Ch-27 Modified Fireball.
"Exactly as I mentioned, only those who possess the bells will pass. That implies only two of you can successfully complete this survival exercise," elaborated Kakashi.
Upon hearing Kakashi's explanation, Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto exchanged glances, each understanding the stakes.
Internally, Sasuke resolved, "Regardless of the circumstances, I must not falter in this survival challenge."
"Alright, let's begin. Attack me with all your strength as if you want to kill me. The survival exercise starts now," declared Kakashi, setting the tone for the challenge ahead.
As soon as Kakashi announced the commencement of the survival exercise, a palpable tension filled the air, and one by one, each participant vanished from Kakashi's sight, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. Kakashi couldn't help but acknowledge their skill in concealment, silently impressed by their proficiency in evasion tactics.
Just as Kakashi was mentally noting their abilities, Naruto abruptly materialized before him, his determination radiating as he boldly challenged Kakashi face to face.
The ensuing battle between Kakashi and Naruto unfolded swiftly, each move executed with precision and intensity. Despite Naruto's valiant efforts, the outcome was inevitable, with Kakashi emerging victorious. Employing his 'One Thousand Years of Death' technique, leaving even Jugram, a bystander, unable to conceal his discomfort as he witnessed Kakashi's use of this embarrassing jutsu. Covering his head in embarrassment, Jugram silently looked away.
Immediately after Kakashi trapped Naruto, Sasuke identified Kakashi's position as vulnerable, prompting him to hurl multiple kunai toward Kakashi. However, these kunai struck the wooden log instead of Kakashi, as Kakashi utilized the 'Substitution Technique' at the last moment.
Realizing that his attack had failed, Sasuke swiftly adjusted his position, aware that his current location would soon be exposed after launching kunai at Kakashi.
Sasuke began moving in another direction to avoid being caught by Kakashi, but suddenly, in the middle of his movement, he was intercepted by Kakashi.
Sasuke solemnly gazed at Kakashi, who had appeared in front of him. Sasuke realized that escaping was no longer an option, considering the person standing before him was a Jonin. Moreover, Sasuke harbored a desire to compete with Kakashi and gauge his own strength against the veteran ninja's, fully aware of the potential disparity.
Facing off against Kakashi, a renowned Jonin, Sasuke approached the confrontation with an intensity that matched his opponent's reputation. With determination etched across his features, he activated his Sharingan, the three-tomoe pattern swirling into existence in his eyes, signifying his readiness for battle. Gripping his sword tightly, Sasuke lunged forward, aiming a precise strike at Kakashi.
In a blur of motion, Kakashi countered Sasuke's attack with practiced ease, swiftly deflecting the sword strike with a series of well-timed kunai blocks. The clash of metal echoed through the training ground as the two opponents engaged in a dance of offense and defense.
Despite Kakashi's skillful defense, Sasuke's improved Hirenkyaku technique became evident in his movements. His strikes were swifter, more precise, and carried more strength, reflecting the countless hours of training he had dedicated to honing his abilities.
Kakashi noted the subtle but significant enhancements in Sasuke's prowess. With a keen eye, he recognized the incremental improvements that Sasuke had made since their last encounter. Although the increase in strength may have been modest at this stage, Kakashi foresaw the potential for exponential growth in Sasuke's abilities if he continued to push himself.
The clash between Sasuke's sword and Kakashi's kunai lasted for a while, with the Sharingan providing significant assistance to Sasuke in his fight against Kakashi. Many times, Sasuke came very close to obtaining the bell, but each time he narrowly missed by a hair's breadth.
Meanwhile, Kakashi also found it challenging to contend with Sasuke while holding back. As the fight dragged on longer than Kakashi had anticipated, he ceased holding back. With incredible speed, he dodged one of Sasuke's sword attacks and swiftly appeared behind him, attempting to deliver a hand chop to the back of Sasuke's head. However, thanks to Sasuke's Sharingan, he was able to anticipate Kakashi's movement and attempted to evade. Despite Sasuke's efforts, his reaction time was slow, and Kakashi's hand chop connected, propelling Sasuke forward for a considerable distance.
Sasuke turned around and saw Kakashi standing calmly in his place. Sasuke knew that in close combat, he was no match for Kakashi, so he decided to resort to ninjutsu.
Forming hand seals, Sasuke unleashed a fireball. He manipulated the fireball, directing it towards Kakashi.
Upon seeing this, Kakashi remarked, "I've already witnessed you employing this ninjutsu against Mizuki. Do you think such a technique will be effective against me?"
Sasuke remained silent but responded with actions. The fireball, initially aimed at Kakashi, suddenly split into three identical fireballs, converging in a triangular formation with Kakashi at the center.
Sasuke watched as the location where his ninjutsu exploded, attempting to discern Kakashi's whereabouts. However, there was no trace of Kakashi to be found. Observing this, Sasuke became alert, gripping his sword tightly and scanning his surroundings. He was prepared for any potential sneak attacks from Kakashi.