CH - 212 Hire fake fans?

In the bustling stadium, vendors peddled various items like beer and soft drinks, while eager customers browsed through their offerings. "Step right up! Don't be shy! Today, we're not just here to make sales; we're here to introduce our new products to everyone. Feel free to browse, even if you don't buy. Come, come, take a look! Our fish is exceptionally delicious."

Inside the stadium, with everyone already seated, Nara Shikaku scanned the lively scene around him, feeling a mix of emotions. If not for the ongoing war between their villages, he might have questioned whether Konoha and the Grass Village were truly allies, given how casually they sat here enjoying the spectacle. Moreover, the venue for the competition was impressively constructed.

However, in comparison to the numerous Grass and Rain ninjas and the citizens from both villages, the Konoha attendees were few, and they found themselves surrounded. Furthermore, they were all wearing distinctive blue-green shirts, making them stand out even more.

In light of this, Nara Shikaku couldn't shake off the nervousness, fearing that these individuals might launch an unexpected attack while they were engrossed in the event. Given the Grass Village's shamelessness, such concerns were not unfounded. He found solace in the fact that, at least for now, the Grass Village leader wasn't present.

Reflecting on the recent events, he sighed with a bitter smile. The initial 'misunderstandings' within the village had led to some discontent over the decision to wage war due to a 'monster'. Although, as ninjas, they dutifully followed the Hokage's orders, the harmony was disrupted.

Now, witnessing the 'monster' bonding with the enemy village leader, the internal discontent resurfaced. The suppressed dissatisfaction came to the forefront, dampening their morale even before the competition had commenced.

Speaking of Shamelessness, Why is he here? What's his motive for being here now? Is he attempting psychological warfare, plotting to strike before the competition begins?

Maintaining his smile, Nara Shikaku addressed the cheerful and carefree Mubuki, "Advisor Mubuki, is there anything else?"

With a casual wave of his hand, Mubuki responded with a smile, "Nothing much, the competition is about to start, I'm just checking if Konoha needs any assistance."

"No, we're good. Thank you, Advisor Mubuki," Shikkau replied. Despite the apparent geniality, Nara Shikaku couldn't shake off his wariness. After all, Mubuki was known as one of the least scrupulous ninjas in the Grass Village.

Therefore, Shikaku cut to the chase and inquired about the competition's start time, avoiding unnecessary conversation with Mubuki. "When will the competition begin?"

"It's almost time," Mubuki assured him, then remembered something and added, "Oh, Our leader mentioned that regardless of the competition's outcome, we should showcase the friendship between Grass and Konoha. After all, our villages share a close bond."

"Once the competition begins, your team can prepare to enter from this side," Mubuki explained further. "Upon entry, a host will introduce your participating ninjas to the spectators. If you have any specific introductions, you can provide them to me beforehand, and I'll ensure they're announced."

"Introductions?" Shikaku repeated, processing Mubuki's lengthy explanation. After a brief moment of reflection, he grasped the purpose behind the request.

Given his experience, this wasn't a novel concept; similar procedures were followed during the Chunin Exams. However, it usually involved providing basic details like names and hometowns.

Then… Why did the Grass Village bring this up now? Quickly analyzing the situation, Nara Shikaku grasped the intention. The Grass Village aimed to gather intelligence in advance. Without knowing the participants in advance, the element of surprise could be maintained. Once names were disclosed, the opposing side could strategize and prepare accordingly.

Reminded once more of the need for perpetual vigilance, Shikaku inwardly sighed but maintained a composed demeanor. "There's no need to complicate matters. Stick to the usual protocol," he replied calmly.

"Okay. Any special requests for background music? Keep in mind that some options come with a cost," Mubuki inquired, extending the offer for additional services.

"Background music?" Shikaku paused, surprised by the unexpected suggestion, and then shook his head. "No need for that."

Mubuki acknowledged the decision and probed further, "What about your audience? Even though it's a smaller crowd, perhaps you'd like to purchase some glow sticks. The applause, combined with the glow sticks, can enhance the overall atmosphere."

"Glow sticks? What are these glow sticks?" Nara Shikaku expressed his curiosity, but ultimately declined the offer. Regardless of the Grass Village's offerings, he remained resolute in his refusal. Internally, he couldn't help but lament, 'What's with these Grass Village guys? Still trying to make money at this time?'

Seemingly disappointed at the lack of a successful deal, the Grass Village advisor sighed with regret. "Is that so? Well, the competition is about to start, so I should go."

With that, as if recalling something, he handed a card to Nara Shikaku. "Take this! Perhaps Konoha might need it later?"

Having said his piece, Mubuki departed.

As Nara Shikaku observed Mubuki's departure, he regained his composure, shaking his head in disbelief. Glancing down at the card in his hand, he read its contents:

{Professional fans, live cheering for your idol. Only one hundred ryo per person, a limited-time offer. Contact: Mubuki.}

Nara Shikaku couldn't help but feel dumbfounded. Hiring fans? What absurdity was this? Did they truly need such a service?

With a raised eyebrow, he nonchalantly tucked the card into his pocket. Suddenly, a hush fell over the crowd, signaling the imminent start of the competition. The sound of 360-degree surround sound filled the venue, leaving the Konoha ninjas astonished.

Despite the Grass Village's disregard for ninja ethics, there was no denying the remarkable progress the village had made in recent years. The swift construction of the luxurious and spacious venue before them, surpassing even their Chunin Exam venue in elegance and technology, was a testament to their advancements.

And then, a familiar sound reverberated through the venue, "This competition is sponsored by Grass Ninja Milk..."

Nara Shikaku's lips twitched as he recognized the advertisement, directed by none other than the host, Mubuki. So, this man was the host all along. It seems his earlier rejections were indeed right.

Next, he turned his attention to Asuma, who stood beside him. Sarutobi Asuma, the son of the Third Hokage, had already achieved the rank of Jonin after the Third Great Ninja War, showcasing his exceptional talent among the younger generation. It was clear that Asuma would be the one to commence the match.

Addressing him, Shikaku remarked, "Asuma, prepare yourself!"

"I'm ready," responded Asuma with determination. Despite his youthful appearance, Asuma, adorned with a thick beard, nodded earnestly, "Rest assured, I'll give it my all."

Although his relationship with his father wasn't good, Asuma approached this match with utmost seriousness. This was not just a competition; it was a battleground, and he would treat it as such.

Soon, the advertisement concluded, and Mubuki's voice reverberated once more, "Alright, It is now my pleasure to announce the official commencement of the First Ninja World Tournament!"

"The inaugural bout!"

"Let's give a warm welcome to our contestant from Konoha!"

With those words, Asuma strolled in from the entrance, hands nonchalantly tucked into his pockets, a cigarette dangling from his lips. The gaze of the crowd made him slightly uneasy; the scale of this event far surpassed anything he had experienced during the Chunin Exams.

Yet, as a Konoha ninja, Asuma maintained his composure, offering a smile and a wave to the gathered spectators. However, aside from his fellow Konoha ninjas, he garnered little attention.

Undeterred, Mubuki's voice boomed, "In our first match, representing Konoha, we have Jonin Sarutobi Asuma!"

However, the anticipation in the air quickly deflated as Asuma's introduction concluded abruptly. With just a few strides, he ascended the competition platform, leaving many expecting spectators disappointed.

Despite the brevity of Asuma's entrance, Konoha's representatives found nothing amiss. The Grass Ninja Village's elaborate entrance rituals were familiar to them, and they saw no cause for concern.

However, As the spotlight shifted to the Grass Ninja contestant, a sudden darkness enveloped the venue. Nara Shikaku and his comrades tensed, scanning their surroundings for signs of danger. Had they fallen into a trap? Were the Grass Ninjas about to launch a surprise attack?

The Konoha ninjas, vigilant and ready for action, rose from their seats. Just as they prepared to defend themselves, the darkness was pierced by a burst of crimson light, illuminating the area like stars in the night sky. The Konoha ninjas watched in astonishment as the audience around them brandished glowing sticks, casting a surreal glow over the arena. What was happening?

Before they could react, the host Mubuki's voice boomed through the arena once more. "Behold! A ninja, forged in the flames of war, storms, and crashing waves from the tender age of ten! At eleven, he mastered Water Style, besting all Rain Village ninjas in combat and instilling fear in their hearts! By twelve, feeling unmatched, yet driven by the hope for peace, he founded the Akatsuki organization!"

As Mubuki's words echoed, a triumphant melody erupted from the band, resonating with the cheers and the sway of glow sticks all around.

It was the iconic 'Naruto Main Theme,' a tune instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with the 'Naruto' series, though the audience present may not have been aware of its significance. It was selected by Akihiko himself, the melody stirred deep memories within him, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

The lively melody, accompanied by cheers and the rhythmic swaying of glow sticks, filled the air. Amidst the music, a figure clad in armor resembling flames emerged, dragging a giant sword that sparked with every movement. This spectacular entrance captivated the attention of everyone in the arena.

Especially Asuma, he stood there dumbfounded, the cigarette dangling from his lips forgotten as it tumbled to the ground. He couldn't help but feel a pang of embarrassment at his own lackluster entrance, now starkly contrasted by the grandeur unfolding before him.

Meanwhile, as he gazed ahead, a young man with fiery orange hair stepped into the venue, each deliberate stride bringing him closer. In his hand, he wielded a long sword that crackled with sparks, a sight that held the audience spellbound.

Observing Asuma's stunned reaction, Nara Shikaku seemed to grasp the implied hint from that guy earlier. He couldn't help but let out a curse, muttering, "What in the...!"