Chapter 121: Shikamaru’s Stunning Performance

The next few matches had occasional Pokémon appearances, but there were no instances where both sides had Pokémon.

These matches were also relatively unexciting, with victory always going to the side possessing a Pokémon.

After all, having a Pokémon was like having an extra teammate. Even if the Pokémon were only around level ten, they still made a significant difference.

"Next match, Nara Shikamaru of Konoha vs. Temari of the Sand!"

Upon hearing Genma Shiranui's announcement, Ryo's eyes lit up.

Cynthia, seated beside him, had a similar reaction, her gaze filled with anticipation.

If anyone had gained the most knowledge about Pokémon during this time, it was undoubtedly Nara Shikamaru.

In the contestant waiting area, both Shikamaru and Temari leaped into the arena as soon as their names were called.

Facing his opponent, Shikamaru sighed, his energy already drained. "Women… such a hassle."

Temari's eyes twitched in irritation. "What? You think women are inferior?"

Shikamaru shook his head. "Not at all, just… troublesome."

"Hmph—"

With a snort, Temari unfurled her giant fan and swung it toward Shikamaru.

As she did, a blade of wind shot from the fan, hurtling straight at him.

Shikamaru's eyes widened as he dodged swiftly. "Hey, hey, the match hasn't even started yet!"

"Hmph—"

Temari scoffed. "Once it starts, I'll show you what happens when you underestimate me."

Shikamaru sighed in exasperation, deciding not to argue further.

Genma, watching from the sidelines, furrowed his brow and glanced at Temari before ultimately saying nothing.

Instead, he simply announced, "Begin!"

The moment the match started, Temari dashed toward Shikamaru, her fan at the ready.

Shikamaru, however, remained calm. As soon as she stepped into range, his hands formed a seal, and his shadow slithered across the ground like a living entity.

Closing the distance rapidly, his shadow connected with Temari's before she could react, binding her in place.

Shikamaru smirked. "Rushing in without knowing your opponent's abilities is a rookie mistake. Haven't they taught you that in your village?"

Temari gritted her teeth, not answering. Instead, she muttered under her breath, "Mienfoo, use Surprise Palm!"

Shikamaru's eyes flickered in alarm. Just as he attempted to move, a sudden disturbance from behind caught his attention.

Glancing over his shoulder, he saw a red-and-yellow-furred, upright weasel standing there, its palm striking toward him.

His mouth twitched at the absurdity of the situation.

Then, without hesitation, he countered, "Deerling, Surprise Attack!"

Hearing his command, Temari instantly became more alert.

Then, from behind Mienfoo, a small green deer materialized out of nowhere.

Temari's expression shifted. "Mienfoo, dodge!"

But it was too late.

The next second, Deerling's attack landed, sending Mienfoo stumbling backward in pain.

Temari frowned, glancing at her Pokémon before glaring at Shikamaru. "When did you summon your Pokémon?"

She had been keeping an eye on him the entire time but hadn't noticed when the Deerling appeared.

Shikamaru, still looking disinterested, lazily replied, "Summon? I never withdrew it to begin with."

"Huh?"

Temari was momentarily stunned before shaking her head. "Impossible. I would have seen it."

Shikamaru patted Deerling's head and continued, "My Deerling has a skill called Camouflage. It allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, making it nearly invisible."

"Ever since I got it, I've been training that skill. Pretty useful, huh?"

Temari's initial surprise soon turned into skepticism. "Why would you tell me that?"

Shikamaru raised an eyebrow. "Tell you what?"

"Revealing your ability… aren't you afraid I'll counter it?"

Shikamaru waved a hand dismissively. "Not really. With the Pokédex, all Pokémon moves and abilities are recorded. Even if I don't tell you, you'll figure it out sooner or later."

He had long since accepted that nothing could remain a secret forever.

In the audience, Cynthia's eyes shone with delight.

Turning to Ryo, she said excitedly, "Finally, someone who actually takes Pokémon training seriously!"

Ryo nodded in agreement. "Yeah."

Most contestants treated Pokémon battles simplistically, focusing only on brute force.

Even Naruto and Kiba, despite their experience, had never thought about using abilities strategically.

Meanwhile, in the VIP seating area, Hiruzen Sarutobi and Orochimaru observed the match closely.

Orochimaru glanced at the Third Hokage. "Hiruzen, it seems Konoha is full of talent."

Truthfully, he was somewhat impressed. He hadn't expected Pokémon to be used with such tactical ingenuity.

Hiruzen chuckled, clearly pleased. "You flatter us. Your village's ninjas are quite formidable as well."

Elsewhere in the audience, the other contestants who had Pokémon watched with newfound interest.

Shikamaru's approach had given them an entirely new perspective—they realized for the first time that Pokémon battles weren't just about using moves mindlessly.

Back in the arena, the battle continued.

Despite her grudging admiration, Temari steeled her resolve. "Even so, I won't lose. Right, Mienfoo?"

"Mienfoo!"

Her Pokémon nodded firmly, eyes locked onto Deerling.

Shikamaru sighed, shaking his head. "See? Women are so troublesome."

"Deerling!"

Deerling nodded in agreement as if sharing his frustration.

Temari twitched at their synchronized reaction. "You're so annoying! Stop acting like an old man."

Then, with a sharp swing of her fan, she roared, "Scythe Weasel Technique!"

At once, razor-sharp wind blades surged toward Shikamaru.

Watching the approaching attack, he grimaced and swiftly grabbed Deerling, dodging side to side to evade the barrage.

Even as he moved, he muttered under his breath, "Ugh, what a pain… If only I didn't have to take this stupid exam."

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