A cut, a movement, a block, and a strike. These actions unfolded one after another as the sparring match between teacher and student progressed. Both of them thoroughly enjoyed these training sessions, which had become a regular occurrence. The student, 8-year-old Naruto Uzumaki, had grown significantly under the guidance of his adopted father, Koby.

Koby effortlessly blocked Naruto's moves; after all, the boy was still just a child. However, Naruto's growth and determination were impressive. With each sparring session, Koby found himself needing to be more cautious and on guard against Naruto's increasingly skilled attacks.

Koby couldn't help but be impressed by Naruto's rapid development. The boy showed great dedication to his training and willingly accepted advice. While Naruto might not have excelled in academic studies, his progress as a ninja was remarkable. Koby saw a reflection of himself in Naruto's determination and drive. He deftly dodged one of Naruto's strikes, recognizing the punch's impressive speed and tempo.

As their sparring match continued, Koby contemplated his own improvements. He had mastered the clone jutsu, able to create and control up to two clones simultaneously. However, maintaining them for extended periods was draining, so he usually only kept one active for various tasks. His clone helped with daily chores, prepared meals, purchased supplies, and even assisted villagers. Koby had instructed his clone to gather information about his current location and how he had ended up there, but so far, there had been no significant findings.

While Koby's reputation had improved over the past three years, he was still associated with Naruto, the most despised child in Konoha. Their unique family arrangement had led to Koby adopting Naruto's surname, Uzumaki, to simplify paperwork and avoid questions. Although the name "Uzumaki Koby" sounded unusual to him, it helped him navigate the village's bureaucracy more smoothly.

As the sparring match concluded, with Naruto exhausted but proud, Koby offered a smile and a thumbs-up. "You're getting there. Soon, you'll be the best ninja in all of Konoha," he said confidently, recognizing Naruto's growing strength.

Naruto beamed with pride and determination. "Of course, I'm going to be the next Hokage," he declared, his self-confidence bolstered by his mentor and father figure. Naruto was determined to follow in Koby's footsteps and become as strong as his beloved Marine.

Koby smiled warmly as he gazed at the youngster. "So, tomorrow you start at the academy, and I'm sure you're more than ready. Remember to listen to your teacher and make sure that you're kind to your classmates. You're going to have to work together with them," Koby said to Naruto, offering him some advice for the upcoming day.

Naruto looked up at Koby with determination in his eyes. "I'll do my best, Koby-sensei! I'll make you proud, and I'm gonna become the best ninja in the whole village!" He said with a bright smile, filled with the determination to succeed.

"Good, it's time for ramen, then. I'd like some right about now," Koby said with a smile. He knew that Naruto loved ramen, and going to get ramen was something the adopted father and son had done so many times in the past three years.

The pair had a lovely dinner before heading back to their apartment, which felt more like home than ever before. Koby walked, wearing the same type of black pants as the village ninja, but with a basic white shirt and a pair of boots instead of sandals. The Marine was still not a ninja, but he had learned many tricks over the last three years. He had also read numerous books about being a ninja. He had even considered taking a test to become a ninja, but that wasn't allowed as he was still not permitted to leave the village and was there to keep an eye on Naruto. There wasn't much more he could do than what he was already doing.

That night, Koby wrote a letter for Naruto's teacher, Iruka Umino. He had some information about Iruka, knowing that he had lost his parents in the 9-tails attack. Koby hoped that this wouldn't cause him to hate Naruto. So, he decided to write and send the letter to the teacher before going to sleep.

—-

Dear Iruka Umino,

I hope this letter finds you well. My name is Koby, and I am writing to you as the guardian and mentor of Naruto Uzumaki, who will be joining your class at the academy. I wanted to introduce myself and provide you with some background information about Naruto.

Naruto has had a difficult upbringing, and he may not have had the warmest welcome in the village. However, I can assure you that he is a kind-hearted and determined young boy who is eager to learn and become a great ninja. I have been training him for the past three years, and I have witnessed his growth and commitment firsthand.

Naruto has faced many challenges in his life, and I believe that your guidance and support as his teacher will make a significant difference in his journey. Please keep in mind that he has a dream of becoming the Hokage one day, and I am confident that with your help, he can achieve it.

I understand that you have your own history with the Nine-Tails attack, and I hope that it won't affect your perception of Naruto. He had no control over the circumstances of his birth, and he deserves a fair chance to prove himself.

If you ever have any concerns or questions regarding Naruto, please feel free to reach out to me. I want to ensure that he has a positive and nurturing environment to learn and grow.

Thank you for your dedication as a teacher, and I look forward to seeing Naruto flourish under your guidance.

Sincerely,

Koby

—-

The next morning arrived, and Koby walked Naruto to school, wanting to ensure that the boy made it there without being sidetracked. Once they arrived, he gave Naruto a hug and a smile.

"Now you're going to do great. Have fun," Koby said softly, his voice filled with affection for the youngster who was like his own child at that point.

Naruto looked up at Koby with a big grin, his eyes shining with excitement and determination.

"Don't worry, Koby-sensei! I'll do my best and become the best ninja ever!" Naruto replied with unwavering confidence.

Koby ruffled Naruto's hair and gave him a proud nod. "That's the spirit, Naruto. I'll be right here cheering you on."

Koby headed back to the apartment where he found a summons from the Hokage himself. It was labeled as important. Koby took the message and immediately went to meet with the Hokage. He wondered what was on the old man's mind, what he needed. Of course, Koby would assist in any way he could. He was there to help Naruto, and with Naruto in school, he had a lot of free time

Koby arrived and took a seat in the familiar room, well-acquainted with these regular meetings with the Hokage. They typically revolved around discussing Naruto's progress and addressing any concerns or discrepancies in the reports. Koby was accustomed to this routine, as it was all part of his role in protecting and mentoring Naruto.

However, on this occasion, it appeared that the purpose of the meeting was different from their usual discussions. Koby addressed the Hokage, saying, "Lord Hokage, I've submitted all the reports on Naruto's development, and I must say, he continues to amaze me with his progress."

The Third Hokage listened attentively to Koby's words, his expression thoughtful as he considered the information provided about Naruto's progress. After a brief pause, he responded with a nod, acknowledging Koby's assessment.

"I'm pleased to hear that Naruto is doing well under your guidance, Koby," the Third Hokage replied. "Your dedication to his development has not gone unnoticed. However, today, I've called you here for a different matter."

"Yes, Lord Hokage, what is it? Have you discovered a way to my old home or do you need my help with something?" Koby asked, though he was fairly certain that the first option was unlikely.

"No, sorry, nothing has been found about your old home," Hiruzen said with a tiny tinge of guilt in his tone. "I am talking about your future in this village. You have lived here for what, 3 years now. You have helped people all over the town, and you are well-known for your kindness to old ladies, kids, and anyone, honestly," the Hokage commented with a bit of appreciation for Koby's work. "You have read more about being a ninja than any ninja starting as a chunin, but you are content with being a guardian and teacher, which is fine too."

"I know you know about the exam we talked about 5 months ago. Why didn't you try to take it? It is for exiled ninja who end up in this village and wish to start fresh as ninja of Konoha. It is very hard, but with your skills, it would be a breeze," Hiruzen commented. He had seen this man fight and train Naruto, and he knew that this man was not one to be messed with.

Koby's expression shifted slightly as he considered the Hokage's words. He had indeed heard about the exam, and the thought had crossed his mind. However, he had chosen to focus on Naruto's well-being and training, believing that was his primary responsibility in the village.

"I appreciate the offer, Lord Hokage," Koby began, his tone thoughtful, "but my main purpose here is to protect and guide Naruto. I've made a commitment to him, and I want to see him grow into a great ninja. While I'm grateful for the opportunities this village has given me, my priority is still Naruto's future."

He paused for a moment before continuing, "If there ever comes a time when I can balance both roles effectively, I'll consider it. But for now, I believe my place is right here, helping Naruto achieve his dream of becoming Hokage."

"What if I told you, I want you to pass the exam so you can help out at the academy and keep an eye on Naruto, as one of its teachers?" Hiruzen would throw out.

Koby's eyes widened slightly at the Hokage's proposition. It was an unexpected turn of events. He contemplated the idea for a moment, recognizing that it could potentially allow him to fulfill his commitment to Naruto while also contributing to the village in a different way.

"That's an intriguing offer, Lord Hokage," Koby replied, his expression thoughtful. "Teaching at the academy and keeping an eye on Naruto... It could be a good balance. I'll accept your proposal. I want to do everything I can to support Naruto and this village."

He nodded firmly, showing his determination to make it work. "I'll do my best to pass the exam and become a teacher at the academy."