Chapter 7:

Saisho No Suteppu:

A/N

Yo!

I received another comment from a guest!

I wanted to thank you for taking your time to explain that to me so thoroughly, I truly appreciate it! I understand so much better now, I had no idea Naruko was such a cool part of the Naruto fandom. Thank you as well for explaining the reason why she is listed as a character, and the variations of Sasuke as a female character.

I actually just tried out reading one, and it sounds like a really fun idea! I think a story based around that could turn out beautifully! If anyone has good suggestions of favorite Naruto or Sasuke fanfictions I would love to hear them!

I also wanted to let everyone know that I feel kind of bad replying to guests or some people without accounts as 'guest' so if any of you want, you can come up with a name to call yourself and put it before a comment and then I will know who you are! I have no idea if these comments are from the same person or not, so if you would like to call yourself something, I can appreciate your kind comments to the fullest. Though, if you would rather just be guest, that is perfectly fine! I just wanted to let you know that it could be a possibility:)

I have a small question and if you don't wish to answer or you can't, that is completely okay. But I was wondering if anyone had a favorite character?

Konoha was quite beautiful this time of year. It was the bridge between sweltering hot summer days and the dry hollow season of winter. It rarely snowed in the land of fire, which would be the only highlight to the dark season, but sadly the most snow, Konoha had gotten in the last 20 years was a single flurry and every other winter day had been bitterly cold and empty.

Many of the trees were in the midst of changing color and for most; the weather was a perfect degree of low 60s. On this certain day, it was particularly wonderful what with how the sky shone the sun rays from behind the light gray clouds. There had been an early rain that morning and the village was just experiencing the after effects of the small sprinkle. The air was cold when you first stepped out into it, but after time you would become used to it, and the sun rays would warm your skin.

Sasuke was probably the only person in Konoha to notice the beauty of the day itself. He was twisting his fingers and pulling on the hem of his shirt as he watched the natural phenomenon. He was in a particularly good mood today, despite his anxiety, but he couldn't explain why. Even with the foreboding of the new class and the unknown that linger overhead, he couldn't shoulder passed the fact that he felt good today.

The raven stood outside of the academy doors waiting for the approaching class to begin. He had been standing outside the school for the last hour because he was unable to sleep due to nerves and worries of the upcoming bonding. He wanted to ask Kakashi if it was possible to avoid all personal questions but he turned that idea down immediately. He didn't need to be any more trouble for the gray haired man.

Sasuke was leaned against the doorway with his arms crossed, he pinched the bridge of his nose when he felt like yawning for what felt like the hundredth time that morning. He knew that the other students and sensei were going to be arriving soon. He was just going to try and get through the day as seamlessly as possible. He knew this wasn't going to ever be an accurate outcome, but it comforted him to think about.

He stretched his neck in a circle, the long haired boy next to him winced when he heard the many 'pops' his bones created as he twirled his head in a circle.

He smirked at the disgusted look on Neji Huga's face. Both young Huga heirs had arrived at the academy, even before Sasuke himself. Neji hadn't been too adamant to explain, but with a little coaxing from his younger cousin, he loosened his tongue.

Apparently, Neji had thought he could get some extra credit if both he and his cousin showed up early, which to Sasuke, sounded awfully stupid but didn't comment about it. After Neji's short explanation he had sneered at Sasuke, but the female Huga had given him a small but reassuring smile. Neji brushed her off of course and stared blankly at the wall while keeping watch for danger. Sasuke had chuckled softly at the two and the way they interacted with each other, they both snapped their heads towards the sound of the laugh; Neji looking very on guard. The raven just shrugged, he wasn't trying to start something, so he sent a friendly smile to the two. He knew it was condescending and annoying but he couldn't help it. The two in turn to his un-bashed grin, blushed identically and looked away, although Neji was in far more haste than his cousin.

Finally at around 7:46, Neji had been annoyingly counting the minutes, the other rookies began to show up themselves.

Sasuke barely had time to prepare, before 3 female Kunochi appeared on the path heading straight toward him. As they approached, Sasuke noticed the way Hinata shrank back from her casual position of watching an unsuspecting Jeweled beetle on the ground, to a timid and rigid stance beside Neji.

Sasuke placed an empty scowl on his face as the three intruders took their place next to the other occupants of the front of the school. Sakura was the first to stop and greet Sasuke with a smile. Tenten trotted towards Neji and although he gave her an almost smile; Sasuke couldn't be quite sure if he was happy. He assumed he was though, when she took a place against the wall next to him, he surprisingly let her without any complaint.

Before the three girls arrived the air had been filled with a comfortable sort of silence, but now everything was tense and many eyes were wondering around, occasionally catching someone's and then they would be forced to try and make small talk. Sakura and Ino were giggling amongst each other but that did nothing to ease the stress of the situation.

Sasuke was relieved when ten awkward minutes later more students began to arrive as did some of the sensei. Now the only people who hadn't arrived were…Sasuke calculated in his head ticking off the people as he remembered them. He came to the conclusion that the only two missing were Guy sensei and his favorite student Lee. Sasuke could already feel the strain on his senses as more and more people crowded around him. His face scrunched up as he felt Kiba's burning aura. Kiba shouldered past him, 'accidentally' bumping his shoulder in the process. Akamaru barked atop his head and looked as if he was upset, but Sasuke couldn't tell. Sasuke didn't see Kakashi either but he figured as much. The man was notorious for being late, and he didn't think even Iruka's wrath could change the older man's mind.

Lee came trotting up the road, well as best as someone could trot with to crutches under his arms. He was followed by Guy, who in Sasuke's opinion looked very worried for his student. He hovered over him in a parenting sort of way. Lee didn't even seem to notice as he tried his best to run up to where everyone was standing. Sasuke felt a twinge in his gut at how hard Lee was attempting to look normal and okay, he dismissed the sour thought and looked around at all the looks of pity being shot towards the young ninja. Lee was grinning despite the sad looks being sent toward him and Sasuke was stopped by the unexpected admiration he held for the boy. He screwed up his face and hardened his eyes.

"Morning, Lee" He pushed of the wall with his foot and walked a little ways from the academy. Lee's expression didn't change, but his two teammate's did, and very dramatically at that. Neji looked on guard and stared skeptically at Sasuke and Tenten looked about ready to pounce on him. Note to self, don't get on Tenten's bad side.

Guy decided to talk to Sasuke as if he addressed him and not Lee, "It's nice to see your youthful attitude today!" Guy shot him a grin and his white teeth practically blinded him.

Lee smiled at his sensei, and turned to Sasuke, "What has brought on this sudden interest in me?" he asked, his eyes then darkened noticeably, "Is this your way to challenge me?"

Sasuke smirked immediately, he liked where this was going. "You said I could have a rematch last time we battled, or did you forget?"

Lee looked taken aback but a fire was ignited in his eyes, one that Sasuke hadn't seen in a while, "I've been training and I have some new moves to try out" He raised his eyebrows challengingly at Lee and waited for his response.

Lee squinted at him and smiled brightly but also full of determination, "I wouldn't expect anything less from an Uchiha, I will be ready to fight you soon enough! As soon as I heal from my last battle it will be to my upmost satisfaction to fight you again!" Sasuke smirked and watched as he turned towards his sensei and his eyes widened in realization, "Guy sensei! Does this mean I have an eternal rival like you!?" Guy's eyes also widened comically and he jumped for joy, accidentally knocking Lee over in the process. Neither ninja seemed to mind as they started comparing their two rivals.

It took sasuke a moment to realize what he had just done, Sasuke felt a little horrified as he thought about what becoming Lee's 'Eternal Rival' entitled too. His face went blank as he listened to the many different battles that Lee already had planned for him.

Sakura giggled as she was watching the scene play out, "Sorry, Sasuke" she patted him on the shoulder matter-of-factly. "Now look what you have gotten yourself into."

Sasuke moved away from Sakura and continued to listen to Lee excitedly speak to his sensei, "I'm going to have to heal twice as fast now! The sooner I get back to health, the sooner I can train and can battle my new rival!" he fist pumped in the air and ran to Neji as best he could. Neji, who had heard the whole conversation, still had to hear Lee's reenactment of the conversation just held between himself and Lee.

Sasuke smiled lightly and Sakura stepped back in shock at the look on his face. She quickly recovered but still was inwardly surprised, "This is worth having to endure whatever he has to throw at me."

The students and sensei made their way through the halls of the academy in quiet chatter. Some voices were filled with excitement while others were complaining or running their mouth about their ninja skills. Sasuke tried to focus on one group's individual conversation but he couldn't quite catch what anyone in particular was saying. Try as he might, he couldn't figure out what any of the conversation was really about, he caught words here and there but that didn't add up to a whole lot of information. Among the many talkative students and sensei something was still very wrong with the situation but Sasuke couldn't put his finger on exactly what. As they all scattered through many different hallways and turns down small doorframes, that they carelessly raced to get through first, silence eventually fell over the large and unlikely group. Once Asuma, who was guiding them on where to go, stopped; everyone crashed into the person in front of them not expecting the sudden movement or just not paying attention, too nervous about what might lie ahead.

Sasuke had been squished by Ino who giggled fitfully while he shoved her off as fast as he could. Silence slowly over took the entire group as they looked at the door that led to the Announcement Hall. Now looking at it, Sasuke felt as if the door had grown in size and become much more intimidating. Asuma even looked apprehensive about going through it.

Neji who had been last in the line of ongoing people and hadn't run into anyone, stated out loud for all of the students to hear, "Something's wrong." He looked around suspiciously.

Everyone else did the same, wondering what his byakougan might have sensed. It was Guy who asked Neji why he thought that and he narrowed his eyes in both thought and irritation. "I don't know exactly, something is just off."

The Huga girl who had taken place walking right in front of him walked forward slightly so that Guy could see her. "N-No I- I sense it too, doesn't it just seem oddly quiet." Sasuke raised an eyebrow in question at her but he couldn't tell if she was paying enough attention to notice, after having to speak in front of so many people she was quite discombobulated.

Whispers and murmurs broke out through the small group and Sasuke began to feel like this was getting really stupid, and he confirmed his thoughts as Kiba jumped out of line from the group and looked around suspiciously, "Your right! It's too quiet…." He bobbed his eyebrows annoyingly and made a weird grin that oddly reminded Sauske of…..Naruto.

Sasuke's head bolted up right and his eyes lit up, surprising Shikarmaru who had been lazily leaning against the wall next to him.

"What! What is it?! Guy Sensei? I think Sasuke figured out what is wrong!" Lee shouted to his sensei so that everyone in the hall would quiet down and hear the explanation.

"Of course your eternal rival would figure it out! He's already trying to one up you, Lee!" Guy smirked and his teeth sparkled in Sasuke's direction.

Sasuke straightened his back to a perfect point as he felt the eyes of all his classmates fall on him. His large coal colored eyes tried to find comfort as he was forced to give his idea out loud to everyone. His eyes ended up resting on Shikamaru because his lax position gave him clarity and cleared his mind from his hatred of being watched.

He raised his chin, this was nothing compared to the Chunin exams, and he locked his eyes on the big door now that he was calm.

"It's not a big deal, we just forgot about Naruto." There was a beat, then Asuma coughed into the silence and everyone, besides a select serious few, burst into a fit of laughter.

Sasuke had let out a soft chuckle at the fact that Naruto, even when he wasn't there could cause such trouble. Sakura wiped a small tear from the bottom of her eyes, and asked the question that no one yet had the courage to ask, "So…Where does that mean he is?" everyone knew what 'he' was referring to and the hall was shrouded in another wave of silence, this time, it being much more thoughtful and confused.

Sasuke knew that Naruto would never skip a class like this. It was unfathomable to him, for Naruto not to attend, because his father was Iruka, who seemed to be pretty on board with the idea of the class.

A loud crash and a curse could be heard from within the Announcement hall. Everyone's head snapped to the door and a smirk snuck its way onto Sasuke's face as he realized what created the noise.

Kurenai wrenched opened the door upon hearing the loud and prominent curse. She had shoved passed everyone to the front and she looked about ready to kill. Sasuke watched with fascination as shock dawned on her motherly face. Sakura dead panned beside him as she watched the idiot blond balancing on one leg on a latter as he filled the top of the chalk board in with a repetitive sentence.

Sasuke sauntered over to Naruto and smirked as he leaned against the latter he was tiptoeing on.

"What's up dobe?" he asked smirking, he couldn't resist poking fun at the boy.

Naruto looked down at all the people looking up at him and started to giggle. He rubbed the back of his head as many incoherent words slipped passed his lips. Sakura stomped up to his side, her cheeks were red and her eyes narrowed.

"NAR-RU-TO! What do you think you're doing?" She was very embarrassed and didn't like the sheepish look the blond was giving her.

"Uh, hu…well you see Sakura-chan, he he, I just…well…I." he continued to blubber on while chaotically waving his hands in the air.

Sasuke decided to clear up the situation for the boy, it seemed to him that he had suffered enough. He turned to the chalk board to see what he was writing on it and understood the situation immediately.

I will not touch anything that could possibly break. I will not touch anything that could possibly break. I will not touch anything that could possibly break…

"Naruto, Shut up. What did you break?" Sasuke asked still unable to make his smirk disappear.

"Oh! You bastard that's none of your busine-whoa! Ahhhh!" Naruto shouted as Sakura kicked the Latter he was on, and started to wobble back and forth as he tried to regain his balance. In moments the blond was rubbing his head and moaning in pain on the ground.

"Sakura-chan, what was that for?" he whined in agony.

"You're embarrassing our team in front of everyone! Get up and at least pretend like we're respectable ninja!" Sakura whisper/yelled at Naruto. Sasuke leaned over and helped him up just as Iruka appeared behind the group. He was carrying a large crate and his face held a look of embarrassment and confusion.

He instantly started to explain the situation in an orderly fashion.

"See Naruto and I came in early to prepare for the class I was going to teach, but he broke an ancient vase that was sitting in the corner when he was trying to sweep the floor. I uh…well I told him to write as many lines on the chalk board as he could before I got back. Apparently he got out of hand," He glared pointedly at Naruto, "and decided to use a latter to fit more words on the board, we'll be talking about this later Naruto." He finished a little more than slightly agitated.

"AWWW, but Pops-"

"No buts Naruto." He stated firmly.

Sasuke felt bad for Naruto as he stood dejectedly, looking at Iruka guiltily. Iruka attempted to sort out the situation and make sure no one was left confused. Once everyone was settled, Iruka took place at the front of the class.

You can tell when someone is a social light when they happily set themselves center stage and rub their hands together in excitement to start speaking. Iruka almost looked giddy as everyone waited with curiosity and interest. He waited as long as he possibly could, even after all the students seated themselves comfortably, he still didn't speak. It was obvious that he was trying to work up everyone's anticipation. Because Sasuke had time after finding his chair on the farthest side of the room, the one he sat in the day before, he took his opportunity to look around at all the other students.

It seemed as if all the young ninja were creatures of habit and routine. From what Sasuke could remember it looked as if all the students had sat in the exact same chairs and seats as the day before. Asuma seemed to looking at the same thing and he shook his head and chuckled to Kurenai. All the sensei stood on the right side of the room next to the windows. Sasuke liked looking out the windows. It was still really a beautiful bright day even through the fog of the window glass. Sasuke wished he had sat close to them but he had chosen a spot farthest from the windows. The raven didn't even think about it, he just stood up and without hesitation walked over and seated himself down on an empty chair closest to the right. Sasuke ignored all the eyes flutter to him at his sudden movement and didn't feel the need to explain his seating change. He was now three rows back. The chairs in the Announcement Hall were set up so as the farther you went back the chairs also turned up in a slant. Sasuke was now a couple feet higher than he was before. He looked around to see who he was close to and scowled when he noticed he had seated himself between two evils. Kiba, and bug boy were both talking…Kiba was talking animatedly and bug boy was listening intently one row below him. Above and behind Sasuke, were three deadly girls. Why did they have to travel in packs?

Sasuke put his head in his hands but retracted them before anyone could see. At least Sakura was there…

He looked down his row and saw that no one else had bothered to sit in it all the way down to the opposite side, he smirked.

Iruka finally cleared his throat to get everyone's complete attention.

"Hello everyone and I'm so happy you all could make it to this class." Iruka said smiling proudly at all the students. Sasuke wanted to slap Naruto who decided it was the best idea to already raise his hand and ask a question.

"Um..Yeah..Pops? Kakashi sensei isn't here so you can't start." Naruto declared.

Iruka rubbed his temples clearly annoyed at being interrupted. He then smiled at his son, because after all, he was just looking out for his sensei.

"Yes, Naruto, I see that your sensei, King of the early morning dawdle, is unsurprisingly late again. He already knows most of what I'm going to explain, so I'm going to try my best to continue what I was saying. But, it was still very kind of you to remember Kakashi." He nodded his head, smiling happily at his son.

"As you know, you have been gathered here today for the announcement of the new class and training sessions you are to be taking. The sensei and I had multiple discussions about our village unity, and how if we are all separated we cannot fight as one. We have also found that there is a particular amount of rivalry between all you rookies, now I'm not saying rivalry is forbidden or in any way a bad thing, but you also can't be so competitive with each other that you are willing to let them get hurt for your own gain. You have also begun to influence the young ninja of Konoha to fight with each other." Neji shifted uncomfortably and gave a tentative glare to Lee who was below him sitting directly at the front of the class next to where all the sensei were standing.

"Due to recent events that have taking place, such as the last battle of the Chunnin exams, we have come to find that the Hokage wished for a more united next generation of shinobi.

"We made this 'Bonding' Class so you all could connect with each other and learn that you all aren't so different. So for all your first tasks, we all want you to put aside your rivalries and whatever you have against one and other and begin a new era of peace." Sasuke snorted and groans of distaste were heard throughout the entire room. Sasuke knew this wasn't going to work. You can't just force people to get along. Hey you, you who back stabbed me the other day, you want to be friends? Sasuke imagined this whole class falling to bits soon enough.

Tenten raised her hand, she looked like quite the model student with her back straight and shoulders squared.

Iruka sighed, "Yes Miss Tenten?"

Tenten lowered her hand and asked proudly, "I'm just curious, what are the entitlements to this 'class' and is there anything special we need to do to pass?" Many murmurs of agreement and worry met Iruka's ears and he threw on the best fake smile he could.

"I was getting there. you all just have to be patient, okay?" A couple laughs of amusement went around the room as Iruka gave Tenten a pointed look. "As I was saying, this class will not require any schooling materials except for those sheets I had given you all yesterday. Does everyone still have those?"

Nods of yes and small chirps of consolation could be seen, some students even went as far to wave their color coded sheets of paper in the air for confirmation that they had brought them. One hand raised in front of Sasuke and he glared down at the boy. Kiba had a guilty look on his face.

"Yes Kiba?" Iruka asked with concern.

"Uh sir, I don't think I can use my copy of the weird color coded paper.." Kiba said sadly looking down.

Sasuke squinted his eyes; he had never seen the dog boy look so guilty.

"May I ask why your paper would not be useable?" The teacher asked with nothing but worry on his face.

Kiba looked up with large dog like eyes, "Well ya see I…I…" he leaned back in his chair and smirked, "I wish I could say my dog ate it, but I can't so I guess I have to participate in this stupid class."

Iruka fumed red and Sasuke leaned back into his chair, he should have known better.

The class continued none the less, and soon Iruka was explaining how there would be one large project during the week and every day would be filled with smaller ones that Iruka will oversee. The large project would be completed with the sensei's help. If everyone passed in up to what Iruka and the sensei thought respectable, they would all be rewarded at the end of the week.

"This class is planned to go on for four weeks. Every week a different sensei will get to choose a bonding exercise you will have to complete, and that sensei will get to choose how to reward you also."

Naruto's excited hand raised, he was nearly bouncing in his seat.

Iruka rubbed his neck and pointed to his son, nodding his head.

"Ugh, thank you! Okay, so when do we get to use that cool new gear?!" The blond asked almost falling out of his seat. Everyone's interest piqued at that, and Sasuke couldn't even help waiting curiously for an answer.

Iruka smiled, nodding his head. "Of course that's what you all would be interested in. Fine, I'll tell you. Every day from early morning to lunch will be spent with me. Afterward for the rest of the day will be spent doing whatever the sensei chosen for that week tells you too. At the end of the day, if all goes well, you will be allowed to try out the gear for a couple of hours." Sasuke folded his arms, So the new gear is just a bribery tool.

Naruto whined audibly but perked up when Iruka continued, "Of course there is always the chance that one of the sensei choose to practice with the gear for the day?" he looked skeptically over at the sensei, and they all shifted on their feet, "I expect nothing but good and educational lessons from the sensei." They all nodded innocently at Iruka who was oblivious to their obvious grins. Sasuke now looking over at the sensei noticed that Kakashi had appeared alongside them. His eyes widened, When had he gotten here! Sasuke looked pointedly at his sensei trying to get the man's attention but he either seemed very engrossed in the conversation he was having with Guy, or he was ignoring Sasuke.

Sasuke scowled, he hated being ignored and he turned away. Sasuke peeked over one last time at Kakashi and saw that the man was watching him out of the corner of his eye. Sasuke sighed. He didn't think he would ever understand his sensei.

Iruka once again began to speak, "Okay, the sensei may leave now that the explanation is over with. It's time I will start my class." Slowly the sensei trotted out of the Announcement Hall, they all looked sadly back at their teammates and then trudged forward yet again. Once the door to the room was firmly shut, Iruka smiled.

"Okay class, everyone take out the color coded paper, and let's to get started."

"Kiba I can trust that you will find yours in no way shape or form 'eaten by your dog'"

Kiba turned bright red and sat in shock as Iruka said this. Students all around the classroom snickered at him in amusement.

Sasuke leaned over in his chair and pulled his satchel into his lap. He popped the button on it open and started rummaging through it. It didn't take him long before his fingers landed on the papers and he pulled them out. He scowled, the words 'WELCOME' were still written front and center on the yellow sheet and Sasuke still didn't understand the order in which the papers were organized. He sat them in front of him and looked to Iruka for an explanation. When Sasuke had gotten home the day before, he had tried everything with these papers. He tried writing on, which resulted in the ink he used to never dry and roll right off the page as if he hadn't touched it, he looked at both back and front of every sheet and didn't see anything on it. He scowled but he heard the sounds of paper flipping from around him, so he knew everyone would have theirs' out soon.

"So, I'm guessing you all are pretty confused about these papers?"

Everyone nodded and once again tried to prod or write on the weird pieces of a paper.

"Fear not my students these are simply just S-Rank ninja logs. If you don't' know what that is, allow me to explain. When a ninja is sent on an S-Rank mission, they are each given a log or an information book on what resources we have on that subject. It states what their job to do is, some maps on where to travel, even some hints on problems to avoid. Well, most obviously we can't have any stranger getting their greedy hands on the information." He stopped before continuing to make sure everyone understood.

"Good, so these log books are designed to hide all information besides those the person giving them out wants them too. These papers are actually part of the new gear, which have just recently been tested and put into action. I assumed you all would like to try it out so I gave us a chance here with my classes."

Ino from behind raised her hand high.

"Yes Ino?"

Ino sat up proudly, "Iruka sensei, I still don't understand?"

"Yeah me either, can you explain it again!? I don't think I was completely paying attention, sorry." Naruto shouted out, agreeing with Ino.

It was Sakura's turn to stand up now. She leaned over her long desk so she could see Naruto better.

"You numbscool! It obviously means that Iruka gave us the new Mission log paper to practice with because some day we might be using them!" Sakura finished with a self-satisfied smile. Iruka cleared his throat which immediately made the Pinkettes Grin disappear.

"I think it's best if you let me answer the questions from here on out?" When nothing was said and Sakura lowered her head, Iruka continued to explain.

Apparently Sakura had been correct and the paper was to practice with so they would be ready for future times when they might need it. It being blank and no one being able to write on it was a safety precaution because "the children wouldn't believe how many times Ninja had lost all their information by spilling something on it or someone had stolen the mission logs and ruined the entire nature of the mission.

Shikamaru being easily caught bored decided to speed things along, he raised his hand, "Sensei, I know I'm going to regret this, but how do we open them or get the information out?"

Iruka smiled happily at his student apparently not hearing the beginning of his sentence. "That's a good question, Mr. Nara."

Sasuke had never heard of these mission log books before and he was surprised that he hadn't. It was kind of cool how they have improved them though. He scowled down at the teacher for an unknown reason to himself and waited for him to explain. He didn't want to give Iruka the pleasure of being smarter or knowing more than them but he had to find out how to use the new mission logs.

"Watch and I will demonstrate." He waited a beat and then spoke, "Mission log, Wake up." He stated loudly across the room. Almost instantaneously the paper in front of Sasuke glowed the same electric looking blue the other gear had, the day before. The blue light encircled to the big 'WELCOME' in the middle of the page and filled each of the letters with it. Iruka continued, "Mission log, Show me, assignment 1" Again just as quickly as before the paper began to change. Words began to appear on the first sheet of paper. Sasuke tried to read them as fast as he could but it was taking too long for his liking for the words to appear. He could only make out a couple words at a time. It looked as if everyone else was trying to do the same as their heads were bent over their own pages too.

A sentence was finally typed and Sasuke took his first chance to read it.

'Operation Bonding Class, Assignment 1 of 5:

Assignment Name: About You.

Mission expectancy: The mission will be laid out over a 5 day period of time.

Assignment Objective: Get to know another rookie and begin to understand who they are.

Dangers of Mission: None.

Ninja needed to complete the assignment: 12 Rookies, Team 7, Team 8, Team 9, Team 10.

Sasuke got to the last word in less than ten seconds and scowled deeply when he did. He read back through it again and shot his head up to the sensei in the room, who was smiling like an idiot in Sasuke's opinion. About You? What the heck is that supposed to mean!? Get to know another rookie. All the words he just read on that page disgusted Sasuke, he almost threw up in his mouth. He looked around to see if anyone agreed with him, but some were giggling with excitement and looking to Iruka for an explanation. The select few who were giggling were mostly girls, that including, Sakura, Ino, and….Naruto? Ugh dobe.

Sasuke looked around some more and saw that Shikamaru was sleeping or at least trying to and the others looked calm ad almost happy to be having such a simple yet annoying assignment. The only people who looked as if they agreed with Sasuke were Neji, who was scowling, but he always was, so Sasuke couldn't tell, and Kiba and Choji, who were both whispering snarky remarks to each other. None of which Sasuke ever wanted to be in agreement with. He tried burning Iruka with his eyes, but the man didn't seem to notice and started to explain the specifics of their so called mission.

"Each of you will be put into pairs of two people. You will not get to choose who you are paired with and they cannot be on your immediate team." Sasuke's scowl stayed firm on his face as he listened, he really didn't like this. The rest of the class murmured words of disagreement. "This class is meant for bonding, so for the rest of the week you will sit beside your chosen partner, and try to get to know one and other as best as you can. You will see that on the next page in your Mission log, there is a list of helpful questions that will get you guys started on conversations and different subjects." Sasuke turned the page and saw that many different questions were indeed written on the paper, What's your full name, What's your parent's name, when is your birthday, what is your favorite color? Sasuke looked up with just his eyes, this had to be the stupidest thing to ever spend time doing in history. He knew he was being close minded, but heck he could be trapped in a cave and be productively helping more people than being in the class would allow.

"During the class each day, there will be small challenges that I will have you complete together as a team with your partner. By the end of the week I want a paper written about what you have learned about your partner and a detailed description of some certain facts that everyone here might not know. You will have to stand up in front of the class on Friday and read it out loud to everyone." Iruka smiled and Sasuke paled. He was hated talking in front of people, public speaking was worse than having to perform in front of them. He thought about going back and finding Garaa hoping he would kill him before the end of the week.

Tenten raised her hand, "When will we find out the groups?"

"Very soon actually, right after we close your mission logs."

Choji raised his hand, which surprised Sasuke because he was never all that interested in class back when they were in the academy, "How do we do that?"

"First I should tell you that when you get back home or have time to yourselves I would like each of you to come up with a password. The mission logs are all voice activated, right now they are all connected to my voice. But obviously we can't have that when you might need them for yourselves. No, you won't be able to look ahead on assignments, I'll keep those under my voice activation, but this certain assignment, for your practice can be controlled by you."

"Mission log, Assignment 1, you are no longer under my command. There now that, that's taken care of let me explain, when you want it to connect to your voice now, you will simply Say, Mission log, connect to I, Iruka, but you just substitute my name for yours. Then your voice is connected, afterward to have some more fun you can create any password you want to have to open it, this is not necessary of course for it is already transmitting through your voice but it's still fun. My password is blubbering catctis….Well it was..whoops." he grinned sheepishly at his students while frantically waving his hands stating that he was planning to change it, so don't look for his Mission Log Book.

"To turn them off, you simply say, Mission Log, It's time to sleep."

All the mission book's lights immediately went out and the words disappeared. All the students looked to Iruka, surprised. None had ever seen this kind of technology before and it was quite fascinating. Tenten in particular looked the most excited. Everyone couldn't wait to find out who they would be partnered with and ultimately spending the entire rest of week with either. Some mumbles filled the room, Shikamaru muttered how troublesome this was, and many asked the same thing.

"What if I don't get a good partner?!"

Sasuke rolled his eyes he really wished he hadn't let his temper get the best of him and had backed out of the class.

"Before we choose partners, I should let you know that there is no changing once you have been chosen and if you have any questions I will be happy to answer them."

No one made a sound. They were obviously all waiting with baited breath to see how and who they would be partnered with.

Iruka bent down to the box he had brought in earlier that morning and pulled out a small pouch looking bag. It was filled with something but no one knew what. He began to walk to the left side of the room when the early noon lunch gong rang throughout the room. That sound was so familiar to Sasuke, he had heard it every day when he was in the academy. It was the signal for the lunch hour and all the students immediately made sounds of annoyance as they realized what that meant.

"Sorry class, I guess we don't have enough time right now. Go to lunch and later today after you work with the other sensei, we will choose who you are partnered with. You all are dismissed"

More sounds of discontent and slight disappointment ran around the room. Iruka was smiling so much Sasuke thought he would explode. Then as everyone filed out into the hall, the chatter turned to one of excitement and curiosity.

Lunch hadn't gone so well for the Uchiha, apparently sitting at a lone table and glaring daggers at Choji as he passed by was not part of 'bonding'. Sasuke couldn't help but watch as Choji sat down at a table full of first year academy students. He growled in their direction and smugly when they all hurried away in another direction. He sat down triumphantly and waved someone over to come sit next to him. Sasuke watched it as if it was in slow motion, his brain was catching up to slow and his body already decided to react. He felt the kunai leave his fingertips and then everything began to speed up to normal time again. As soon as the weapon left his hadn he wished it hadn't, the kunai flew through the air at lightning speed and stuck in the wall just centimeters from Choji's head. Sasuke stood awestruck. Sasuke had made sure the kunai missed but still got his point across, even so unconsciously. After his little stunt Sasuke had been forced to endure a twenty minute long monologue in Iruka's office about being a team player and how he didn't want any funny business during the duration of the class. He wanted to scratch out his own eyeballs out after having to hear Iruka speaking for so long. He wondered how Naruto survived the man. Iruka didn't even let Sasuke explain that Choji had been bullying the younger students just because he was Genin now, and that theoretically Sasuke hadn't hurt anyone. Choji was perfectly fine, in his opinion.

He had missed half of lunch but it was lucky that Sasuke always ate fast. He was supposed to go and apologize to Choji and he would but he wouldn't mean it. If given the choice he would throw the kunai at his head again, even with the consequences. He knew it was wrong but Choji had done something his brother would have, and that kind of thing always set Sasuke off. Itachi used to act like he was so much better than him, given he was of course, but it still hurt. He wasn't going to let Choji do that to the innocent academy students if he could help it. He realized that he could have just asked the children to sit with him, but that would not be near as fun nor satisfying.

As the rest of the academy students began to file out of the cafeteria, Sasuke strode back in. As he passed by, all the younger kids stared at him with fear in their eyes. He ignored them and continued on. It was weird to be back in the academy, especially with students there. It had been one thing, to be hated by his peers when he first came, but an entirely different feeling to be feared and hated by the new generation. He guessed they had heard some of the stories from their parents about the other night and the destruction of the banquet. He wondered if they thought he had destroyed the party too. It was amazing how cruel little kids could be, a select few would lean over and whisper to their friend but Sasuke could only catch pieces of what was said. He didn't try too hard though and turned to grin madly at the younger students who were trying to get his attention by making funny faces at him. He chuckled when some more of the kids made funny faces back at him, but he stopped grinning when he noticed he was scaring the pants of some of the less brave children. He could feel their fear in their auras and he tried to block out the fact that he was the cause of it.

He made it back to his seat and stretched his arms. The day seemed like it was lasting forever. It was much easier to fill his time with training sure that was tiring and boring but at least it made the time pass. The lunch Hall gong rang for the second signaling that they better get their butts in gear and high tail out of the cafeteria. Sasuke grabbed his satchel he had left on the chair and filed out into the hall with the other students.

Sasuke wasn't too nervous when they made it back into the Announcement Hall. He didn't know what the sensei could be planning but he couldn't imagine anything worse than what Iruka did, so there wasn't much to worry about, his mind was off planning the destruction of the school so he wouldn't have to do any kind of presentation. Sasuke saw that the sensei had already gathered into the room, they looked anxious. He noticed that Iruka was giving them worried side glances, obviously concerned about what they had chosen to do. Guy was bouncing on the balls of his feet like an excited child and Kakashi and Asuma were giving evil smirks to each other. Kurenai was the only one to actually look like an adult that was going to try and run a classroom. Sasuke assumed that this first week would be her choice for their activities.

The Young Uchiha was proven correct when she stepped up to the middle of stage and Iruka stepped down, very morosely if you will.

"Hello class, as you may guess, I'm the sensei who gets to choose the activities for this week." She smiled warmly at everyone.

"Today we have an easy task and one that I think all of you will find quite interesting." Sasuke sat up straighter and narrowed his eyes.

"We are all going to switch teams and perform some different missions I have planned for this week. The sensei will each choose three of you to have on their team and we will try to create some bonds between each other. Today we will just be getting to know our team, and taking the genin test with your new sensei. The catch is, none of us sensei can choose a student we have already had on our team. Everyone understand? Good, now line up at the front of the class." Kurenai ordered. Iruka's jaw dropped and he began to splutter incoherently. He looked quite pissed that Kuranai had stolen his idea of picking different partners and even worse was that she was having the sensei choose which student they wanted to have on their teams.

Reluctantly all the students stood and made a perfectly straight line at the front of the classroom. Sauske thought the shocked faces of some of the students were quite amusing. He wasn't concerned about not being chosen, but by whom is what worried him. He didn't know who he would be teamed with for the week. He had, had a hard enough time trying to get along with his actual teammates and he had almost 6 months getting to know them! Every time one of the student's or sensei's eyes fell on Sasuke he squirmed inwardly, it did not help that his whole week rested gently in Kurenai's hands. He hated to admit it but there was a small jolt of something inside him that made him want to jump around and scream. He held his breath as the sensei gathered in front of them. He just hoped he didn't get Guy as a sensei. He didn't know if he would be able to withstand his annoying enthusiasm.

Kurenai smirked, "Attention, I will choose my team first because it is my week." Her voice cut through the air like a knife. Walking up and down the student line lazily, silence filled the hall. "After I call your name, I want you to come and stand beside me."

She cleared her throat in what felt like slow motion to Sasuke, he licked his lips. Sasuke heard someone sharply intake a breath but he couldn't tell who it was. He side glanced and tried to find where Naruto was standing. When his eyes landed on him, the blond immediately noticed. He gave Sasuke an encouraging thumb up and a goofy grin. Naruto then turned his head back to watching Kurenai most seriously.

Kurenai perched herself on the left side of the room. Sasuke just knew that she was torturing the children on purpose by moving as slowly as possible and looking every one of them in the eye.

"Mrs. Yamanaka, step forward please," At first no one moved or even breathed. It was as if the girl didn't even realize she was called upon. After a beat though, Ino lurched forward, she squealed loudly.

"Finally! I'm going to be on a team with another female!" she looked like she wanted to hug Kurenai but she opted for standing beside her proudly, "Okay Kurenai sensei, just choose some other really powerful teammates!" The female sensei grinned back at her new student. Apparently she had already planned what other teammates she wanted.

"Mr. Huga, will you please join me" Sasuke twitched.

Neji stepped forward reluctantly, he didn't look excited to be put on a team with the blond girl. Ino on the other hand was high fiving Kurenai on her choice and whispering ideas of into her ear. Sasuke could have sworn he saw the words Sasuke and Uchiha leave Ino's mouth but he considered the fact that he was just a cocky jerk.

Kurenai listened happily but it looked as if she had already made up her mind.

"And last, but certainly not least…" Sasuke gulped, and made sure to look anywhere but at her. He kept his shoulders back and steeled all his features.

Sasuke crushed his eyes shut as she said the name of her last teammate. On impulse he almost stepped forward but then the meaning of her words finally hit him.

"Mr. Uzimaki! Come and join your new team!" Sasuke's heart nearly stopped, it wasn't him. He couldn't say he felt relieved because that meant he was just stuck on a team with the other people who weren't chosen, but he let himself breathe for a moment. Naruto jumped up happily and attempted to high five Ino, who just stared at her new sensei confusedly. Apparently she was disappointed with Kurenai's choice of teammate. Naruto smirked and lugged an arm around Neji who blanched at merely being touched. "We're going to dominate anything that comes in our team's way! Believe it!"

"Okay, now that I have my team, Asuma, you can choose your team from the students second." She stepped away from the line and all of her new teammates followed behind her.

Asuma was pushed forward by Kakashi who snickered behind him. Sasuke watched apprehensively as Asuma shrugged his shoulders and stretched his neck. He gave a cocky grin to his students while holding his cigarette between his teeth. Asuma rubbed his chin in thought and Sasuke clenched his jaw.

"Humph, I guess I'll go with…" he paused and looked around with squinted eyes, "Mm, Huga? Yeah you, come up here." He pointed to the Huga Heiress and gestured for her to come stand by him. Sasuke could only see some of her reaction because they were separated by students in between them. He heard her squeak and couldn't resist leaning forward to watch her. Her aura spiked with emotion at being called upon. Her translucent white eyes found purchase on her cousin who didn't so much as meet her gaze. Sasuke glared at Neji and turned back to the Huga girl. She tentatively walked up to Asuma who seemed so tall compared to her now. Sasuke could feel her erratic aura morph into many different emotions. Sasuke clenched his fist but kept his mouth shut.

Asuma again looked around. Sasuke knew he wasn't going to be chosen. Asuma had never showed any interest in the Uchiha blood line, and would probably find it amusing for him to be left to deal with Guy as a sensei. "Uh…Lee….?" The smoking ninja said. Lee walked straight forward with his shoulders back. He looked very much like a soldier in Sasuke's opinion. "That is Brock Lee, Sir." He said sternly, but happily. "Yes, well I definitely want you" Asuma said while smiling warmly at the boy on crutches. Sasuke was happy that lee wasn't chosen last because of his injury. He tilted his head to the side and rolled his eyes, maybe Asuma wasn't so bad…

"Oh, and of course Uchiha." Asuma stated proudly. No one moved and sasuke didn't even look like his mid had recognized that he had been called upon.

I've been chosen by Asuma? Sasuke's black eyes looked like a deer that had been caught in the headlights. Around the room some whispering broke out as Sasuke tried to shake himself out of his revere. He walked up to Asuma numbly. The sensei slapped him on the back encouragingly. The man looked around at his team and widely grinned. "Yup, it's official, we will make a great team, I can feel it."

He then turned back to watch as Kakashi walked up to the rest of the group to choose his team, that leaving poor guy to be last. Sasuke watched in only half interest as Kakashi chose his team. His mind was swimming with confusion and flabberghast. For some odd reason his mind couldn't process the fact that he had a new team to work with. He tried to clear his mind though, and he hardened his eyes as to focus better. The huga girl and Lee stood beside him; both intent on watching the other teams being chosen. The only thing that had been said between the new teammates so far was something from Lee about being so lucky as to be on his eternal rival's team.

Kakashi was a usual wearing his mask and slanted headband. No one could quite see what emotion the man was feeling. Everyone was holding their breath to see what he would do. Sasuke knew though, he could feel his aura and something felt oddly mischievous about it.

The whit haired man slowly brought his hand up to his Jonin vest. He opened it up and revealed a single slip of paper. He shook out the page so it made a loud clashing noise and cleared his throat.

"Ah yes, the first on my team will be Dango, rice, and fish….?! Oops sorry this is my grocery list!" he scratched the back of his head while squinting his one visible eye. Sasuke rolled his eyes and chuckled at his sensei's lame excuse for a joke.

Kakashi put the piece of paper back in his jacket and steeled his facial expression. He looked much more like the ANBU leader he used to be and the students cowered slightly.

"Before I choose my team I should ask, which one of you do you actually believe is capable to take me on as a sensei? I want to know truthfully I'm not going to be easy on you and as you already know I don't just take any random second class ninja. If you don't have what it takes sit down now!" Kakashi said in a very deadly tone. Sasuke glared at his sensei halfheartedly. He found some amusement in the shocked faces of the other students and even some fear in a select few's eyes.

Sasuke was shocked to see that Shikamaru sat down. Kakashi rasied in eyebrow but before Shikamaru could answer the unasked question, the bug kid moved to sit down too. Shikamaru eye's widened slightly, but that was all the indication he gave that he was paying attention. Kakashi glared over at Shino, who was sitting with his knees up and looking directly back at him.

"You don't believe that you are tough enough for me to be your sensei?"

Shino didn't shift under the gray haired man's scrutinizing gaze, "No, I Just don't really want you as a sensei." He stated in monotone. Sasuke smirked at the blunt statement and the angry glare he was shot form Kakashi made him only grin bigger.

Tenten most unexpectedly sat down gently also. Kakashi couldn't even hide the shock on his face. Sasuke knew didn't know Tenten too personally, but she was known to be quite a brave kunoichi. Sasuke had never seen the girl back down to a challenge so he couldn't possibly fathom the fact that Kakashi had scared her into sitting.

"Mrs. Tenten?" Kakashi asked half concerned half worried. Sasuke didn't understand it but he didn't like the sad look Tenten was giving the sensei.

"It's nothing sensei, I just don't know if I have what it takes." She looked up with a face that said "Please don't ask any more questions." Kakashi looked like he understood and nodded his head.

"Well….I'll just have to prove you wrong. My new team will be Tenten, Shino and Shikamaru!" Kakashi smiled condescendingly at his new students and their shocked faces.

"Come on, what are you don't sitting on the floor, I know my teammates would never stare at me like that." Kakashi said.

All three students jumped up, Shikamaru a little less than enthusiastically, and followed their new sensei to the stand next in line to Sasuke's new team. Sasuke couldn't stop smiling, this was one simple reason as to why he liked the gray haired man so much. He always brought out the worst and best in people.

Kurenai spoke again, "Okay Guy that leaves you to choose your team." SHse gestured to the three remaining students standing in a line. Guy sweat dropped but grinned despite his inability to choose his own teammates.

"Ah, you guys, You were exactly the three I was planning on choosing! We will be the strongest most united team! You" He said pointing at Kiba, "and your love for your dog! You" He pointed at Choji. "And your…Passion for food! It's so breathtaking, and uh you!" he gestured his hand toward Sakura. "Your uh..your uh…YES! YOUR PINK HAIR AND BRAINS! We will all dominate whatever stands in our way!"

All three, Sakura, Choji and KIba deadpanned.

Sasuke turned towards his new team, Himself, Asuma, Lee, and the Huga girl, Well, this could be interesting.

HiJ

Thank you for reading! This chapter was to mostly explain what was going on and I hope it made sense and was enjoyable for you to read. What do you think of the teams? I am pretty excited to get to start writing everyone getting to know each other! I want to thank everyone who has enjoyed the story, and I hope you continue to like it as it evolves.