Way of the Ninja

by PokePikamon

What happens when Naruto gets overpowered at a young age and has to defend the village after which the responsibility of restoration of his clan is upon him alone. Naruto OP, Civilian Council bashing, Sasuke bashing, Naruto x Harem(lots of pairings), Might contain lemon, not decided yet. Still rated M just in case. If you can't stand long stories, don't read.

10. Graduation Exams

Hey guys, back with another one. Hope you like it. I don't have much to tell right now from my side. Just that I'm still short on ideas of new OC villains which can give a good fight to our OP Naruto. I don't want it to be exactly like One Punch Man. Any help is appreciated and welcomed, preferably in the PMs.

Some points that I thought I needed to clarify so that people don't get the wrong impression on my story :

1. OOC : None of the characters will devaiate too much from their original personality. I'll try to better them from their original characteristics but any attempt to drastically change someone's character would just make everything a joke. For example, if you expect me to make Anko a polite and decent regal princess while Hinata kicks people in the balls for silly reasons? Sorry.

2. Almost every female : This will be a very open harem. And for Naruto only. Don't expect to get much or even any ships for other people. Plus any female from the show can be added, don't come giving explanations on how this or that ship is logically not possible. This is a fanfiction, deal with it. I wasn't kidding when I wrote it would be a big harem in the summary. Since I'm doing this big a harem, you can assume lemons will be there.

3. OP : If you have a favourite male character other than Naruto, you'll be disappointed. This fic is most probably not for you. Because he's the main character, he'll be too overpowered as the story progresses and anyone can get his ass beat anytime by him. Strictly talking about the end. Although I still need to think of some good antagonists to make good fight scenes or it'll seem illogical if they're weak.

4. OCs : There most probably won't be many OCs except maybe villains and almost surely not in the harem as far as I have thought. Building up the regular characters is so tough, imagine thinking of a nonexistent character anywhere and basically building him/her up from scratch? Thanks, but I'll pass. Although...I do have in mind one or two that I've read in many, many fanfics and I just might be able to use them.

5. Timeline : I've been trying to keep track of the time of every event that will happen and I'm tired of it. So I guess I'll do as much as I can and go with the flow. Please forgive me if there are any blunders. You can point it out though, I'll rectify if possible.

6. Pacing : I sometimes feel like I'm stretching some events for a tad bit long and in some places the scene abruptly ends. But overall I feel it's going quite okay and I always try to improve. No opinions wanted here, thanks.

@DameNingen1 : Naruto is dimwitted? How?

And I never said he won't be hyperactive. I think you're confused with how he's portraying himself to be at the Academy.

@beandream : Thanks very much. I feel a lot better writing this when I know someone really does like it the way it is. I'll try to update regularly but you know how life is, never let's you write fanfics in peace. xD Covid lockdown was a different story.

@PraetorXyn : Sorry dude, I'm trying to make a complete story here. Can't rush things. Although I have just the story in mind which fulfils your criteria if you already haven't read it. Title is Eroninja, written by LemonSage.

@yudhazebba : Here is your serving, hot and crispy. Hope you enjoy! xD

Disclaimer : You know the drill. All rights reserved by creator Masashi Kishimoto, I don't own the series or the characters and probably never will.

---

Chapter 10

Everything felt slow to Naruto. He had woke up early today. And no matter how leisurely he completed all his daily chores, the clock just seemed to move even slower with every passing minute, it seemed.

He decided to leave his home, hoping to divert his mind somewhere else. He purposefully avoided the busy streets lest he'd get in trouble with some or the other civilian and hopped on the roofs.

Subconsciously he didn't know where he was going and ultimately ended up at the Academy. Even after the realisation he decided he had no reason to leave and come back again, so settled down on the swing under the tree in front of the Academy. (A/N : Yeah, guessed right. That very swing which had more screen time than TenTen xD.)

Lightly swinging in a to and fro option, he went deep into his own thoughts again as a few early bird students started making their way into the main gates.

This was the day when he could finally ease up in front of everyone. No more deception, no more acts. No more…….insults.

He had always avoided any sort of confrontation with anyone mostly civilians as much as possible. Now he could walk freely as a citizen of Konoha. No, not just a citizen……

He would finally become a shinobi today.

It had been four years since he had joined the Ninja Academy. And today was the day of the Graduation Test a.k.a. The Genin Exams.

---

"Hey Naruto, you want to sit this one out? Hmm? Hey! Are you listening to me? Hey Naruto!"

"Huh?", Naruto asked coming out of thoughts.

"I asked if you want to sit out on these exams? Because we're almost out of time."

"Oh Shikamaru, hi. I mean, no I was just thinking about something. Why're you here?", Naruto said.

"I'm just late. It's a drag to even appear for the exams but my Mom won't listen.", Shikamaru whined.

"Yeah wait a minute. If you're here then I must be pretty late too. Damn it guess I lost track of time.", Naruto said standing up and rushing towards the classroom with Shikamaru close behind.

"Hey, wait a minute! If we're already late, we might as well be relaxed at least.", Shikamaru said.

"Sorry Shikamaru, but I've waited for this day for a long time.", Naruto chuckled.

They reached the classroom door quick enough and Shikamaru said something just when Naruto slid the door open.

"What's with the wardrobe change?"

As soon as it was said the whole class looked at him, and safe to say everyone was a little surprised at Naruto's look.

He had discarded the previous baggy clothes and wore a plain white vest with a folded sleeve blue jacket on top and a plain black jeans below. The only other accessory was the equipment pouch on his belt. He had discarded the goggles he used to wear on the head.

'If I'm gonna be wearing anything on my head today, it will be my own Shinobi headband.', was the only thing in his mind.

"Sensei, may we come in?", Naruto asked.

"Sure, be quick. It's been four years and all the same for Shikamaru. But I didn't expect you to be late today. Your grades aren't that good for you to be so confident of yourself.", Iruka said.

Although he didn't actually mean it, since Naruto had many a times been treated to ramen by the same guy and he had a good understanding of Naruto overall. They shared a close bond since both of them could talk their heart out to each other as they had a similar life as orphans.

"Sorry, Sensei.", was all they said before they sat on their respective seats.

Naruto stole a quick gaze around the classroom before the test would start. It seemed that many of them were still watching him or rather his different look, mostly girls. It was mostly because of him not looking like a goofball and decent for once.

The Sasuke fan club was busy in admiring their Sasuke-kun as usual and how he would score the highest today as usual. Oh boy how wrong could they have been. xD His friends were curious as well, but not very much since they could ask him anytime later.

One student in particular though, was looking at him constantly although not directly. Still, he could observe the gaze from across the room and gave a slight smile looking in that direction of the room. Oh, the blush that crept on her face --

"All right, it's time for your test. Since I'm the one chosen to conduct the exams this year as your Head Invigilator, I'm going to explain the rules only once so listen carefully.", Iruka announced.

(A/N : Don't worry guys you can read them as much times as you want. ;-) )

"Intelligence. Stamina. Skill. These are the qualities that a Shinobi must have to even have a chance at defeating any opponent or completing a mission. There will be three stages in this test. Firstly, you will be attempting an examination which added to your previous Academy records will be used to assess your knowledge. To give another chance to those who couldn't perform well throughout the year, the weightage of the score of this exam has been increased to 40%. Secondly, you will be examined on the basis of your physical strength, stamina and dexterity. You will be required to complete a course of hurdles and obstacles, the sooner you complete it will get you better scores. The last one will be a test of your Shinobi skills, mainly Ninjutsu. All of you will be required to perform the three basic jutsus including Henge, Kawarimi and Bunshin.", Iruka explained.

"Additional points can be granted for any unique skills a student can show us. The combination of all the scores judged by the teachers will decide which and how many of you would be selected to be graced with this headband of Konoha. I wish you all the best of luck!", Iruka finished.

There was a mixed reaction from different parts of the class.

Sasuke had a neutral but smug look on his face which could be seen as 'These kind of things aren't even worth my time.' His fan club added fuel to his ego as usual, not that he cared anyways.

Naruto's peer group wasn't that nervous since most of them belonged to clans and they had to receive regular training with or against their wishes. It was a no brainer that all of the civilian kids stayed away from Naruto due to their parents' warnings.

A few like Hinata were pretty confident as well as nervous at the same time since her clan was a very renowned one and she didn't want to disappoint her father in any way. Some of the civilians who genuinely wanted to become shinobi were quite nervous though. It was mainly because of the reason that during the times of peace, only those students who meet the minimum standards of a Shinobi are allowed to graduate.

---

In a few minutes, an assistant teacher brought in a bunch of question papers for the first part of the test which were swiftly distributed throughout the class.

Looking at the questions, Naruto let out a small smirk which went unnoticed by anyone. The test was far easy compared to what he had studied throughout the years. Combined with his practice of writing, it wasn't even quarter the given time before he had completed the paper and handed it over to the teacher.

"Don't tell me you didn't even try to attempt the questions?", Iruka said before he saw a smile on Naruto's face as he left the class. Although, most of the students didn't see him as he was facing the other way and few chuckles were heard around the class.

Except Shikamaru who had already calculated the bare minimum questions needed to pass and was already dozing off on the table.

Out of curiosity, he picked up Naruto's paper and was shocked. Each and every question had been answered perfectly. This had never happened before. Even the likes of prodigies like Itachi and the Yondaime hadn't got these kinds of scores, if the records at the Academy were to go by.

"Kami help me. I don't think this the only surprise I'm going to get today.", Iruka thought as he put the paper back and resume conducting the exams.

Naruto was tired of waiting around so he went to Ichiraku's for good old breakfast ramen. Until he finished a few bowls and an additional one for "Good luck in the graduation exams!" from the owner and returned, the first part of the test had pretty much completed.

---

They had been instructed to be present in the Academy grounds for the second part of the test which examined the physical aspect. Just for the sake of doing it, he started stretching a little to loosen the joints. He heard someone calling him so looked at the side.

"Yo Naruto, given up on the test so easily?! You were the dead last in the class, don't think it will be covered on the basis of previous marks. From what I think you're as good as doomed.", Kiba laughed as all his friends approached him.

He had a nature of trying to look superior to others, and didn't mean any ill intention towards anyone. So Naruto always shrugged off the remarks knowing that it was just who he was. Guess some traits do run in the bloodline, like the wild nature of Inuzukas.

"No comebacks? Huh, well. Just you guys see, how I will shine in this test. I've been training with Akamaru and my sister a lot. I might not be very good with studies, but no one will be able to defeat me in physical strength.", Kiba said a little too loud.

"How silly of someone like you to think that anyone can defeat Sasuke. Hahaha, everyone will see just how strong you are, isn't that right, Sasuke-kun?!", Sakura said with hearts in her eyes looking at Sasuke.

The fan club girls all nodded in unison along with her wishing to get attention from Sasuke. He, on the other hand, just ignored them as usual and walked away with all of them in tow behind him.

"Sorry, Kiba. But neither you nor their all perfect 'Sasuke-kun' will be able to win this. I'm totally prepared to ace this thing.", Naruto said completing his stretching exercises.

"Aren't you confident today? Or should I say over-confident? You always lost whenever we have had a race. What makes you think you'll win today?", Kiba asked.

"Nothing. I just have a gut feeling. I have practiced a lot.", Naruto said plainly.

Shikamaru and Choji both were busy doing their work of being bored and munching potato chips respectively.

Shino, although, was quite intrigued in Naruto's demeanour. He had always been the silent and observant one, typical of the Aburame clan members. He didn't particularly have any disliking towards anyone except Kiba, who always managed to irritate him somehow. But Naruto was a mysterious case. While always acting goofy as much as Kiba, for some reason he just didn't seem to be irritated by him at all. Like he knew a way around Shino's mind and behaviour, treading carefully not to blow any fuses.

"Line up everyone! Boys on the left and girls on the right. The second test is about to begin.", Iruka announced.

Shino put the thoughts on the back of his mind and did what he always does : observe.

Some girls whined about not being able to be close to their Sasuke-kun. Soon after, the ground beneath Iruka transformed into a hurdle course consisting of many pillars, ropes, nets and walls among other things.

A Genjutsu had been placed on this spot so that no one could have the advantage of preparing for anything specific beforehand.

'Huh, they think that this is ninja training. This is child's play. If I have to kill Itachi I'd have to find some way to get stronger on my own if this is the standard of being a shinobi.', Sasuke thought.

"Listen up! One by one your names will be called and you will have to cross this hurdle course. The less time you take to complete this course, the more points you will get. Although, if anyone takes more time to cross it than the specified maximum limit, he or she will be disqualified. We have decided that a time of more than 45 seconds for the boys and of 60 seconds for the girls will be the limit for this test. Any questions?", Iruka said.

One random hand rose up from the boys' line.

"Yes, you may ask.", Iruka said.

"Why do girls get more time than us?! It will be the same in the battlefield, no enemy is going to take pity just because they're kunoichi."

"You might be correct in a manner, but not quite. You see, if you have studied properly, you must know that it's natural for boys to have more physical dexterity than girls in general. Of course, there are many kunoichis in the history of Shinobi who have surpassed even the mightiest of their male counterparts of their time, but it's not right to judge everyone on that basis.", Iruka explained.

"Then why let them become ninjas in the first place if they're so weak?!", some random boy asked getting glares from the female crowd.

"That question is completely illogical from every point of view. Shinobi aren't arm wrestlers who depend just on brute strength or physical abilities. There are a variety of methods by which even a weak person can outsmart and defeat a much powerful opponent. With the right combination of brawns and brains, it is possible to do anything. I hope that clears everyone's doubts. Now, to the exam, if there aren't any other questions.", Iruka said.

And thus the test started as each of the students were called upon one by one. These were the results of the test as follows :

Shino Aburame : 34.76 seconds (weak physically)

Kiba Inuzuka : 28.55 seconds (physically strong)

Choji Akimichi : 36.94 seconds (brute strength makes up for speed)

Shikamaru Nara : 44.17 seconds (lazy af, otherwise ok)

Most civilian boys : 42.39 seconds (Average score)

Hinata Hyūga : 39.35 seconds (skilled but not physically strong, since muscle strength is not Hyūga clan's style anyways)

Ino Yamanaka : 52.66 seconds (belongs to a clan, but well, spoiled af)

Sakura Haruno : 57.75 seconds (weak ass cheergirl)

Most civilian girls : 54.76 (Average score)

By some divine coincidence, (A/N : Hehehe, I feel so good reading this) the only turns left were of Sasuke and Naruto.

"Sasuke Uchiha, next!", a supervisor said.

"On your mark, go!"

Sasuke sprinted hard trying to overcome all the others by a large margin. And showing a range of acrobatic moves along with strength, he managed to finish quite early.

"Sasuke Uchiha : 19.92 seconds. Very well done. This is the fastest out of all this year.", Iruka announced.

"Of course it would be, this is Sasuke-kun we're talking about. He does nothing less than the best. And I think this might be the best score of this test in all of Academy ever. Isn't that right, Sensei?!", Sakura asked.

"I'm afraid you're wrong Sakura. There have been a few who have completed it even quicker than this. It's not even in the top five.", Iruka said.

"Of course there would be him among them. Damn it, I can't even beat his academy scores. How am I supposed to kill him like this?!", Sasuke muttered under his breath angrily.

"The final participant will be Naruto Uzumaki, come forward!", the supervisor announced.

"Let's just go, Sasuke-kun was the one we were waiting to see. Baka Naruto will probably fail anyways.", Sakura said.

"I might not rule him out just yet. He's a skilled prankster, escaping also requires quite a lot of skill.", Iruka joked light-heartedly and everyone laughed including Naruto.

Naruto took his position at the finish line and let out a deep breath.

"On your mark, go!"

There wasn't a single person in the entire class whose eyes could constantly follow Naruto's movements. His speed was such that you could see him running around but just barely. Although the teachers could easily see him, they still couldn't believe their eyes. (A/N : Haha, funny?)

"N-Naruto Uzumaki : 7.01 seconds. This is absolutely great, Naruto! I couldn't have even believed it if I didn't see it with my own eyes. Going by the records, this is the third highest score anyone has ever achieved in this test.", Iruka said surprised.

Naruto walked up to Iruka and said, "Sensei, I could have used the Body Flicker technique to reach the finish line in no time. But then those guys would complain of cheating, so I kept the pace slow." which made Iruka's eyes enlarge.

He had said this quite softly so that nobody else was able to hear it. Taking advantage of the situation, Sakura shouted, "Sensei, he cheated right?! That's what he's telling you. That he had played a prank and now asking forgiveness so that you don't fail him?! Right?! No one can beat Sasuke-kun let alone Baka Naruto."

"There's no such occurrence, Sakura. The score is perfectly valid and Naruto didn't cheat in any way.", Iruka clarified.

"BUT….BUT…..THAT ISN'T POSSIBLE!", Sakura screamed while the rest of the fan club nodded vigorously.

"I'm not here to acknowledge groundless allegations. The second stage of the exam is complete and the highest score is achieved by Uzumaki Naruto. Hyūga Hinata is ranked highest among the girls.", Iruka announced.

"In addition, the score of the written test has been posted on the notice board. Even so, I am happy and equally surprised to tell you that the highest scorer of these tests is the same. Uzumaki Naruto has achieved a perfect score and is the only one to do this in this Academy so far. Hyūga Hinata got the best score among the girls. Well done! The next test will be in the training arena. Everyone is required to be present there in the next 15 minutes.", Iruka announced and all the teachers vanished in a flicker.

There was a complete chaos in the students. And yet, one of them was particularly shaking. With rage or fear or excitement? Who knows?

It was Sasuke Uchiha.

"How?! How could he-- how could anyone beat me, an Uchiha?! I was supposed to leave everyone in dust, and get strong enough to kill Itachi and avenge my clan. How can some nameless bastard do what I can't?!", he said to nobody.

Soon enough, his fan club led by Sakura approached him giving empty consolations on the likes of "You don't need to worry it was a fluke" or "He mut have cheated somehow" or "We won't leave you no matter what".

He walked away from them saying a "Leave me alone!" hoping that what they said was true. But in the back of his mind he knew, he had definitely been outclassed out there.

Meanwhile, Naruto was swarmed with many people including his friends as well as a bunch of Sasuke's now ex-fangirls. Those who were told by their parents to stay with whoever scores best came here and those who were instructed to be with someone from the elite clans stayed behind.

'Talk about opportunistic gold diggers. Do they have instructions to follow anyone who gets the best scores feeded to them?', Naruto thought.

He looked towards his friends with apologetic eyes saying "Sorry guys, catch up later." and disappeared.

---

"We have reached the final part of the test. Congratulations to those who made it here. I will now explain this part. Listen carefully. Firstly, target exercise will be conducted. Stationary and moving targets will be given to everyone.", Iruka stated.

"Sensei, what will be the minimum targets required to pass this time?", Sakura asked.

"Please do not interrupt, Sakura. I was coming to that. There will be no minimum targets specified by the invigilators. Each student should be able to assess their own skill set, hence everyone will set their own bars and try to achieve that score. Good luck!", he finished.

The stationary dummies were easy and mostly everyone had done well. But the moving humanoid dummy targets were a different story.

The students attempted the target exercise one by one and these were the results :

Shino Aburame : 4/5

Kiba Inuzuka : 4/5

Choji Akimichi : 4/4

Shikamaru Nara : 3/3 (How lazy can one be?!)

Hinata Hyūga : 5/5

Ino Yamanaka : 3/5

Sakura Haruno : 3/4

Again, by some divine intervention xD, the only ones left were those two.

Sasuke opted to go for 10 shots and could manage to hit 8 out of them all.

"Wow, that's the best score out of everyone! Sasuke-kun is so awesome!", Sakura said.

"Naruto-kun can beat him easily. Sasuke lost in last two rounds and he will this time too!", one of the girls who had shifted to Naruto fan club retorted.

"This is not a competition! Everyone keep quiet and let the examination continue without any distractions.", Iruka scolded.

Naruto chose to hit twelve targets in total.

"Baka! Do you think you can hit even five?! It will only give a bad image when you miss them all. You should've opted for one and tried to do that somehow.", Sakura said.

Sasuke was also smirking since in his opinion Naruto had dug his own grave this time. He, of the Uchiha clan, known to be the masters of Shuriken Jutsu, could only hit eight. No way that fool could ever go beyond five, that too if he got lucky.

Naruto ignored all the comments and released a deep breath focusing on the targets.

"Larynx." Thud.

"Spine " Thud.

"Lungs." Thud. Thud.

"Liver." Thud.

"Jugular veins." Thud. Thud.

"Subclavian arteries." Thud. Thud.

"Kidneys." Thud. Thud.

"Heart." Thud.l

Crash.

The dummy broke from its original course and fell down after being a few metres in the air.

"The eight vital points when hitting any one of them would be sufficient to cause heavy internal bleeding and without proper medical attention, certain death.", Naruto finished.

All of the Naruto Fan Club girls cheered in unison, who were soon joined by many of the Sasuke fan club members as they now realised that their last hope of rubbing off their victory in their counterparts' faces was all but gone.

"Very well done, Naruto! Now, all of you stay here. The final part of the test will be conducted in the training arena. I will call out the names individually and then I will be assessing your skill in Ninjutsu. Maintain the decorum of the Academy, I don't need anyone starting a fight or competition around here. No mischief either. There is an exam going on. Now where is Mizuki-sensei, I'll have him keep an eye on all of you.", Iruka said and went inside.

"Ah Mizuki-sensei, I was looking for you. If there's no problem can you keep the students outside in check? I know many of them would create a ruckus if left alone.", Iruka said.

"Of course, Iruka-sensei.", Mizuki said politely.

One by one, the students entered the arena and showed their Ninjutsu skills. The ones belonging to a clan had showed their clan jutsus so there was no way they'd not pass, except Shikamaru who had to be convinced about how it would be more of a drag if he didn't do it and Chouki who had to be lured into it by offering another bag of potato chips.

By some divine providence yet again, (A/N : Sorry sorry this is the last time lmao) the last one to be judged was Naruto. He went inside with a really mischievous smirk.

As soon as he entered the arena, he observed a pillar blackened, as if burnt.

"Sensei, may I ask what happened to that pillar?", Naruto asked Iruka.

"Oh that, Sasuke demonstrated his Fireball Jutsu which hit that pillar. Your turn now. Show me your Henge, Kawarimi and Bunshin.", Iruka replied.

Naruto just stood there and did nothing.

"What? After all that, don't tell me you're actually bad at Ninjutsu.", Iruka asked.

"I don't think I can show it with everyone aroun--"

Although before he could say anything, the students started pouring inside the arena quickly. Shikamaru with a bored expression, Choji munching chips as usual, kiba with Akamaru on the top of his head, Sakura along with the Sasuke fan club, Shino being Shino, Hinata with her trademark finger poking each other, and lastly Sasuke with an annoyed expression.

"Hey, what are you all doing here? I think I said everyone has to remain outside until the test was complete.", Iruka said.

"Don't scold them, Iruka. I allowed them to watch. Is there a problem with that?", a voice said as a way too familiar figure emerged from the crowd in front.

"Ho-Hokage sama? I-I didn't know you were here. Of course they can watch if you allowed it. I just thought that a student might not be able to concentrate with all the others around.", Iruka said nervously.

"Is that so? I just happened to remember that today was the day of the Graduation exams. So I dropped by to check how everyone was doing. It seems though you don't want any of us here. Anyways, let him begin.", the Hokage said.

With a timorous voice, Iruka looked at Naruto and said, "Begin. Just show me whichever you can do or are good at."

Naruto took out a few kunai which confused Iruka. But what happened afterwards was even more surprising….. scratch that……it was horrifying. He threw all the kunai towards the Hokage and all of them hit the mark with surprise on the Hokage's face.

"Hokage-sama! Naruto, what the hell--", Iruka said but the Hokage vanished in a cloud of smoke leaving a wooden log embedded with Kunai.

(A/N : I really don't know how Kawarimi works in the first place. I mean, if you're so fast that you can somehow dodge the attack, go somewhere else, bring back a log, replace it where you were and then go hide……then just dodge it and attack your opponent damn it. It's like Amenotejikara where you can replace yourself with an imaginary wooden log from somewhere but it's E-rank and doesn't need a Rinnegan. That's messed up, really.)

Iruka looked around but found by a light tap on the shoulder that the Hokage was behind him.

"Hokage-sama are you okay?", Iruka asked.

"Of course I am. This is nothing. Please continue.", Hiruzen said.

"Yo Jiji, how you doing?", Naruto said.

"Yo Naruto, everything's fine. Nice work!", the Hokage replied.

"Wait what. What're you saying Hokage-sama? And what is this behaviour Naruto? Attacking Hokage-sama is a punishable offence, do you not know that?!", Iruka said.

"Hehehe, I know. But do you really think if it was Jiji the ANBU would've left me free until now?", Naruto asked.

"What do you mean-- wait, that's right. Why are the ANBU not here?", Iruka said.

Before he could comprehend it though, the Hokage poofed into a cloud of smoke yet again revealing Naruto.

"Surprised, Iruka-sensei?", Naruto grinned.

Iruka was now baffled. What just happened? The Hokage wasn't here, it was just Naruto. But how could he touch objects if it was a clone? There was just one explanation.

It wasn't a regular Bunshin, it was the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu. Naruto had actually learnt a B-rank jutsu usually used by Jōnin level ninja.

"Yes, Naruto. Consider me surprised, and impressed. You should not use it frequently though, this jutsu consumes a lot of chakra. You can exhaust yourself anytime like this. But...even if it was a prank, there's an exam going on and you broke the rules by letting everyone in here impersonating Hokage-sama. I won't let this go by without deducting your marks for misconduct. Let's just say whatever you gained by showing this is now lost by your wrong behaviour.", Iruka said.

Naruto though, kept smiling and Iruka could've sworn he was about to laugh very hard any second now.

"What is it now?", he asked with a sigh.

Naruto replied, "What if I told you I didn't break any rules?"

"What do you mean?", Iruka asked eyeing him.

"Watch for yourself.", Naruto said.

In a matter of seconds, the whole crowd of students burst into smoke and there were dozens of Naruto standing there.

Iruka was now stupefied. Ab-so-lutely stupefied. As far as he knew, the only way possible for anything like this to happen was that he was under a really good Genjutsu. But alas, chanting "Kai" didn't seem to help at all.

"Naruto, are all of them…..", Iruka asked pointing a finger at the bunch of clones.

"Yes, presenting good ol' Multi-Shadow Clones.", Naruto said with pride.

Even Naruto didn't know why, but he felt a really strong desire to show off in front of Iruka. Just a little, but still. He had bonded with him quite well over the years but never had he revealed any of his training nor Iruka forced him to. So in a way he wanted Iruka to acknowledge his strength now that he can openly display it.

So, lifting up his left hand he formed half the sign of the cross required to perform the jutsu. Immediately, dozens more of Naruto filled the arena and it was almost filled with hundreds of them.

"No no, Naruto please don't! I've had enough for today. I still feel like I'm dreaming and I'll wake up any second now.", Iruka said wide-eyed.

Naruto grinned even more completing the cross sign with his hands and hundreds of more Naruto started dropping on each other due to the lack of space.

"Nar- Naruto stop this! What...is...happening here?!", Iruka shouted being flooded by shadow clones around him pushing them away.

Naruto laughed and signalled all his clones to vanish and instantly they complied disappearing into a puff of smoke.

Taking deep breaths, Iruka asked Naruto, 'What do you eat, Naruto?'

Naruto replied in full confidence, "Ramen!"

"Huh, should've guessed. Hahaha!", Iruka laughed.

"So with Henge, Bunshin, well technically Kage Bunshin and Kawarimi, do I pass?", Naruto asked.

"Yeah yeah, of course you do. Just don't do these kinds of mischief anymore.", Iruka said looking at the sheets looking for his name.

As soon as Iruka said this, a familiar face appeared from the door.

"Ah, I see the Graduation exams have been almost completed. I just happened to remember that today was the day of the Graduation exams. So I dropped by to check how everyone was doing. (A/N : Why do I sense a déjà vu. Something's wrong, I can feel it~ Eminem) And judging by the smile on your face, it must've gone pretty well until now.", the Sandaime Hokage said.

"Shut it, Naruto! That's enough, I told you not to do that and you're at it again.", Iruka said irritated.

"Excuse me, Iruka. You must be mistaken, Naruto is standing right there. I am surely not him.", he said.

"Just stop it, enough already! Next time you change into Hokage-sama I'll punch your shadow clone out of existence and I'll disqualify you from the exams!", Iruka scolded the supposed to be Henge.

"And Iruka next time you talk to me like this you'll be going out of the same window Naruto is trying to get away from right now.", the Hokage said in mock anger getting an idea of what Naruto might have done.

Iruka looked towards the window and saw Naruto nearby the window ready to leave anytime.

"Hard luck, Sensei. That's not me. And you can find those ANBU in the ceiling and behind the benches.", Naruto said.

Iruka hesitantly and slowly turned his head back towards the Hokage who still maintained that angry expression on his face.

"I really *gulp* I'm really sorry, Hokage-sama. It's j-just that Naruto had changed into you and then you came again and……uh…uh……haha……", Iruka said laughing nervously.

Upon seeing the Hokage same as before, he jerked and bowed as much as his flexibility allowed and asked for forgiveness. It was only when he heard light laughter that he opened his eyes and looked up.

"Did you really think I don't know how mischievous Naruto is? I've gotten used to his pranks. I assume the latest one before this was putting itch powder into the ANBU's uniform.", the Hokage said.

Suddenly, two masked figures emerged from their hiding places shouting something on the terms of "Wait, it was you?! I had to wash those clothes thrice to get rid of it!" and "Do you know how much my muscles ached after the whole day itching around?!"

Naruto just scratched the back of his head and sheepishly said, "Uh yeah. I mean…..I'm sorry."

Grudgingly, they went back to their duties without any more complaints. After all, complaining to the Hokage was meaningless since it would only lead the conversation to the fact that how a kid who's not even a Genin could infiltrate the headquarters of a supposedly elite specialist force.

"Now, are you done with the test?", the Sandaime asked.

"Yes Hokage-sama, I just have to mark him and we'll be done.", Iruka said.

"Wait, who said I'm done here?", Naruto told Iruka.

"What do you mean? You still have something else to show?", Iruka asked.

"Of course I do. I haven't even shown you actual Ninjutsu yet.", Naruto said with a huge grin on his face.

"Come on, now don't tell me you're going to…….no, no, no. That's it, I've seen enough. I'm leaving.", Iruka said walkin towards the door after picking up the sheets from the table.

Before he could pass through it though, the ground underneath him rumbled and a wall of stone sealed the door. In addition, the ground erupted taking Iruka upwards with it and moving towards Naruto. When it was close enough the shape of stone moulded into a chair with a handbar in front (kinda like in a Ferris Wheel) so that he couldn't move.

"Okay, Naruto. I've seen it, you can do Earth Style. I won't be able to applaud your skills any further because I don't even have any words left to say to you.", Iruka said.

"What have you seen? I just made sure you get comfortable and enjoy the show.", Naruto said.

It seemed like he was enjoying watching Iruka like that very much. And of course having the Hokage here was a plus point since Iruka wouldn't go too out of league even if he did try something.

Once Iruka had been made really comfortable, Naruto weaved a set of hand signs. Multiple differently sized dummies erupted from the ground in the arena in front of them.

"Now the preparations are complete.", Naruto brushed his hands.

He then took his time demonstrating each of Raiton, Suiton and Futon on those earthen dummies one by one. The Hokage was having fun watching the scenes unfold. After all, it doesn't hurt to enjoy yourself once the primary purpose is accomplished which was currently being demonstrated by Naruto.

(A/N : Oh I'm not gonna show all those techniques here, it's more interesting to have them shown in real battle, not on dummies. Unofficially though, I'll let you guys in on a secret. It's partly because I'm still working on which techniques to have him use, hehe. xD )

In the end, Iruka's face was completely blank. Almost devoid of any expression.

"Sensei, you okay? Why aren't you saying anything?", Naruto asked.

"Huh? Oh nothing, let's just be done with Fire Style and I'll go book an appointment with a psychiatrist.", he said.

"Hey hey, don't joke about things like that. And umm….well, I can't use Katon very well yet.", Naruto said scratching the back of his head.

"Yet. Oh Kami save me from this guy.", Iruka said looking above.

"Okay, the exam is over. You're free to go, Iruka-sensei!", Naruto said while controlling his laughter at the ironic situation.

Iruka went out of the classroom alongwith the Hokage and Naruto just followed them. When they reached the grounds, everyone was scattered in groups talking among themselves. It was only when Iruka announced that the Hokage had arrived that all of them assembled immediately with Naruto joining them.

"My dear children, I am extremely pleased to see all of you young ones having such high zeal and enthusiasm to become a Shinobi...", the Hokage started.

After a long speech ranging from the duties of Shinobi to the Will of Fire, he said,

"As you may all understand, the life of a Shinobi is very tough and we cannot allow anyone to pass the Academy unless they are deemed capable to withstand that harsh and relentless life. To all those who have passed, I wish you the best of luck! And to those who didn't, I hope that you'll keep working hard and achieve whatever your heart yearns for."

It's not that the exam was competitive and someone or the other was bound to be dropped. But over the course of years it had become a standard that many of them could not graduate. Since this was a time of peace, there was no necessity to have quantity rather than quality graduate. Also, many would drop out of the course after failing once and apply for something else, since the Academy taught the children everything that a regular school did with the addition of Ninja Techniques.

The Hokage stepped backwards and prompted Iruka to come forward and announce the results.

Iruka nodded and came forward holding a sheet of paper in his hand.

"I would like to thank Lord Hokage who despite being busy took time to come here and grace us with his presence. Now, I am really delighted to announce that the percentage of people who have passed this year has been the highest since the last few years. There will also be no doubt when I say that some children have shown exemplary skills which shows the hard work and dedication they have put throughout the years.", Iruka said.

Instantly, the fan clubs somehow activated themselves and started murmuring how awesome Sasuke and Naruto were.

"No disturbances, please. I will announce the names of those who passed now, please collect your headband from Hokage-sama on the stage as your names go by.", Iruka said.

There were a lot of graduates this year compared to the previous ones, as Iruka had said. The reason was kind of obvious, as there were many children of the clan heads and due to their general influence, the civilian students had also tried to improvise their skills to keep up.

"Hinata Hyūga, please come up.", Iruka said.

Hinata being the shy girl she was slowly claimed the stairs and bowed before the Hokage.

"Raise your head, and accept this Hitai-ate. You are now a Shinobi of Konoha.", the Hokage said.

After accepting the headband, Hinata turned to return back to the where everyone else was.

"Wait a minute, Hinata. There's something else.", Iruka said smiling.

"Huh? Oh, umm, Hai!", Hinata said.

"It's my pleasure to announce that Hinata here has performed number one out of all the girls. Hence, I'd request Hokage-sama to present her with this year's award of Best Girl!", Iruka announced with a genuine smile and pride in his face.

Hinata was embarrassed of all the cheer that was directed at her from the crowd and the applause from the teachers. She was awarded the prize by the Hokage and instructed to stand on the stage before she could once again try to get back with everyone else.

One additional reason for Hinata being shy except for her clan reasons was that she didn't have many friends at the Academy either. Unlike boys, girls were very competitive and jealous of each other and mostly tried to get the attention of smart or cool boys, mainly Sasuke.

Since she belonged to a clan, and a very elite one for that, they were jealous of her. Although no one outwardly disrespected her, or didn't dare to, rarely anyone tried to interact with her personally. Once someone from the Sasuke fan club, most probably Sakura, had said that her Sasuke-kun belongs to the Uchiha clan which was far superior to the blind eyed Hyūga.

Fortunately, Hinata was not one to pick a fight, and nobody in her clan got to hear about this little incident, otherwise strict action could have to taken against Sakura as she had publicly, no matter on how small a scale, disrespected the Hyūga clan.

She just kept her focus on improving herself for the sake of the clan. And to have a good image in front of Naruto, whether she chose to believe it or not.

In any case, she was the one standing on the stage holding the prize while many girls from the crowd made excuses like "Yeah she's from an elite clan of course they're gonna be favouring her" while some were thinking of befriending her in order to gain some favours.

"Now for the last person to graduate from the Academy this year, I would like to call upon the stage who surprised not only me but pretty much everyone around here by his exceptional skills, Naruto Uzumaki!", Iruka announced.

A roar of cheer from the Naruto Fan Club was heard as well as his friends was heard as he walked up on the stage.

He stood in front of the Hokage proudly. Although when Hiruzen was about to address him, he saw a mix of emotions in Naruto's eyes which were undoubtedly damp.

"Jiji I can't tell you how I'm feeling right now. If there's one word that can explain it……I feel like I've been granted freedom. Like I can also be called a citizen of Konoha, on my own rights.", Naruto said with a heavy voice.

"Wrong. You were always a citizen of Konoha, and you're a Shinobi now. Wear this headband with pride, my boy. I have high hopes for you.", the Hokage said with the kindest smile Naruto had ever seen.

Rubbing his eyes quickly, he accepted the Hitai-ate, thanked everyone and immediately tied it around his head.

"Again, I'm elated to be the one who has been given the opportunity to tell you that Naruto with his unmatched skills in both physical and mental aspects has been given the title of Rookie of the Year!", Iruka said.

(A/N : Skip this note, it's boring. Sorry about these notes being a lot around here. But it's easy to convey something when it's related. Now what I want to say is that I will be adding parts like this even if there are a lot of stories containing the Rookie of the year thing and might seem boring to those who read a lot of them. But for those people who're new, I want to make this story as interesting and complete as much as possible. Thanks for understanding.)

All of the crowd cheered except for Sakura and her few colleagues who were complaining about how Sasuke should have got the title.

The Hokage awarded Naruto the prize and called Hinata forward to have both of them stand next to each other as the final act of the ceremony.

"Hey Hinata, congratulations! You did great! Look forward to working with you in the future!", Naruto said extending a hand with his trademark grin.

"Umm, thanks very much Naruto-kun. Congratulations to you too!", Hinata said shaking his hand although quite red-faced.

Over the years, Naruto had conversated with Hinata enough times that she had at least controlled herself from not fainting or blushing every time. Even though, being congratulated by him publicly was too out of the ordinary even after the supposed practice she had got.

The programme would've come to an end if not for some interruption by a certain someone who could not swallow his pride, more precisely, arrogance.

"This is a complete fraud. I refuse to believe that this nameless……kid, was able to perform better than me. I am an Uchiha, and I have been the best for the last four years.", he shouted.

Sasuke had been frustrated since the first time it was announced that Naruto had beat his scores twice. And then getting less targets than him had fuelled his anger since he hadn't seen anyone since Itachi do that technique so flawlessly.

Still, keeping his anger in check was possible for him as there was one trump card he had left. Or rather, a last straw.

The Fireball Jutsu.

Katon was the speciality of the Uchiha and he had already learnt the Fireball Jutsu when his father was alive. He had honed it over the years and now he could make a decent fireball.

Basically no one was expected to perform any kind of Elemental Ninjutsu since it was considered a higher level technique. So he was sure that he would gain quite an extra bonus after showing that in addition to performing all the Academy Ninjutsu perfectly.

But having heard that Naruto had somehow equalled that too (he didn't even think that Naruto could do more xD) and is now considered the best, broke the dam of his emotions and now his anger was flowing unrestricted.

"I understand how you're feeling, Sasuke. And you were the top scorer throughout, no doubt about that. But Naruto performed better than you today and even you saw that with your own eyes. He deserves that title, don't you agree? And it's not saying that you're not good. In my opinion you too are a person who holds great potential and I hope to see you become a fine shinobi one day.", Iruka said.

"I don't care about any of that. I know that I'm good. And I'm better than him. Give me a minute with him and I'll wipe the whole Academy floor with his face.", Sasuke said.

"Sasuke, that's going too overboard. The test if over and Naruto--", Iruka said but was cut off.

"Sensei, I'd like to request that you accept his proposal and conduct a match between the two of us. I wouldn't like to leave here giving the impression that I cheated in any way. Especially to one of my classmates.", Naruto said.

Quickly adding, "With permission of Lord Hokage, of course."

Iruka looked at Naruto and then towards the Hokage before giving any reply. The Sandaime took a few seconds to ponder over the situation looking at the bunch of young crowd and then nodded giving an indirect thumbs up.

Iruka sighed and announced, "By the permission of Lord Hokage, I would like to tell everyone that a sparring match will be held between Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha. This will be only an exhibitionary match and does not hold any relation to the Graduation Test. Even so, since it is conducted on the Academy Grounds and I will be the referee, it will be considered official and will have to go by the rules."

Everyone cheered happily as an additional spectacle between the two of them would be quite enjoyable and exciting. Except a certain lazy ass you-know-who. xD

As all of them moved to the Arena, which had already been cleared by the staff after Naruto's assessment, the participants and the referee moved to the center of the ring.

"This match will be a one on one sparring match between the two of you. Only the use of Taijutsu will be allowed. Use of Ninja Tools and Ninjutsu is prohibited. The use of lethal attacks and killing are by all means strictly prohibited as well. The match will be considered over when either one of you gets out of the ring, is unable to fight or accepts defeat voluntarily. Any doubts?", Iruka said.

Not getting any response, he announced that the match "Begin!" and jumped backwards.

"Haha, you should have accepted the title quickly and skedaddled your way out of here as soon as you could. Even if you somehow got the scores accidentally, at least you would have been left with some respect. But you chose to entertain my proposal instead and look where we are. Let me tell you, in the simplest of words, you dug your own grave.", Sasuke said with an arrogant grin on his face.

"If you can move half as fast as your tongue does, you might defeat me in no time.", Naruto chuckled.

"You'll be eating your words in a few seconds!", Sasuke shouted.

As soon as the words left his mouth, he posed himself in the Taijutsu style of the Uchiha clan.

The Interceptor Fist.

On the other side, Naruto didn't make any movements and resorted to shifting his stance revealing his Taijutsu style.

Sasuke mocked him saying, "You really think any style would be able to defeat the one of the Uchiha clan?!"

Naruto said nothing which oy infuriated him since he was the one giving silent treatment to everyone around. And getting the same from someone who's superior to you in skill greatly reminded him of his brother.

All patience left him when he realised that the stance that Naruto had taken was none other than the basic one that had been taught in the Academy.

"So you mean to tell me, that you had the audacity to fight with me, an elite Uchiha when all you've got is that old fighting stance that they teach the academy kids.", Sasuke said angrily.

"ARE YOU MOCKING MEEEEEE?! ", he said charging forward towards Naruto.

Naruto just shook his head lightly at Sasuke's actions.

As soon as Sasuke reached Naruto, he threw a punch from the right which Narrow easily ducked and simultaneously swept his foot to which Sasuke reacted by jumping in order to avoid it. Although he had hoped to elbow Naruto downwards when he got down, it proved to be a big mistake in itself.

Naruto had quickly shifted his balance to the foot he was sliding, and used the other one to kick Sasuke in the air itself. All while having his back at the guy.

The kick hit Sasuke square in the gut and he felt it quite good. It had enough force to throw him up and backwards in the air that he landed back first where he stood initially.

Naruto could've used his chakra enhanced strength to put an end to Sasuke with the first blow, and it would have been well within the rules. Still, he didn't want this to be a contest of raw power, after all, he had worked his ass off to get better in every aspect of combat, including speed.

"Yayy Naruto! Go, you can easily defeat him!", one of the girls from the Naruto Fan Club shouted.

"Huh as if! Sasuke will beat the crap out of stupid Naruto in no time.", Sakura said although not very loudly as she couldn't be as much sure.

Meanwhile neither of the contestants were listening to them and were engaged in their own battle.

Sasuke got back up and once again attacked Naruto, albeit carefully this time, since he didn't want to be too hasty this time since he attributed his previous folly to be just a result of his recklessness and Naruto's luck. Even so, he wasn't able to land a hit on Naruto after trying to hit him from every angle possible while Naruto was simply blocking each one of his moves by using the basic Taijutsu style which pissed off Sasuke even more.

And Naruto's lack of aggressiveness had already made Sasuke a little unsettled in the back of his mind since he wouldn't be able to gauge or block his attack due to lack of observation of his moves.

Having enough of this, Sasuke took his attacks to the extreme and found an opening where Naruto couldn't be able to dodge it in time. True enough, he punched Naruto directly in the abdomen.

"Haha, how long did you think you could run away from my attacks? You're done for, accept it.", Sasuke smirked although signs of fatigue were showing on his face.

"Yaayyyyyyy! Go Sasuke! Show him how cool you are!", Sakura shouted.

Naruto took a deep breath as if relaxing in some beach in a hot summer.

"Arrogance. Impatience.", Naruto said.

"What are you blabbering? Have you gone insane just by getting a single punch?", Sasuke said.

Naruto grabbed his wrist which was still on his abdomen.

"These are the two things that will cost you dearly. Not just this match, but your whole life. Believe me.", Naruto said.

"What the hell?! Shut up and fight! Don't preach me, you bastard!", Sasuke shouted trying to get away from Naruto's grip on his hand.

"Oh well, it's not like I expected you to listen.", Naruto said.

He removed Sasuke's hand by turning it to the side and delivered a hook on Sasuke's face. Not wasting any time, he kneed Sasuke in the gut followed by grabbing his chin as Sasuke arched forward due to the sudden attack and threw him with force leading to Sasuke skidding across to the other end of the ring.

"I would ask you to accept defeat gracefully but I know you wouldn't listen anyways.", Naruto said.

Sasuke stood up wobbly and shouted, "That's it, I don't care what happens. I'm taking you down!"

Immediately he whipped out a pair of kunai, and threw them at Naruto.

"Sasuke, that's against the rules of the match.", said Iruka tried to stop him.

The kunai were easily dodged by Naruto but he knew that these were just a distraction, as he had already seen Sasuke weave a hand sign before the kunai were on him.

"Haha, consider this your end. Katon : Gokkyaku no Justu!", Sasuke said.

A giant fireball formed in front of Sasuke in a few seconds and was launched in the direction of Naruto. Sasuke looked completely exhausted as he had used all his chakra into that one attack. Due to it's huge size, no one could follow what happened behind it. Although Sasuke was confident that he had ended the duel. No matter what the official outcome would be, it had shown everyone that he was superior.

"That's it Sasuke won! That'll teach Naruto to stay in his own limits. After all Sasuke is the best!", Sakura shouted.

Sasuke smirked and turned to get out of the ring. But before he could do so he heard,

"Do you know what the weakness of the Fireball Jutsu is?"

He turned again in surprise and said gritting his teeth, "Impossible!"

"The Fireball is big in size and holds good destructive power. But the vision of the user is also blocked. And you thought that creating a large fireball is better than a regular one. Not keeping in mind that it's fallacy would be pronounced too.", Naruto's voice echoed around in the smoke.

Sasuke was frantically looking for Naruto since there was not much he could take in his fatigued condition. That was supposed to be his final attack after all, and Naruto shouldn't have been anywhere except the hospital.

A shadow appeared to his left but before he could even lift his hands to block any attack, a kick was delivered straight on his left cheek.

"You can't avoid the opponent's attack, unless you possess the Sharingan!", Naruto said while completing the kick.

Sasuke skidded around multiple times before his back hit the wall his mind immediately blacked out from consciousness.

Everyone except Sakura and a few fan girls erupted into cheer at the victory of Naruto. Although nobody liked Naruto or talked to him in general at the Academy because of their parents and his goofy behaviour, none of the boys liked Sasuke either after he started acting like a stuck up brat.

Hence, watching an underdog pull out a victory and that too kind of one-sided seemed fun after all. There was no doubt that Naruto's friends and the Fan Club were the loudest ones among them.

"Sasuke Uchiha has been disqualified from the match for the use of tools and techniques which were against the rules. The winner, by default, is Naruto Uzumaki!", Iruka declared.

Although Naruto had defeated him fair and square, the rules were still as important and hence he had been already disqualified because of that.

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

Naruto knew that once he exited the Arena after meeting all the teachers and the Hokage, he would be flocked all around by those annoying fan girls. The only time he actually empathized with Sasuke.

So, being extra prepared, he left a note in Shikamaru's pocket to tell the others and meet him where they usually hung out while bunking classes. He made sure to write an additional point about Shikamaru having to come there even if it was a drag. xD

Shikamaru found it soon enough and told the others about it. Although he knew about Naruto's skills well in advance, he was curious as to how the guy would explain it to others. That would be a real drag, and watching things like these were very interesting.

The Naruto Fan Club was scattered around looking for their hero. It was an understood agreement that the one who found him first will have the first chance of hitting on him.

While all of them were looking around, Naruto and his friends were already quite far away from that place.

It wasn't anything secretive though, just a clearing in the bushes at the back of one of the bigger parks. It was a place where everyone could do whatever they liked when they bunked classes. Shikamaru gazed at the clouds, Choji munched on his chips, Shino secretly let out his bugs to roam around in nature while otherwise looked so passive that he could be mistaken for sleeping. Kiba and Naruto being the more active ones played around with Akamaru in the woods.

When all of them reached the place, they found Naruto already there lying on the grass with his eyes closed.

"Hey wake up! You called us all here to show us your victory nap? We have to go to our homes to show these headbands too.", Kiba shouted near his ears.

"Ouch ouch hey I hear you alright. I was just waiting for you all to show up and took time to relax. You could say I was preparing for……", Naruto said.

He was interrupted by a punch on the face from Kiba who couldn't control himself any longer.

Naruto fell to the ground saying, "…….this."

"When were you thinking of telling us you liar!", Kiba shouted.

"I think that's going too extreme, Kiba.", Choji said.

"I always thought that you were just a good old fun loving guy like me. But I get to see that you were deceiving us all along. Not saying that I didn't like that stuck up Uchiha get a taste of defeat but still, aren't we your friends Naruto?!", Kiba said.

"I wanted to tell you but I couldn't. And I won't say that I'd do something else if I had the chance to redo it. You don't know how everyone else treats me, it's not only the children. It's the whole village. It didn't give me any pleasure to keep things from you, but I didn't have a choice. Although, that's the reason I called you guys here. I want to apologise for that. I'm really sorry guys!", Naruto said.

"Hmph, can you promise that you won't do something like that again?", Kiba said eyeing him.

"Of course…….I can't.", Naruto grinned.

All of them looked at him with a disbelieving expression and then burst into laughter.

"Unpredicatable and straightforward as ever, I see. Okay, I forgive you. Just don't forget to stop by and say hello every now and then even if we passed the Academy.", Kiba said.

"Of course not. We'll just be on different teams that's all. But again, who knows we might end up on the same teams. It's a good thing that we all passed.", Naruto said.

Getting no response he saw that they were all giving a 'We already know all that' look. So he thought of something that will cheer up everyone. At least that's what he thought.

"Let's celebrate. The lunch is on me!", Naruto said loudly.

"Yeahhhhhh!!!!!!", Chouji and Kiba said.

"To Ichiraku's!", Naruto shouted.

"Noooooo! Not agaaaiiiiinnnnnnnn!"

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

Naruto had finally agreed to his friends' wish to not go for Ramen. So by popular vote, going literally anywhere was decided much to Choji's delight, since he knew quite a lot of good places to eat.

Everyone had returned to their homes soon after that as they had to break the news to their family. Everyone had been welcomed with different reactions which could be seen like this…….

(Nara Household)

"I'm back home.", Shikamaru said unstrapping his sandals.

"Oh you sure took a lot of time coming back. Unfortunately your dad had to go to work and couldn't wait any longer. He mumbled something about being Jonin Commander was a drag and left for a meeting. ", his mom came out of the kitchen wearing an apron.

"No big deal, it's not like there's something he would've done had he been home.", Shikamaru said nonchalantly.

Yoshino Nara, wife of Shikaku Nara, was exactly as you'd imagine. Being in the family of the extreme degree of lazy bums, she had to be the complete opposite. Loud and outgoing. She had been a shinobi, and a very brilliant one but retired from duty when Shikamaru was born. She could've rejoined but decided that she was content being a housewife and a good mother. And being a good mother, she wasn't letting Shikamaru off the hook easily.

"Wait up young man, what do you mean 'He wouldn't have done anything'? Today was your final exam, right? How did it go? He would want to know about it as well.", Yoshino said.

"Like I said, nothing he would've done. And he already knows that I'd pass. Just another day. What a drag.", Shikamaru yawned.

"Oh, you passed! That's great. I was worried that you might fall asleep halfway. Congratulations!", Yoshino said hugging him sideways tightly.

"Uhh, thanks Mom!", Shikamaru said shifting uncomfortably but he knew not to interrupt moments like these.

"Okay, I'm gonna make something good for dinner. Your favourite!", Yoshino said.

"Whatever suits you, Mom. Just know that I'm not gonna come down to help.", Shikamaru said pulling out his headband and giving it to Yoshino before heading to the backyard to take a nap.

"You didn't tell me who scored the highest? He's gone already……", she said as she went back to the kitchen.

(Akimichi Household)

'Mom, I'm back!', Choji said who was unusually not muching on potato chips right now.

"Hey Choji, you're back late. We were waiting for you so long we even had lunch.", his father said coming to greet him at the door.

"Oh, thanks Dad.", Choji said. His mother came quickly before he could say anything else.

"Oh my child, what happened? You're not eating your chips? Have you been hurt? You never lose your appetite!", she asked.

"No Mom, nothing like that. I just had lunch. And I stuffed myself. Still going through digestion. Before you say anything, I didn't waste money on junk food. It's just that one of my friends treated everyone to lunch since he ranked first.", Choji said.

"Oh, is that right? Although it would have been great to have you as the highest scorer it's good to hear that it was one of your friends too. So who was it?", Choza said.

"Oh, don't hog him with questions all at once. Come on Choji go change your clothes, and get some rest. I made your favourite lunch today but I guess we can eat it later.", his mother said.

"My favourite?! You know what, I've digested most of it already, let's go have a feast.", Choji said running to the dining room flipping his headband into his Dad's hands.

(Inuzuka Household)

"Hey Mom! Sis! Where are you? Guess what? I cleared the exams!", Kiba shouted running around the house with Akamaru in tow.

"Geez! It's already so noisy in the kennels today and you're screaming on top of that. Keep it down, Kiba! Go to your sister.", his mother said from her office room.

She usually wasn't the person to spend free time in office and only used it whenever the workload was heavy. So disturbing her was inviting hell itself.

Kiba sweated and ran off to the small clinic around the kennels in which his sister worked. She was quite busy as she had recently started working as a vet.

"Hey Sis! You know what? I'm a ninja now!", Kiba said poking his head through the door.

"Congratulations, Kiba! Now please let me work. Ask Mom if you need something.", she said.

He deadpanned at the game they were playing. None of them were the least bit interested.

'What kind of family are they? Here I am, a Shinobi after four years of Academy training and they still think I'm a kid playing around.', he thought.

"Hey Akamaru, maybe she'll be interested in knowing who scored the highest. That would be a good surprise too.", Kiba said.

"Woof woof!", Akamaru agreed.

He ran off to his home again looking forward to seeing his mother all surprised. He reached the door and entered without asking for permission.

"Mom, forget everything else. You'll be shocked to know who topped the exams--", Kiba started saying but was interrupted by a flying sandal on his face.

"What the--", he was about to say when he saw his mother's angry expression like she was about to blast.

"HERE I AM LADEN WITH ALL THIS CLAN PAPERWORK AND YOU HAVE TO COME DISTURB ME. GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE AND DON'T COME BACK UNTIL DINNER!", she shouted.

Kiba ran away from his own home showing a physical skill better than he had performed in the same day morning's test.

(Hyūga Household)

Hinata had directly reached home after the Graduation exams, unlike the others. She had cleaned up and dressed properly in accordance with the clan's….attire, in the lack of a better word.

She had requested a permission to see her father from his assistant. Since he was mostly busy in the office and their relationship was too formal for a parent and child, this was mostly how they interacted.

It was only because he had asked her beforehand to show her results to him after the test that she had requested to meet him.

"Lady Hinata, Lord Hiashi has summoned you in his office.", Hinata's assistant relayed who was told so by her father's secretary.

"Okay. Thank you.", she said as she left for his office.

She knocked on the door twice and felt a wave of nervousness fill her heart. It was always like this. She tried hard to live up to everyone's expectations, especially her father's, but never succeeded.….. enough.

"Come in!", was the only reply which came from the other side in a purely authoritative voice.

She slid the glass door and entered the office closing it behind her.

"Ohaiyou gozaimasu, Otou-sama!", Hinata said.

"Ohaiyou, Hinata. Have a seat.", Hiashi said.

"Hai!", she said as she sat in a cushion in traditional Japanese manner.

"So, what brings you here?", he asked.

"You might have forgot since you're so busy, Otou-sama. You had asked me to inform you myself after the Graduation exams are over.", Hinata said meekly.

"Right, is it that day already? Well, I tend to be busy a lot. In any case, what was your result?", he asked.

That was it. No asking how she was, or how did she do? If she was happy or not, nothing mattered. Just the clan and the result.

"I passed. Hokage-sama was present there and he personally handed over the Hitai-ate to everyone.", Hinata said showing her headband to him.

"Hokage-sama? If we had known he'd be coming there, everyone would've attended the ceremony. Well, it's good that you at least passed. Otherwise the name of the Hyūga would be in dust. You're a Shinobi now, so you're allowed to go on regular missions like everyone else. Keep in mind though, that you're a member of the Hyūga clan, and of Main Family on top of that. Keep your actions and behaviour in accordance.", Hiashi said.

"Hai!", Hinata said.

"You may leave.", he said.

Hinata just sat there without replying anything hesitating to ask something as if in a dilemma.

"Is there something else?", Hiashi asked raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, I was awarded with this too.", she said showing him the trophy.

Hiashi was surprised since he didn't exactly expect Hinata to get a prize. He was just expecting her to pass.

"How unexpected! Best among the girls, huh. I suppose you're not as bad as you seem to be.", he said.

Hinata wasn't sure of showing him this in case he didn't like it or didn't meet his expectations. But he was fine with it, and even complimented her, although in an implicit manner. Still better than nothing, she guessed.

"Although it means that someone else was still better than you, just that it was not a girl. Which clan was he from? Actually, nevermind. But if someone like you could come this far, I'm sure young Hanabi would definitely win the first prize and bring glory to the Hyūga clan.", Hiashi said.

Hinata skipped a beat and felt her heart clench. It was always like this. Whatever she did was never enough for him. Hyūga this Hyūga that. And then Hanabi.

"Hai! I'll take my leave.", she said.

Hiashi just nodded giving the trophy and headband back after which he got busy with his work. Hinata walked as quickly as she could back to her room.

"Do you need anything, Lady Hinata?", her assistant asked.

"No, thanks. I'm a little tired from the exam so I'm going to rest. Please don't disturb me for some time.", Hinata said without looking at her.

"Of course, Lady Hinata. As you wish.", she said bowing and went outside closing the door.

Hinata sat down folding her knees in front of her chest resting her head and back along the wall.

"I should be happy, right? I became a kunoichi and…..even got a…..prize. Yet why is it that...I'm always….sad?", Hinata said to nobody tears on the brink of falling from her eyes.

It's not that she had any qualms with her younger sister being preferred for the day when the clan heir would be decided. She truly didn't have any desire for holding power within the Hyūga clan. Neither would she turn back if given the responsibility.

But it was what would happen to her when she would be considered a burden in the clan and thrown out. Not in a literal sense, as she belonged to the Main Household and thus would be useful in building relations.

She had accidentally stumbled in on a conversation between her father Hiashi and her grandfather Hiroto who had been discussing about herself at that time. She didn't want to eavesdrop but couldn't help but listen since it concerned her future.

(Flashback)

"Hiashi, you need to understand this. Your elder daughter is not fit to be the heir of the clan.", Hiroto said.

"You don't need to tell me that. I can only wish that she was more confident and worthy to lead the clan.", Hiashi said.

"She's just like her mother. You didn't teach her enough at a young age and now she's taken on her kind and gentle nature. At least young Hanabi fares better in this case.", Hiroto said.

"I know. Whichever shall be the case, what of the other one?", Hiashi asked.

"Had it been your sons, like in the case of Hizashi and you, they would be transferred to the branch family without any doubt.", Hiroto said.

Hiashi flinched at the mention but didn't say anything.

"Since you have daughters, one of them, probably Hinata, will have to be married off somewhere and branded with the Caged Bird seal to protect our clan's secret. We will try to have the marriage as high profile as we can, hopefully somewhere in the family of the Daimyo if we're lucky. That would elevate our standing quite a lot.", Hiroto said.

"Is there no other option than the Caged Bird seal?", Hiashi asked out of genuine concern.

"You know there isn't.", Hiroto said.

Hiashi just nodded in reply.

Hinata put her hand on her mouth to not let any sound escape but her shaking eyes were telling how shocked she was. She quickly but stealthily ran back to her own room as the Byakugan could detect anyone if suspicion was aroused. She had cried till morning that night.

(Flashback over)

As she closed her eyes about to break down, the image of Naruto flashed in her head.

"Hey Hinata, congratulations! You did great! Look forward to working with you in the future!"

The kindness and happiness that she saw on his face at that time made her strengthen her own resolve.

"Thats right. I am a Ninja now, I shouldn't cry over silly things. I just have to keep working like him and never back down. I will achieve my goal too, one day.", she said with her face heating up. After all, Naruto was quite handsome as of now and only Kami knows what a lady killer he'd be as he grew up

With the hope of a yet new and better tomorrow, she actually went to get some rest.

(Aburame Household)

"Dad, I passed the exam.", Shino informed.

"Good.", his dad replied.

---

Naruto had gone to find his teachers who had trained him over the years.

It was going to be continued for complete 4 years that Naruto was in the academy. But due to his hard working nature and a certain Shadow Clone spamming Justu, he had learnt everything they had to offer in a span of three years.

For the last one year, he continued practicing and training alone honing and mastering the skills in his arsenal.

Practicing one move 10000 times, huh. He had taken that statement to heart and made thousands of Shadow Clones everyday until exhaustion trying to perfect each and every move to his very best.

In those past months, he didn't have much time to make contact with his teachers as they were busy in their own work. But today was a different scene, he needed to meet them all and thank each one for everything they did for him.

Searching around, he finally found out that Yamato was out for a mission so he'd meet him later. And Hayate was on duty as the Hokage's personal guard. At the moment, he was entering the famous sweet shop where many of the shinobi like to hang out.

He recognised that deep violet shade of hair in no time. Although a second member was also there with a similar shade of hair who made him a little uneasy.

Nonetheless, he approached the table with a normal expression and said, "Kon'nichiwa Sensei! How've you been? And you too, how are you Ank--"

Before he could speak any further, a snake coiled up his torso and around his neck.

"Don't 'how've you been Anko-chan' me kid. You wouldn't have even remembered me had I not been here.", Anko said eating dango giving him a hard glare.

"Okay okay I'm sorry. I was very busy….. training. But I'm sure I'll meet you every now and then, okay?", Naruto said defeated.

"Come on Anko, that's not a proper way to greet a fellow Shinobi.", Yūgao said sipping her tea.

Anko snickered and called her snake back into her sleeves. The rest of the shinobi didn't pay any heed since Anko was usually like this, not caring about what anyone says.

"Well, so umm……that was actually why I'm here. To tell you. And you ruined all the fun.", Naruto said.

"Haha, did you really expected me to doubt you'll pass after all that I taught you.", Yūgao said.

Naruto just laughed although hesitantly since he didn't know how much if at all Anko knew about their training.

In reality, Anko had made Yūgao tell her what she had been doing all the time since she had been meeting her less frequently too.

Yūgao had told her that she was training someone however was under orders not to say anything to anyone. Anko already understood what it was about since the Hokage had helped her too when Orochimaru had left her alone like that.

"So who's your team incharge?", Yūgao asked.

"I don't know. They've called us tomorrow at the Academy to announce the assigned teams and the Jōnin Sensei.", Naruto said.

"I just hope you're lucky enough to get Kurenai or something. I heard she's going to be assigned a team this time around.", Yūgao said.

"Who knows. Anyways, I'll talk to you later, Yūgao Sensei. Thank you for everything. Anko-chan, later.", Naruto said and left the shop waving them off.

"Hmph, why are you 'Sensei' and I'm 'Anko-chan'? Not fair.", Anko said stuffing half a dozen dango in her mouth.

Yūgao just chuckled at her behaviour.

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

(Hokage Tower)

Naruto was currently talking to the old assistant that was present on the reception.

"I'm telling you he's not available at the moment. There's a meeting at the council today which will take a lot of time. Come back tomorrow.", she said.

"But he was just at the Academy.", Naruto said.

"Come back tomorrow, today not possible.", she said.

"But……okay, fine.", Naruto said.

"Unless there's an urgency?", she asked knowing that the Hokage had given them quite a scolding many years ago when he was held up here due to the Hokage being busy after he was attacked by a mob.

"Oh, no. Nothing like that. Thanks, I'll be back tomorrow.", he said.

He went outside thinking of something to do for the rest of the day.

'Guess I'll do some training, have some bowls of Ramen and then hit the bed. Good old routine.'

Meanwhile, inside the conference room, there was a meeting going on. A hearing, to be precise.

"I don't even know why Uchiha-sama is brought here in the first place. It was just a match. Everything goes, right?", a councilwoman said.

The hearing wasn't even required for such a small case in front of the council, the Hokage would've judged on his own. But the Civilian Council had insisted that they be present on the time.

The Hokage had allowed them but seemed calling the Shinobi side unnecessary. Therefore the Hokage and the Civilian Council were assembled to pass the judgement.

Sasuke was the one on trial, of course.

"This was an official match between two shinobi at the Ninja Academy. Uchiha Sasuke broke the rules of the match. Whatsoever be the outcome, such type of defiance is not expected of a Shinobi. And for one who hasn't even started missions yet, that is truly unacceptable.", the Hokage said.

The Civilian Council had always tried to suck up to Sasuke, due to the fact that one day he was the only heir left from one of the major clans of Konoha and they could manipulate him to their wishes if they got on his good side.

"But that can be spared. I don't think anyone would complain if the opponent got hurt or even killed. It would be good riddance of that demon fo--", she said.

"Councilwoman! One more word from your mouth and I'll see that you never sit on that chair again.", the Hokage said sternly with all of them feeling the pressure of his killing intent

(A/N : It's like the Spiritual Pressure/Reiatsu from Bleach. But the closest thing to that I saw in Naruto fics was killing intent. If anyone has better ideas, PM me.)

"On the account to breaking the rules of an official match and putting on risk the life of another fellow Shinobi, you will be fined with your pay for the next ten D-rank missions, alongwith one hour of community service for a fortnight.", the Hokage declared.

"But Hokage-sama, I don't think the community service is necessary. Uchiha-sama understands his mistake. I think the matter should be closed after him being fined.", the councilwoman said.

The reason behind it was simple. A fine equalling the pay of a few D-rank missions would be easily covered by the funds from the Uchiha clan. Although Sasuke was not the official representative of the clan, the clan treasury belonged to him.

And the Hokage being his guardian was not in favour of letting him allow complete access to those funds, but the civilian council had somehow put a good argument why he should, and the Shinobi Council having no complaints gestured "Whatever you see fit, Hokage-sama."

"What I decided is final. I've already kept the punishment as lenient as possible. Don't test my patience now.", the Hokage said bringing over the next file.

Sasuke just scowled knowing that what he did was against the rules and any further argument from him would only make matters complicated. After all, there was a whole side of a council trying to lick his boots, so why take on unnecessary work.

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

(On some random rooftop)

Naruto was stopped by a certain silver haired person when he was going back home after training.

(A/N : No it's not that one. There's not just one silver haired person in Konoha, although he's the only badass one not gona lie. xD)

Naruto had already sensed him approaching some time ago but decided to act oblivious.

"Konbanwa, Mizuki-sensei! What brings you to me?", Naruto greeted with a smile.

He knew that Mizuki never particularly liked him during the Academy, and probably was one of the goons of the Civilian Council in the Academy. After all, even Shinobi can be bought with a good price.

"Hey Naruto! I was looking for you. I heard that you bagged the first place in the test. Congratulations!", Mizuki said with a really really genuine-looking fake expression.

Apparently, Mizuki hadn't seen any part of the test as he was appointed in other duties at that time. The news of the demon brat who topped the test was shocking to him too. 'He was always so dumb in the Academy. Must be that Iruka, he was always lenient on him. Sometimes too much. And being the head examiner, he could easily have that brat wherever he wanted on the ranks list.' was what he concluded.

"Thanks Mizuki-sensei! But I don't think you'd come all the way to tell me that.", Naruto said.

"True. Since you got first place I really didn't want that you fail to become a Genin.", Mizuki said.

"What do you mean?", Naruto asked.

"You don't know this, but the Jōnin Sensei that are assigned to every team test whether their squad is ready to become a Ninja or if they're the compatible teachers for them in their own methods.", Mizuki said.

'This guy actually might be right. Sounds reasonable. Whoa, I didn't know he actually is a good person.', Naruto thought.

"Thank you, Sensei! I'll do my best to pass that test too.", Naruto said.

"I'm sure you would. But there's another method to make sure that you'll pass no matter what.", Mizuki said.

"Alternative method? What's that?", Naruto asked confused.

"You have to bring me a certain scroll from the Hokage's mansion. It's a stealth exercise so make sure no one catched you or you'll fail. Once you deliver it to me, you'll pass for sure. It's called the Scroll of Sealing. A simple search and retrieve mission.", Mizuki explained.

'Damn, and I thought he was a good guy. He's trying to compromise the secrets of the Leaf Village itself. I don't know who does he work for, but that's not some funny trick. I have to let Jiji know straight away.', Naruto thought while keeping a straight face.

"So? What do you think?", Mizuki asked a little anxious.

"Of course, if you say so Sensei.", Naruto said.

'Haha, what a fool. I knew it! Now I'll take the scroll away to master and all the fingers will be pointed towards the demon brat. Whether he be executed or not, it's still a win-win situation for me.', Mizuki thought

"Okay then, meet me at this specific location before dawn. If you can't do it by dawn, you'll fail. So be quick about it. And remember, it's a secret test. I'm just telling it to you so there's no need to tell anyone else about it, not even your friends.", Mizuki said.

"Of course, I won't tell my friends or anyone to come there. It will be just me.", Naruto said.

'After all, I'm more than enough for the likes of scum such as you.', he added in his mind.

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

"I've got to find Jiji fast. I can't do anything against that guy without proof. And again, even with evidence I'm in no position to take any action.", Naruto said to nobody reaching the Hokage tower.

As he was about to enter the front gate, he remembered that the receptionist had already declined his request to meet the Hokage for the day. Although yeah, it was an urgency, heck it was an emergency, but still it'd take too much time.

He went to the roof quickly and sent a Chakra Pulse through the entire building. Ordinarily, the chakra in the building is dampened for safety purposes, so sensing chakra without his special technique would be next to impossible.

"Found him. How is he busy? He's just reading some scroll or something in his study.", Naruto thought aloud.

He quickly maneuvered through the windows and entered the study in a hurry. Due to the same, he forgot that the ANBU guards were always on their toes and in a matter of seconds the kunai in their hands were around Naruto.

"Okay, I'm sorry to barge in. Just...please.", Naruto said breathing heavily.

The Hokage nodded and signalled the guards to go back to their positions and they swiftly complied.

"What happened? You seem quite unsettled, uncharacteristic of you, the one who always gives everyone else trouble.", the Sandaime asked.

"Not the time for humour, Jiji. This is serious!", Naruto said.

"I see. Sit down and tell me everything.", the Hokage said.

He ordered the guards to leave them alone immediately with a gesture and they complied.

Naruto sat down and told him everything how Mizuki approached him and proposed him an offer to steal the Scroll of Sealing in exchange for securing his position as a shinobi.

"Hmm, this is bad. One of our own trying to betray us and divulge classified information to outsiders. Good thing you informed me. As reckless as you are, the duty of a shinobi is foremost. I think that's all for you. I'll assign someone on this mission.", the Hokage said.

"Wait wait wait, that's not fair. I want to be the one to complete this. Assign me, official or unofficial, either way he's not going to get away from me.", Naruto said.

"You're still adamant as ever. First day being a shinobi and you want a high ranking mission. I don't know about that.", Hiruzen said stroking his beard.

"Please.", Naruto added.

"Well, I guess even if I don't assign a mission I can't stop from going there.", Hiruzen chuckled.

"Then that means….", Naruto asked.

"Very well. I acknowledge that your skill and knowledge far exceed your current rank. This is your first mission. Your job is simple : Capture Mizuki and bring him back here. I will be keeping someone for backup there though.", the Hokage said.

"Understood. Can I take the scroll now?", Naruto asked.

"Oh no way, that is a very important piece of information. Take a counterfeit. It's not like you're making a deal with him.", the Hokage said raising an eyebrow.

"I'm definitely taking the real one. I'll protect it with my life. And well, I'm curious to look at it too.", Naruto said scratching his head grinning.

"Unless and until I'm here, I can't allow that.", the Hokage said.

"But what if I somehow immobilize you?", Naruto asked smirking.

"Don't you think you're getting ahead of yourself, boy? It won't be that easy to get rid of me.", the Hokage said

"True. Although I have this killer technique that even you can't dodge.", Naruto said.

Hiruzen was now unsettled. Curious too. Naruto wouldn't use anything large scale here. Yet he was confident that it would work on him.

Naruto formed the half plus sign for the Shadow Clone jutsu and a cloud of smoke formed.

"Huh, Kage Bunshin? That's nothing new.", the Hokage said.

"Oiroke Hāremu no Justu!" (Sexy Harem Jutsu)

It wasn't a moment too soon as the words left his mouth that a bunch of really really almost uncensored women ;) jumped on the Hokage shouting "Hokage-samaaaaa!"

Hiruzen could have prepared for a Bijūdama at that time but he had never expected something like that to happen in a million years. He was knocked out flat due to the blood loss that occured from his nosebleed (animé style). xD

"Hehehe, sorry Jiji. That was my ultimate weapon. I added the Kage Bunshin technique to the Henge and it's done. Hopefully those ANBU don't catch up to me.", Naruto said.

He quickly took the Scroll from the cupboard where it was neatly displayed and Shunshin'd out of there.

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

(Somewhere in the woods)

"Phew, these were some dangerous jutsus. Most of them are suicidal and if someone could use them effectively, they're basically genocidal. Not even one I can perform right now. Except the Multi-Shadow clone, which is just forbidden due to risk of chakra exhaustion. Well, it's getting late. I guess I should visit Mizuki now.", Naruto said to no one as he headed towards the designated location.

Meanwhile, the Hokage had got up and almost got a nosebleed again when he remembered how he was knocked out in the first place. Propping himself up, he ordered the ANBU to summon a specific person.

Naruto upon reaching found Mizuki already waiting there for him. His body language seemed to give away his impatience. Mizuki was ready of escape the hell out of there as soon as he got his hands on the scroll.

'Where is that damned brat? I hope he's not arrested by the authorities, before I get my hands on the scroll, that is.', Mizuki thought tapping his foot.

"Mizuki-sensei! I got the scroll. Fortunately there was no one around when I picked it. So the test wasn't that difficult.", Naruto said.

'Dumb as ever I see. The search parties must be onto you by now. Before they catch up, I need to get that damn scroll out of here.', Mizuki thought.

"A job well done, Naruto. You're certainly fit to be a Genin. I'll make sure you don't go back to the Academy.", Mizuki said eager to take the scroll away from his hands.

"And in return, I'll make sure that you don't end up anywhere except the Leaf Prison!", Naruto said.

"Wha--", Mizuki couldn't finish his statement as he was thrown in the air several dozen metres and crashed into a tree thanks to a hard chakra enhanced kick on the chest.

"Did you really think that I'd be dumb enough to believe you and betray my own village?! The people might not like me, but this village is my homeland.", Naruto said in a loud voice.

"Gah! *cough cough* Such power! How did you…..", Mizuki said clenching his teeth while breathing coarsely and painfully due to the broken ribs he had now.

"That is not for you to know. I won't forgive let alone talk to a criminal who can't even be of his own home.", Naruto said unsheathing his katana.

Watching that, Mizuki hurriedly took a few food pills and instant painkillers in order to get out of this desperate situation. He still didn't think Naruto would be able to stop him alone, but if he had known the plan already, the ANBU hunter squads weren't far enough.

Naruto quickly engaged him in a duel before he could have had the chance to escape.

He used the sword quite easily and proficiently and put Mizuki on backfoot who was barely parrrying all the blows with his kunai.

Mizuki jumped backwards and threw explosive tag laced kunai at him.

Naruto was about to jump when the earth around his legs protruded and bound them.

Mizuki had hurriedly formed hand signs for an Earth Style Jutsu while Naruto was focused on the explosive kunai.

Knowing that Naruto was too close to the blast, he fleed still scared of the other Ninja that would soon arrive. Moreover, the Scroll of Sealing would've been destroyed too with the blast, but he doubted it was the real one.

"Fool. You might have become a Genin but don't think of comparing yourself to me. You could've survived if you had brought help from the start. But it worked out for me, at least I can get out in time.", Mizuki thought out aloud.

Suddenly, he shouted as he felt a searing pain across his chest and abdomen. The gash wasn't very deep but covered his whole front in length. Through his unsteady vision, he could roughly make out Naruto in front of him holding the katana covered in his blood. But his eyes, they were filled with hate and were…….red?

"LIKE HELL YOU ARE!", Naruto shouted in a deeper voice.

Mizuki landed on the ground and narrowly avoided being knocked unconscious as his landing was somewhat softened by the grass.

He saw Naruto upon him in an instant and pulled up a kunai to block the sword that Naruto plunged straight into him. The sword hit the kunai but Mizuki was too much worn out to be able to keep on much longer.

"You demon bastard, this is your true form. You should have been killed long ago. It's a matter of time before you take this dear village of yours down to dust with yourself.", Mizuki said.

Naruto growled even more and the sword started to be covered with blue sparks as he channeled Lightning chakra into it.

The sword passed through the kunai like a hot knife through butter (A/N : Sorry this simile is so common but still sounds too good xD) and stopped in front of Mizuki's heart.

"I am Naruto Uzumaki of Konoha, and I don't need to hear anything from the likes of you, traitor!", Naruto said as he pulled off the headband from Mizuki and prepared to push the sword through.

Mizuki had lost all hope of fleeing long before, and now closed his eyes for his inevitable end as the sword poked his skin.

"Naruto, stop! What are you doing?!", a voice said as a person gripped Naruto's forearm stopping him from going any further.

Naruto looked at the person who had interfered with the same red slit-pupil eyes containing an angry glare.

"Naruto? What- What happened to you?"

Naruto's eyes seemed to lose their viciousness as the red colour receded exposing the cool bright blue eyes once again.

"Iruka-sensei?", Naruto said clenching his head with his hand as he felt like he was experiencing a heavy headache, or a light migraine. He retracted his sword from Mizuki's kunai and sat down leaning against a tree.

"Yes, it's me. Hokage-sama told me everything. I was assigned to see that you come back safe and take the Scroll of Sealing back from Mizuki. But here I am watching you already have the possession of the scroll and Mizuki was on the brink of death. And would have died had I not been here. What got into you?", Iruka said.

Dawn had already arrived and the sun was starting to rise by the looks of the sunlight that was flooding the forest.

The headache Naruto faded away in a few minutes after which Naruto realised what he was about to do. The last thing he remembered clearly was getting angry at Mizuki and then his memory faded.

He gave into his emotions and clearly lost all sense of judgement at the time.

"I-I'm sorry, Iruka Sensei. But I'm okay now. Can you carry Mizuki back? He's not my or anyone's Sensei anymore. I'll return the Scroll of Sealing to Jiji immediately.", Naruto asked with a sad expression.

Iruka stared at him for a moment not being able to decide if that was the right thing to do. But he relented knowing that Naruto should have a chance of figuring whatever issue he had by himself.

"Sure. Breakfast at Ichiraku's? It's on me.", Iruka asked.

"No."

"Uh, okay."

"Can we postpone it until dinner?"

Iruka looked at Naruto who still looked down but had a genuine smile on his face.

"Huh?", he asked.

"You see, I've got to freshen up and go to the Team assignment session in the morning. I'm sure you remember that too. Then the Jōnin would obviously want to at least talk to us. Or maybe get some training. Then I'll get some sleep in the afternoon. I'll be good by evening So, dinner would be great.", Naruto said.

"Heh, of course.", Iruka said smiling himself.

Naruto nodded and left the place taking his time to reach the Hokage Tower. There was a lot on his mind after the incident in the morning.

How would he be able to face the Hokage after what happened? How would he react? The mission was almost compromised. Had it not been for Iruka, his status as a shinobi would've definitely been scrapped.

'I was so confident last night that I could do it. I just had to incapacitate Mizuki and take him back. Instead, I succumbed to the anger that I felt towards him. I still can't believe myself.', he thought.

After reaching the Tower, he knocked on the office door twice waiting for the permission. After getting it, he quietly entered the room and closed the door behind him. The ANBU were ordered to leave for the time.

"I suppose the mission didn't go as expected? Judging by your expression.", the Hokage asked.

"No, I uh….I was able to complete the mission, but it was thanks to Iruka-sensei. If you hadn't sent him……I'd have killed Mizuki. I feel so……unsure of myself now.", Naruto said slightly hyperventilating unable to meet eyes with the Hokage.

"And the Scroll is safe?", the Hokage asked.

"Yes it is. I'll put it back at the same place. And here's Mizuki's headband.", Naruto said placing it on the table.

"Then I suppose tyour first mission was successful. Prepare a report within the next three days. Submit it here and collect your pay cheque from the respective department. I'll forgive you this time about the scroll but there shouldn't be a next time.", the Hokage said.

"W-wait. Didn't you hear what I said? I almost failed the mission.", Naruto said wide eyed.

The Hokage sighed and said, "Look Naruto, that is exactly why I had sent Iruka there. When there's a mission, it's either a success or a failure. The process doesn't matter. What you are required to do is do your job. Now in your case, I was able to watch what happened. Don't ask me how, I have my ways. You got angry at Mizuki, lost control of yourself and jeopardized the mission."

"Then how can you let me off like that?", Naruto asked even more confused and guilty.

"It wasn't you, it was the Kyūbi.", Hiruzen said.

"The….Kyūbi?", Naruto asked.

"It's chakra leaks out from the seal. Apparently, it is triggered by strong emotions. You were quite angry at Mizuki, I don't know why. You're usually cool headed. Reckless, impulsive, unpredictable and sometimes act like a knucklehead but still. What you need is to control your emotions and not let them get better of you in the battlefield. It applies on every ninja out there and twice on you, since you're not one but two beings. One of which is filled with hatred and anger.", the Hokage explained.

"I see. That just means I let the Kyūbi get the better of me. It won't happen again.", Naruto said getting a little idea of what triggered the change in him so suddenly.

"Good. I hope so.", the Hokage said.

"Arigatou, Jiji! I'll take my leave.", Naruto said and turned.

"One more thing.

"Yes?", Naruto asked.

"Don't use that ridiculous jutsu of yours on me ever again."

---

Scene Break and Time Skip

There wasn't much time for Naruto to think about anything as he rushed home to freshen up, changed his clothes, prepared some quick meal and set out to the Academy.

He was still late to the session. Most of the students had already been assigned to their respective teams. He took a seat near Shikamaru who could somehow tell that Naruto didn't sleep last night due to some reason but kept quiet about it and just waved.

"……..you three are assigned as Team 18.", Iruka said.

"Yes Sir, understood.", three of the students stood up and said.

"Now, the next team will be : Hinata Hyūga, Shino Aburame and Kiba Inuzuka. You three will be assigned as Team 8.", Iruka said.

"Hey Shikamaru, why are the numbers jumbled up?", Naruto whispered.

"Who knows, Sensei just said that he was busy somewhere and couldn't arrange the list properly in time.", Shikamaru said.

Naruto just nodded and didn't question anything on the topic after that.

"Hai!", the newly formed Team 8 said in unison.

After they sat down, Hinata turned her head slightly looking at the back where Naruto was sitting. He was currently looking at Shino and Kiba where the latter was giving them a thumbs up.

"So I won't be on the same team as Naruto-kun after all. It was just a far fetched wish after all.", she whispered to nobody.

Naruto turned his head towards her and gave her a warm smile alongwith a small thumbs up. Hinata turned tomato red and turned her head straight.

"No that's wrong of me to think like that. Naruto-kun always gives it his all, be it anything. I'll do my best in whatever I do too.", she said to herself.

Meanwhile, Naruto realised something at that time.

"If these three are on one team, and the six people remaining are us. Can't say I didn't expect it before but Oh Shit!", Naruto said loud enough that it was audible to those beside him.

"Ino Yamanaka, Shikamaru Nara and Choji Akimichi. Assigned as Team 10.", Iruka announced.

The three of them stood up and bowed slightly. Ino was looking at Sakura who was teasing her implying that she got to be on her dear Sasuke's team.

"Hmph.", was her only reply as she turned her head away.

"Lastly, we have Sasuke Uchiha, Naruto Uzumaki and Sakura Haruno. You three will be assigned as Team 7.", Iruka said.

All three stood up but had different reactions. Sasuke had the usual smug expression and kept silent.

"Sensei, can't it be just the two of us? Naruto-baka can be left alone without any team.", Sakura said.

"For the first time, Sensei, I actually agree with her.", Naruto said with a deadpanned expression.

"I'm afraid that isn't possible. Unless you decide not to be shinobi, you'll have to stay that way.", Iruka said.

Naruto just said "Understood." and Sakura said "Whatever, me and Sasuke-kun will do special training." while having hearts in her eyes and Sasuke just humphed while looking out of the window.

"With that, all the team placements are complete. Your Jōnin Sensei will arrive shortly to pick up their respective teams. As the last day being your Sensei, I hope all of you have a bright future ahead and wish you the best of luck!", Iruka said smiling.

Everyone stood up and bowed their heads as Iruka left the room.

"Tough luck, Naruto. Although it's a drag for me too, at least I don't have to deal with those guys. Besides, Choji is on my team so I guess it'll be okay.", Shikamaru said.

"Yeah, I guess it is what it is.", Naruto said.

'I guess I do understand why I'm placed with him. A part of me even knew it'd happen. Now that I'm on a team with him, I don't think there'll be much to worry about being failed irrationally. Still, it would be such a bother to be with them afterwards too.', he thought, not knowing that this was not the logic behind team placements.

One by one, the Jōnin incharge of each team announced their respective squads and ordered them to follow him/her.

The incharges of Team 8 Team 10 were a little late but somehow reached at the same time xD. Waving goodbye to his friends, he was now left alone in the classroom with his to be teammates.

Sakura was as usual fawning over Sasuke and Naruto was getting bored since their Sensei was taking too much time. He tried reading a novel but was soon forced to close it since it didn't interest him at the moment, because reading it here was a tad bit……. uncomfortable.

"Hey Naruto! Can't you see both of us here? Give us some privacy, will ya?", Sakura said.

"It's a classroom for Kami's sake. Go somewhere else if you want privacy. And I don't have any intention of poking around in your affairs but here we are, a team. And we're all supposed to wait here for our Jōnin Sensei…… who is taking forever. Man, that's annoying. Gotta do something about it.", Naruto said.

"Wait Naruto! What're you doing? Pulling a prank on the very first day will make a very bad image of us. Ughhh, whatever. I'm blaming all of this on you. Me and Sasuke-kun have nothing to do with it.", Sakura said.

Naruto completed his setup by putting back the chair from which he had put the duster into the top of the door.

"Suit yourself.", he said as he went back to his seat.

After waiting for another half an hour, they heard footsteps coming towards their room.

'Chaa! Even if I didn't plan that, this is going to be interesting. Serves that guy right for bring so late.', her Inner Sakura thought.

'Like hell he's gonna fall for that. He's a Jōnin class. They're eite ninjas far above this guy's set of skills.', Sasuke thought eyeing the door.

The door opened revealing a silver haired man with his face almost completely covered by a mask and the Hitai-ate revealing just a single eye.

A duster fell as soon as he opened the sliding door.

'Huh? A prank. I can easily avoid it, but if it's the result of teamwork……', he thought.

The duster hit his head covering his hair with chalk powder. Not that it could get more white xD.

Sasuke looked wide-eyed at the Jōnin that was standing at the door.

'That was a silly prank. How can he be an elite ninja if he can't even dodge that. Moreover, how can they send some pushover to train someone as me, one of the Uchiha?!', Sasuke thought clenching his teeth.

Nobody said a thing. The silver haired guy took a step forward saying, "Who did that--"

Suddenly a trip wire activated due to his foot before he could complete the statement.

A water balloon flew past his head as he narrowly sidestepped the trap that had been placed on the front bench.

"Interesting, but that isn't enough to--"

He couldn't complete his statement once again as the water balloon hit the wall behind triggering another mechanism that burst a lot of orange glitter from the wall behind. This time he couldn't dodge it and his head was visibly coloured orange along with the shiny sparkles.

"Hahahahahha. Mission successful.", Naruto burst out laughing.

"I'm sorry, Sensei. I tried to stop him but he didn't listen. Me and Sasuke-kun didn't have anything to do with this.", Sakura quickly said.

'Chaaaaaa! Bullseye! You deserve this!', Inner Sakura thought.

Sasuke just averted his eyes when the man looked in his direction implying that he really didn't care what was happening around.

"Well, my first impression for you guys is that…….you're a bunch of idiots.", he said. Everyone sweatdropped

'Still, even if there was no teamwork, that kid managed to form a triple level trap. Even if it was a prank, I wasn't observant enough.', he thought.

"Okay guys, meet me up at the roof in two minutes. We're already quite late.", he said and disappeared in a smoke.

"The reason was you!", everyone said comically.

"A Kage Bunshin, huh? Guess he won't be roaming around town with orange sparkles today.", Naruto said.

"Hey Naruto! That was all your fault. Now he'll go extra hard on us.", Sakura said.

"Yeah whatever. People like that don't keep a grudge over something like this. Anyways, we've to reach there in two minutes. See ya!", Naruto said as he vanished in a flicker.

Sasuke ran instantly towards the door knowing that Naruto was already ahead of him and he didn't want to be late than the given time just to be tagged as a slowpoke.

Sakura just ran behind him shouting "Wait for me, Sasuke" but couldn't keep up.

---

"Whoa, you're already at this part? You've got quite a unique taste, don't you Sensei? Reading this thing publicly.", a voice said behind the man who was currently reading the latest part of his favourite book series.

He was started and quickly closed the book putting it away.

"And how do you know about it?", he asked.

"Well, I just started reading it yesterday. After I received my headband.", Naruto said showing his own version of the book which was just the first part.

"W-What? But this is not for children!", he said.

"Old enough to kill, old enough to die. Old enough to do anything. Wasn't this one of the rights in the Shinobi Code?", Naruto asked smirking.

"Yeah, but still. Anyways, how'd you get here so quickly.", he asked.

"From the wall, of course. How'd I get behind you otherwise?", Naruto said.

"Well, I guessed. But that means you already know how to walk on the walls?", he asked.

"Duh!", Naruto said raising his shoulders slightly.

Before the conversation could go on, Sasuke reached the rooftop emerging from the stairs. He was panting slightly, but managed to reach within two minutes.

Sakura followed him but was far behind, and was panting heavily when she finally arrived at the place.

All three of them sat down on an elevation on the ground while their Sensei stood leaning against the parapet.

"So all of you introduce yourselves. Start from the pinkette.", he said.

Sakura was annoyed by the nickname but nevertheless said, "Like how? Can you explain it first?"

He sighed and said, "My name is Kakashi Hatake. I don't have a dream in particular. My likes and dislikes, I don't feel like telling you that. As for my plans in future, I haven't decided anything yet."

'That just told us nothing except his name.', Sakura thought.

'The famous Kakashi Hatake, Copy Ninja of the Leaf?! Didn't expect him to be like this. Too embarrassed to tell us that your likes are being late and reading porn in public?', Naruto thought trying to contain his laughter.

"Okay, your turn now.", Kakashi said.

"My name is Sakura Haruno. My likes are…..my dream is…..my plans in future are…..", Sakura said blushing everytime saying anything and looking at Sasuke dreaming of marriage and children.

"Your dislikes?", Kakashi prompted.

"Baka-Naruto!", Sakura said.

"Likewise, except that you two are my teammates now so I don't have a choice.", Naruto said.

Kakashi just shook his head and sighed. "Next, Blondie."

"My name is Naruto Uzumaki! The things I like are eating ramen and meditating peacefully in nature. The things I dislike are people who judge anyone without even knowing them. My plans for the future are to be acknowledged by everyone and take Konoha to great heights. And my dream…..is to become the Hokage!", Naruto said enthusiastically.

"Like you could become Hokage. If anyone can it will be Sasuke-kun.", Sakura said.

"Next, EMO.", Kakashi said.

Sasuke visibly flinched at the nickname as he expected something like 'brunette' or 'noirette' going by hair colour. Still, he didn't comment on it while Naruto couldn't completely contain his cackle.

"My name is Sasuke Uchiha. I like power and strength. I dislike a lot of people, but someone in particular. I don't have any dreams or plans because what I have is a goal and I will achieve it. I have to destroy a certain someone and restore my clan.", Sasuke said.

Both Naruto and Kakashi caught on what he was talking about, while Sakura was completely oblivious. She was more focused on blushing thinking about how he would restore his clan.

"I guess that's enough for the introductions.", Kakashi said.

"So when will we be starting the missions, Sensei?", Sakura asked hoping to spend more time with Sasuke in this manner since personally he didn't pay any heed to her after hanging around for professional purposes.

"Don't know. It's not a 'when'. It's an 'if'. If only……you pass the test.", Kakashi said.

"What do you mean? We already passed the Graduation Test.", Sakura said.

"Oh that. That was just to see who has potential to become Genin. Nothing more. Only a few teams of those selected will actually be allowed to pass and become Genin. Rest of them will be sent back to the Academy.", Kakashi said.

"Whaaaaat?!", everyone said.

'That's a bluff no matter how you look at it. With so less Ninja graduating and given the high mortality rate of Genin out there, Konoha's forces would be crumbling right now. But again, it isn't like everyone passes. These are the times of peace, if a Jōnin decides that a team should not pass, he must have the authority to send the team back. And this is Kakashi Hatake here, he surely must have some good standards. Plus he isn't stuck up to Sasuke like many other people. In any case, I can't afford to fail at this point.', Naruto thought.

Sasuke scowled at the revelation.

'How much more are they going to test me?! I'm an elite. I should be personally trained by a high level Jōnin so that I can get stronger faster. I have to kill that bastard as soon as I can. Why are they treating me like I'm an equal to this weak fangirl and that damn Naruto? I can't understand how, but he's stronger than me at the time. I should get special techniques and strong jutsus to surpass everyone!', he thought.

Sakura was thinking about something too.

'No no no no, if they fail us and for some reason pass Sasuke-kun, I'll have to part with him. And some other girl will swipe him in the meantime. I can't let that happen. I'll have to pass that test too. I hope Sasuke can help me when I'm in trouble. We're both a team after all.', she thought.

"Out of your daydreaming! Come tomorrow at Training Field 7 tomorrow at 5 a.m. Oh, and I suggest you skip breakfast, or you'll probably puke!", Kakashi said the last part in a heavy voice.

"Understood.", Naruto said.

"Might as well try to read as much as you can by today. If you fail, I'll be taking it from you.", Kakashi winked.

"Haha, you have no shame, have you? But I guess that's a good idea, just in case.", Naruto said laughing.

"Well then, see you guys later!", Kakashi said as he prepared to depart.

"It was nice meeting you. It seems even if I'm with them on a team there's someone who I can vibe with.", Naruto said grinning.

Kakashi couldn't help but let out a chuckle. "Likewise!"

Only he knew if he was replying to the first part of the statement or the whole. He disappeared in a flicker and the newly formed team was left there.

"I guess I'll see you guys tomorrow then.", Naruto said trying to be polite.

"Don't be late, Naruto! Or we'll have to listen to Sensei's scolding with you too.", Sakura said

"Oh, about that. I don't think Sensei will be there until 10 or 11. Still I'll reach there by 9, just in case. After I have a decent breakfast at Ichiraku's. You guys are invited if you want. Treat is on me.", Naruto said.

Even if he didn't like them, they were still his teammates. They were all going to watch each other's backs on the missions. Better to try to form good communication if not friendship as much as possible.

"Are you crazy?! He said 5 o'clock. We can't be late! He'll disqualify us immediately. And I don't have any intention of puking out anything during the test. We don't need your invitation. We'll reach there early morning and go out for lunch together later, isn't that right, Sasuke-kun?", Sakura said.

"Suit yourself.", Naruto said sighing as he vanished in a flicker.

"He's gone. And now I'm all alone with Sasuke-kuuuuunnnnn. Maybe we can go on a date…..", Sakura said giggling.

But Sasuke was nowhere to be seen when she turned her head. In hopes of catching up to him on the staircase, she ran as fast as she could.

"Sasuke-kun! Wait for meeeeee~"

---

And period. How was it?!

More action in next chapter. You know how the test requires fighting and all.

Leave a review if you can. Anything's fine as long as it can help me make my story better.

Also, I read at some places that some fanfics were removed from this site due to some xyz reasons and they posted on alternative sites like AFF or FicWad. I don't particularly want it to be removed like that if possible so can anyone tell what can I do or something that i shouldn't do to prevent that?

Next chapter could take time. Might be after a month or two Idk. Exams coming up next month. Hope you understand. I'll check the reviews though.

Later!