After completing their mission in the Land of Waves, Team 7 returns to Konohagakure. Although Sasuke saved Naruto's life their teamwork seems to have got even worse than before with Naruto intent on beating Sasuke causing him to mess up on subsequent missions.
Kakashi decides that their teamwork is too off that day and sends them all home. Before leaving Sasuke tells Naruto in a matter-of-fact manner to simply get stronger than him before telling Sakura who had suggested that the two work of their own teamwork skills, that she was worse than Naruto.
"That wasn't nice Sasuke" Aika said running to catch up to him
"hn" Sasuke rolled his eyes and Aika looked down
"you should be nicer to your teammates" Aika said softly
"Aika your weaker then Sakura" Sasuke said
"I know" Aika sighed
"Let's go" Sasuke said picking up his pace
"What?" Aika asked surprised
"We're going to train" Sasuke said simply
"Really?" Aika asked
"Yes now let's go" Sasuke said
"Ok" Aika said and walked with Sasuke
Later, Konohamaru and his two friends: Udon and Moegi stalk Naruto. As antics ensue, Konohamaru accidentally bumps into a foreign ninja who he then insults causing the latter to threaten to kill him. Naruto attempts to attack the newcomer but is tripped by his invisible attack.
Just as the mysterious ninja is about to hit Konohamaru, Sasuke saves the day by throwing rocks, forcing the ninja to drop Konohamaru. Just as the mysterious ninja is about to attack Sasuke, another one appears telling the first one to stop playing around.
Aika sat on the tree branch next to Sasuke. Sasuke jumped off and signaled her to stay.
"Hey wasn't Aika with you Sasuke where is she!" Naruto shouted
"Your too loud Naruto shut up" Sasuke said
Meanwhile, all the jōnin are gathered along with the Third Hokage. He announces that the chūnin exams will take place in seven days on July 1.