Naruto: Martial God Art

"Hard work is more important than talent!"

These words echoed in Sasuke's mind like a thunder, shaking him out of his deep pride in the Uchiha name. For the first time, he realized that since he awakened his Sharingan, he had come to rely too much on its power.

"You… what do you mean?" Sasuke asked, glaring at Rock Lee. His jaw was badly injured, and he could only make faint, pained sounds.

"I know you're frustrated," Lee said calmly. "Today, I'll show you what it feels like to face someone who has worked hard to become strong."

Just as Lee was about to grab Sasuke's arms and perform the "Shadow of the Dancing Leaf" move, a low, lazy voice sounded from behind him.

"That's enough."

Lee froze, surprised. He hadn't sensed anyone approaching, which was unusual for him. Reacting quickly, he shoved Sasuke back and leapt away, taking a defensive stance. He looked up to see who had spoken.

The man standing there wore a Jōnin's uniform. He had white hair and wore his forehead protector tilted, covering one eye. Calm and relaxed, he studied Lee with interest.

"That's… a Jōnin," Lee realized, his eyes widening.

The man was slender and tall, with a laid-back expression but sharp, observant eyes. Lee recognized him instantly. Hatake Kakashi.

"To sneak up on me like that… he's powerful," Lee thought, his respect growing. He understood that he might have gone too far today.

Kakashi had been a member of the elite Anbu forces, even leading a team within it. If Kakashi caught onto any strange details about him, it could mean serious trouble.

After studying Lee for a moment, Kakashi's expression softened into a smile. "I think that's enough sparring. You're one of Guy's students, aren't you?"

"Yes, my name is Rock Lee," Lee replied, nodding.

"Very impressive," Kakashi said approvingly. "You remind me of Guy in his early days. Konoha will soon have another taijutsu master."

"You're too kind," Lee said, feeling slightly embarrassed.

"No, it's the truth," Kakashi replied. "Your physical strength is outstanding, even beyond most Chūnin. Not many Jōnin could match your level of taijutsu."

The other Genin stared in shock. Kakashi was one of Konoha's strongest Jōnin, and he wasn't someone who would praise lightly. For him to say this meant that Lee's strength was genuinely remarkable.

However, Kakashi's tone changed slightly as he continued, "But while your taijutsu is impressive, it has some obvious weaknesses. Against someone skilled in ninjutsu or genjutsu, you could be vulnerable."

"Thank you for the advice," Lee replied, bowing slightly.

He knew that Kakashi was offering this advice as a way to encourage Sasuke, who had been defeated in their spar. Otherwise, the loss might hurt Sasuke's confidence too much, and the village wouldn't want an Uchiha's spirit to be broken.

So, Lee's weakness is against ninjutsu and genjutsu, Sasuke thought. Despite the frustration clouding his mind, Kakashi's words felt like a lifeline. His eyes filled with new resolve.

The Sharingan was known for its prowess in genjutsu, especially as it matured. If I can unlock the full potential of my Sharingan, Sasuke thought, then I could counter Lee's strength with my own.

A vision of himself defeating Lee filled Sasuke's mind, and his anger softened, replaced by a fierce determination.

"Sasuke, can you walk?" Kakashi asked, glancing at Neji and Tenten, who had watched the fight but stayed silent.

"I'm fine," Sasuke said coldly, his pride keeping him from showing gratitude, though he was thankful.

"Good," Kakashi said. "Remember, during the exams, you'll be facing Chūnin-level opponents. Your Uchiha Sharingan is your strength—don't forget that it's perfect for handling taijutsu users."

"I'll repay this humiliation someday," Sasuke muttered through clenched teeth.

When Team Guy entered Room 301, where the other Genin were gathered, they were taken aback by the sheer number of candidates. The entire room was packed. Even Neji, usually calm, looked slightly tense. He hadn't expected so many participants in this Chūnin Exam.

Most of the candidates wore headbands from various villages, with expressions ranging from friendly to fierce, serious to amused. The tension in the room was almost tangible, with power radiating from the more dangerous-looking Genin. Many of them, judging by their cold gazes, had already experienced real combat and shed blood.

"Wow!" Tenten gasped, taking a step back as she felt the intense auras around her. Her face flushed as the pressure of the atmosphere overwhelmed her.

"Are you okay?" Lee asked, reaching out to steady her with a gentle hand.

"I… I'm fine," she replied, her cheeks warm as she pulled her hand away quickly, feeling slightly embarrassed. "Thanks."

"Good," Lee replied with a smile, unfazed.

As he looked around the room, Lee's gaze soon landed on the female ninja he had noticed earlier—the same girl who had caught his attention before.