Incredible fight scene. Just... wow. Neji's probably not dead, just severely beaten. I hope this serves as a wake-up call for the guy. I also loved how Naruto was able to use what he'd learned from his team to defeat Neji - how to block the jyuuken, and how to fool the Byakugan. It was a sweet reminder of the time Naruto pranked Kurenai. Thanks.

A novel way to introduce Jiraiya. I loved the Kurenai-rant. Just... loved. Her reasoning for allowing another teacher to take her students in preparation for the exam seemed logical - no favouritism here! Naruto's addition to the con was priceless. Naruto, you rock!

Turning down the Toad Summoning? I'm actually impressed! And for a very Team8!Naruto reason. This Naruto may not have to rely on raw power jutsus in order to win, what with his ability to strategise and see 'underneath the underneath'.

Like above, Lee's betting on Naruto was probably the BEST part of that chapter. Rock Lee = great.

Sakura's introspection was well done, and showed a maturity of thought that doesn't come to her until a LOT later. She's no longer purely fangirling Sasuke, but seeing him as a person. A flawed person. His jumping into training again is very Sasuke, being the driven avenger he is. Doubtless, he saw he has a LOT to learn if the dead last can knock him out in one second flat. Makes me wonder if any of Team 7 were watching the match with Neji.

Still no news on Shino's opponent? Damn. Have to wait til next time then!

The Hyuga elders discussing Naruto sent a shiver down my spine - now that Neji has been beaten, what will they do? Assassination's almost out of the question because of the ANBU still watching over Naruto. Or have they been recalled in light of Naruto's progress?

But this was an absolutely AWESOME chapter. Thank you very much.