The semifinal matches leading up to the grand final between Makima and Minato were treated with far less drama than Kushina's chaotic debut. Both Makima and Minato dispatched their opponents with such rapid, clinical efficiency that it only served to highlight their isolation at the peak of the Academy.
Makima faced Hana again. This time, Hana tried to use complicated, area-of-effect jutsu to overwhelm Makima's precision. Makima allowed Hana to trap her in a small, enclosed space, anticipating a surprise attack. Hana used a basic Earth Release jutsu to create a pitfall.
Makima didn't use a grand escape. She simply used her superior Taijutsu speed and precise chakra jumps to leap out of the way before the ground gave entirely, landing perfectly behind Hana. Makima's movement was laser-precise, not a single degree of extra movement, and she dispatched Hana with a single, non-damaging strike to a pressure point on her neck, rendering her immobile.
The match lasted less than twenty seconds. Makima won by pin/submission, an effortless demonstration of physical and technical superiority.
Minato's final opponent attempted to use a long-range trapping technique, throwing weighted wires and explosive tags. Minato responded with a dazzling display of Shurikenjutsu, but refined beyond standard practice. He didn't just throw kunai; he threw them to deflect each other, creating complex, crisscrossing trajectories that completely shredded the opponent's traps.
He then followed the last throwing knife with his body, closing the distance instantly and ending the match with a perfectly controlled forearm lock and submission hold.
Minato's match also lasted less than twenty seconds.
Both finalists had won using only their natural gifts—speed, control, and efficiency. Neither had shown off high-level, chakra-draining spectacle. It was a victory of pure, distilled ninja skill, setting the stage for a final that promised not chaos, but perfect, controlled confrontation.
Kishou, the instructor, stepped into the arena hours later, the buzz of excitement electric in the air.
"The final match will test control, endurance, and strategy," he announced. "First to three points wins. Points are awarded for successful pin/submission, disarmament, or forcing the opponent out of bounds. The use of all known Jutsu is permitted, but all attacks must be non-lethal and must stop short of serious injury."
Makima and Minato walked to the center of the ring. They stopped three meters apart.
Minato's blue eyes were respectful, but intense. "It's an honor to face you, Utatane-san. You are flawless."
Makima's gold eyes held a profound, predatory warmth that had nothing to do with feigned shyness. "Likewise, Minato-kun. I have waited for this. Please, show me your true will."
The air between them crackled, not with chaotic power, but with perfect, opposing control.
"Begin!"