*Chapter 8: The Final Exam and the Seeds of War*

After a few days of recovery, Himanshu was back on his feet, albeit still feeling the lingering effects of the Curse Mark. The preliminary matches for the third phase of the Chunin Exams were announced, and the tension in the air was palpable. Genin from different villages eyed each other warily, alliances shifting and forming in the shadows.

When the preliminary matches began, the air in the stadium was electric. Divyansh and Himanshu watched closely, studying their opponents' techniques and analyzing their weaknesses. They knew that every match was a chance to learn, to grow stronger.

In his match, Divyansh faced Kiba Inuzuka, the hot-headed shinobi from the Inuzuka clan, known for his partnership with his dog, Akamaru. As expected, Kiba used his speed and ferocity to try and overwhelm Divyansh. But Divyansh's training paid off. Using the Shadow Clone Jutsu to confuse Kiba, Divyansh managed to outmaneuver him, landing a decisive blow with a Rasengan—a jutsu he had started to practice in secret. The crowd erupted in cheers, surprised by the young Uzumaki's skill.

Himanshu's match was against Yoroi Akado, a shinobi with the ability to absorb chakra. Himanshu knew he couldn't afford to let Yoroi get close, or he'd be drained of his strength. He activated his Sharingan, reading Yoroi's movements with ease. As Yoroi lunged to grab him, Himanshu dodged and countered with a powerful Fire Style: Fireball Jutsu, knocking Yoroi out of the ring. The match was over in seconds, showcasing Himanshu's growing prowess.

As the preliminaries concluded, Team 7 stood among the remaining genin, ready for the final round of the Chunin Exams. However, the brothers knew that the real test would not be the matches in the arena, but the dark forces moving behind the scenes. Orochimaru's influence was spreading, and the Sand Village had its own plans, with Gaara being the key to their strategy.