintaining a rhythm all his own.

"Neji, you had your turn to attack. Now it's mine!"

Sasuke's voice was calm, yet filled with pride and confidence.

+16

As Sasuke spoke, the number jumped once more.

Whoa!

Team Guy was stunned, staring at Sasuke as if he were a monster.

Lee was completely dumbfounded!

Is this what a battle between geniuses looks like? he thought. No, wait.

Neji is a genius, but Sasuke… he's not just a genius!

Sasuke is a genius among geniuses! Lee felt a pang of regret. He should have had more faith in Sasuke. That time in the woods, Sasuke had already proven how strong he was.

Lee thought he had already overestimated Sasuke as much as possible, but now he realized he had still underestimated him!

...

When Sasuke was being pummeled by Neji's relentless attacks, TenTen's eyes flickered with distress.

Who wants to see a handsome guy get beaten up like that?!  Although Neji was her teammate, and handsome in his own right, in terms of sheer looks, he was still a notch below Sasuke!

When she saw Sasuke walking towards Neji completely unharmed, she breathed a sigh of relief.

As long as Sasuke's okay!

As for Neji…

He was way too ruthless just now, totally overdoing it. Time for him to get taken down a peg!

...

Guy's expression became incredibly exaggerated. He was just about to jump in and declare Neji the winner, but suddenly the situation had completely changed.

What's going on?

That kid Sasuke still has his Sharingan activated! 

He took a full Eight Trigrams attack and can still use his Sharingan?

This genin is something else!

"Whew!"

Guy let out a slow sigh, thinking to himself, It's a good thing Kakashi doesn't have that kind of chakra...

Thud!

Thud!

Thud!

...

Sasuke's footsteps clearly reached everyone's ears. He deliberately didn't control the weight of his leg weights, creating an oppressive atmosphere with the sound.

"Sasuke, don't come any closer!"

Neji's eyes became incredibly wary, ready to use Rotation at any moment.

It wasn't that he was scared.

It was just that the situation was too bizarre!

No one knew better than Neji how precise his Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms had been. There was no way there could be any mistake.

Sasuke shouldn't have any chakra left!

But...

Reality was like a silent slap in the face, stinging Neji's cheek. His understanding of the Gentle Fist was being overturned.

"Neji, now you're within range of my Eight Trigrams."

Sasuke stopped a short distance from Neji, extending his left foot forward, lightly touching his toes with his left hand, and raising his right palm upwards. He mirrored Neji's stance perfectly.

+20

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped abruptly.

"Impossible!"

Neji shook his head frantically at this sight, his composure completely shattered. He knew very well that it was impossible to use the Eight Trigrams without the Byakugan.

However...

Sasuke's next words made Neji doubt his own ears.

"Gentle Fist Art: Eight Trigrams Sixty-Four Palms!"

Sasuke uttered these words softly, then suddenly charged forward, his hands formed into fists, striking towards Neji's body.

+25

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped again. No one could believe he was using the Gentle Fist.

How could an Uchiha use the Gentle Fist?!

Did Sasuke know it?

Of course not!

Sasuke had simply used his Sharingan to clearly observe every one of Neji's movements while he was performing the Eight Trigrams, and now he was imitating them.

It was all for show.

If Neji was actually hit by Sasuke's attack...

He would find out...

That this Gentle Fist wouldn't seal his chakra points, it would just hurt!

A lot!

Sasuke had only seen Neji's physical movements, but he didn't understand the core of the Gentle Fist, the precise chakra control required. This was just a fake Eight Trigrams for show!

But...

This fake Eight Trigrams was enough to frighten Neji at this moment.

Neji spread his arms, chakra erupting from his pressure points, ready to unleash the Hyuga's absolute defense—Rotation—as Sasuke approached!

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 97: This Genius is a Bit Demonic!

——

Whoa!

Everyone in Team Guy's eyes widened, their gazes fixed on Sasuke's figure without a moment's break. A tidal wave of shock surged through each of their hearts.

Lee's breath quickened, his hands clenching into fists so tightly that his knuckles cracked.

Genius!

A true genius!

Lee had witnessed firsthand the sweat and effort Neji poured into mastering the Eight Trigrams Palms. He never imagined that such a secret technique could be learned by Sasuke just from watching it, or rather, experiencing it once.

Terrifying!

Absolutely terrifying!

Lee felt his mouth go dry, a hint of dejection in his heart. He could only watch helplessly as the two geniuses clashed in their youthful fervor.

Tenten, on the other hand, reacted in a very genuine way.

The worry that had creased her face moments ago instantly smoothed out, her eyes now holding a hint of surprise as she looked at Sasuke.

Handsome and strong!

A treasure boy!

As expected, it's better not to compare yourself to others.

Suddenly, Neji from her own team didn't seem so appealing anymore!

Guy's expression also turned serious. As Kakashi's longtime rival, he knew all too well about the Sharingan's abnormal ability to copy movements. He couldn't help but worry about Neji.

...

Sasuke almost perfectly replicated Neji's posture, his hands forming the shape of the Gentle Fist, aiming towards Neji's chakra points.

However, his strikes towards the chakra points weren't that precise.

Sasuke was merely imitating the movements. He had no intention of actually using the Eight Trigrams Palms. Of course, he didn't know how to use it either!

Under normal circumstances...

Neji would definitely see through it in an instant!

But...

Right now...

Neji's mind was in turmoil!

He had never seen anyone emerge completely unscathed after being hit by a full set of Gentle Fist techniques.

"Eight Trigrams... Two Palms!"

Sasuke mimicked Neji's tone, his voice low and deep. His palms shot out, carrying a force akin to a physical blow.

+30

The numbers before Sasuke's eyes suddenly jumped, greatly replenishing his system points.

Hiss...

Neji's pupils constricted sharply, his entire attention focused on Sasuke, his whole being on high alert.

This person is a monster!

Neji felt a flicker of panic when he saw Sasuke assume the stance of the Eight Trigrams Palms.

Now, seeing Sasuke's attack coming towards him, his expression became incredibly serious and grave.

Absolutely cannot be hit by the Eight Trigrams Palms!

In this moment...

Neji nimbly spread his legs, then raised his arms horizontally. A surge of powerful chakra erupted from the chakra points all over his body, and his entire being began to rotate.

"Eight Trigrams Palms Revolving Heaven!"

Neji roared, spinning like a top. Gone was his previous confidence and elegance, his facial expression now twisted in a fierce grimace.

Whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh...

The chakra surging from Neji's body twisted and spun, rushing towards Sasuke. He intended to use Revolving Heaven to deflect Sasuke, then unleash the Eight Trigrams Palms once more.

That's right!

That's what he'll do!

Neji didn't believe Sasuke could withstand the Eight Trigrams Palms a second time!

Swoosh!

Suddenly...

Just as Neji's Revolving Heaven was about to touch Sasuke...

Sasuke's figure vanished, as if he had disappeared into thin air. Only Neji remained on the training ground, spinning like a top.

"???"

Neji stopped his Revolving Heaven spin, question marks popping up in his mind.

"???"

Similarly, question marks filled the minds of Guy, Lee, and Tenten.

What happened?

Where is he?

He disappeared suddenly?

The four members of Team Guy were filled with confusion and bewilderment at this moment. They had no idea what had happened, completely baffled.

This had surpassed their understanding!

Swoosh!

In the blink of an eye, Sasuke appeared back at the spot where they stood before the fight began.

His black hair fluttered in the wind, his blood-red eyes gleaming with a cold light.

An indescribable air of arrogance emanated from Sasuke's proud face, as if he had never moved at all.

The members of Team Guy looked at Sasuke, a strange feeling creeping into their hearts.

Was that just now... a genjutsu?

+35

The numbers before Sasuke's eyes jumped as he scraped his foot against the ground.

A mark that read "Starting Point" vanished.

He opened his system panel.

Now that Neji was stunned, it was a perfect opportunity.

Current System Points: 251 points.

Hmm.

Still 100 points short.

Without hesitation, Sasuke spent 2 points, adding one each to his Dexterity and Vitality attributes.

Next, he needed to get at least 100 points from Neji to pass!

"Neji, you seem nervous," Sasuke's indifferent voice rang out, laced with a hint of mockery.

"Don't worry, I know you're afraid of pain, so I'll be gentle."

Sasuke threw Neji's earlier words right back at him.

+40

Instantly, the numbers before Sasuke's eyes jumped again. This sudden increase made the spectating members of Team Guy realize that the two had switched positions.

Before the fight, Neji was full of confidence, wanting to teach Sasuke a harsh lesson.

But after their brief exchange...

Neji's face was now contorted in a grimace, his brows furrowed with fear, as if he had seen a ghost.

Just then...

Sasuke took out a kunai, a standard one, with nothing special about it, looking utterly ordinary.

Next...

Sasuke pulled an explosive tag from his ninja pouch and simply wrapped it around the kunai's handle.

After securing the explosive tag...

Sasuke held the kunai in his palm and silently inscribed a Flying Thunder God Formula on the tag.

The word "Starting Point" faintly appeared on the explosive tag.

Sasuke's series of actions filled the four members of Team Guy with confusion. No one understood what he was up to.

Everyone in Team Guy now had a deep impression of Sasuke.

This genius was a bit demonic!

He doesn't fight conventionally!

Especially after the brief clash with Neji, it was clear that Neji had the upper hand, but Sasuke managed to completely shatter Neji's composure!

"Hyuga Neji," Sasuke slowly said, calling out Neji's full name.

"You are a genius!"

"But..."

"I'm sorry!"

"There's still a gap between geniuses!"

"And the gap between you and me..."

"Is an insurmountable chasm!"

After finishing his speech, Sasuke clumsily fiddled with the kunai in his fingers, throwing it towards Neji with almost no experience.

The kunai didn't fly straight; instead, it arced through the air like an airdrop.

Then...

Sasuke once again assumed the starting stance of the Eight Trigrams Palms, declaring in a stern voice, "Now you are within the range of my Eight Trigrams Palms!"

+45

As soon as Sasuke said these words, his points increased.

Neji glanced at the kunai that was thrown towards him with no strength or skill, like discarded trash, with an unsealed explosive tag attached to it.

This distraction tactic was too clumsy!

How could the Uchiha clan's shurikenjutsu produce such a throw?

This is outrageous!

This is simply an insult to me!

How dare he!

Neji's face grew colder. He paid no attention to the kunai, focusing all his attention on Sasuke. His mind was highly concentrated, fully alert to Sasuke's Eight Trigrams Palms.

Even the observing members of Team Guy thought this kunai distraction was too weak.

At least activate the explosive tag!

This is too fake!

However...

Sasuke, despite assuming the Eight Trigrams Palms stance, didn't move. He was like a statue frozen in place.

With Sasuke not moving, Neji didn't dare to make the first move.

As the two maintain stalemated, the kunai with the explosive tag fell towards the ground behind Neji. Due to its extreme inaccuracy and the unactivated explosive tag, it didn't attract Neji's attention.

"Now's the time!"

Sasuke suddenly roared, his ankle twitching as he feigned a move to charge forward with the Eight Trigrams Palms.

Swoosh!

Suddenly, Sasuke's figure vanished into thin air.

Snap!

In an instant, Sasuke's right hand grasped the kunai with the explosive tag. His dashing figure appeared directly behind Neji, and he smoothly placed the kunai against Neji's neck.

"Neji, if I wanted to kill you, you'd be a corpse by now!"

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 98: Konoha's Black Lightning!

——

+50

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped to an unprecedented height, even at Ebisu's, he had never seen such a point increase.

The sharp blade of the kunai was pressed against Neji's neck.

Neji could clearly feel the icy aura emanating from the blade.

This was the breath of death!

Neji felt like his life was no longer in his own hands. He understood that as long as Sasuke drew the kunai across his throat, he would really die here.

Fear.

Horror.

Shock.

All kinds of emotions filled Neji's heart, causing him to drop his hands and give up resistance.

"You lost."

Sasuke's indifferent voice sounded, not loud, but clearly transmitted to everyone in Team Guy's ears.

+30

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped again, but this time it was no longer an increase, but a decrease back, but still at a good growth state.

"Neji, you did lose this fight!"

Guy's voice suddenly sounded, and then his figure appeared beside Neji, putting one hand on Neji's shoulder.

He knew Neji's character very well.

Neji was a very proud person.

Losing like this might leave him unwilling.

To prevent Neji from continuing to fight, Guy forcibly interrupted the battle.

However.

Guy didn't know that he was doing something unnecessary. Neji wouldn't attack again at all; his mentality had collapsed.

The moment the kunai was held against his neck, he had thought about using Rotation to bounce Sasuke away, but he didn't have time to perform Rotation at all. He was afraid that if he moved a little, his neck would be pierced by the kunai.

Neji didn't dare to gamble!

Neji couldn't understand Sasuke's moves at all. He was really afraid that Sasuke's hand would shake and kill him.

Lee and Tenten were still standing where they were. They couldn't help but look at each other, and they could see surprise in each other's eyes.

Neither of them knew how Sasuke suddenly appeared behind Neji.

They were still in a state of confusion.

They didn't understand!

They really didn't understand!

If they were to be opponents and face Sasuke, they wouldn't know how to defend against this ghostly sudden appearance.

"Flying Thunder God."

At this moment, Guy's deep voice sounded, echoing in the small forest.

What did it mean?

Neji, Tenten, and Lee didn't understand what Guy Sensei meant at all, and everyone's faces were filled with confusion.

"Guy Sensei, good eye!"

The corners of Sasuke's mouth curled up slightly, and his bright red Sharingan returned to its original jet black appearance at this moment. He looked elegant and unrestrained.

+20

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped.

"I think I know why the Third Hokage insisted that you join our team. You are not a dead last at all, but a true genius!"

Guy stared at Sasuke and spoke his analysis.

"Iwagakure should also see the new Yellow Flash, oh no, it's the Black Flash!"

+15

After Guy finished speaking, the number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped. The former's words, which sounded profound, actually helped Sasuke show off.

"Black Flash? This nickname is not bad, but I prefer Black Lightning!"

Sasuke said very seriously.

Now he not only knew the Flying Thunder God Technique, but also the Lightning Release Chakra Mode, which completely matched the title of "Lightning".

+15

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped again.

Neji, Tenten, and Lee all stared at Sasuke with wide eyes, feeling incredible.

Sasuke had just graduated and become a Genin!

Was he going to have his own title now?

And...

They had all heard of the title Yellow Flash, which was the title of the super genius Fourth Hokage of Konoha.

Sasuke's nickname was actually similar to the Fourth Hokage's.

Oh my god!

The three people in Team Guy, whether it was Neji who considered himself a genius, or Lee who worked hard to be a genius, or Tenten who was a dart expert, all faintly realized that they might be witnessing the birth of an epoch-making powerhouse.

"Black Lightning? Why? I still think Black Flash sounds better!"

Guy tilted his head in confusion. Now Sasuke's status in his heart was completely different.

As Kakashi's old rival.

Guy knew Kakashi's teacher, Minato Namikaze's, unparalleled speed in the ninja world.

Sasuke mastered the Flying Thunder God, which was equivalent to having a key to open the door to the top powerhouses. It was not an exaggeration to call him Black Flash.

But.

To change Flash to Lightning, Guy felt that it was a bit less meaningful.

For a while.

Everyone's eyes were on Sasuke.

Everyone was looking forward to Sasuke's explanation.

And the way they looked at Sasuke changed, there was no longer any contempt.

"Because I am a Lightning Release ninja."

The corners of Sasuke's mouth curled up slightly, and he raised his right hand, and suddenly his palm flickered with lightning.

Crackling...

The sound of lightning was a bit harsh, and the dazzling light covered his palm that had turned into lightning.

Sasuke only showed it for a moment, then withdrew the lightning, and his palm returned to its original appearance.

+30

The number in front of Sasuke's eyes jumped. Now the points he had gained were enough to exchange for an experience pack. He could exchange it when he had time.

"Lightning Release!"

Guy exclaimed, and he first thought of Kakashi.

The same Sharingan, the same Lightning Release, the same genius...

Kakashi would definitely like Sasuke!

Kakashi would see his shadow in Sasuke!

After this thought popped into Guy's mind, he couldn't wait to go to the front line and recommend Sasuke to Kakashi as a disciple.

After Lee saw the lightning in Sasuke's palm, his eyes dimmed slightly. Only he couldn't use any ninjutsu at all.

Neji pursed his lips. He had realized that Sasuke had hidden his strength when he was fighting him, which hurt his self-esteem.

Tenten's eyes lit up, and her eyes were almost shining with little stars.

Sasuke was so handsome when he used Lightning Release!

"I think Black Lightning sounds good!"

Tenten couldn't help but speak, her voice filled with excitement and anticipation. She also couldn't wait to start this mission journey.

"Hehe."

Sasuke suddenly smiled ghostlily, his eyes flashing with confidence, and his face filled with undisguised pride.

"Then from today onwards, I am Konoha's Black Lightning!"

Sasuke confirmed this title for himself.

He was very satisfied with this title.

To show off!

He needed a resounding title, and then let this title resound throughout the ninja world!

+30

After Sasuke finished this sentence, the number in front of his eyes jumped again, and he harvested another wave of points.

"After the previous sparring, we can be considered to know each other. Now it's time to set off on the mission."

(End of chapter)

*Chapter 99: That Old Geezer is Jerk! *

Sasuke spoke with an indifferent expression, his face devoid of any emotion.

"Now am I qualified enough?!"

Sasuke saw that his previous statement didn't result in any points, clearly not cool enough, so he added another line.

+20

With that said.

Numbers immediately started jumping in front of Sasuke's eyes.

Everyone in Team Guy had complex expressions, their gazes towards Sasuke even more complicated.

You even defeated Neji!

Of course, you're qualified!

However.

They all knew.

That this sentence was Sasuke's response to Neji's previous questioning.

Seeing the points increase, Sasuke felt pleased. This wave of point collection should be enough; there was no need to show off to Neji anymore.

Since the mission has arrived.

It's time to show off to those from other villages!

"Do you guys still need to rest?"

Sasuke's gaze swept over the members of Team Guy, his voice laced with pride.

"No need!"

Neji's voice rang out. He looked directly at Guy and said, "Guy-sensei, let's go!"

"Yeah, let's not waste time here. We need to immediately deliver the intel the Third Hokage entrusted to us to the front lines!"

Might Guy nodded.

"Let's go."

Might Guy walked at the front, Team Guy side by side beside him, while Sasuke followed behind, keeping a distance.

Tenten looked back at Sasuke silently following behind, wanting to invite him to join the group.

But.

When she saw the dejected Neji beside her, she couldn't bear it.

Forget it.

Let's get familiar along the way!

There has to be a process!

...

What the members of Team Guy didn't know was that Sasuke keeping his distance wasn't because he was aloof, but because he was checking the system.

Opening the system panel.

Current system points: 544 points.

Perfect!

Sasuke gave himself full marks for his showing off. The series of operations just now felt extremely satisfying.

Time to add points!

After the fight with Neji, Sasuke's chakra was almost depleted, and his remaining stamina wasn't much either.

About to leave the village for a mission.

He had to make sure he was always in top condition.

Sasuke immediately added 1 point to Spirit and 1 point to Stamina.

Buzz!

In an instant.

Sasuke's body trembled slightly, and he felt refreshed, his spirit and energy restored to their peak.

Immediately after.

Sasuke scrolled down to check the [Shop] list.

At this moment.

In the shop's item column, there was still only one item: the experience pack.

Experience pack.

Price: 350 points.

Refreshes in 2 days.

Buy!

Sasuke chose to buy without hesitation. This kind of limited-time offer, as long as it appeared in the system shop, not buying it would be a waste.

Buzz!

Almost instantly, Sasuke's body trembled again, and a strange feeling emerged in his mind.

"Ding dong!"

"Detected that the host is using an experience pack."

"Please choose the ability to use from the experience pack."

"1. Secret Technique: Lightning Release ."

"2. Flying Thunder God Technique."

The system prompt stopped there, clearly waiting for Sasuke's choice.

Choose 2.

Sasuke made his choice without hesitation. Being able to perfectly master the Flying Thunder God Technique would greatly increase his strength.

Buzz, buzz, buzz!

At this moment.

A strange power surged in the depths of Sasuke's consciousness.

This power poured all the experience related to the Flying Thunder God into Sasuke's mind.

Suddenly.

Sasuke felt that his strange knowledge had increased again.

This feeling was very interesting.

Especially profound.

Sasuke had a very strong feeling that he had perfectly mastered the Flying Thunder God Technique.

Current remaining points: 192 points.

Don't touch these points for now.

If it weren't for this mission, he might consider increasing his Illusion attribute, after all, it was the only E-rank attribute left.

Keep these 192 points as a reserve!

This was Sasuke's first time leaving the village on a mission.

Unlike the other naive kids in the village, he knew very well that the world outside wasn't so simple, that people could actually die.

Keeping points on hand was definitely the right choice!

Sasuke's principle was to always maintain his best condition, not giving anyone any opportunity to take advantage.

Closing the system.

Sasuke looked at the members of Team Guy in front of him. Just now, he was like someone walking while looking at their phone, instinctively following along, not knowing where he had gone.

Looking up.

He could already see the gates of Konoha in front of him.

About to leave the village!

With Sasuke trailing behind, the members of Team Guy couldn't relax as they usually did. They remained silent along the way, a slight awkwardness hanging in the air.

Sasuke watched the Konoha gates draw closer.

Doubts swirled in his mind.

Why?

Why did the Third Hokage have him follow Team Guy?

And assign them a B-rank mission, no less!

Sasuke had memorized the knowledge about B-rank missions from his ninja academy textbooks.

B-rank missions involved enemy ninja!

Sasuke was truly puzzled. He had just graduated yesterday, and today he was sent out on a potentially dangerous mission.

Logically…

Wouldn't it make no difference to Team Guy whether he was there or not?

When the Third Hokage assigned the mission, he didn't know Sasuke had the Flying Thunder God technique. Clearly, he was treating Sasuke as an intern genin.

Wait!

Sasuke's eyes suddenly widened as a possibility dawned on him.

In the original story, the Land of Waves mission given to Team 7 was nominally a C-rank mission, but it involved enemy ninja, making it at least a B-rank.

Not to mention the involvement of Zabuza, a Jonin. Missions involving Jonin were A-rank!

As the Third Hokage, would he make a mistake in assessing a mission?

What if all this was planned?

What if the Third Hokage, knowing Team 7 wouldn't want to do ordinary missions, deliberately turned a blind eye, approving the Land of Waves mission as C-rank and assigning it to them?

Sasuke felt that these two events could be considered together. Although the Land of Waves incident hadn't happened yet, they shared one thing in common: danger.

Not aimed at Team Guy, nor at Team 7…

Sasuke's expression turned grim.

If the two missions were connected, then the only one facing a death threat in both missions was himself.

This was a death mission assigned to him!

But…

What good would his death do to the Third Hokage?

The Uchiha clan would be completely eradicated, leaving no descendants!

And another thing!

Sasuke suddenly realized the terrifying nature of the old fox, the Third Hokage. This seemingly kind old man was wicked underneath!

Konoha had promised Itachi to protect him.

If something happened to him in Konoha, Itachi might come back with Akatsuki to attack.

Then…

What if something happened to him outside Konoha?

What if he was killed by Konoha's enemies?

Then Itachi might be tricked by the Third Hokage into attacking those enemies!

What a clever tactic of using one enemy to weaken another!

A cold smile crept onto Sasuke's lips, his eyes filled with killing intent.

If he hadn't transmigrated from the modern world, he wouldn't have seen through the Third Hokage's political maneuvering.

The Third Hokage's ability to reap the benefits while others fought was truly remarkable!

So the Third Hokage intended to send him into the hands of the Iwa ninja, hoping he would die by their hands!

However.

This also proved one thing.

As long as he was in Konoha, no one would dare to do anything to him!

"Hmph!"

Sasuke snorted coldly, a ruthless glint in his eyes.

Trying to harm me?

Not so easy!

(End of chapter)

*Chapter 100: Leaving Konoha Village (Part 1)*

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Sasuke increasingly felt that the Third Hokage was full of scheming tricks.

This time, being sent out on a mission was supposedly an opportunity for him to gain experience.

After all, delivering intel was a simple task.

But beneath the surface, it was clear they were looking for a chance to get rid of him!

Even so, Sasuke believed the Third Hokage wouldn't personally intervene in such matters. He'd merely assign him to slightly dangerous missions, leaving his survival up to fate.

If Sasuke managed to escape death, there’d be no real loss; if he didn’t, it would conveniently eliminate a troublesome existence.

After all, he had an older brother, didn’t he?

In the eyes of Konoha’s leadership, Uchiha Itachi was like a ticking time bomb, ready to explode at any moment.

A wolf who dared to annihilate his own clan!

Surely, both the Third Hokage and Danzo saw this as a lingering source of anxiety.

As Sasuke pondered, he had already reached the gates of Konoha Village, following Team Guy.

A few Chunin guards stood at the gates. They nodded at Might Guy as he approached.

The mission details had been relayed beforehand.

"Let’s move out!"

Might Guy took the lead, stepping through the gates of Konoha Village. The three members of Team Guy followed closely behind.

Sasuke trailed at the rear, walking out alongside them.

"Sasuke, this is your first mission, right? The world outside the village is different—filled with countless dangers. No matter what, never let your guard down!"

Might Guy, just outside the gates, suddenly stopped and turned back. With a glowing, thumbs-up gesture, he flashed his trademark dazzling smile.

"Thank you, Guy-sensei! I’ll be careful!"

Sasuke could clearly sense the sincerity in Might Guy’s reminder.

"Now, Team Guy, onward to our youthful intel mission!"

Might Guy thrust his arms back and surged forward at full speed.

Immediately, Neji, Tenten, and Rock Lee followed suit, adopting the same pose as they sprinted ahead. Each of them moved with remarkable speed.

"…"

Watching their antics, Sasuke couldn’t help but think of a popular phrase from modern times:

"Chuunibyou kids are full of joy!"  

He sighed, then launched himself forward in a sprint to keep up with the group.

These guys were fast!

Running with Team Guy, Sasuke found himself struggling to keep pace. He had to push himself to sprint at full capacity just to avoid falling behind.

While Team Guy seemed to be traveling at a steady pace, Sasuke was running as if in a 100-meter dash.

It couldn’t be helped.

Sasuke’s speed was currently at the D-rank level, barely meeting the standard of a Genin.

And that wasn’t the worst of it.

He was also carrying a heavy load, which he had to endure while running.

*Ding! Ding!*

After about ten minutes of running, a notification rang out in Sasuke’s mind, informing him that his stamina was depleted. His Strength and Speed attributes each increased by 1 point.

*Add points!*

Sasuke hurriedly allocated 1 point to his Strength attribute, instantly restoring his stamina. He quickly caught up with Team Guy.

At this moment, Might Guy veered left, leading them off the main road and into the forest.

"Everyone, stay alert!"

Leaping onto a tree branch, Might Guy’s voice rang clearly in everyone’s ears.

"We’re about to leave the protective barrier of Konoha Village. The outside world is filled with potential dangers!"

"I’ll take the lead."

"Sasuke, Lee, Tenten, you’ll stay in the middle of the formation."

"Neji, you’ll bring up the rear. Use your Byakugan to monitor for any anomalies."

"That’s all."

Might Guy’s voice brimmed with passion, enough to energize the entire team.

"Yes!"

Everyone, including Sasuke, responded in unison, leaping onto the branches and moving swiftly through the trees.

Since it was Sasuke’s first mission, he was placed securely in the middle of the formation.

Ahead of him was Might Guy; behind him, Neji; to his left, Rock Lee; and to his right, Tenten.

*Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!*

Sasuke followed the group, gliding between the branches at high speed.

This was his first experience traveling through trees.

Back when he used to watch Naruto, Sasuke had thought this mode of travel was just for show.

Now, being here with the system, he realized that leaping and gliding between trees conserved much more stamina than running continuously.

No wonder ninjas traveled this way.

"Sasuke, if you feel like it’s too fast or you’re struggling, just let me know. These guys can keep this pace up all day!" Tenten’s voice came from his right, tinged with concern.

"Thanks, but I’m fine. Don’t worry—when it comes to stamina, none of them are my match!" Sasuke replied confidently.

*+5*

Immediately, a number flashed before Sasuke’s eyes. The system registered his remark as a show-off moment.

"Tch, always putting on a front!" Tenten rolled her eyes at Sasuke, feeling like her concern was met with cold indifference.

Sasuke didn’t respond further.

Not because he was aloof, but because he wasn’t yet used to this mode of travel. He had to focus entirely on controlling his body.

A single misstep could result in a humiliating fall.

Sasuke had to constantly monitor his physical state and allocate points to replenish his stamina whenever it ran low. Unlike the more experienced ninjas, he couldn’t afford the luxury of chatting while moving.

At the back of the group, Neji kept his gaze fixed on Sasuke.

The Uchiha clan emblem on Sasuke’s back swayed in front of Neji’s eyes.

Though Neji remained silent, his thoughts churned like stormy seas. His emotions were in turmoil, and his composure wavered.

The Uchiha clan.

Wasn’t this the strongest clan in Konoha?

Neji knew that a major incident had struck the Uchiha clan, leaving the Hyuga clan as the village’s strongest.

But deep down, he had never fully accepted it. He believed the Hyuga clan should have always been the strongest.

Now, he started to understand. Perhaps it was because he had never truly witnessed the Uchiha’s power.

---

*Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!*

After passing a particular tree, Team Guy continued westward without pause, quickly vanishing from sight.

*Ssssshh…*

At that moment, something strange emerged from the tree. A green, aloe-like figure slowly surfaced.

Its face was starkly black and white, and it wore a black cloak adorned with red clouds.

If Sasuke saw this person, he would instantly recognize them.

It was none other than Zetsu of the Akatsuki.

"The kid in the middle is Itachi’s brother, Sasuke, right?" White Zetsu remarked, grinning mischievously.

"Yes, he’s Uchiha Sasuke," Black Zetsu confirmed in a low voice.

"Should we let Itachi know about this?" White Zetsu’s tone was gleefully nosy.

"Hmm. We should inform him. Sasuke holds significant weight in Itachi’s heart. With our plan about to be executed, we can’t afford any disruptions," Black Zetsu said seriously.

"This is getting interesting!" White Zetsu chuckled, his playful tone unchanging as he sank back into the tree trunk.

---

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(End of Chapter)