Chapter 32

The Chūnin Exams had progressed to the preliminary battles, and Team 7's members were excited and ready to prove themselves once again. Naruto, in particular, felt a mix of anticipation and determination as he stepped onto the arena floor. He had trained hard and diligently, and he was determined to show just how much he had grown.

Naruto's opponent for the preliminary match was Neji Hyūga, a prodigious young shinobi from the Hyūga clan. Neji's Byakugan and superior taijutsu skills made him a formidable adversary. Naruto remembered how in the original timeline, Neji had defeated him with ease during the preliminary matches, and Naruto was determined to change that outcome.

As the match began, Naruto's eyes focused on Neji, his mind already formulating strategies and analyzing the situation. Neji activated his Byakugan, his white eyes scanning Naruto's movements. Naruto's demeanor was different this time; there was a newfound maturity and intelligence in his gaze.

Naruto began to move with precision and control, engaging Neji in taijutsu while simultaneously weaving subtle hand signs. Neji's strikes were swift and calculated, but Naruto managed to dodge and parry, his movements reflecting a mastery of basic techniques.

Neji's confidence wavered as he realized that Naruto was no longer the unrefined shinobi he had faced before. Naruto's combat style had evolved, and he was no longer relying solely on his unpredictable nature. Instead, he was using his intelligence to counter Neji's attacks.

With a quick succession of moves, Naruto managed to land a solid hit on Neji, surprising both Neji and the audience. Neji quickly adjusted his strategy, attempting to use his Gentle Fist techniques to target Naruto's chakra points. However, Naruto had anticipated this move and utilized his shadow clone jutsu to create decoys that mimicked his movements.

The arena buzzed with excitement as Naruto's smart tactics and refined skills began to gain the upper hand. Neji struggled to keep up with Naruto's unpredictability, his white eyes straining to read Naruto's movements.

As the battle continued, Naruto managed to trap Neji within a complex genjutsu, exploiting Neji's tendency to underestimate the power of genjutsu due to his Byakugan. Neji found himself ensnared, his vision distorted and his movements hindered.

With a swift and well-aimed strike, Naruto incapacitated Neji, leaving him unable to continue the fight. The arena erupted into cheers and applause as Naruto was declared the victor.

As Naruto walked off the arena, he shared a knowing glance with his teammates. Shikaoi's grin was wide, reflecting the pride he felt for his brother's growth. Shikamaru nodded in approval, recognizing Naruto's strategic thinking.

Shikaoi couldn't help but tease Naruto. "Looks like the dead last isn't so 'last' anymore, huh?"

Naruto chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, well, I've learned a thing or two."

Sasuke smirked, his arms crossed. "You did well, dobe."

Kakashi nodded from beneath his mask. "Your growth is impressive, Naruto."

Naruto's determination burned brightly in his eyes as he looked at his friends and sensei. "I'm not giving up on my dreams, not anymore. I've got people to protect, and I'm going to become Hokage!"

With their spirits high and their bonds stronger than ever, Team 7 (plus Shikamaru) resolved themselves to continue their journey through the Chūnin Exams, ready to face whatever challenges and opponents awaited them with their combined strength and intelligence.