Chapter 74: Battle of the Geniuses!

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Yuno's POV (Contestant Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

"Who do you suppose will win?" Shino asked simply. "I had hoped to get the opportunity to fight either of them. I must admit I doubted my ability to best them if such did happen."

Yuno shook her head at Shino. Personally she hoped to fight someone who was rather unskilled. But Shino was a subtle battle junkie. Seeming to enjoy growing as a shinobi and testing himself. Her mind drifted to her other friend who was nervously tapping the seat she sat in. Yuno inwardly sighed as she glanced over at Hinata. She loved the shy girl to death. She was one of the few people other than Yuno and Mikoto who could hold Sasuke's attention. Even rarer she had somehow befriended her anti-social teammate. At first, Yuno thought the gentlewoman might have won over her cousin's affection. Yet time proved it to not be the case. Instead, he seemed to simply enjoy Hinata's kind and respectful demeanor. Yuno swore Sasuke needed to date someone. Even a guy! She wouldn't judge! He needed to go out more somehow. But it was because of Sasuke's lack of social skills that Yuno was sure Neji would lose today. Yuno had seen how easily he had crushed those odd shinobi who had attacked the two of them. Even had sparred with him. Yuno wasn't sure anyone would be defeating her emo cousin.

"W-well, I don't mean to offend you, Yuno, but I'm unsure anyone stands a chance against N-eji-san. He was quite strong before the month and has only grown more." Hinata managed to choke out. Yuno was stunned in silence as she witnessed Shino subtly eye her to see if she was furious. But she was nothing of the sort! Hinata was slowly coming out of her shell.

"No way, Hinata! You've grown so much cutie!" Yuno yelled as she hugged the shy girl, who turned red and seemed to try to pry herself free. She really was adorable. "But sorry, but Emo down there ain't losing today."

"I also side with Neji," Shino said, easily betraying Yuno. "We spared a fair bit back in the academy. As much as I hate to admit it, I never did come close to defeating him."

"You both suck!" Yuno said playfully. "Sasuke will prove me right." Yuno inwardly chuckled as Shino visibly reacted to the childish insult. And Hinata spat out apologies. She loved her friends… even when they were incredibly traitorous.

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 Naruto's POV (Contestant Section of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Naruto eyed the field intensely, only somewhat listening to the conversation around him.

"I simply can't decide between Duckbutt and Monk," Sai said with a slight frown. In truth, he was copying a frown he had seen earlier. Being normal took hard work, after all.

"Duckbutt and Monk?" Lee asked, confused. "I am unsure of who you are referencing."

"I assume he means Sasuke and Neji. Duckbutt would be Sasuke? I suppose his hair does kinda look like that. And Neji does kinda dress like a monk." Shikamaru lazily drawled. "At least your nicknames make sense now."

"Pineapple makes sense." Sai countered

"Actually no it doesn't if you don't want to be skewered." Shikamaru replied as if it was an often-said line.

"I do not." Sai said simply.

"Then shush." Shikamaru said.

"He does raise a good point! I was most looking forward to testing my youth against both of them! Though I suppose fighting for the victory will be enough!." Lee concluded as he jumped up and down, seemingly ecstatic for the fight.

They seemed somewhat on the fence about Sasuke fighting Neji, and honestly, Naruto was too. He had hoped he would be the one to kick Sasuke's ass. That prick had always shot him looks when they walked by. As if he thought he was simply too good to be even in the same room as him. Though Naruto supposed if someone other than him was to kick Sasuke's ass, it may of well of been Neji. Could Sasuke somehow beat Neji?

"Hey, you drag. Do you think Neji has got this thing?" Shikamaru asked, seemingly aware Naruto had drifted off mentally.

"Of course." Naruto responded with ease.

"Ah good to see you all again Naruto. From what I've heard your Neji's teammate, perhaps you have an idea of what we can expect from this match?" Samui asked as she sauntered over. Omoi walked slowly behind mumbling as if he was in a trance.

Naruto had no time to respond, suddenly being hugged and picked up by Fuu.

"Naruto! How are you, friend!" Fuu asked excitedly, spinning the blonde around and squeezing the life out of him. Just how strong was Fuu?!

"Fuu, we talked about being touchy all the time. It's what?" Samui said calmly with a patient smile.

"Uncool," Fuu said morosely, setting Naruto down gently. "Was just happy to see him."

Naruto gasped as he recovered his breath. "Anyway, ya, Neji has this thing in the bag."

"Cool. Hopefully I win big then Blondie." Samui replied with a smirk as she leaned against the railing of their section. She had told Bee of his meeting of who he dubbed "Mr. 9". It was interesting to meet someone who carried B's burden yet seemed not to be as insane. Besides Samui enjoyed Naruto's bold yet kind personality. It was pretty cool.

"Of course, he was the hardest fight I've had. Or felt like it was anyway." Naruto explained.

""Blondie," Yuno said with air quotes. "here refers to him beating Neji in their little grudge match." Yuno explained as she, Shino, and Hinata joined the group. Most seemed shocked by the knowledge Naruto had bested Neji.

"You become a bigger drag every day." Shikamaru complained.

"Oh, exciting there in the field~!" Fuu sang as she seemed to float into the air. "I'm so lucky to see this~!"

"Kick his ass, Neji!" Naruto roared, running back to the railing to watch things closely.

"Y-y-you can do it, cousin!" Hinata choked out.

"Good spirit, princess!" Yuno laughed. "Wrong side though. Go TEAM UCHIHA!"

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 Neji's / Sasuke's POV (Courtyard of Iron Arena - Land of Iron)

Neji marched down the staircase toward the battle. Indeed, he did not feel nervous; his life had been one endless struggle. He had taught himself how to fight, how to survive under the cruelty of the Main House, and even taught Hinata how to fight. He had never honestly had a choice in the matter and had known no alternative. He had learned to weaponize his spite and hatred to motivate himself. Compared to that one, Sasuke Uchiha would be child's play.

Yet that felt like an empty lie. Somehow, Neji knew Sasuke was an obstacle he would struggle to face. He knew of the Uchiha's story that the Leaf had dismantled his clan. It was commonly accepted that the clan had planned a coup. From what he had garnered, Sasuke believed differently. Truthfully, Neji was ignorant; he did not know which side was proper. Regardless, he did not hold it against Sasuke. How could he? To be judged by circumstances outside of your control was something he was incredibly familiar with. Being resentful and focused on it was something he could relate to. But Naruto had beaten the worst of it out of him. He wondered if anyone had done so for Sasuke? Naruto would have done so if he had been here. Shouldn't he?

Neji couldn't though. As much as he wished for Sasuke to find the peace he had started to experience, he represented another clan. As much as he could relate, he needed this opportunity. The Hyuga clan's future looked bright with Hinata as the current heir. But if he could win here and raise the clan's reputation, it would do wonders for how the Main House and villagers regarded the Side House.

He had no doubt Sasuke would reach the same conclusion. It was funny how Neji couldn't claim to know the man. It was a certainty to him, though he would be thinking something similar to what he was. It pained Neji to admit it, but he may have to obstruct Sasuke from his goal to protect his own goal.

It would be sad. But the day would be won for the Hyuga.

Sasuke's POV

Sasuke had always been someone who enjoyed battle. He never felt as peaceful or in control as when he was in battle. He wasn't some crazed berserker fighting meaninglessly. Not some crazed killer determined to kill those who wronged him. Sasuke searched for truth and redemption. The best method of obtaining them had been apparent from the start. He had to become a shinobi so great that he could have the influence to learn what he needed to know. So powerful he alone would redeem the clan from their past sins. So, he had learned to excel in battle and love it.

Sasuke's gut told him he was in for quite the battle indeed. Neji Hyuga was someone he could respect. The man had always been the rival to his first-place spot in the academy, often switching places over the years. Sasuke, when he was younger, slightly resented it. But as he aged, he had learned to appreciate the competition. It made him better. Yet he could not deny he would enjoy finally settling the matter.

Neji would undoubtedly be a tricky opponent to deal with, but it is not an impossible hurdle. He respected his quest to attempt to rise in the station and offer his brethren the same. Sasuke even wished him success; none of that would stop him, though. His ambition would clash with Neji's; the one with greater ambition would overtake the other.

The day would be for the Uchiha.

He finally entered the courtyard. As he did, Neji marched in as well. Sasuke noted his eyes fearlessly locked with his. He seemed just as sure of his victory as Sasuke was. It mattered little to him. Truthfully, he knew he would win today.

Kakashi, the Copy Cat ninja, stood in between them. He seemed for all the world to be utterly interested in reading a smut book, of all things. It didn't fool Sasuke, though he could read the tension in his body and the intelligence in his eyes.

He stared at Neji, wondering just how strong he was. If Sasuke could have his way, he would win this without showing off too much of his kit. Best to start slow and crush him once he shows an opening.

Kakashi read off the rules, but Sasuke paid no heed; instead, they attempted to glare the other into submission. It wasn't effective, of course, but neither had activated their eyes yet. Both consented.

Kakashi seemed to vanish as he called. "Begin!"

Sasuke and Neji seemed to blur to many in attendance as they raced forward, each aiming to end the fight before it could start. Neji thrust his palm into Sasuke's face, hoping to stun him. Easily allow Neji to finish him with his Gentle Fist techniques. Sasuke casually leaned his head out its way and sent a hook to the counter. Neji slid under this, turning it into a slide tackle. Sasuke smirked as he allowed himself to be knocked off his feet, going with the force and drawing kunai as he did. This allowed him to meet eyes with Neji as he flipped now above him. He allowed his arrogance to show as he flicked his kunai for Neji's chest. Take a small amount of care to aim for non-vital areas. Neji didn't even seem to flinch as he flicked his fingers against the dull side of the kunai, deflecting them. They both skid as they turned, facing each other again. They blurred forward, Sasuke electing to launch kunai and shuriken at absurd speeds. Neji somehow deflected these with his bare hands as he met the charge. As they got within swinging distance of each other, Sasuke watched as Neji deflected and caught a kunai swinging it for his throat. Sasuke caught it with his own blade. The two paused as they attempted to overpower the other. Sasuke had to stop laughing as he released the kunai and landed a jab on Neji's ribs. The Hyuga grunted but, instead of flinching, landed a low kick that made Sasuke stumble. Sasuke used the stumble to dodge a palm to the chin. He barely managed to see Neji attempt to slam a palm into his ribs and desperately locked his hand with his. This seemed to shock Neji, and Sasuke used his hand to form a technique and smirked as Neji, this time, did flinch.

"Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu!" Sasuke called a giant fireball and raced forward. He lost sight of the Hyuga in the flames. Sasuke smirked before suddenly a wall of pulsating blue crashed into him. He saw darkness for an instant before he saw the ground racing towards him. He skidded on the ground painfully before he flipped onto his feet. He saw Neji standing about twenty feet away; the ground in that distance looked smoothed as if someone had sanded it.

"My kaiten technique is quite large now. Makes for a brilliant counter." Neji said smugly. Neji looked relatively unscathed, though the ends of the sleeves of his robes were charred.

"I suppose that tickled Hyuga. I was hoping to end this quickly. But you're not just hype; I should offer you the honor of taking this seriously." Sasuke offered graciously.

"Hmm, typical of a Uchiha to look down on someone," Neji responded. You shouldn't play with your betters."

"I haven't met any of those," Sasuke said with a wide smile. His Sharingan was now active. Despite the banter, both smiled at each other. A bit of respect had been won by the first clash. But now it was time for Sasuke to show just a little more. "Did you know just activating the Sharingan offers a Uchiha a litany of boost to the user. By activating it, my chakra grows, my speed increases, and I become more powerful. Truthfully, I hope you were holding back a good amount. The real fight begins now."

Sasuke wasted no more words for him. He surged forward and saw Neji flinch and prepare to spin, perhaps use that jutsu again. Sasuke stopped him with a mighty leg sweep. Neji's leg flew out from under him, and he fell to the ground. Before Neji could even touch the ground, Sasuke slammed his foot into his midsection with such force that it cracked the concrete beneath. He attempted to slam a fist into Neji's face, but the Hyuga managed to kick Sasuke back. It only stalled him for a moment. Neji wisely tried to rise to his feet. It only gave Sasuke a good target. He savagely slammed his knee into Neji's face. He skidded back as Sasuke weaved through hand signs.

'He's nearly twice as fast!' Neji thought as he attempted to land on his feet.

"Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu!" Sasuke called his jutsu, smaller than a human earlier, the size of a large boulder. Impressively, Neji managed to jump to his feet and call out his own technique.

"Kaiten!" He barely managed to get it up in time. The fireball was quickly dispersed by it. But Sasuke had expected such; he raced in just as the dome dissipated. Only to nearly be beheaded by a palm to his face. He stumbled back, shocked Neji had managed to react to him. "Byakugan!" Neji called out with a frown. The two paused to glare at each other.

'Damn it! I wanted to end things before he could get going!'

Neji's POV

'He nearly finished me before I could even get warmed up!' Neji thought angrily.

Sasuke Uchiha had thought he was an easy mark. Time to show what hand-to-hand with a Hyuga was really like. Neji surged forward. Sasuke looked to dodge a palm strike and was shocked when Neji jabbed his left forearm. Sasuke flinched in pain at that. Neji launched a kick for his face on his left side. Neji saw him attempt to block the kick, but his arm lagged behind, likely useless from the gentle fist strike. Neji's foot slammed into Sasuke's face, sending him skidding along the ground. Neji shared the same ruthlessness Sasuke had shown earlier, chasing him down and slamming his palm into Sasuke. Sasuke screamed shrilly before bursting into inky smoke that wrapped around his limbs!

"Kai!" Neji screamed, allowing him to see Sasuke throwing a kunai at him as he leaped back. Neji dodged it messily, somewhat out of sorts, but confident despite it. He eyed Sasuke, who seemed to be scanning his arm with his Sharingan. "Painful, as I'm sure you are aware of. Closed-off chakra points can be quite the injury. A single-point shutdown can affect an entire limb. You are skilled, but can you fight when down an arm?"

"Unlikely…" Sasuke replied plainly. "Though not impossible to fix."

Neji nearly laughed at this. "Perhaps if you were a Hyuga instead of a Uchiha, sure. Though your eyes will be unable to locate the chakra point. They lack the visual prowess to do such. I ensured to aim for one you are blind to. No bigger than a grain of rice."

"I see it." Sasuke replied. Before Neji could offer his doubt, he saw the chakra surge healthily in the affected arm. Sasuke drew a scroll with shocking speed and summoned a giant windmill shuriken. He spun in place to increase the speed and power of the throw. Buying Neji just enough time to leap to the left of it. His eyes allowed him to see a second one spinning through the air behind, aimed to bisect him,

'Hidden in the shadow of the first. Wise.' Neji thought as he fired an air palm against the ground to raise him above the blade.

"Expected." Sasuke countered calmly. As he made a hand seal, the shuriken below Neji exploded into fragments. Several scratched Neji before managing a mid-air Kaiten to repel the rest. Sasuke merely yanked his hands back, revealing wire held in both. The wire tightened around the Kaiten before suddenly the Kaiten faded, allowing the wire to tighten around Neji. "Disappointing," Sasuke said with a frown before he weaved yet more hand signs. "Fire Style: Dragon Flame Jutsu!" A powerful, searing stream of flames raced along the wire set to incinerate Neji before suddenly Neji stomped, and two pillars of earth shot up, breaking the wires and blocking the fire. Sasuke's eyes widened as he shifted his stance with a grin. 'He was holding back!'

"Earth Style: Earth Shrapnel!" Neji called as he slammed his hands into the pillars of the earth. Both suddenly broke down before the debris of such shot forward with a whistle through the air. Sasuke stumbled back, managing to dodge most but suffering a scratch on his cheek. Neji wasn't bothered as he suddenly was launched forward by a plank of earth that launched him like a catapult. Neji was within striking distance by the time Sasuke turned back. Sasuke surged forward; in a split second, he had, Sasuke had summoned his famed fiery Katana. It mattered little, for Neji's technique was bigger. "Ten Yari!" Neji yelled as he spiraled his own body towards Sasuke. A chakra shell similar to the Kaiten formed around him but was more of a rough line than the sphere it usually was. The mass of chakra smashed into Sasuke, sending him flying into the forest. Neji bounced off the ground once disorientated from the spinning before landing on his feet roughly. Waiting to see if Sasuke would-.

Sasuke's POV

'That was way too close. If that had hit fully, it would've knocked me out, if not killed me.' Sasuke thought as the unaware Neji was rendered speechless by Sasuke's knee driving into his ribs. Neji stumbled back; Sasuke allowed such as he suddenly was behind Neji, stomping a foot into the crook of Neji's knee. Neji cried out as he dropped to his knees; Sasuke slammed his foot into Neji's back, forcing him against the ground. The Hyuga, likely shocked or in pain, was frozen as Sasuke lowered his head to address him.

"I am much too fast for you." Sasuke said simply before he flickered away.

With a roar, Neji rose to his feet, seeming infuriated by Sasuke's behavior. Sasuke merely smiled as he prepared his next assault. Neji seemed to flinch as Sasuke punched him in the face. Neji, with grit, managed to stay on his feet, lashing out with a wild palm thrust. Sasuke merely appeared above, driving both his feet into Neji's skull and slamming him into the ground.

"You should surrender." Sasuke offered to the damaged Neji, who rose to his feet. "You won't be able to contest my technique."

"I learned from a good friend that one shouldn't back down merely because the odds are against them." Neji offered. "Besides, every technique has a weakness."

Sasuke felt his rage fly at those words. He had said them before he had been taken, accused of helping the Uchiha. "Every technique has a weakness." He had said it plenty of times as he had helped Sasuke train.

"How dare you." Sasuke said furiously. Neji raised a brow quizzically, but Sasuke only saw red.