Chapter 50

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The surging water tore through the air, slicing straight toward Ay's back with lethal precision.

At the same time, Fujiwara Tetsuya propelled himself forward, leaping off the splashing water, rushing toward the spot where Ay would land.

In the blink of an eye, their figures collided once again.

"This kid… he's actually able to go toe-to-toe with Ay, who's practically a master of Taijutsu?"

All around, the audience, filled with ninja of every rank, were captivated by the fierce exchange between Ay and Tetsuya. Even the seasoned Jonin and elite Chunin couldn't help but whisper amongst themselves.

The brutal hand-to-hand combat unfolding before them was no less thrilling than any high-level ninjutsu battle.

As time ticked by, their relentless strikes began to show their toll.

Tetsuya and Ay, locked in combat, both sported numerous wounds. However, it was obvious to everyone who was faring worse—Tetsuya was clearly at a disadvantage. Under the pressure of Ay's monstrous strength, Tetsuya's right arm had dislocated countless times.

Fortunately, with the pliability of youth on his side, his bones weren't fully set. It only took a few quick adjustments for him to pop his shoulder back into place every time.

"Hiruzen! That kid won't be able to hold out much longer!"

From the high platform where the higher-ups of Konoha stood, Koharu Utatane's voice broke through the tension. Her eyes were fixed on the battle below, her tone sharp with concern.

The previous day's events were still fresh in her mind, and she hadn't followed Sarutobi Hiruzen's instructions to the letter. Maybe, just maybe, she still thought Tetsuya needed to prove himself worthy of her respect. Surviving today's match would be the only way to earn her acknowledgment.

"Koharu, the match isn't over yet. It's too early to make that call." Sarutobi's gaze never wavered from Tetsuya. His focus remained sharp, even as he dismissed Koharu's remarks. As Hokage, he was fully aware of her subtle defiance, but chose to say nothing for now, respecting the long-standing relationship between them.

Back in the arena, the battle was nearing its climax.

With every clash of chakra and every physical blow, Tetsuya's breath grew heavier, and so did Ay's. They were both nearing their limits.

"Ay!" Tetsuya called out, his voice strained. "This stalemate is getting dull, don't you think?"

"I heard the Third Raikage was hailed as both the strongest spear and the strongest shield of the ninja world. Tell me, have you inherited his legendary Hell Stab—One-Finger Assault?"

Tetsuya's right hand sparked to life, and with it, the unmistakable sound of Chidori echoed through the arena. Lightning crackled, currents weaving and crashing into each other, forming a dazzling, deadly light.

Ay's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Heh! So, you want to settle this in one final strike, huh? Fine by me, kid. I'm starting to like you more and more."

"I can't manage the One-Finger Assault at my current level, but defeating you? The Four-Finger Assault will be more than enough for that!"

Ay roared, lightning gathering fiercely in his right hand. The sheer intensity of his chakra enveloped the air, setting the stage for a final, decisive blow.

Both combatants charged, their eyes locked, their determination unwavering.

In the stands, ninja from all around the world rose to their feet, sensing the gravity of the moment. The legend of the "strongest spear" wasn't just some village boast—it had been forged in battle, through countless victories and countless dead. The question now was whether the young Fujiwara Tetsuya could stand against that overwhelming might.

"Chidori! Go!"

The two titanic forces collided in a violent explosion of light and sound, the clash of their techniques creating a deafening boom that reverberated throughout the arena.

All anyone could see was blinding lightning and the crackling of thunderous chakra as the ground beneath them shattered, leaving only destruction in its wake. For several long seconds, the spectators were left staring into the brightness, unable to see what was happening inside.

"Who... who won?"

As the light finally began to fade, the arena came into view. At the center of a massive crater—nearly twenty meters wide and several meters deep—sat both combatants. Tetsuya and Ay lay slumped on the ground, clutching their right arms, blood dripping steadily from their torn sleeves.

The crowd held its breath, waiting.

Then, a ragged cough broke the silence.

"Hah… kid... that Chidori of yours isn't half bad." Ay's voice was hoarse but steady. "Didn't expect it to pack such a punch... This time, you win."

Amid the dust and debris, the charred remains of the battlefield smoldered. Ay, despite his injuries, was the first to speak, his tone surprisingly light given the severity of their fight.

It was true—neither of them had emerged unscathed. Both had suffered critical injuries to their right arms, effectively knocking them out of the fight. But Tetsuya's Chidori had another edge that no one saw coming—the paralyzing aftershock that still coursed through Ay's body, leaving him unable to rise.

Ay struggled, unable to lift his head, his entire body still numb from the Chidori's lingering effects.

Tetsuya, panting heavily, gave a weak chuckle. "Ay… I might've won, but it was more luck than skill. If we'd kept going… I would've lost for sure."

He wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, his legs trembling as he forced himself to stand. Despite the exhaustion pulling at his limbs, he walked toward Ay with shaky steps.

"Man, you really are something else... the future Fourth Raikage, huh?"

Ay scoffed, blood trickling from his split lip. "A win is a win, kid. Don't go downplaying it."

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