Chapter 57

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Chapter 57: Why Is Everyone Eyeing Sasuke?

The next day, in the Death Forest, Mitarashi Anko, the chief examiner of the second phase of the Chūnin exam, announced the rules. Candidates were required to gather all the Earth Coiling scrolls and reach the central tower within five days. Nine people from Sasuke's class assembled together.

"Sasuke, I suggest you join forces with Shikamaru and Shino's classes. There are dangerous participants in this Chūnin exam, and it will be safer in numbers," said Sasuke to his classmates.

"In addition, both of you, Hinata and Ino, have the ability to sense others. You should take turns observing the area. If you detect a strong Chakra reaction, avoid confrontation and don't engage in unnecessary fights," he added.

Shikamaru and Shino were known for their sharp intellect, and this, combined with the sensory abilities of Hinata and Ino, meant that by working together, the two classes could minimize danger.

"Is that really necessary for just a Chūnin exam?" Inuzuka Kiba was somewhat skeptical.

He believed in his own strength and felt no need to collaborate with other classes. But Sasuke pointed out the Sunagakure representative with the red hair and gourd.

"That 'red-haired gourd kid' is probably Sunagakure's One Tail Doublechūriki. If you don't know what a Doublechūriki is because you missed classes, ask Shikamaru for a quick lesson later," suggested Sasuke.

Kiba scratched his head, feeling embarrassed that he didn't know what a Doublechūriki was.

Shikamaru and Shino immediately took Sasuke's proposal seriously. With Sunagakure sending a Doublechūriki, they knew it was prudent to be cautious. Hinata and Ino agreed with Sasuke's plan without hesitation. Following Shikamaru's lead, Chōji also agreed.

The two classes then quickly decided to band together for the second exam. Seeing the consensus, Sasuke felt relieved, mainly because he was concerned about the safety of Hinata and Ino, who weren't in his class, knowing the exam could be dangerous.

Next, Sasuke highlighted other dangerous individuals they should be wary of, such as the Sand Shinobi trio and the gray-blue-haired man with glasses.

Nara Shikamaru remarked, "Excellent. Sasuke can definitely be considered a leader."

Namikaze Minato noted, "He carefully observes to gather information, formulates strategies, and persuades the group. It's really impressive!"

Orochimaru chimed in, "Most people focus only on Sasuke's talent and strength, but they overlook his willingness to use his brain and seek knowledge. These traits are essential for improving his abilities!"

Senju Tobirama added, "Although I dislike the Uchiha, I have to agree with this. The kid's rapid improvement isn't just due to talent."

Inuzuka Kiba grumbled, "He said Shikamaru and Shino are smart. Does that mean he thinks I'm not? Damn it!"

Aburame Shino responded, "Kiba, there's no need to feel ashamed..."

The second test began, with the Eighth and Tenth Squads working together. However, Sasuke's Seventh Squad did not join them. From the start, Sasuke had an uneasy feeling, as if he were being watched by someone constantly, targeted like prey under the gaze of Lion Majesty. Despite the sensation, he couldn't pinpoint where it was coming from, which left him even more disturbed. He suspected the person spying on him from the shadows could be extraordinarily powerful.

"Hehe, I was discovered," Orochimaru chuckled to himself.

"Sure enough, there is a gap in strength," observed the Fourth Raikage. "Uchiha Sasuke can detect the threat of Yakushi Kabuto, but he cannot locate Orochimaru."

"After all, Orochimaru is a veteran ninja powerhouse. His control over his presence is unparalleled compared to ordinary Jōnin," Onoki added.

Uchiha Fugaku expressed his concern: "Sasuke is really in danger!"

Uchiha Mikoto shared the sentiment, hoping that the Sasuke from their world could escape Orochimaru.

The second exam soon started. "Neji, let's go find Uchiha Sasuke! I want to challenge him to a real duel!" suggested Rock Lee to his teammate.

He had recovered from the previous day's defeat and was eager to engage in a proper battle with Uchiha Sasuke this time.

Hyuga Neji frowned and cautioned, "The opponent is very strong. It's best not to seek unnecessary trouble and focus on passing this exam."

"Neji, the other guy is as renowned as you were in ninja school. Don't you want to test yourself against him?" Rock Lee persisted.

Seeing his teammate's determination, Neji sighed and compromised, "We can go to him, but I will not fight Uchiha Sasuke. And you should be careful. Don't get too carried away."

"Yes! No problem! Our target is Uchiha Sasuke, let's go!" Lee exclaimed with excitement.

Meanwhile, the three ninjas from Sound Village were also discussing their plans. "Our mission is to find Uchiha Sasuke and kill him!" Toss told his teammates Sac and Double.

"Understood," Double responded.

"I hope his strength won't disappoint me," remarked Sac before they all dashed into the depths of the Forest of Death.

At the same time, the trio of Sand Shinobi had their own plans. "Let's kill a random team to collect all the scrolls. If we encounter Uchiha Sasuke, we kill him too," Gaara said, his arms crossed and his voice void of emotion.

Uchiha Fugaku couldn't help but wonder, "...why are so many people after Sasuke? Isn't one Orochimaru trouble enough?"

"Why do the three ninjas from Sound Village want to kill Sasuke?!" Uchiha Mikoto questioned with worry.

"Lee over there is completely unaware of Sasuke's strength. It's likely to end badly for him," Hyuga Neji remarked.

"Tenten's prediction is that Lee might end up with a psychological shadow from Sasuke," Tenten added.

Rock Lee silently worried, feeling flustered and hoping that Sasuke would go easy on the confrontation.