Konoha's Legacy: An Alternate Version Chapter 4, a naruto fanfic

Welcome back everyone for another thrilling installation in this story. I know that the past three chapters have been, oh how should I put it, taxing on your time as readers since even I grumbled over doing them. But the first chapters of the story have served purposes and it will start to show now.

Thank you so much to those who have reviewed. Your comments have helped me and I deeply appreciate it. I have received some suggestions and taken what you all have asked into account and you might, or might not, be pleased that I have decided to add some of the suggestions into the story. But nothing influenced this chapter. It was already written by the time I published the third chapter, I just needed a couple of days to proof-read it for minor mistakes, that's all.

This chapter is the longest so far. Very long. Lots of insight into people's thoughts and mindframes, as well as flashbacks. But I enjoyed writing this chapter more than any chapter so far. So this one should be good. Helpful criticism is still welcome but all I could really ask for is that people keep reading because it starts getting a bit more interesting from now on. Now...without further ado. May I present...

Chapter 4 - Genin Exam: A day of Reminiscing and Opportunity

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BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

SMASH

With an ear-piercing crash, the 'bane' of Naruto's existence ceased to exist. The once great annoyance was now a pile of debris strewn across his floor after he grabbed it, yanking it out of the wall socket, and chucked it across hte room, where it collided with the unforgiving walls. 'Damn that felt good. Now I'll have to go get a new one though. Don't matter, cuz it still felt great.' He sat up in his bed and stretched, wincing as the pain from his overworked muscles hit him like a ton of bricks. Naruto had been training as much as possible whenever possible since that fateful day 8 months ago. On that day, Naruto was served a heaping dish of humble pie, courtesy Hinata's ill-tempered cousin, Neji. Just thinking back on it brings back all the physical pain, as well as the psychological.

(Flashback)

Naruto was walking with Hinata, Shikamaru, Chouji, and Ino, as had become traditional between them. Yamanaka Ino had grown to be a surprisingly attractive young girl but Naruto just didn't see her in that light. He thought that the pink-haired girl, Haruno Sakura, was more appealing, but both girls had such huge chubbies on the teenage heartthrob, Sasuke, that Naruto really had trouble seeing any of them in a light other than one of an idiot. He didn't care though, Ino was friendly to Hinata, and therefore, friendly to him. She would never be friendly towards Shikamaru though. She was neutral to Chouji, although she always made comments on how much he eats. The reason she would never be friendly towards Shikamaru, is because Shikamaru had a problem keeping his mouth shut. The moment he would open it in reference to Ino, he would immediately get back-handed by the girl because he would always say she was either too loud, too annoying, too troublesome, a shrew, or that Sasuke was no one special. Despite the fact that all of those statements were on the line of truth, a person just shouldn't be that blunt towards a volatile girl like Ino. Sakura was worse.

After Ino left, Chouji and Shikamaru left to go to their favorite spot where the lazy boy would just gaze at clouds while Chouji would eat quietly and they would talk about their futures. Wierd. Now it was just Naruto and Hinata. She was being, as usual, quiet and Naruto, as usual, was trying to start a conversation with her. He gave up though when she stopped responding verbally. That was when he saw 'him.' That smug, arrogant, cruel little prick called Neji. He would never, ever, say that to the guy when Hinata was around, which happened to be every time he was around Neji. It was like he was being stopped by the girl. He didn't know what she was trying to stop but it probably had something to do with 'evil eyes' and 'fists.' Naruto couldn't help himself though. The guy was so smug and stuck-up, he made the snobs at all his old birthdays look like average joes. Neji really believed he knew it all and could foresee everything. Times change and Naruto was determined to, one day, teach this guy a lesson.

"Hinata-sama, Hiashi-sama has been waiting. School has been out for 15 minutes. You were supposed to be at the mansion five minutes ago for 'family' training." He looked from her to Naruto, then back to her, shaking his head disapprovingly. "Hinata, how can you expect to be respected if you can't even make time for your family. You spend it all with 'trash' like him."

"What the hell did you just call me?" Naruto asked him with the utmost seriousness. 'Guess this is the day, huh? I finally have the excuse to kick your ass now.' "What the hell did you just call me?"

"N-Naruto-kun, please don't..."

"Hinata, he just called me trash. Are you saying I shouldn't do something about that?" He knew she meant well, that she didn't want to see him get into a confrontation with her family member, but this guy was just egging for a conflict and Naruto was going to be damned if he just stood there and took it.

Neji smiled with such smugness it was almost unbearable. "Well, at least she's smart enough to recognize when someone is outclassed. There is a definite difference in our levels. I am of the Hyuuga and have mastered almost all of our families techniques while you...you are but the black sheep in a family with no redeeming qualities about them. How you are the son of the Hokage baffles me."

That did it. Naruto snapped and went straight at Neji. Ignoring Hinata's pleading for him to not attack Neji, Naruto went at him with as much speed as he could. Throwing his right fist for Neji's face, Neji blocked it with little effort, sending Naruto tumbling to the ground with as little grace as was possible in the situation. Coughing from the dust kicked into the air from his sliding to the ground, he got up, turned back to Neji and went after him, roaring. He threw another right for Neji, it was blocked again, but this time, Naruto stayed on his feet and swung his left leg towards Neji's midsection. Neji, without so much as a glance, raised his knee to block it and swung lazily at Naruto face with an open palm. Naruto jumped back to avoid and when he landed, he saw Neji crouch into a fighting style he had never seen before. His arms were extended out from his sides, the left one taking a slightly deeper dip than the right one, with palms open, facing the sky. His left leg extended while his right leg bent and he slumped his back down. Naruto didn't even know what was going to happen until he heard Neji's voice utter out the most ominous thing he'd ever heard.

"You are in my field of divination." Naruto was frozen, unable to move, as he felt the area he was standing on take a different feel. It felt like Hinata's chakra, but much more malevolent. "Jyuuken: Hakke Rokujuuyonshou."

"Neji-nii-san, DONT!" Hinata screamed at Neji, pleading with him but it was too late. He had already moved in for the attack.

"2...4...8...16...32...64..." and Naruto fell to the ground, writhing in agony, unable to get up and completely helpless. Even scarier, was the fact he couldn't gather chakra. 'It's as if this guy...He...sucked up all my chakra.'

"Huhuhuhuhu, now you know the difference in our powers. You are weak. Pathetic. And a disgrace to your father's name. The Hokage's son is nothing but a joke. You should just quit the academy, because you don't have what it takes...to be a ninja."

(End Flashback)

The words stung so much, even more so when Naruto, at his most depressed - when he would question his ability - actually think that what he said was true. 'I've been scraping by in the first three years at the academy with barely passable marks. I'm considered the laughing stock in our class, despite the fact that other's have failed. Everyone expects so much out of me...it isn't fair.' That's what he would think during those times when he was really down-in-the-dumps. But it was with that day, that he rededicated himself to his training. When he would get home from school, he would go out to meditation garden or to the dojo, which was a recent addition that his father had put in place of one of the guest rooms, and practice till late at night. That was, however, only possible when he didn't have homework. When he did have homework, he would either spend the evening hanging out with Shikamaru or Hinata, the only two people who he knew who were smart. He couldn't count how many times Hinata had helped him with the homework they were required to do. He wasn't lazy...far from it...he just couldn't grasp alot of the questions asked in the textbooks. And now, today - the day of the finals to become a genin - he would have to take yet another test and this one was a doozy for him. It was embarrassing...he still couldn't grasp Bunshin no Jutsu. A simple technique aimed around creating an illusionary doppleganger of yourself, one that isn't solid. He had been practicing the move for the past two weeks...but he still couldn't get the hang of it.

After a quick shower and changing into his clothes for the day, he hurried to the garden for some last minute preparations. He had to be able to perform this ability.

"Bunshin no Jutsu...damn. Bunshin no Jutsu...damn. Bunshin no Jutsu...DAMN IT!" he shouted, punching the ground...why couldn't he get it...why...after all this time...he still couldn't get the damn jutsu. It was considered a Genin level jutsu but he just seemed to struggle with it. He had seen a lot of the kids in his class perform the technique at lunch a few days ago, so why couldn't he?

"Naruto, my boy. Do not be so desperate. You have no need for that."

"But...dad, I can't get it. Why? Why can't I get this stupid technique to work for me? It's not fair...I've tried my best to change this last year...my marks have gone up but...if I can't grasp this technique, then how can I possibly hope to be a good ninja. If I don't pass...I'll be a disgrace."

"Naruto!" He was visibly shaken by the harshness in the voice of his father. "You will never be a disgrace to me. I, myself, had problems with Bunshin no Jutsu. But I worked through it, like I know you will. Now just relax. Remember this, Naruto. Don't believe everything that appears on the surface. There is something you are missing. Something that you haven't completely grasped yet about your exam."

"What do you mean?" He was really confused. His father always seemed to be full of wisdom and wise phrases, but he would only give you clues and hints towards the meaning of his words and they were always cryptic.

"Your teacher left the door open...for another way. Good luck Naruto. I know you will pass, I have the utmost faith in you." His father then stood up and walked out of the garden. Naruto looked at the sun in the sky and recognized the height it was at. 'Crap, I can figure out what he said later, I hope. I need to get my ass to school.' Running as fast as he could, he went to his room, grabbed his backpack, and ran towards the kitchen for his breakfast and lunch. Grabbing his cup of ramen, which he inhaled by throwing it all into his mouth at once, he grabbed his lunch and ran out the door, struggling to get all the noodles down his throat.

As he ran towards the academy, he wondered how the others would do. His class as it went through the years had shrunk in size but was still left with some incredibly talented Genin-hopefuls. He thought back on how the others had progressed as he neared the building.

Hinata awoke from her dream-filled sleep with a smile of satisfaction. She hadn't slept that well in a while. Quickly recovering from her stupor, she remembered what today was. The dreaded exam. The reason she dreaded it? This was the one time where she wasn't able to lend support of any kind to Naruto. Before, in all the previous finals for each of their past three years, she, he, Shikamaru, Chouji, and sometimes Ino would get together for a study session, or a hangout, whatever you wanted to call it. Shikamaru never really studied since he pretty much knew what everything was, he just didn't put the time into his homework. Tests for the lazy boy were a piece of cake.

She got out of her futon and slipped into her morning slippers, made her way to the kitchen and made some tea for her, her cousin, and her father. Sipping on her tea with no company, though, she thought back on all the time before in the academy. She was so intimidated by the school on that first day that she clung to Naruto like he were a magnet. She was embarrassed for her behavior that day, it being unsuitable of a Hyuuga, but was happy that Naruto went along with it and stayed by her. Each day after that of their first year was pretty much the same. They would come in every other day like: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except for the weeks when they had only two days of school. Then they only came in on Mondays and Fridays). The second year was the same - Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, but on occasion they would come in on Saturdays. The third year, as well as this one, they would come in every day of the regular week. They studied just about everything from the shinobi world. Politics - including the wars, the history of each country, and reasons for disputes between them -, pros and cons of certain styles of fighting - which included ninjutsu, genjutsu, and taijutsu. They also learned about the flow and manipulation of chakra, the celestial gates, how beneficial the focusing of chakra could be, etc. There was, surprisingly, a lot that could be taught about the shinobi's way of life for four years. She had to agree with the wording of Naruto: "It's freaking ridiculous."

The finals of the first year was a written test. The finals of the second year were performing a standard string of taijutsu moves in a set form, as well as a paper test. The finals of the third year were recognizing genjutsus - extra credit if you could break out of it (Sakura was the only one) - and a written test. Now it was the day of the finals for the fourth and last year. If you failed, you had to repeat only the year you failed, but you would lose any chance of teaming up with the students in your class. That was why she was so nervous about today. She wanted Naruto to pass so she might have the chance to be on his team. 'I'm not that lucky though. I've had fun with Naruto all this time but now...we'll be seeing less of each other.'

"Lady Hinata, it is good to see you are up and ready. Are you prepared for the exam?" Turning around, she was met with an indifferent looking Neji. The event of eight months ago was still engraved in her mind and she flinched everytime she thought back to it.

"H-Hai, I am Neji-nii-san."

"Very good, you have been improving ever since you attended the academy. Your father seems to be pleased with your progress. And Hinata."

"Y-yes?"

"Tell that black sheep, Naruto, I said good luck." he said to her as he walked out of the kitchen while chuckling with arrogance. 'Oh Neji. If only you could see how much he's tried to improve since that day.'

She then noticed the time, ran to her room as quickly as she could, grabbed her backpack, threw on her oversized jacket like she always did - even in the spring and summer time - and ran out of the compound.

In a large classroom, Iruka sat behind his desk, going through some papers and getting the files and folders ready for the finals. His assistant, Mizuki, sat in a chair next to the desk, helping him out with the paperwork.

"How do you think this class will do, Iruka?" Mizuki asked his friend. Iruka rubbed his chin thoughtfully before he replied.

"There is a lot of talent, but only three jounin instructors this year. Four of my students are gonna have to wait till next year, if they pass."

"The lack of jounin instructors is saddening to hear, especially with the fact that we are considered the most prestigious of the hidden villages. We get more people who want to join our village and assist in its growth every year and yet we have a lack of instructors for the next generation of shinobi."

"It certainly is disappointing. But in our times, the ninja who would be considered for the instruction of the next wave of ninja are asked to be reserves for our forces. They cannot help what the Hokage requests of them. We just have to make due."

"Who are the instructors anyway?" Mizuki asked.

"Well...Kurenai is a fresh jounin and since she has experience in scouting and information gathering, she will most likely choose from three of the best students for that position. Asuma, the previous Hokage's son, will have his own team. I wouldn't know who he would get, but I have a sneaking suspicion on whom he would like to have. As for the third jounin instructor...the Hokage hasn't decided yet on who best bring out the third teams abilities. I have a feeling it will be Kakashi though, he was the Fourth's protegé." Mizuki nodded his head thoughtfully.

"Who do you think will, if they pass, be put on a team this year?"

"Wow...putting me on the spot are you? Well...Uchiha Sasuke is pretty obvious, as is Haruno Sakura. Hyuuga Hinata shows incredible potential and I don't think she would mess up a bunshin. Aburame Shino is especially talented in his families trademark skills. Nara Shikamaru has uncanny intelligence and shows potential every now and then but he seems unmotivated. Despite that fact, I'm pretty confident he will pass. Let's see, that's five. Yamanaka Ino and Inuzuka Kiba will probably be above passable. They show great potential, despite character issues. Akimichi Chouji, I would say, would pass. As for the last one...I'd have to say Naruto. He picked up his performance in the class this past year, despite barely getting through all his tests with barely passable grades. He has struggled before more than the others, but if he brings his A-game, he will pass. The other's have not shown much potential." When he finished, he breathed a deep sigh, filled with anxiousness. He hated judging his students like that but he had to admit, it was almost obvious except for the last two people. He was pretty confident, though, that his predictions were true.

"Well, Iruka, let's get ready to find out. I'll go ring the bell." Mizuki got up and disappeared out of the classroom. A moment later, the bell could be heard and the raucous began.

(Ten minutes later)

After the students went to their seats, the class having been durastically cut down from the beginning 40 or so, down to a meager 13, Iruka stood up and cleared his throat, demanding silence.

"Very good. Now I know you all know what today is and I'm not gonna make you suffer through any more waiting than you already have to. Me and Mizuki will be grading your performance of the test requirement. Just in case you happened to not know or forgot, you have to create a Bunshin. Create a good Bunshin and you will be passed. It has to be acceptable by mine and Mizuki's standards. Understood?" When everyone nodded or spoke 'Hai!', he continued. "Alright, alphebetical order. Aburame Shino, please come with us."

Naruto watched as they walked out of the room, still trying to figure his way out of this situation with a passing grade. 'What the hell did my father mean by the teacher left it open for another way? Damn you, dad, and your cryptic messages.' Shino came back in with a hitai-ite in hand, no emotion being shown on the boy, probably because you couldn't see a damn thing on him. What was up with the shades and trenchcoat anyways. Shino looked like a world-class freak, the type you would meet in a dark alley.

"Alright, Akimichi Chouji." The pudgy boy walked away with the instructors holding a bag of chips in his hand. Always with the potato chips. When he returned a few moments later, he was grinning happily with his hitai-ite tied on his head.

Naruto didn't even recognize the fact that Iruka called out for two more people, one returning with out a head band, the other with a head band. "Next, Haruno Sakura." She jogged to the instructors as they took her away for just a few moments before she came back in with her headband in hand. "Hyuuga Hinata."

"Good luck, Hinata-chan."

"A-Arigatou, Naruto-kun." She shuffled over timidly to Iruka and Mizuki, who left and came back a few moments later, Hinata sporting her hitai-ite around her neck. Naruto smiled at her warmly, very happy for her. "Inuzuka Kiba."

"Yahooooo. My turn." He jumped from his desk all the way to the ground in front of the teachers and followed them. Naruto used this time to get a quick bit of info from Hinata.

"Hey, Hinata-chan. Congratulations."

"Thank you, Naruto-kun. I'm sure you will be joining me soon." She blushed and fidgeted in her seat as she spoke with him.

"Well, that's what I wanted to talk to you about-"

"Woohoo!" Kiba's enthusiastic shout echoed through the classroom, cutting Naruto off and gaining a glare from the blonde haired youth. Obviously, Kiba had gotten his headband. The little dog on top of his head barked happily.

"Nara Shikamaru, you're next."

groan "So troublesome." he mumbled on his way out the door, earning a chuckle from Naruto and a giggle from Hinata.

"N-Naruto-kun, you were saying?"

"Huh? Oh...yeah, I just wanted to say I'm really happy for you." She gasped slightly and went beet red.

'Okay good, she bought it. Now what? I wanted to do it without help for once, but this is the time when I should be begging for it. What am I not getting here?'

Shikamaru walked back in, his headband in hand. The next person two people were people Naruto didn't really pay any attention to, although he guessed he should have. One of them was particularly talented with genjutsus but was weak everywhere else. But that person also came back in with a headband. The other person didn't.

"Uchiha Sasuke. You're next." Naruto heard Sakura and Ino tell him good luck as he went by. Sasuke threw a passing glance over to Naruto, which got a curious return look from him. A few moments later, he walked back in, hitai-ite tied on his head.

"Uzumaki Naruto." gulp 'This is it...oh gods...please help me.'

"Good luck, Naruto-kun. I know you can do it." he heard Hinata say to him as he passed by her. He stopped where he was, turned to her, and gave her his best confident look, which probably ended up looking stupid on the boy's face. As he walked with the instructors to an unoccupied classroom, he kept thinking about how he was going to do this.

"Alright Naruto, make a Bunshin and you pass. Simple as that."

It clicked. A bunshin...Make a Bunshin...I GET IT!

"You said make a bunshin?"

"Yes, Naruto, that's what I've been saying for two weeks. Make a Bunshin, final exam." replied Iruka in exasperation.

"Well...I can't perform Bunshin no Jutsu..."

Mizuki and Iruka gave him curious looks. "Then..."

"But I can do this." With that, he took his hands and formed the 'Ram' seal, making the eyes of Iruka and Mizuki bulge. "KAGE BUNSHIN NO JUTSU!" After the cloud of dust settled there were two Narutos standing there looking at them.

"Oh my god, Naruto. You can't make a simple bunshin but you can make a Kage Bunshin?"

The two Naruto's then performed a game of Rock-Paper-Scissors. One made paper, the other scissors. "Ah man, he always beats me." one of them said with a pout on his face before it disappeared and only one Naruto was left standing there. "Ummm...do I pass?"

"Y-Yes, you do. You have no complaints do you, Mizuki?"

"None at all. Very impressive Naruto. Your father will be very proud to hear this." Naruto responded to the praise with the brightest smile he had probably ever given his teacher and his assistant.

"Naruto, how long have you been able to do that technique?" Iruka asked him out of curiosity.

"Ummm...bout a month now. This is the second time I've performed the move. But I spent so much time trying to be able to perform it that making a regular bunshin just wouldn't happen for me." He then rubbed the back of his head in an embarrassed manner.

"Wow...congratulations Naruto. You deserve it. You've really proven yourself today Naruto. Here, this belongs to you." he said to him as he handed Naruto his hitai-ite. Naruto smiled brightly at the headband, tying it around his head with enthusiasm and followed them back to the class. Naruto, upon walking in, sporting his hitai-ite, got some of the students to start speaking in whispers while Hinata just looked at him in awe.

"Congratulation, Naruto-kun!" she said like a giddy school girl, which she was, except for the giddy part. "Thank you, Hinata-chan."

"Yamanaka Ino, you're last. Let's finish this up." She walked down but made a quick stop by their seats and whispered 'congrats' to both of them before making her way with the instructors to the classroom he had just been in. A moment or so later, she returned with the headband tied around her head, skipping back to her seat. Iruka then went to the front of the class and scanned the room, looking everyone up and down. 'Eleven graduates...but only three instructors. Either a couple people will be left out...or two jounin instructor will have an extra student. That would be...a bit unorthodox.'

"Alright, congratulations to those who succeeded in the finals. Me and Mizuki are very proud of your progress and your efforts so far. Dumo, Melinda, I am sorry but you will not be passing with your fellow classmates. You can try again next year." Naruto looked back to the students he named and saw the boy, Dumo, shaking his head miserably and in disappointment while the girl, Melinda, had her face on her desk and in between her arms. Her shoulders twitched slightly every now and then and were probably a sign of the girl sobbing. Naruto turned back to the front, trying not to feel guilty for them, but finding it hard. The academy had been an utter bitch. The stories of Kakashi and Itachi passing the academy earlier than the others had sent him into believing the academy was easy and he would do the same thing. But damn was he ever wrong. The curriculum, assignments, schedules, workload, and requirements were murderous.

"As Iruka said, congratulations. But this is not over yet. There are eleven graduees...but only three instructors have been assigned to this years graduating class." Everyone started to mumble and gasp in shock. It was a well known fact that the graduating ninjas were split into three-man cells and assigned to one jounin teacher to help further their abilities and take them on missions. But now...only three instructors for eleven students.

"That's not fair, Iruka-sensei! We all have worked hard for this right and you are telling us that...two of us are going to have to suffer because of that? That's BULL!" shouted Kiba, while his dog growled and yiped angrily with him.

"I know, I know. I totally agree with you Kiba, but rules are rules and our situation is not really helping with the scenario. The Hokage just can't give up as many of our village's talented ninjas as he wants without there being consequences. He gives an additional jounin instructor to the graduates and the village loses a potential defender against enemy forces. Do not fret though, the one's who might be left out will automatically be on a team when next year's jounin instructors are assigned. For those who do not get a team this year, consider it your opportunity to relax and enjoy your free time. You'll have a year to get better so that you will be better prepared when you are put on your team. It may seem unfair, but it could be a blessing in disguise for some of you. Now, all those with their hitai-ite report to this classroom tomorrow to find out which of you will be assigned to teams. That is all, class is dismissed for the rest of the day." Iruka then nodded to the class as he got a 'Hai' in response.

Everyone started exiting the classroom and talking with each other. Naruto was followed by Hinata, of course, while he went to go find Shikamaru and Chouji and join them. A day of sitting under shade in peace would be nice, especially after the emotional stress he had put himself under today. "Yo! Chouji! Shikamaru!"

"Oy, Naruto, Hinata, congratulations to both of you." Chouji said to them with his usual very friendly smile. Shikamaru had his hands in his pockets and was walking as if it were task to do so.

"Likewise to you both. So...are you all excited about getting an instructor? I know I am, I can't wait to get started doing missions." Naruto beamed after he finished his statement, so happy that he finally had that monkey off his back.

"Actually, I don't care either way. It'll be good to finally start doing something other than homework but I wouldn't mind not being on a team and waiting for a year. The relaxation time sounds tempting." Naruto laughed at Shikamaru, as did Chouji, but Hinata stayed silent. "Hey, Hinata, something troubling you? You seem more quiet than you usually are." asked the lazy Nara.

"G-Gomen, Shikamaru-kun, I just..." she gulped and thought about how to word this. "I j-just don't want t-to not have a team th-this year." Naruto looked upon her sadly and with a little bit of pity. He thought he had it bad but she is supposed to be the heir to her clan. Naruto's 'clan' didn't even have a respectable past lineage. The Hyuuga's, however, were considered to be the noblest and most prestigious of all the clans. If she were to not be put on a team, her family may think that she has disgraced them all.

"Hinata-chan, I am sure you will be put on a team tomorrow. In fact, I am positive you will. So don't let yourself be dragged down by any negative thoughts, okay?" If his words didn't reassure her, then his smile certainly did. When she nodded and smiled back, Naruto felt better. It feels good to help somebody. If only someone could reassure me that I will be on a team. "Sooooo...what's the plan guys? Gonna go and just sit under the shade as usual?"

"Nah, I'm not sure about you guys but I'm still sleepy so I'm going back home to sleep till tomorrow. Bye." Shikamaru turned down a street and went on his way back to his house.

"I was gonna get something to eat if you guys wanna come along." Chouji told Naruto and Hinata. They both looked at each other and then back to him, nodding. "Cool then follow me. I know this place called 'Ichiraku's.' They have the best ramen around."

Naruto laughed at him, which earned a puzzled look from Chouji. "I already know about that place. Me and Hinata have been there before. I'm cool with it. How bout you, Hinata?"

"I'm f-fine with it." she said, poking the toe of her sandals into the ground. She, Naruto, and Chouji walked off to the ramen stand, talking and laughing when it was appropriate. Naruto and Hinata were especially happy having that weight off of their shoulders. Naruto felt that he could breath, for the first time in a while.

Evening had fallen across Konoha and their was a certain buzz of excitement going through the village. The lights were dimming on the streets but they stayed on in the houses, as many people were finding it difficult to get to sleep tonight. Not only did tomorrow mark the end of school for the academy students but it also signaled that three new teams would be formed. It was always a big deal to most of the villagers because they found the ninja tradition of their village to be as vital as the more normal side of the village. Those incapable of being ninjas or who just didn't have the desire to be a ninja were still enthralled with the customs of the shinobi lifestyle for the village thrived on the ninjas.

In one particular household, a stern, cold-faced man looked upon his son in silence, viewing the boy being a little unnerved while under the gaze of the man. "Sasuke, I have heard that your marks were at the very top. I am pleased with your progress." Sasuke loosened a little under the compliment but still stayed a little tense.

In truth, Sasuke was surprised at the compliment that came from his father. He had seemed disappointed that Sasuke had not awakened his sharingan yet but the more elderly of their clan who were blessed with the ability to feel the wavelengths of chakra from individuals had said that the time was nearing. The boy would activate the Sharingan, it was just dormant, and they would have to be patient until then. "Thank you, Otou-san."

"Let's just hope that you are put on a team where you will not be held back...and with an instructor who will help ascend you to the next level. I have heard that Hatake Kakashi might be an instructor. If that is so, then you will most certainly get the attention that is deserving of you, my son." He looked out of a window and taking note of the darkness of the outside, he continued. "But we will find out tomorrow. It is late, so go to bed and get some rest. Tomorrow is yet another big day for you." He smiled warmly at Sasuke and motioned for him to leave. Sasuke stood, bowed slightly to his father before saying 'good night' to him, and left to go to his room.

On his way to his room, he was surprised to see Itachi standing outside of his room, as if waiting for him. The always red-eyed nin looked at him casually but calculatively, taking into account almost every little thing. His unusual perceptiveness always gave Sasuke the creeps, as well as the fact that he always seemed to have his sharingan activated. The familiar two wheels of the first level of his clan's bloodlimit were visible, even in the dim light of the hallway they were standing in.

"Can I help you, Itachi-nii-san?" The man in question just walked directly to him, kneeling and poking him in the head like he always did, smiling at him more warmly than usual.

"Not really. Just wanted to tell you that I am proud. You have come along very well and father is more pleased than he lets on. Do not let anything think that you can be held down okay? Just because the team you may be assigned to might be unorthodox to you does not mean that you will be held back or slowed down. Your team...is your life. Don't forget that okay?" He then ruffled his little brother's hair, smiling and chuckling when Sasuke flailed his arms and groaned in annoyance for him to stop. "Goodnight, Otouto." As he walked away, Sasuke looked at his retreating form, feeling that something was slightly amiss about his brother's demeanor.

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The sun was rising on a new day as the warm wind of spring blew throughout Konoha. A new day and a new generation. Many of the more veteran ninjas realized that this group was filled with the next generation of many powerful shinobi families, namely the Hyuugas and the Uchihas. Some would consider the Uzumaki boy in this classification if it weren't for the fact that the family wasn't really a shinobi family. The Yondaime was the only Uzumaki in their clan to really show the most promise since his grandfather, but his grandfather had come from Grass Country. A civil war that had broken out in Grass Country was what led the family of the Uzumaki to leave and head for a more stable country and government. Fire Country was their ultimate stop and Konoha was where the Yondaime's father made him go to get a better life. And a better life is what the Fourth now had. He had a family of his own, the position of political power in the village he loved, and was the most revered of all the Kage's, even more so than the Sandaime of Suna.

"Hokage-sama, the shinobi you have summoned have gathered. Shall I let them in?" asked a man with a rather long toothpick (or is that a senbon?) in his mouth.

"Yes, I must speak with them about the arrangements I have made for the students." The man nodded, bowed, and stepped outside, leaving the door closed for only a few moments before it was opened again, with numerous people walking in, all of them being shinobi. They were mumbling amongst each other until he cleared his throat for attention. After everyone hushed each other, he gazed around the room, noting that even his tardy-prone apprentice was there. "Very well, let's begin, shall we?"

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Iruka was scanning the classroom, looking at the students that had taken their seats. Every single one of them wasn't even whispering to each other, passing around gossip, or not paying attention to him. He was their sole focus right now and it made him realize just how tense this situation was for them. This was their profession, their livelihoods. They had chosen at a young age to take a step into a world that would be their workplace, their duty, and their career. It awed Iruka just how different these kids were from normal people living in towns and villages that were not dedicated to the shinobi lifestyle. The kids in those towns chose their professions when they were well into their teens, going through numerous years of schooling, learning things far more demanding of the intellect than what the students here had to learn. Iruka's students had to learn about dangerous situations, codes of conduct on missions, and how to fight. The kids outside of the shinobi life learned science, history, mathematics, and literature, and even though Iruka's students were taught in those fields as well, 'normal' kids learned the finer points of those areas of study.

Now focused on the look of desperation in the faces of his students, Iruka decided, not for the first time recently, that he should speed up the process to go ahead and relieve the minds of his students. 'Nine students would be separated into three teams. The remaining two individuals would have to wait till next year.' "Good morning, class. Today, I am sad to say, is the last day you will HAVE to see me." To this the class cheered sarcastically, playing along with Iruka's teasing comments. "You don't have to be afraid to visit though." Snickers from the class now. "But now I feel that you all are ready for the final decision. So without further ado, I'll begin." The students began shuffling to the edge of their seats, on edge, and on the verge of going crazy.

"Team Seven: Uchiha Sasuke..." With the mention of his name, Ino and Sakura looked at each other, silently challenging each other. 'Please let me be on his team,' thought Sakura. 'I'm the one who deserves it,' thought Ino. "Uzumaki Naruto..." Now everyone started to get interested in the last person and Sakura and Ino were thrilled, feeling that they both would have the chance to be on the same team as two 'cute' guys such as them. "and Hyuuga Hinata." Ino's and Sakura's jaws dropped. They both seemed to mumble out an 'It isn't fair.'

Sasuke was, on the inside, silently brooding over the choice in his teammates. He would have thought that they might have held him back until his conversation with Itachi last night. Now he was stewing their traits over and over in his head. Naruto was a dense idiot but the low marks did not take away from the fact that he was near the top of the class in ninjutsu, under only him. His poor performances in the earlier years of the academy were long forgotten in the improvement made this year. The girl was the most troubling thing. Her taijutsu was among the best in the class, under him, but it seemed that something was amiss with her. Something along the lines of being refrained, as though she were holding back. Maybe he was reading too much into it. He was thankful neither the pink haired, neither the blonde haired, girl had been assigned to his team. They would have just been annoying. Sasuke guessed he was kind of lucky. Now it was just a matter of having a good jounin instructor and he would be able to ascend his power.

Hinata was silently ecstatic. How could her fortunes have come out any more perfect? She was to be on the same team as the boy who had helped her with her most troubling difficulty. Everytime she saw him fall on his face but then get back up, she would smile and find a greater strength from within her. However, more and more lately, it was getting harder and harder for her to focus completely around the blonde haired boy who she was friends with. Something strange would keep on happening that hadn't really happened until that first day she saw him at the stream. The day she watched him walking on water. That day she knew something about this boy, that he would be something special. If only her cousin could see his good points. If only Neji could've seen how hard Naruto had been struggling to become better, to become stronger.

Naruto's reaction was one of mixed emotions. He was happy that he would have someone familiar on his team but...Sasuke was going to be an issue. He could just feel it. If there was something Naruto hated more than anything, it was snobs and stuck-ups. That's why Neji always pissed Naruto off. That's why all those people at his past birthdays pissed him off. And Sasuke, Naruto feared, was going to be the same as Neji and Naruto didn't know if he could work with someone that smug. 'Oh well, there was a reason we were put together. 'Maybe hearing it will make him slightly less snobbish...I can only hope.'

"Team Eight: Haruno Sakura, Inuzuka Kiba, and Aburame Shino." Sasuke smirked and chuckled evilly. The pink-haired nuisance was out of his hair and stuck on a team with 'bug-boy' who he had overheard was one of the people she was most unpleased about being around. More bluntly, she says the boy is 'icky.' Looking over at the girl who was in her row, he saw her head down and shivering. 'Hahahaha, serves you right for stalking me like all the rest of those idiot girls.' The only one who hadn't done that, and the only female in the class he had respect for, just so happened to be on his team. 'She's going to be a lot more bearable than the others.'

"Team Ten: Yamanaka Ino, Nara Shikamaru, and Akimichi Chouji." Naruto cringed when he heard Shikamaru's name come right after Ino's, but at least Chouji would be on the lazy boy's team to help give him support. That was the only thing the boy could give but he would also need it since Ino had a problem with the eating habits of Chouji. Naruto was a bit saddened. He wanted Shikamaru to be on his team...a lot. Shikamaru's intelligence was to be marveled and his skills were impressive. Control over shadows was, in the more simplistic sense of description, cool.

Iruka had just finished telling the remaining two that they were excused, apologizing to the miserable-looking genin profusely, and assuring them that they would have a team guaranteed in next year's graduating class. He thought back to the Yondaime's reassuring words that they would have enough Jounin instructors next year after enough they have returned from long term missions outside of the village. After they left, he looked at the remaining graduees, analyzing the teams and remembering all the raucous from earlier this morning in the Hokage's Tower as the Yondaime, who had given the final say in which teams the graduates are split into. The original suggestion had been 'Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto; Hinata, Kiba, and Shino; Ino, Shikamaru, and Chouji.' Just a slight change between team's eight and seven but it seemed to make things a lot stranger. But who was Iruka to question the Hokage. "Now that you all know of your teams, you will wait for your instructors to arrive. Good luck to you all." After he finished that statement, a woman with rather long hair that was thick with quantity, red eyes, and form fitting clothing walked into the room.

Naruto noticed Hinata's eyes brighten when the woman stepped in. And why shouldn't she have? If this was their instructor then 'damn.' Everything would seemingly be going in Hinata's favor, as well as his. Kurenai was definitely strong, he could tell that back when she would escort them to school. But when she spoke up, he seemed to see the bright look in Hinata just crash. "Team Eight, step forward and follow me." Naruto watched as Kiba jumped over his table and landed nimbly at the feet of Kurenai, Shino stood up and moved calmly to meet up with Kiba and Kurenai, while Sakura had just begun standing up. She was still sulking about not being on a team with Sasuke and Naruto thought it was sad yet hilarious at the same time. Sad for the fact that she swooned everytime Sasuke even looked at her and hilarious in two ways. The first way was the fact that she was so confident she would pass, be on a team with Sasuke, and he would see the good in her and now that wasn't possible. The second way was the fact she had also vocally announced her displeasure with Shino and his 'talents.' Shino was infamous in the class for being an A-class weirdo that freaked out damn near everyone around him because of his families abilities. The use of bugs was considered weird, disturbing, and just plain 'gross.' Naruto didn't care though, he thought the guy was pretty damn cool. After Sakura got onto the bottom floor, she stood to the left of Kiba since Shino was standing to Kiba's right. Kurenai looked over her team, then took a look back up to Hinata, and smiled at her, but it was a sad and disappointed smile. Kurenai must've liked Hinata alot and really wanted to be her instructor. Hell that would've been awesome to Naruto. But things don't always work out the way you want them to.

As they started walking out of the room, a tall man stepped into the room. He looked at the teams and called his team. "Team Ten, come on now. Let's get going." Shikamaru stood up solemnly, mumbling under his breath as he always seemed to do when he was told to do something he just didn't want to do, which was almost always. Ino had already bounded her way down the steps, taking a quick pit stop to say good-bye to Sasuke, who just muttered something underneath his breath. Chouji walked with Shikamaru down the steps and stood there waiting for Ino, since she had made slowed down yet again to say something to Hinata that Naruto couldn't make out. Then Ino went down to meet with her team and their apparent instructor. The man, tall and imposing, with a raggedy looking beard, nudged his head towards the door and walked towards it, the others following him out of the room. Now 'Team Seven' was left alone, waiting for their instructor. This was looking good for Sasuke, if he was correct.

'If our instructor is indeed 'late' then hopefully it's the guy that Itachi always talked about and who father mentioned last night. Kakashi was his name if I am correct.'

Iruka, who watched from down the hall as Team Ten was led out of the building, waited for the instructor for Team Seven. 'Come on now, it shouldn't take this long now.' He now thought back to the morning and the squabble that had occurred from the Yondaime's rulings on the teams.

(Flashback)

On the top floor of the massive building, shinobi of various rank had been assembled. Iruka and Mizuki were there, going over paperwork, the Yondaime was speaking with a man in a mask, that man apparently being one of the ANBU, and several Jounin were speaking with each other. Before he got started with that though, there were some things he needed to clear up.

"Alright, I've been informed that eleven students passed. Now, as you have all been informed, this year the village can only spare three jounin to instruct teams." Whispers and mumbles were heard from the group in the room. "I had to choose one of two options: either we give two jounins a fourth student or the other students will wait a year and go with next years' graduates. I have decided on the latter of the two and will now discuss who...gets who." The gathered ninja hushed and looked at the hokage intently.

"Who, sir, has been chosen of the eleven?" asked Kurenai, agitated by the delay with the essential information.

"Yes...I will let Iruka explain that. Umino Iruka, if you will?"

"Yes sir. I have graded the students and judged them, not just from this year but years previous. I have come to a conclusion that these will be the ninjas that I feel deserve to be assigned to a Jounin instructor." Everyone focused on him, hanging on to every word. Though some of the ninjas gathered had issues with being 'baby-sitters,' they were very interested on this particular group. This class seemed to be very talented. "Uchiha Sasuke, Aburame Shino, Haruno Sakura, Nara Shikamaru, Hyuuga Hinata, Inuzuka Kiba, Yamanaka Ino, Akimichi Chouji, and Uzumaki Naruto." The Yondaime seemed to glow with pride when his son's name was mentioned and it didn't go unnoticed. Several people snickered at his satisfied smile.

"Very well, hearing who the students are that will be assigned to a jounin, I will now assign three jounin to these genin. Step forward when you are called. Sarutobi Asuma." A gruff, tall man stepped forward with a cigarette still burning in his mouth. "You will receive the Nara, Akimichi, and Yamanaka. Their parents worked well together, there shouldn't be any issues with the kids." Iruka chuckled and mumbled out "besides the fact the Yamanaka girl doesn't get along with the Nara boy."

"Hai, Hokage-sama." said Asuma as he stepped back, bowing slightly.

"Yuuhi Kurenai." The attractive young woman, just turned jounin, stepped forward. "I am sorry to tell you this but you will be teaching students but not the one I know you want. You're team with consist of Haruno Sakura, Inuzuka Kiba, and Aburame Shino."

"W-What? But you know how much I care for that girl, Yondaime. Hinata has been under my watchful gaze ever since she first attended the school. That's...That's just not fair. Besides, if I am to be in charge of a reconaissance team, then she would be an invaluable addition to it. I implore you to reconsider." Iruka raised his eyebrows, surprised by the brashness of her nature and the irritance in her voice. She was truly upset at the Hokage's decision.

"I am sorry for your disagreement with my decision but it is final. Your team is indeed a reconaissance team and Kiba and Shino have more than enough ability for that. Haruno Sakura's intelligence is very impressive and her genjutsu awareness is top notch. She will take care of any weakness in your team, as will the others take care of her weaknesses. You might be surprised with how well she fits in with your team. Give her a chance before you jump to conclusions, Kurenai." She glared at the Yondaime, who only smiled in return, seemingly oblivious to her stare, and she stepped back into the group.

"So...you feel, Yondaime sir, that she will do better in a team with the Uchiha boy and your son? What role will she have then? She'll just be overshadowed by the attention the others will get."

"And what do you mean by that, Kurenai?" He really was getting perturbed by her display. It was unbecoming of a shinobi he had selected to teach their newest reconaissance team.

"Well, obviously you will need someone with considerable skill who is knowledgeable of the members' abilities to teach them. I'm assuming you will have our always-tardy Kakashi to instruct them, am I right? Do you really think she, or anyone else in that team, will get the attention they deserve with him?" Everyone seemed a little taken aback by the tone of her voice. She was really flustered and it was showing.

"Okay, Kurenai-chan, I now see why you feel so strongly but do not worry. She, as well as Sasuke and Naruto, will get the attention they deserve. And what did I tell you about jumping to conclusions eh?" She looked at him a little shocked since his voice went from being stern to being teasing. "Kakashi, will stay under my immediate command but will return to the rank of where he belongs." Everyone now looked at him shocked, Kakashi especially.

"Kakashi, you will take your rightful place back in the ANBU. No arguments, it is an order from your Hokage. You will be replacing the man I have chosen to be the instructor for these students." After seeing all the shocked and confused faces, he felt it was only right that he elaborate. "Let me explain. Asuma's cell is a team that, once matured and skills developed, will be considered an investigations team. They have the ability of capturing targets, detaining them, and, with the Yamanaka's ability, able to look inside the mind's of targets, effectively getting information that might be necessary. Kurenai's cell is a team that will be trained in the art of reconaissance, as you all know. They will be taught to gather information from difficult areas and scout areas that might be considered dangerous. With the intelligence of the Haruno girl and the abilities of the Inuzuka and Aburame boys, this team should, once matured, be very effective at gathering information pertinent to missions and political matters. The final team, which will consist of Uchiha Sasuke, Uzumaki Naruto, and Hyuuga Hinata, will be considered...this year's attack cell. The group will be trained in the art of effective combat and will be trained in order to further that ability to fight. I hope that this year's team will be the spitting image of Maito Gai's team from last year. Having said that there are some major doubts. I would have chosen my apprentice, Kakashi, to instruct them if things were just a little bit differently. But as Kurenai has said, there is a chance that favoritism could occur and cause controversy between not just the genin in the team, but others outside of the team, thinking that I have shown favoritism. The truth of the matter is that all three kids that will be in this team have great 'potential,' but need someone to help them work through the roadblocks that are in the way. That is why I have chosen the instructor I did. Does my logic sit well with you now, Kurenai-san?" Everyone seemed taken aback by the amount of thought he had put into everything. He must've studied the students thoroughly to be able to come to such a decisive conclusion.

"So you think she would fit well into the role of a 'fighter'? Sir, without trying to sound like I 'want' to argue with you, I think you really don't know how she-"

"Kurenai-chan, stop. That is enough of that. My decision is based not on her desires but what needs to be done. She is a Hyuuga, Kurenai. If she were to be put on your team, classified as a surveillance and reconaissance team, she would be seen in her clan as weak. The elders of the Hyuuga's are pressuring Hyuuga Hiashi to choose someone else as the heir because Hinata seems to not show as much promise as her younger sister or even Hiashi's brother's son. I am doing what I feel is best for her. I have nothing but the best intentions for everyone in the village and that is what all of my decisions are based upon, the best intentions for my village's people. Stop questioning me." Kurenai hung her head, now taking into full account what he was saying. The Yondaime took a deep breath, sighed out the breath, and then looked back to the jounin instructors. "Now, as I was saying, Kakashi, you will take your rightful place back in the ANBU and replace the man I have assigned to teach the team."

"Uzumaki-sensei, are you positive about this? I may have my quirks but I will certainly be a great instructor for the final team. You don't have to pull an ANBU off the squad." but his sensei just raised his hand to quiet him. Kakashi wanted to keep on, to plea with him to not do this, but the ANBU who was beside the Yondaime stepped forward.

"Now, Kakashi-san, that is no way to speak to our Hokage, now is it?" asked the man, reaching up to his mask and taking it off. The question wasn't really as smug as it sounded, it was more along the lines of teasing Kakashi than questioning him. Once the mask had been removed, the chiseled, hard face of the man came into focus. Despite the face guard that his hitai-ite had been made into, his features were still visible but not enough to be definite. But you would recognize this man in a crowd, he had a sort of alure to him that just attracted your attention. The bodywear was pretty heavy-duty, the armor he wore would probably stop a very well thrown kunai but it was known that the armor was not heavy and therefore, did not weigh down the wearer. He looked strong and Kakashi recognized him immediately. 'Him? He's wanting 'him' to teach genin?' Kakashi feared that the Yondaime may be seen as throwing his weight around as the Hokage and making unfair judgments in this situation.

"He is the instructor for the final team and this is a final decision. No more arguing, no more bickering. Got it? Good." The man stepped towards Kakashi and handed him the mask he had been wearing. He took off the body armor, revealing he was wearing the jounin jacket underneath, and also handed it to the bewildered Kakashi.

"Kakashi, from this point on, you will take over my roll as captain." said the man, smiling, as Kakashi took the things from him with a shaky hand.

"Good, now that that is over, I believe Iruka and Mizuki, as well as all of you have someplace you need to get to. Kakashi, stay behind with the captain. I have just a few more things to discuss before I can dismiss you both." They both nodded and stayed while everyone else left.

(End Flashback)

Iruka was still in awe at the massive amount of dedication the Yondaime had taken into getting himself familiarized with the students in order to make such decisions with the utmost confidence. He then heard footsteps and, turning towards the sound, saw a man stepping into the class room.

Naruto jerked his head up at the sound and was a little surprised that he didn't recognize the man. Although, something about him was familiar. 'Is he our instructor?' was the only thing he could think. Sasuke had the same thought, but was disappointed that he wasn't Kakashi. He had been told that Hatake Kakashi had a Sharingan that was always activated hidden behind his hitai-ite and had spiky, silver hair. Hinata was unsure what to think. She could tell that he was strong but something was different about him than the other instructors.

"Team Seven, I assume?" They all nodded. "Good, my name is Yamato and I will be your sensei from now on."

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THANK GOD!

I'm finally done with this chapter. Took me a solid week but I guess that's good for a week's worth of work. If it seemed to get boring at points, I guess I should apologize, but I had to have a lot of reminiscing, flashbacks, and inner thoughts between many different people so I could get the feel of the characters out there and how different they are. The differences so far that are majorly noticeable is, as you can tell, the new instructor for team seven, Hinata being on team seven instead of Sakura, and no, I did not do that because I wanted a cheesy way to eventually get Hinata and Naruto together. Nothing I do in this story has a childish and immature meaning behind it. Everything has a deeper hidden meaning behind it for the future of this story. Even that part with Sasuke back in his house. That has a bigger meaning behind it than you may think.

Also, do not worry for all you Kakashi fans. He will still play a role, a big one, later as the story progresses. Besides, the Hokage's reasoning for him not instructing a team is enough of an explanation as to why I felt he shouldn't be the instructor. Also, Kakashi is the Hokage's apprentice, so it only makes sense that Kakashi would take a place right next to the Hokage in the ANBU squad, protecting the Hokage. And another reason I didn't make Kakashi the instructor is because it is just done so many times in stories that retell the journey of Naruto's team through the whole Genin process. So I chose someone I hadn't seen yet. If you have followed the manga any then you know why I like him. A little stern but loose, laid back, talented, funny, and overall, a great character. So I think he fits in with this new team.

For those who were wondering what was Naruto's rank...well...I guess I could give you his rank. Academics...worst. He passed, yes, but with the help of Hinata and Shikamaru. Ninjutsu, second in the class by the time the final year was over. Genjutsu, dead last. There are just some things you can and can't do. Taijutsu, once again, close to the top. Sasuke was at the top but if you payed attention to his observation of a particular person in his class...cough...then you see that maybe he wasn't the best. But the fact is that graded wise, he was the top, Hinata was second, Kiba was third, but barely, and Naruto was a close fourth. Overall, in a class of thirteen, he was probably sixth or seventh, and among the rookie nine, he was fifth or sixth. There you go...and why did I make him dense? Come on...he's Naruto. There's some things you can change with effort and there are some things you just can't change. He isn't a good studier, therefore, sucks at academics.

A preview for next chapter? Well...I guess I could give you a basic thing here.

Next chapter: Team Seven's Jounin Instructor asks for an assessment of skill level and explains what is expected from them while under his tutilege. Meanwhile, the reason for the shortage of available ninjas is discovered as Kakashi questions his sensei's most recent decisions.