Ugh... Finally exam week is over and I'll start writing again. This chapter will be a little shorter than previous one, just to get used to writing again.

And to answer one reader, who didn't have any courage and remained anonymous,

wy: there are a lot more fictions which moves even more slower. Did you wanted the whole story to be like 'chapter 1: Naruto becomes hokage', 'chapter 2: end of story'? If you don't like it, don't read it. It's easy as that. Personally, I don't care about flames, but I suggest you to continue to write them because they increase my review count. Thanks.

Trekkie1104: I've never seen it. Be more specific please, like send me PM with YouTube link or something

stormwolf3710: while I agree that Itachi can't spy on akatsuki if he is not a member, he has more freedom this way. If some trouble happens he can always come back and help Konoha without blowing up his cover. Furthermore, he can send various reports which he gets from his journey around elemental nations (almost like Jiraya). I had my reasons why I did so. I'm not gonna reveal ALL the reasons, so you will have to read and find out ;)

!Unfortunately, something happened to my beta reader and I can't get my story beta'd, so I'm still searching for decent beta reader :/ Bare with my humble english this chapter and hopefully I will find a beta reader for my next chapters.

On with the story then.

CHAPTER 4

Beginning of real Life

4 years have passed. Konoha, sunny as usually, still was in peace: no invasions, no wars, nothing. It was ordinary day for all the villagers, but for ninjas it was a special one because it was the day of ninja academy graduation. Academy students, who trained to become a ninja, will take their final test to prove they are worthy to become a genin. All soon-to-be genins were worried. Well, almost all. There were three students who looked absolutely confident.

One of them was Naruto Uzumaki. His appearance has changed over years. He now was an inch or two taller than Sasuke, his hair reached a bit past his shoulders and he also had long bangs which framed his face. Back of his hair was straight while front still remained spiky. He really looked like younger version of Yondaime, but his classmates seemed to be oblivious to it.

Acting quite out of character, by being quiet and collected, he thought about this test. Unfortunately it was a Bunshin test. Despite his good chakra control, he still couldn't make a normal bunshin because of his potent and powerful chakra. When he creates an ordinary clone, they stayed 'alive' for around 5 seconds after which they disappear. They also looked very sick. Naruto sighed, he will have to show his Kage Bunshin to Iruka-sensei. He really didn't want to show off until he is officially genin, but he had no other choice.

He already passed the written test, scoring exactly the amount of points needed for passing. Then there was physical test which he passed on average level. And now was ninjutsu test. To pass test you had to perform Kawarimi, Bunshin and Henge. He could do Kawarimi perfectly, because it only needed a short burst of chakra, instead of constant chakra sustaining like Bunshin or Henge needed. He could sustain henge for 1 minute if he concentrates really hard, but Bunshin still was his worst.

He stopped his trail of thoughts when Iruka called for him. "Naruto! You're next."

"Try not to fail, dobe!" Sasuke said as Naruto stood up from his place.

"Shut up, teme! I bet I can do better than you!" Naruto shot back, keeping up the act.

It was like that for whole year and everyone in class truly believes they hated each other. Except for Sakura, Shikamaru and Choji.

"Don't talk nonsense, baka. Sasuke is much better than you!" Ino shouted, defending her 'beloved Sasuke-kun'.

"Hmph, whatever." Naruto replied and went to the separate room where ninjutsu test will be held.

Iruka was already waiting for him. Alone.

Kurenai left academy when Naruto was 10 and became a jounin. He was happy about her, because Kurenai will finally take her own genin team. She once told the class it was her dream.

"Naruto, I really hope you won't fail this test. If you will fail, you will never be able to become a shinobi again. It's the third time you will try the graduation test on ninjutsu. Do your best." Iruka said. "Now perform Kawarimi, Bunshin and Henge."

"Thanks, Iruka-sensei. Here I go!" Naruto enthusiastically shouted and performed a perfect Kawarimi, where he switched with nearby chair.

"Excellent. For some reason Kawarimi is the best technique you can perform. Okay, Henge is next on the list."

Naruto merely nodded, did ram handseal and performed Henge, perfectly transforming into Iruka.

Iruka could see deep concentration on Naruto's face, but he was happy that he performed the jutsu and was closer becoming a genin.

"It looks like it takes a lot of concentration from you, but I'll pass seeing how hard you try and that you performed the jutsu. Now, please show me your Bunshin." Iruka said. He already knew it was Naruto's weakest jutsu, but academy standards are academy standards - no way around it.

"Hey, Kyuubi-sensei." Naruto said within his mind, calling for fox. The mental link between them was usually closed until someone had anything to say.

As if Kyuubi just woke up, he yawned and asked "What is it, kit? You wouldn't bother me with something what does not require my attention, would you? Maybe you finally decided to destroy something?"

Naruto sweatdropped. It was one trait of Kyuubi's personality which he discovered. Even though Kyuubi now is intelligent and calm, he still liked destruction. Once Naruto performed a high ranked Doton jutsu and almost destroyed Uchiha training ground. Kyuubi was jumping in his cage from joy.

"Just wanted to ask if I should use Kage Bunshin instead of ordinary Bunshin to pass the test. You know my problem. Or should I try my luck?"

"Aww, no destruction... Anyway, we're not taking any chances, so use Kage Bunshin. I think you can slowly start to show your true abilities. *yawn* I'm going back to sleep now." Kyuubi answered and cut the link.

"Naruto, are you alright?" Iruka worriedly asked.

"Sorry, I was just thinking something. You perfectly know I have problems with Bunshin, right?" Naruto asked.

Iruka nodded. "Yes. But it is necessary to know in order to become a genin."

"I know. I still think bunshin is useless on the battlefield because even average genin can tell the difference between them. Anyway, what is the minimum number of clones required?"

"Umm, usually 3 clones, but the more you make the better score you get." the teacher answered.

"I see. Can I do other kind of bunshin?"

"Other kind of bunshin?" Iruka asked as he raised an eyebrow.

"Yes. The Kage Bunshin." Naruto stated as a matter of fact.

Iruka widened his eyes and then laughed a bit. "Nice joke there, I almost believed you. Firstly I don't know how you found out about such jutsu, but it's a B-ranked kinjutsu. Secondly, there's no possible way you could perform the jutsu."

Naruto sighed. Of course - no one would believe him for being able perform jounin level jutsu. He shrugged his shoulders and made a cross-seal. "See for yourself then. Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"

There was a small cloud of smoke and after it dissipated , there stood 6 Narutos. Iruka widened his eyes once again, his jaw touching the ground. To prove they were solid, one of the clones came to the desk and picked up Iruka's pen while the other touched his shoulder. Now Iruka was gaping like fish.

"What the hell? How?" Iruka managed to ask as Naruto dispelled his clones.

"You're like older brother to me, almost like father figure, so I guess I can reveal some things." Iruka smiled at how Naruto though of him, although he was surprised at Naruto's face expression. Gone was goofy smile, gone was the dumb look. He stood there like professional and his serious voice emphasized it "Firstly, everyone sees me weak and dead last only because that's what I allow everyone to see. Secondly, my crush on Sakura is lie, my bad scores is a lie as well, my idiot attitude is just acting. I can easily match you in fair combat. Thirdly, Sasuke and Sakura is with me, so you can already pass them."

Now Iruka was shocked. He knew Naruto was acting like an idiot, but to believe he was stronger than Iruka... it couldn't be true, could it? He wouldn't be surprised, though, knowing that Naruto was the most unpredictable kid in the village. And then there's the fact that Sasuke and Sakura is with him too.

"Why? Why act like an idiot when you could show everyone how good you are." Iruka asked.

"I already showed how good I am." Naruto stated.

"Hm? But you're dead last..."

"Exactly. That's what reports will say. But how strong I truly am? Do you know? No. That's exactly what will give me an edge in battle - enemies will underestimate me and let their guard down. I already showed I'm capable ninja by hiding my true abilities. 'Deception is ninja's greatest weapon', right?" Naruto answered.

Iruka was impressed with Naruto's wise words. He had a point too.

"Wise words, Naruto. Didn't expect it to come from you."

"Thanks, Iruka-sensei. So, did I pass?"

"Of course. When you showed Kage Bunshin, only fool wouldn't pass you. Congratulations, Naruto, you're now officially genin of Konoha." Iruka proudly said and gave Naruto hitai-ate which he gladly accepted, but didn't put on.

"Why you're not putting it on?"

"I want to change the color of cloth to match my new outfit." Naruto answered.

"Hmm? New outfit?" Iruka curiously asked.

"You will see in time." Naruto smirked and walked away to class, "Thanks again, Iruka-sensei."

"No problem." he simply answered. "I can feel he will go far."

And so the day passed. Sasuke and Sakura too became genins, where Sasuke was rookie of the year and Sakura the top kunoichi. Now all three of them were eating their lunch near Uchiha lake and discussing various things.

"I hope we will be placed on the same team." Sakura said as she took another sushi.

Sasuke glanced over Sakura and sipped some tea "Next week we have to come over academy again for team placement. I agree with you, Sakura, I hope Hokage-sama will put us on one team."

"Talking about jiji..." Naruto muttered, bit his thumb, quickly did some hand seals and exclaimed "Kuchiyose no Jutsu!"

In a puff of smoke, two familiar foxes appeared.

"YORU-CHAN!" exclaimed Sakura as said black fox jumped on her lap. Sakura then started to scratch behind Yoru's ears.

Yes, Sakura knew about Naruto's tenant. Naruto told her when they were 11 (2 years ago). But before he told her, he gave her a book on basic fuuinjutsu to read first. At that time Sakura didn't know why Naruto gave her that book, but she accepted. She was always happy learning new things. When Naruto finally told her, she was shocked. It made a lot of sense, but it was shocking nevertheless. She didn't come to team training for a week and tried to avoid Naruto. She then understood why Naruto gave her that book. In the end -after a lot of thinking- she accepted it; after knowing Naruto for some time, it was impossible to think he was an evil demon. Her respect for blonde only grew seeing how he still wanted to protect this village after all the hatred he received.

Yara, the yellow fox, sighed and said (yipped to Sasuke and Sakura) "Is there something you need, Naruto-sama?"

Naruto sighed, all the foxes still called him -sama. "Yes," he finally said "Take this note to the Hokage. Make sure no one sees you, even him."

"As you wish." but before Yara could go, Yoru decided she got enough 'massage' from Sakura and approached Naruto.

"Naruto-sama, can you bit your thumb again and donate some blood into this tube, please?" she said. Then, out of nowhere, a tube appeared which she took with her tail.

Well that was something unexpected. "What for?"

"Surprise." was the only answer as Yoru grinned.

Naruto trusted them well enough so he agreed. "How much?"

"Few drops will be enough." And then Naruto did as he was asked. Yoru took the tube back and sealed it inside her... fur? That was strange... Then both foxes dissapeared in a burst of speed, trying to reach Hokage's tower as quickly as possible.

"I wonder why foxes needed your blood..." Sakura muttered.

"I bet they will make something from it. Like weapon. You know, gift for graduating or something like that." Naruto answered.

"Yeah. I guess so."

"What was written in the note, dobe?" After all this time, Sasuke still called him like that...

"Lets say I just made sure we will be in one team." Naruto answered as he grinned.

Sakura sighed. Although Naruto was acting much, much more mature, he still had prankster soul.

"Back to the topic. Who you think will be our sensei?" Sakura asked.

"I think it will either be Kurenai Yuhi, Asuma Sarutobi, Genma Shiranui or Kakashi Hatake, the ex-ANBU captain." Sasuke answered.

Over the years two scout foxes didn't stop gathering information on various jounins. Three teens now knew basic stuff of most jounins of the village and more advanced stuff, like jutsu and fighting style, of selected few which they were interested in. Foxes stopped their research when Naruto asked them to. He said the information they now had was enough so two foxes could rest.

"Nor Kurenai or Genma will be our sensei. I think Kurenai will be with tracker team, seeing how she is genjutsu specialist. She wouldn't have much to teach us. The same goes for Genma: he is assassin type ninja. Although he has very good kenjutsu skills, he could teach a lot to emo, and some katas in kenjutsu to me, while Sakura would gain nothing, meaning Sasuke will advance quicker and leave us behind, thus disrupting our teamwork." Naruto explained. Seeing that Sasuke and Sakura listens and understands, he continued "Now for Asuma. He is well versed fighter. He has excellent taijutsu, nice kenjutsu and good ninjutsu skills. For his kenjutsu he uses trench knives, meaning his fighting style in kenjutsu is the same as his taijutsu. He could teach something to Sasuke and me, but once again Sakura will be left behind. If they choose teams according to academy reports, Sakura is suited for genjutsu for her 'small chakra reserves' and good control, but Asuma doesn't have any genjutsu. Now for Kakashi." he paused a little, remembering everything he knew about said jounin "Probably he will be our jounin sensei. Thanks to his sharingan, it is rumored he has copied over 1000 jutsu. He could teach me new jutsu, train Sasuke in sharingan and train Sakura in genjutsu. Kakashi is well rounded fighter, jack-of-all trades. Also, he is all about teamwork. According to what Yoru and Yara reports, Kakashi says 'Individual skills are good, but teamwork is more important; good teamwork will lead to mission's success' and they also heard how he once said 'Those who break the rules are scum, but those who abandon their friends are worse than scum'. With Kakashi we will gain the most success and training than from others. Also, he can help us improve our teamwork. It is already perfect, but he can suggest some new formations."

Naruto's interpretation and explaining skills never cease to amaze Sakura and Sasuke. They still can't believe he was such an idiot. Nevertheless, they agreed to his reasoning. He had a good points.

"I see. What should we do this week? We have more time now when we don't need to attend the academy." Sasuke said.

"Sasuke is right. What should we do?" Sakura asked. She stopped calling him 'Sasuke-kun' after one year of joint training, seeing how Sasuke does not react. She understood Sasuke liked strong kunoichi. When she realized that she took her training more serious, determined to prove she was strong. That's also when her dream changed. She wanted to be strong kunoichi. Just like one slug sannin was. Well, a wish to be with Sasuke didn't disappear, though. She still had hope.

"I say we train. Nothing serious, just go through our formations and some jutsu again. Just to be in shape when true genin test comes." Naruto answered.

Yes, they also knew about another test. A year ago Yoru saw how new genins were doing something with their sensei. When she came closer she saw terrifying green spandex suit, bowl cut hairstyle and those... those unnaturally huge eyebrows. Despite her fear and terror she decided to look what they were up to. She listened to their conversation and found out about another test which all senseis give their student. The test was to land a single hit on sensei. Sounds easy, until the same green wielding terror mentioned their right hand being tied back and a piece of cloth in their mouths to prevent speaking and a weight on their right ankle. Not wanting to see the result, Yoru went elsewhere. Good thing each sensei had different test...

"Right. Good idea, like always." Sakura said and smiled. In her opinion, Naruto was true genius.

"Whatever. See you guys tomorrow at 9 a.m. here." Sasuke waved his hand and dissapeared in shunshin.

"See ya, emo/Bye, Sasuke." both Naruto and Sakura said simultaneously. With that three of them disappeared in various shunshin - Sakura in cherry blossom leaves, Sasuke in crow feathers and Naruto in orange-reddish flash. No it wasn't Hiraishin, just effect of his designed shunshin, which could greatly distract people.

-With Hokage-

In Hokage tower things went in usual pace: Yumi, Hokage's secretary, slacking off by reading some magazine and Hokage himself cursing on ever rising paperwork. Really, that paperwork will kill him someday. Sighing, he decided to rest a bit. He almost reached the hidden drawer where he kept his Icha Icha book, when suddenly he heard a knock on the window. Curious, Hiruzen turned around to look who knocked. His first thought was his pupil, Jiraya, but when he turned around, there was no one. A bit confused Hiruzen stood up and saw a piece of paper on the windowsill. He took the paper and read it:

"Put Naruto Uzumaki, Sakura Haruno and Sasuke Uchiha on one genin team. If you fail to do so, your 'precious' books will find their rest in fire. That is, until they turn to ash.

Also, can you get a red cloth for Naruto's, Sakura's and Sasuke's hitai-ate?

Don't forget I have your books and other material to blackmail you. Remember that in night in the bar? Hah.

- Regards, friend of Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke."

Old Sarutobi paled. In a blink of an eye he reached his secret drawer and opened it. His heart almost stopped from what he saw. The drawer was empty. ALL his precious books were taken. Fear clearly evident his eyes, he reached Shodaime Hokage's portrait, which hung on the wall, and took it off the wall. Behind the picture had a small safe with numbers. He quickly entered the required code. His heart missed some beats. It looked like eternity has passed and he still stared at the EMPTY safe.

"EMPTY..." he shouted "How? Who?"

He put the picture back and sat back at his desk, sweating bullets.

"What should I do in this situation?" he thought "I didn't want to put them on one team, but looks like I don't have a choice... Damn bastard! Whoever did this, will regret it."

-Timeskip: 1 week-

A week has passed and the trio can be found in academy, sitting in the middle of classroom. Naruto was between Sasuke and Sakura, where Sakura was right and Sasuke left from blonde. All three of them had satisfied smirk. Why? Because today was finally the day when they stopped acting like idiots.

Finally Iruka came and started his speech about dangerous ninja life, etc. Then he decided to call the teams.

"Okay, now I will call the teams. Team 1..." Iruka started

(A/N:I'll skip unimportant teams)

"Team 7 will consist of Sasuke Uchiha..." Iruka started and paused a bit, giving some dramatic effect. He looked at the class and saw how most girls had hungry look. Smirking he continued "...Sakura Haruno..."

Shouts of disapproval from few luckily remaining fan-girls were heard.

"WHAT?"

"It should be me!"

"No way Billboard brow is with him!" Ino shouted!

Then all of the girls who were shouting felt massive killing intent (KI) and all of them were on their knees, breathing heavily and gasping for air. They looked up and saw Naruto staring at them.

"Can you shut the hell up? Your shouting gives me headache." Naruto loudly said. As suddenly as KI appeared, it disappeared. In his third year of training, Kyuubi started to teach Naruto how to release KI and intimidate his opponents. Thanks to his dense chakra and fox inside, he brought KI to a completely different level.

All class was silent, staring at Naruto with shock. No way that KI was from dead last of the class. Though they noticed that both Sakura and Sasuke were not surprised.

"Did I really was like those fan-girls?" Sakura said to herself for countless time. "It figures why Sasuke never noticed me."

Another wave of shock went past the students. Especially Ino. Ino expected Sakura to burst out cheering, but here she was - sitting quietly as if she knew it will happy and not cheering, didn't hit Naruto for such words and said Sasuke without -kun suffix. Sakura's voice was neither sad or happy, just neutral.

A few seconds passed in silence when Iruka had decided it was enough. At one point he was surprised, but at the other he wasn't - Naruto mentioned that they were training with him after all, meaning that their behavior was part of acting too.

"And the last member of team 7..." he brought everyone's attention back to him "... Naruto Uzumaki."

There was a loud cheering from three of them.

"YATTA! It worked!" shouted Naruto as he did high five with both Sakura and Sasuke.

"Naruto, you're genius." stated Sasuke with a smirk.

"I know, right."

"Naruto, how did managed to convince Hokage-sama to put us on one team?" Sakura asked.

"Well, I know jiji's weakness. Besides I have my ways." Naruto replied with a grin.

Well that was shock to everyone. This day was a legend - Sasuke smiled and complimented Naruto for being genius and called him by name instead of 'dobe', then it appears Naruto was the one who convinced Hokage to put them one team. It was too much for them.

"It was planned all along, Forehead girl?" asked Ino.

"Planned what?" Sakura counter asked.

"This. That you would be one team. How long have you planned it? Is this why your behavior was a bit different? Just to get closer to Sasuke-kun?"

Sakura sweatdropped. "Err, no. As you can see I'm also happy that Naruto is on my team. Yes it was planned, but not for Sasuke. Ino-pig, you should consider your priorities. Sasuke will not be there to save your ass every time you do something wrong in a mission." she replied with a calm voice.

Ino was speechless. "What do you mean by 'consider priorities?" she finally asked.

"Sakura, don't bother. Fan-girl is a fan-girl and only harsh truth will open her eyes. When she will finally see how weak she truly is, which will happen on at least C ranked mission, only then she would understand." Sasuke said not even looking at Ino.

"Geez, Sasuke, why you're so cold with girls?" Naruto asked.

"Naruto, you perfectly know I don't like weak kunoichi, especially fan-girls who care only about their look. Imagine if we're on the mission and the only thing girl does is staring at me." Sasuke replied.

"Well yeah, you've got the point. Still you could be a little gentler to Ino." Naruto said.

"Hmph. If you want, you can be gentle with her in private. I'm just stating the truth." Sasuke said emphasizing word 'gentle' with a grin, giving a hidden meaning which Naruto understood.

Naruto blushed and quickly said "Whatever. Lets listen to what other teams there will be."

Ino sat there quietly, not even hearing the rest of conversation. Some other also were surprised of Sasuke's and Naruto's friendliness.

"Your sensei will be Kakashi Hatake." Iruka finally said when everyone shut their mouths.

"Just as you said, Naruto." Sakura said.

"Now, for other teams..."

And so Iruka called all the teams and their jounin senseis. Then, one after another, genins started to walk away with their respective senseis until just one team left.

"He's late..." Sasuke stated obvious fact.

"Probably he will be late for 3 hours, just as your foxes said, Naruto." Sakura couldn't believe it was truth. Did Kakashi really was jounin?

Naruto sighed. "Hey. Lets grab some lunch and visit jiji."

"But we have to wait for Kakashi-sensei." Sakura pleaded.

"Sakura, if he thinks we will wait for him 3 hours, then he is wrong." Sasuke stated.

After a brief silence, Naruto had an idea. "Hey! I've got an idea." getting curious looks from both his teammates, he continued "If he will late for 3 hours, lets come back after 4. Just to teach him a lesson and give him an idea how it feels."

"Genius, dobe, genius. I'm with you!" Sasuke said without a second of thought. Both boys looked at Sakura, expecting an answer.

She really didn't want to make sensei mad, but if boys had decided some prank, nothing can stop them. "I guess I have no choice." she sighed "Together 'till the end."

All three of them smiled. After 4 years of joint training and spending time together, they forged a strong bond and close friendship. 'No matter hardships in life, no matter armies we face - united we stand 'till the end' was their motto. They made it up after three of them faced an army of Naruto's clones in a spar. The motto itself was inspiring. It was spectacular fight. It was a good thing Naruto placed various seals including chakra suppression seals around the Uchiha district, otherwise whole village would feel like another war started.

"So, where to?" Sakura asked.

"Lets go to 'Akimi BBQ'" Sasuke suggested, "No offense to your 'glorious' ramen, Naruto, but we eat it most of the time. Today should be a special day to us so lets celebrate it."

"Alright. I just hope they won't throw me out." Naruto sadly said.

Sakura really didn't like seeing Naruto sad. It was so wrong - usually Naruto was cheerful guy who could brighten everyone's mood. Also after finding out about the fox, she couldn't help but feel a little bit disgusted with villagers. Really, Naruto didn't do anything to the villagers, yet he was treated like a trash.

"Alright, lets go!" Sakura cheered.

-Akimi BBQ-

'Akimi BBQ' was a large restaurant owned by Akimichi clan. The trio walked in and looked for a free space to sit, in this time of a day the restaurant was a bit crowded with few empty spaces.

They finally found what they were looking for - a table with free spaces at the end of the restaurant, in the corner. It was right after the table where team 10, consisting of Ino, Shikamaru, Choji and Asuma were sitting. They greeted team 10 as they reached their table.

"Yo Shika, Choji." greeted Naruto. Sakura waved her hand and Sasuke nodded and went to their table, while Naruto stayed behind to talk. They were his friends after all.

"So guys, what are you doing here?"Naruto asked.

"Tch, troublesome. We have a team meeting here." Shikamaru said.

"What are YOU doing here, kids?" Asuma asked as he observed the trio who looked completely calm despite the fact that they had to be in similar team meeting.

"Hm? Oh, I guess you know Kakashi. Since he is always 3 hours late, we decided to teach him a lesson and arrive a hour later AFTER he arrives. Meaning we will go back to academy in 4 hours. We will also use one of his lame excuses. Now we will just celebrate our promotion and discuss some things. Ok, I'm going back to my teammates. See ya!" he said and went to their table, which was right beside team 10's table.

Asuma looked surprised "I want to see Kakashi's reaction to this. I wonder how they know Kakashi so well..."

"What are you talking about? This Kakashi you speak of will be mad." Choji said.

"Kakashi is always late for everything for 2 or 3 hours, unless it is A or higher ranked mission. He always gives some lame excuses, like 'I saw an old lady with bags so I had to help her' or 'I lost my way on the road of life' or something like that." Asuma answered with a small laugh.

"Is he really jounin?" Shikamaru asked.

"Yes. He is even stronger than I am." Asuma truthfully answered.

Meanwhile, Ino was observing team 7 with a hint of jealousy. Sakura, along with Naruto and Sasuke were laughing about something. They looked happy. And it was the first time she saw Sasuke laughing.

Finally waitress came to team 7 to write down their order. When she saw Naruto, she gasped.

"Y-You a-are..." She stuttered.

Noticing the waitress staring at him, Naruto raised his head and looked right into her eyes. He thought she will throw them out, that's why he tried to be polite. "Is something the matter, miss?"

When she looked into his eyes, she widened hers "Y-Yondaime-sama... S-so it's true..." she whispered as she dropped her notepad. The whole restaurant went silent as they looked at the trio. Even the team 10.

Now it was Naruto's turn to widen his eyes. He quickly lowered his head in stared into the menu. Realizing what is going to happen, Sasuke decided to place his order to switch attention to him "So, can I place my order?" he asked.

Waitress turned her head and saw the Uchiha. She remembered where she was and slightly blushed in embarrassment. She quickly picked up her notepad and replied "O-Of course. What will be your orders?"

As they placed their orders, waitress disappeared in the kitchen.

"That was close one, Naruto." Sakura whispered.

Yup. Both Sasuke and Sakura knew about Naruto's lineage. Once, in a break after their training, Sakura mentioned that Naruto looks much like Yondaime. Naruto trusted them enough to reveal the truth, so he told them about his father. To say they were shocked was an underestimation.

"I know. How did she knew, though?" Naruto replied.

"Obviously because of your hairstyle and eyes. Why did you keep your hair that way if you don't want to reveal anything yet?" Sasuke whispered back.

"I don't think it's his hair, Sasuke. Even before that, he looked much like Yondaime-sama, but no one noticed. Someone started the rumors." Sakura reasoned.

"I guess you're right... I just wonder who." Sasuke replied.

"I've got someone in mind." Naruto whispered as he narrowed his eyes.

Then, their food arrived. They spent an hour at the restaurant. They had a conversation on light topics as they ate. As they finished, they paid for their meal and left the restaurant in hopes that no one heard them whispering about Yondaime. And no one heard, except for one guy who had his hair tied in pineapple style. His brain was already working overtime.

"Lets go to jiji." Naruto suggested and everyone agreed.

-With Hokage-

Hokage was sitting behind his desk and working on pile of paperwork, which was considerably smaller than it usually was. All thanks to the the missing orange book which didn't distract him over this week.

Suddenly, a door to the office snapped open as someone kicked it. And kicked it hard. In a blink of an eye the 4 ANBU, who were hidden in the shadows, were standing in front of desk and guarding Hokage from the intruder.

"Geez, ojiisan, you need to train your ANBU better." the now revealed Naruto said. He and both teens with him entered the office.

"Sorry Hokage-sama. Naruto is an idiot..." Sakura bowed and apologized.

"Don't worry, he always enters my office this way and ANBU still can't get used to it. And what do you meant by 'train better', Naruto-kun?" Hokage asked as he signaled his ANBU to stand down.

"Why jump and reveal yourself, if you can wait and see who is intruder and then strike from shadows while no one suspects it... Ninja should be stealthy, right?" Naruto explained.

ANBU who heard it wanted to commit a suicide, because some kid fresh from academy outsmarted them in a ways of ninja... shame.

Hokage sweatdropped. "Right. Anyway, what brings you here? Shouldn't you be with your jounin sensei?"

"To answer you seconds question, Hokage-sama, we know Kakashi is always 2 or 3 hours late, so we decided to come back in 4 hours. Just to show him how it feels." Sasuke replied.

Another sweatdrop. "I see. I hope after today he won't be late that often."

"I doubt it."

"Right. So what bring you here?"

This time it was Naruto who answered. "Well I came here to take my new cloth for hitai-ate."

"Oh, right." Hokage said and reached his drawer and took 3 brand new hitai-ate with long crimson cloth. "I couldn't get just cloth so I ordered to make new hitai-ate. Is that alright?"

"Sure thing, ojiisan. Here's my academy hitai-ate." Naruto replied as he handed the old Hokage his hitai-ate and took the new one. The others did the same.

"Thanks, Hokage-sama." Sakura said.

"No problem." he replied. "So. Care to tell me about your friend, Naruto-kun?" he threatened.

Understanding what he was talking about, he reached his pocket, took out a scroll and gave it to Hokage. "Everything will be explained inside. We'll hang out a bit and then return to academy. See ya later, ojiisan." he said and quickly went away with both his teammates.

"Hmm. He looked a bit nervous." Hokage muttered. He opened the scroll and noticed it was in fact a sealing scroll. He channeled some chakra into it and in a large puff of smoke a large amount of... books appeared. Hokage's eyes widened. "No way..."

He then found s small note on top of the pile of books. It said:

"Sorry, ojiisan. But I had to practice my stealth. Here are all the books and don't even bother to ask when or how, because I'm not telling ya.

- Uzumaki-Namikaze Naruto

P.S. Although I hate perverts, the book was rather interesting..."

"NARUTOOOO!" shouted Hokage.

3 hours have passed since team announcement and one-eyed jounin decided to show up. He finally reached the doors of classroom, where his team supposed to be. Kakashi expected a prank from Naruto and decided to play along. He slid the doors open, entered the classroom and... face faulted. No one was there.

"What the fuck? Bastards ruined my epic entrance..." Kakashi muttered. He then spotted a small note on teacher's table. He approached the table and read the note:

"Yo, Kakashi. We expected you to be 3 hours late so we decided to spent our time doing something useful. Feel annoyed and angry? Well that's how people feel when they're waiting for you.

Anyway, now you gotta wait for us. If we come and you're not there, I'll report it to Hokage. And I assure you that ojiisan could punish you in most horrible way - little convincing from my side and you'll be banned from buying your perverted Icha Icha books. Hmm, maybe if I'm in bad mood I could also convince him to confiscate your 'Icha Icha Paradise: Eden blooming rose. Gold edition' seeing how he doesn't have one.

That is, if you wouldn't be in classroom when we arrive.

-Naruto"

Kakashi dropped the note in utter horror. "He wouldn't... But, how did he knew I have this edition? Better yet, how he knew Hokage-sama didn't have it?" he let out a breath and sighed. He really didn't have any options. So he went to closest seat and to make the time pass more quickly, he took out his Icha Icha and started to read.

After 30 seconds of reading he noticed how he had some trouble reading. He now really had to concentrate to make out the words. After some more seconds he couldn't make out words at all.

"What the hell?" he thought, never noticing a faint glow from some kind of seal on the ceiling. "Will have to visit hospital to check my sight. What should I do then?"

And so the hour passed. It was really slow hour for Kakashi because it was so boooring. He couldn't fall asleep and couldn't read. Finally he heard some steps outside of the room and tensed, ready to scold the new genins, Then, the door slid open.

"Oh, hi Kakashi. Sorry we're late. You see..." Naruto started off.

"...a dozen of black cats crossed our path..." Sasuke continued.

"...so we had to take a looong path around the village..." Sakura continued.

"...so we wouldn't get a bad luck." Naruto finished. They practiced Kakashi's excuses for some time now, because it was a great way to annoy people. All three of them grinned at Kakashi's face expression of pure shock and disbelief.

"B-but t-that's my lines..." Kakashi stuttered.

"Exactly. Anyway, lets head to the roof and do all that introduction thingy." Naruto said and ran off to the stairs along with Sakura and Sasuke.

"What just happened?" Kakashi muttered and shunshin'ed to rooftop.

-Rooftop-

"Right" Kakashi started "Lets introduce ourselves, tell me about your..." (A/N: canon introduction + speech about true genin test)

Before Kakashi shunshin'ed away, he thought as he narrowed his eyes "Something's wrong here. When they entered the classroom they were all friendly and cooperative, but now they acted like an idiot, fan-girl and avenger. Oh well, tomorrow we shall see."

With Kakashi gone they relaxed. Their acting went perfect, although it was hard to suppress their urge to laugh. It was hilarious and they can't wait for tomorrow to show what they are capable of.

"I suggest you to have breakfast and arrive 2 hours later." Naruto finally said.

"But Kakashi-sensei said not to eat." Sakura reasoned.

"He suggested not to have breakfast. If we want to kick his ass, we have to be 100%." Sasuke said.

"Fine. I guess you're right..." Sakura said. Although she wasn't a fan-girl anymore, she still almost always agreed with the Uchiha. Not that said boy minded that...

"Besides, why only 2 hours instead of 3? He is usually 3 hours late, right?" Sasuke asked.

"Yes, you're right. We will spent that one hour to decide which strategy we will use against him. That 1 hour should be enough to prepare . Don't forget he is not elite jounin just for showoff." Naruto said.

"Right. Good point." Sasuke answered. "See you tomorrow."

"See ya!"

"Bye!"

They made sure no one was watching and used their respective shunshins to get home.

-Next morning-

It was 8.a.m and team 7 arrived to training ground 12. There they found a nice place by huge tree and discussed their upcoming battle. Exactly after one hour Kakashi appeared in a swirl of leaves.

"Yo." he said with an eye-smile. When he didn't receive any shouts for being late, he curiously observed his genins as they came out from tree's shadow. He was surprised at their appearances.

(A/N: Sasuke had that outfit he wore at chuunin exams)

Sakura wore long shinobi boots over white ANBU pants which was secured with a black belt. There was a shuriken and supply pouch attached to belt and kunai holster attached to her right thigh, while on the right thigh she had some kind of knife or dirk for quick reach. She wore a short-sleeved, black top over mesh armor which exposed her build up belly. Over that she wore a short-sleeved, red trench coat which reached her mid-shins (the coat was made in her previous outfit's style). She wore her hitai-ate like a ribbon in hair. *1*

Then he looked at Naruto. He looked just like his father. Naruto wore dark blue usual shinobi pants with shinobi boots and a kunai holster attached to his right thigh. Then he wore a dark blue shinobi top with long left sleeve and sleeveless right. He also had fingerless, black gloves with small metal plates on his knuckles. Pants and top looked like one piece suite with an orange belt around his waist. Furthermore, there appears to have some kind of seal on his right wrist, although he couldn't inspect it in more detail from that distance. Naruto wore his hitai-ate around forehead.

Kakashi also noticed that cloth of all their hitai-ate were crimson.

"Wow." he said "You look different." "Honestly, you look professional." he added after thought.

"I suppose we would. We changed our clothes after all. Now, tell us about this test." Naruto said while the other two just nodded.

"Right..." And so Kakashi explained his test. "... if you want to get the bells you have to come to me with intention to kill."

"Is lethal force allowed?" Sasuke asked.

Kakashi eye-smiled "Of course. It's not like you, weak genin, could even scratch me." He taunted but to his surprise it didn't work. He expected Sasuke to lash out at him for such statement, but fate had other plans. He saw how all of them smirked. Suddenly, he felt dread aura come over him. Kakashi just got a feeling of soon-to-come beating. They were genin! They couldn't even land more than one hit, right? ... Right?...

"You have time until noon. HAJIME!" Kakashi shouted.

Naruto crossed his arms and with confident smirk called out "Formation 'Mesmer'!" and with that both Sakura and Sasuke jumped to hide in the forest, both in opposite directions, while Naruto remained in front of Kakashi "Finally it is time to show the result of our training!"

END!

Any feedback would be appreciated, as well as constructive criticism. Thanks!

*1* For Sakura's new outfit look in my profile.