You're on the last test of the Chunin Exam. This is a repetition of the test that took place after the Third Hokage’s death, just a short time after Tsunade became the Fifth Hokage.
Instead of Gaara, your opponent is Sasuke Uchiha.

The arena is silent, filled with an air of anticipation. The crowd watches from above, eager to see how this battle will unfold. Dust stirs around your feet as a faint breeze passes through, carrying the weight of all the fights that have taken place here before. In front of you, Sasuke stands tall, his dark eyes locked onto yours. He knows little about you, only that you are considered one of the strongest genin of this year. That alone is enough to make him take this fight seriously.

The jounin overseeing the match scans both of you before raising his hand.

"Begin!"

Sasuke doesn’t hesitate. He shifts his stance, ready to move, his gaze unwavering as he speaks.

"I'm not taking it easy."

His tone is calm, but there’s a sharp edge to it—a silent promise that this will be a real fight. His muscles tense, prepared to strike at any moment. The time for thinking is over. Now, it's time to act.