Chapter 4: Blossoming Bonds

I do not own Naruto and Jujutsu Kaisen, Masashi Kishimoto and Gege Akutami do, if I did however Gege wouldn't have been killing as many characters as he usually does.

5 Years Later

One Month before Graduation

The morning sun painted Konoha in hues of gold and amber as Naruto and Mai readied themselves for the significant day—their first at the academy. The soft light seeped through the windows, casting a warm glow that seemed to promise new beginnings.

Mai, ever the picture of efficiency, moved with purpose as she meticulously organized their belongings. "Naruto, don't forget to grab our lunches, books, and especially the admission form. We need the Hokage's signature before we head to the academy," she reminded him, her voice carrying a blend of practicality and encouragement.

Naruto, still adjusting to the idea of academy life,"Mai, can you believe the old man is making us go to the academy? I mean, we're already light-years ahead of those guys in skills," Naruto remarked, making a face at the idea.

Mai raised an eyebrow, her gaze unwavering. "Naruto, we've been through this. It's not just about showcasing our skills, Naruto. The academy teaches us more than jutsu—it's about teamwork, understanding the system, and, who knows, we might find something worthwhile. Besides, it's just one month."

Naruto sighed dramatically, scratching his head. "I guess you're right, but it's so boring compared to our training with Jiraiya-sensei."

"Training with Jiraiya-sensei has its perks, but we can't avoid the academy forever. And who knows, we might find it interesting," Mai replied with a hint of optimism.

Naruto rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, "Yeah, interesting like watching paint dry."

Mai shot him a playful glare. "You never know, Naruto. We might learn something new or meet someone intriguing."

Naruto, still not convinced, grumbled but got up to gather their lunch, books, and the all-important admission form that needed the Hokage's signature.

Flashback:

Two days before their anticipated entry into the academy, Naruto and Mai found themselves standing in the Hokage's office, flanked by the ever-present Jiraiya. Hiruzen Sarutobi, the venerable Third Hokage, regarded them with a mix of wisdom and understanding.

"Starting in two days, you'll be joining the academy," Hiruzen announced, his expression gentle yet resolute. Naruto's eyes widened dramatically, and he let out a theatrical gasp. "The academy? Old man, are you trying to ruin our ninja careers before they even begin?"

Jiraiya, barely able to contain his amusement, shot Naruto a knowing look. "Calm down, Naruto. The academy is a part of the process."

Mai, on the other hand, listened attentively, absorbing the information. She had a more measured response, acknowledging the necessity of the academy in their larger journey.

Hiruzen explained, "It's crucial for you to experience the academy environment. It's not just about showcasing your skills; it's about adapting to the system, understanding teamwork, and integrating into the community. You'll only be there for a month, and it's an essential part of your development."

Naruto, still unsatisfied, couldn't help but express his dismay. "A whole month? Can't we just skip it and continue with Jiraiya-sensei's training?"

Mai, displaying a rare moment of exasperation, gave Naruto a pointed look. "Naruto, sometimes you have to play by the rules. This isn't just about proving our skills; it's about navigating the ninja world, and the academy is a part of that."

Hiruzen, sensing Naruto's discontent, added with a wise smile, "Consider it a formality. In a month, you'll be back to your usual training. But for now, embrace the experience."

Mai, displaying her characteristic pragmatism, grabbed Naruto by the ear and dragged him out of the office, her voice a stern undertone. "Stop complaining, Naruto. This is part of the journey. We'll make the most of it."

As Mai dragged Naruto out of the Hokage's office, his discontent was palpable, and he couldn't resist grumbling under his breath. "I can't believe he's making us go through this academy nonsense. We're practically Jonin-level already!"

Mai shot him a withering look, her tone laced with annoyance. "Jonin or not, Naruto, there are rules and traditions we have to follow. It's not just about showcasing our strength; it's about understanding the system. You can't ignore the basics."

Naruto, still caught up in his own sense of superiority, huffed, "Basics? We've surpassed basics ages ago! This is just a waste of time."

Mai, not one to mince words, tightened her grip on Naruto's ear and spoke with a stern edge to her voice. "Listen, you might think you're invincible, but there's more to being a ninja than raw power. The academy will teach us things we haven't learned yet. So, stop whining and take this seriously."

Naruto winced at the pain in his ear but maintained his defiant stance. "I don't need some teacher telling me what to do. I've got Jiraiya-sensei, and that's enough."

Mai sighed, recognizing the futility of arguing with Naruto's inflated ego. "Stubborn as ever. Just remember, Naruto, sometimes you need to step back to move forward."

Back in the serene atmosphere of the Hokage's office, Jiraiya couldn't suppress the skepticism that wrinkled his usually carefree expression. "Sensei, do they really need to go through the motions of this academy routine? I mean, they've surpassed the level of most Jonin out there. What's the point?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, regarded Jiraiya with a measured gaze, his aged eyes reflecting both wisdom and understanding. "It's not about learning jutsu or tactics, Jiraiya. There's a deeper reason behind this decision. I want Naruto and Mai to interact with other children, to forge connections. The bullying incident all those years affected their interaction with other children but they've isolated themselves for too long."

Jiraiya, ever the skeptic and a bit of a maverick, raised an inquisitive eyebrow. "Connections? In the ninja world, allies can quickly turn into enemies. What's the guarantee that these 'connections' won't backfire?"

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together as he contemplated his response. "True, the ninja world is treacherous, and alliances can be fleeting. However, Naruto and Mai need friends, allies who understand them not just as powerful ninja but as individuals. It's crucial if they want to achieve their dreams."

Jiraiya, though not entirely convinced, couldn't ignore the gravity in Hiruzen's words. "And what dreams are those, old man?" he asked, a hint of curiosity underlying his usual nonchalant demeanor.

Hiruzen's gaze turned wistful, as if looking back at a distant horizon. "To become the strongest, to protect those they care about. But strength alone won't cut it. Tsunade, for instance, is no rogue ninja because she's my student and the grand-daughter of shodai-sama . The academy will help Naruto and Mai build relationships with other young ninja, who may become crucial allies in the future."

Jiraiya sighed, acknowledging the wisdom in the Hokage's words but remaining cautious. "You and your infinite wisdom, Sensei. Alright, you have a point. But you know me; I won't let them be held back by unnecessary rules. They've got their own way of doing things."

The Hokage chuckled, a weathered hand brushing his long white beard. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you, Jiraiya. Just ensure they understand the importance of what lies ahead. The bonds they forge now might shape their destinies."

The sunlit corridors of the ninja academy echoed with the chatter of students, each bustling toward their respective classrooms. Naruto and Mai navigated the maze of hallways, eventually finding themselves outside room 6-A. Iruka, the enthusiastic academy teacher, greeted them with a warm smile.

"Ah, you must be the new students," Iruka said, his gaze lingering on Naruto's shaded eyes for a moment. "Why the sunglasses, though?"

Naruto, ever ready with a response, flashed a grin. "Medical condition, sensei. Gotta protect these precious eyes of mine."

Iruka nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer, and ushered them into the classroom. The students, a mix of excitement and curiosity on their faces, turned their attention to the newcomers.

The atmosphere in the academy shifted as Iruka ushered Naruto and Mai into the classroom, the gazes of their new classmates fixating on the unexpected additions. Murmurs of discontent rippled through the room, eyebrows furrowing in displeasure at the duo who seemingly skipped the rest of the academy.

Iruka, trying to maintain a sense of order, gestured towards Naruto and Mai. "Everyone, we have two new classmates joining us today. Please welcome them."

The moment Iruka introduced Naruto and Mai as new students, the classroom, which had previously been abuzz with eager anticipation, fell into a hushed tension. Whispers circulated like an electric current among the students, creating an invisible divide between excitement and resentment.

As Naruto and Mai stepped forward, a mixed atmosphere enveloped the room. Some students exchanged excited glances, intrigued by the prospect of new classmates, while others wore expressions tainted with a hint of resentment. One particularly vocal student, Kiba Inuzuka, couldn't contain his skepticism.

"Why do they get to skip the rest of the academy?" Kiba grumbled to his friend Shikamaru. "We've been slogging through classes for years, and suddenly, these two waltz in and bypass everything?"

Shikamaru, ever the laid-back strategist, yawned but couldn't deny the brewing discontent. "Troublesome. They'll have a hard time fitting in."

As Iruka prompted Naruto and Mai to introduce themselves, the murmur of discontent gained volume. A group of students, who had been engrossed in conversation, exchanged wary glances. Sakura Haruno, often mindful of social dynamics, leaned over to whisper to Ino Yamanaka.

"Do you think they're any good?" Sakura asked, her curiosity mingling with a hint of skepticism.

Ino, eyeing Naruto and Mai critically, responded, "Who knows? But I don't like the idea of newcomers acting like they're above the rest of us."

Meanwhile, Sasuke Uchiha, typically aloof, observed the proceedings with a detached interest. His gaze flickered between Naruto, Mai, and the rest of the class.

"I hope they can fit in," Hinata mumbled to herself, her fingers nervously playing with a strand of her dark hair.

As the new students' impact rippled through the class, Iruka, standing at the front, couldn't help but feel the weight of the uneasy atmosphere. The dynamics of the room had shifted, and the challenge of integrating Naruto and Mai into this close-knit community hung in the air.

Iruka gestured to Naruto and Mai, prompting them to introduce themselves. The room fell silent, all eyes fixed on the newcomers.

Mai stepped forward with a confidence that resonated through the room. "I'm Mai Senju," she announced, her voice clear and unwavering. A hushed murmur rippled through the students as the name Senju registered. Sasuke, typically indifferent, raised an eyebrow in subtle surprise. The prestige of the Senju clan was not lost on anyone, and Mai's calm demeanor left an impression.

As Mai continued to speak, her words weaving an image of strength and determination, Sasuke found himself intrigued. His usual stoicism cracked for a moment as he considered the weight of her heritage, he didn't knew that there wereany Senju clan members except Tsunade Senju alive.

Mai continued, her smile infectious. "I'm looking forward to being classmates and, hopefully, friends. Let's make this a memorable time at the academy!"

Naruto, seizing the moment with a charismatic grin, sauntered forward, his every step radiating an unspoken confidence. "Yo, Konoha crew, I'm Naruto Uzumaki," he announced, his voice carrying an easygoing charm. His eyes, shielded by a pair of stylish shades, surveyed the room with a cool detachment.

"Listen up, small fries," Naruto continued, gesturing broadly to the class. "You better not mess with me or my friend here. We're way out of your league." His tone carried a blend of arrogance and nonchalance, reminiscent of certain individuals known for their confident swagger.

Sasuke, the brooding prodigy of the Uchiha clan, raised an eyebrow at Naruto's theatrical display. "You're quite full of yourself, aren't you?" he remarked, his tone a mix of curiosity and irritation.

Naruto, unfazed, shot back with a grin. "Well, when you're as strong as me, it's hard not to be."

Meanwhile, Sakura, the pink-haired girl with a crush on Sasuke, whispered to Ino, "Who does he think he is, acting all high and mighty?"

As Naruto confidently delivered his introduction, a wave of skepticism and disdain rippled through the classroom. Most of the students were well aware of Naruto's pariah status, a reputation earned through years of being an outsider. Whispers of "idiot" and stifled laughter spread like wildfire, casting a shadow over Naruto's bold proclamation.

Sasuke, ever aloof, raised an eyebrow at Naruto's audacity, while Sakura exchanged a glance with Ino and Tenten. Shikamaru, reclining lazily in his chair, mumbled, "Troublesome. This guy's got no chill."

In the midst of the jeers, one voice stood out. A classmate, Kiba Inuzuka, couldn't resist poking fun at Naruto. "Hey, shades-boy! You know we're indoors, right? What's with the sunglasses? You trying to be cool or something?"

The taunts echoed in the room, and Naruto, feeling the weight of the judgmental gazes, clenched his fists. Mai, ever perceptive and attuned to Naruto's emotions, sensed the rising tension. With a calming touch on Naruto's shoulder, she whispered, "Ignore them, Naruto. We're here for a reason."

Ino, seizing the opportunity to tease, chimed in, "Looks like Mr. Cool Guy can't handle a bit of teasing."

Iruka, perceptive to the undercurrents in the room, decided to intervene. "Alright, settle down, everyone. Naruto and Mai, please take your seats at the back. We'll continue with the introductions."

As Naruto and Mai made their way to the back, the whispers and taunts lingered. Naruto, though visibly affected, maintained a facade of indifference, determined to prove himself in this new environment.

As Naruto and Mai settled into their seats at the back, the proximity to Shikamaru and Choji seemed to diffuse some of the tension in the air. Shikamaru, reclining with his hands behind his head, shot them a lazy glance. "Hey, troublesome first day, huh?"

Naruto grinned, his signature orange jacket standing out even in the subdued atmosphere of the classroom. "Yeah, but it's nothing we can't handle. By the way, I'm Naruto Uzumaki, and this is Mai."

Shikamaru, mildly intrigued, gave a nonchalant nod. "Shikamaru Nara. Choji here is my friend."

Choji, busy munching on a bag of chips, greeted them with a muffled, "Hey."

Mai, always one to bridge gaps, joined the conversation. "Nice to meet you both. So, what's the deal with this academy, anyway?"

Shikamaru, ever the strategist, leaned forward slightly. "It's a drag, really. But hey, it's better than dealing with my mom's nagging."

As the trio engaged in a casual conversation, Iruka, at the front of the class, announced, "Alright, time for a quick quiz on chakra theory. Let's see how much you already know."

Naruto, never one to shy away from a challenge, exchanged a determined look with Mai. The quiz commenced, with questions ranging from basic chakra control to more advanced concepts. To the surprise of their classmates, Naruto and Mai breezed through the quiz, answering each question with confidence and accuracy.

Iruka, impressed by their performance, couldn't help but smile. "Well, it seems we have some excellent additions to the class. Good job, Naruto and Mai."

The academy's hallways buzzed with activity as Naruto, Mai, and their newfound friends—Shikamaru, Choji, and Shino—made their way through the maze of bustling students. The bond between them had deepened in these few days, transforming into a peculiar mix of personalities that somehow complemented each other.

Shikamaru walked with his hands in his pockets, his lazy demeanor belying a sharp mind. Choji, ever the food enthusiast, occasionally munched on a snack, his carefree attitude bringing a sense of easygoing camaraderie. Shino, the enigmatic bug-user, followed silently, his presence adding an air of mystery to the group. Apparently, Naruto found his kikaichu were interesting and asked him to join them. Shino, ever so polite, did not decline his request.

Mai, with her Senju charm and affable nature, stood out like a beacon. Her presence attracted attention not only for her Senju lineage but also for the genuine warmth she radiated. Fellow students often approached her, extending invitations to join their circles, enticed by the prospect of associating with someone from such a prestigious clan.

One day, as they strolled through the courtyard, a group of students approached Mai with friendly smiles. "Hey, Mai, we're having a little get-together after classes. You should join us!" a girl with a friendly disposition suggested.

Mai exchanged glances with Naruto and the others. Shikamaru, ever pragmatic, spoke up, "Sorry, we're kind of in our own little group. Maybe next time."

Mai politely declined, "I appreciate the offer, but I've got my friends here. Maybe another time."

The students, though momentarily disappointed, understood and bid Mai and her group farewell. As they continued their walk, Choji couldn't help but comment, "Mai, you're pretty popular. Why don't you hang out with them?"

Mai chuckled, her eyes gleaming with sincerity. "They're nice, but I've got everything I need right here. Friends who accept me for who I am."

Naruto, always one to lighten the mood, added, "Yeah, who needs a big crowd when you've got a small group of awesome friends? Quality over quantity, right?"

The group shared a laugh, their bond solidifying amidst the ebb and flow of academy life. The hallways echoed with the footsteps of friendships being forged, a testament to the strength that lay in the unity of kindred spirits.

One day, as they gathered in the courtyard during a break, Naruto curiously glanced at Mai. "Hey, why don't you hang out with the other girls? You could make more friends."

Mai chuckled, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "You know, Naruto, I tried. But it seems like most of the girls here are more interested in discussing Sasuke's love life than ninja techniques."

Just as she finished her sentence, the courtyard door swung open with a bang. Ino and Sakura, in a display that was becoming a daily routine, burst into the scene, each vying for the coveted seat next to Sasuke.

"I saw him first, Ino-pig!" Sakura declared with a scowl.

Ino, undeterred, retorted, "Well, I called dibs on him yesterday, Forehead!"

Mai, observing the spectacle with a bemused expression, turned to Naruto. "See what I mean? I'd rather focus on being a ninja than getting involved in those dramas."

Naruto nodded in understanding, a grin playing on his lips. "Yeah, who needs all that romantic stuff anyway? We've got more important things to worry about, like becoming the Hokage and proving everyone wrong!"

The group shared a collective chuckle, the bonds of their friendship solidifying amidst the chaos of the academy. As the courtyard echoed with the bickering of love-struck classmates, Naruto and Mai found solace in the simple joys of genuine camaraderie and shared dreams.

The courtyard bathed in the gentle sunlight, Mai sat alone during lunch, quietly enjoying the solitude. Sakura, with a stride of confidence, approached her, determined to address the elephant in the room.

"Hey, Mai," Sakura began, her tone measured. "I've been meaning to ask you something. You're from the Senju clan, right? Why do you hang out with those clowns in our class instead of someone like Sasuke? He's going to be the rookie of the year, after all."

Mai raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in her eyes. "Those 'clowns,' as you call them, are my friends. And as for Sasuke, well, I don't choose friends based on who's going to be the rookie of the year."

Sakura turned to Mai, a condescending smile on her face. "So, you're friends with Naruto, huh? You probably don't know much about him. He's the village's greatest idiot. Always causing trouble because he had no parents to teach him manners and control."

Mai's eyes narrowed, a flicker of anger crossing her features. She shot a quick glance at Naruto, who remained surprisingly composed. "Is that so?" Mai replied, her tone steady. "Well, I believe everyone has their own struggles, Sakura. And it's not fair to judge someone without understanding their story."

Sakura, undeterred, continued her tirade. "No one likes him in the village, you know. It's like he's a pariah. His own parents probably abandoned him, and that's why he's such a nuisance. You should think twice about being friends with someone like that."

Mai's patience wore thin, her Senju pride sparking a fire within her. "Let me get this straight, Sakura," she retorted, her voice firm. "Firstly, I don't appreciate you bad-mouthing my friend. Secondly, you speak as if not having parents is a crime. Naruto has faced hardships, but that doesn't define him. It's his strength and resilience that do. As for being a nuisance, I think he's pretty amazing."

Sakura's attempt to belittle Naruto had clearly struck a nerve in Mai. The onlookers sensed the tension in the air, and a hushed silence fell over the courtyard.

Mai took a step closer, her eyes locking with Sakura's. "And let's talk about becoming a ninja, Sakura. It's not just about skills; it's about respect for your comrades. If you can't even respect someone standing right in front of you, how do you expect to become a ninja? Naruto might be 'the village's greatest idiot' to you, but at least he knows the value of friendship and loyalty."

Sakura, caught off guard by Mai's forceful response, struggled to find words. Ino, who had been watching the exchange, shot a disapproving look at Sakura. Mai, her point made, turned away, signaling Naruto and their friends to continue their journey through the academy courtyard.

The morning sun rose over Konoha, casting its warm glow on the village as the citizens stirred to life. Graduation day had arrived, and the excitement was palpable. However, an unexpected surprise awaited the residents as they made their way through the village.

The villagers gathered around the Hokage Monument, still chuckling at Naruto's audacious prank. The air buzzed with whispers as they pointed at the colorful remarks beneath each Hokage's painted face.

Shodai, the First Hokage, was now adorned with the caption "Idiot" in bold letters. The villagers, recognizing Naruto's penchant for cheeky humor, couldn't help but laugh at the irony of such a label on the revered founder of Konoha.

"Naruto sure knows how to make a statement," one villager remarked, shaking their head in amusement.

Nidaime, the Second Hokage, fared no better. Naruto had labeled him with the term "Wiener," prompting a mix of laughter and incredulous glances from the onlookers.

"Wonder what the Second did to deserve 'Wiener,'" someone quipped, unable to contain their amusement.

Sandaime, the Third Hokage, was assigned the moniker "Lech." The villagers exchanged knowing glances, acknowledging the irony of associating such a term with the village's wise leader.

Hiruzen, reading the label beneath his own painted face, couldn't help but appreciate Naruto's playful spirit. "Lech, huh? Well played, Naruto," he thought, a wry smile on his face.

As the crowd's laughter echoed through the village, Yondaime, the Fourth Hokage, became the recipient of Naruto's final ironic remark. The caption beneath his face read "Geezer," a choice that elicited a fresh wave of laughter from the spectators.

"Look at that, even the Fourth Hokage isn't spared from Naruto's wit," a villager remarked, thoroughly entertained.

The unexpected graffiti on the Hokage Monument had turned what was supposed to be a solemn occasion into a lighthearted affair. Naruto, with his irreverent humor, had managed to unite the village in laughter, if only for a moment, on this memorable graduation day.

The day of the graduation test had arrived, and Naruto and Mai entered the academy with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as their fellow classmates chattered about the upcoming challenge.

As they entered their classroom, Iruka, the academy instructor, fixed Naruto with a stern look. "Naruto, we need to talk," he said, directing Naruto's attention to the painted Hokage Monument outside.

Naruto scratched his head sheepishly, offering a lopsided grin. "Oh, you mean the redecoration? Just wanted to add a bit of flair, sensei."

Iruka sighed, a mix of exasperation and fondness in his expression. "Flair or not, pranks like that are inappropriate, especially on graduation day. We'll discuss this later."

The class settled down as Iruka cleared his throat. "Now, let's move on to the graduation test. We'll begin with the three basic academy jutsu." He looked at Naruto and Mai with a hint of challenge in his eyes.

"I'll start with you, Naruto. Show me Kawarimi," Iruka instructed.

Naruto nodded, confidence in his eyes. With seamless agility, he performed the Kawarimi no Jutsu, swapping places with Mizuki, who had been sitting in a nearby chair. Mizuki, now in Naruto's place, fell to the ground, and the class erupted in surprised murmurs.

Iruka, a mixture of astonishment and approval, clapped his hands. "Excellent, Naruto! That was textbook execution."

Encouraged by the praise, Naruto grinned. "Just getting started, sensei!"

Iruka then turned to the next jutsu. "Now, Henge."

Naruto's expression shifted mischievously, and he executed the Henge no Jutsu. However, instead of a standard transformation, Naruto, true to his nature, transformed into his signature Oiroke no Jutsu—complete with a flirtatious pose.

The classroom fell into stunned silence, broken only by a few gasps. Iruka, caught off guard, stumbled backward, his face turning crimson. Mai, standing beside Naruto, rolled her eyes in disapproval.

"Naruto! This is a graduation test, not a comedy show," Mai scolded, her tone firm.

Iruka, recovering from the unexpected display, wiped sweat from his forehead. "Uh, well, that was certainly... creative, Naruto. Let's move on to the final jutsu."

The air in the classroom brimmed with a mixture of tension and excitement as Iruka announced the imminent Bunshin no Jutsu test. The students exchanged glances, some nervously adjusting their headbands, while others cracked subtle smiles, confident in their abilities. Naruto, leaning back in his chair, couldn't hide the eagerness dancing in his eyes. Graduation day was within reach, and he was ready to prove himself.

As Mai took her turn, Naruto leaned toward her, offering a supportive grin. "You've got this, Mai. No luck needed." Mai nodded, appreciating the encouragement, and stepped into the room. The door closed behind her, leaving Naruto to anxiously await her return. Moments later, the door swung open, revealing Mai proudly wearing her forehead protector. Naruto's expression shifted from anticipation to delight. "See, I knew you'd breeze through it. Senju power, right?"

Mai chuckled, "More like determination, Naruto, but thanks." The camaraderie between them was palpable as they exchanged smiles, both reveling in the success of their journey.

As the lineup progressed, Naruto's turn approached. He strode into the room with a mix of confidence and nervous energy. Iruka and Mizuki sat behind the table, eyeing him with a mixture of expectation and scrutiny. Iruka's voice was encouraging yet stern. "Naruto, your turn. Show us the Bunshin no Jutsu."

Naruto's hands seamlessly formed the necessary seals, and with a burst of chakra, clones of himself materialized throughout the room. The sight prompted a genuine smile from Iruka, who applauded the accomplishment. "Well done, Naruto! You've passed." The words echoed in the room, marking the official end of Naruto's academy journey.

Iruka handed Naruto his forehead protector, and as he adjusted it proudly, a sense of achievement and anticipation surged through him. He exited the room with a newfound determination, ready to embrace the challenges that awaited him beyond the academy walls.

Yet, as he stepped out, he couldn't ignore the unmistakable glare from Mizuki. Naruto's mind flickered with a hint of concern, but he brushed it aside, choosing to savor the moment.

Naruto, catching Mizuki's piercing gaze, his thoughts raced in a cascade of uncertainty. 'What's his problem? Why is he looking at me like that?' The doubt lingered for a fleeting moment, but Naruto, determined to revel in his triumph, simply shrugged it off. 'Probably jealous or something. Doesn't matter now.' With a decisive nod, he continued to soak in the congratulatory atmosphere, eager to celebrate this milestone with his peers.

As Naruto emerged from the classroom, a triumphant grin etched across his face, Mai was the first to greet him. "Congratulations, Naruto!" she exclaimed, her eyes reflecting genuine happiness for her friend.

Naruto, still basking in the glow of success, turned to Mai with a grateful nod. "Thanks, Mai. We did it!" he replied, his voice resonating with a sense of accomplishment. The shared journey to this point had forged a bond between them, and Mai's congratulatory words added an extra layer of joy to the moment.

Under the shade of a tree, Naruto and Mai sat together, enjoying their lunch. The atmosphere was light, filled with the shared satisfaction of passing the graduation test. As they chatted about their plans and dreams, a shadow fell across Naruto as Mizuki approached him.

Mizuki's voice was hushed, a conspiratorial tone that piqued Naruto's curiosity. "Naruto," he began, "I've got a proposition for you. You could be the Rookie of the Year if you play your cards right."

Naruto, always ready for a new challenge, leaned in, his blue eyes narrowing. "I'm listening."

Mizuki, glancing around to ensure no one was eavesdropping, revealed a plan that left Naruto visibly uneasy. "All you need to do is steal the Scroll of Seals from the Hokage's residence. Trust me, it's worth the risk."

Naruto's expression shifted, his brows furrowing. The proposition was dubious at best, and the idea of stealing from the village's leader didn't sit well with him. Mizuki's motives seemed questionable, and Naruto sensed a darker undercurrent beneath the surface.

As Mizuki left, Naruto rejoined Mai, who looked at him with a puzzled expression. "What was that all about?" she asked.

Naruto, taking a moment to choose his words, explained the situation. "Mizuki wants me to steal the Scroll of Seals. But there's something off about it. I think we should report this to the Hokage. There might be a traitor among us." Mai's eyes widened at the revelation, and together, they decided to take the matter to the village's leadership.

The door to the Hokage's office swung open, and Naruto and Mai entered, faces serious and determined. Hiruzen looked up from his desk, and his gaze met Naruto's.

"Old-man," Naruto began, "we've got a problem. Mizuki approached me with a shady proposition. He wants me to steal the Scroll of Seals to become the Rookie of the Year."

Hiruzen raised an eyebrow, concern etching his features. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention, Naruto. Your quick thinking is commendable."

Naruto, with a smirk, responded, "How dumb do you think I am?"

Hiruzen chuckled, appreciating Naruto's straightforwardness. "Fair point, Naruto."

In a more serious tone, Naruto added, "We think there might be a traitor among us. Mai and I thought it best to report it to you immediately."

Hiruzen nodded, his expression growing stern. "You did the right thing. I'll handle this. Anbu!"

In a swift response, two Anbu members appeared in the room. Hiruzen issued a command, "Arrest Mizuki. Investigate the situation thoroughly."

The Anbu vanished in a blur, leaving the room as quickly as they had arrived. Hiruzen turned back to Naruto and Mai, gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you both for your vigilance. Rest assured, we'll get to the bottom of this."

Naruto, unable to contain his curiosity, asked Hiruzen, "Are we going to take missions with Jiraiya-sensei now?"

Hiruzen, his fingers steepled, responded with a measured tone, "No, Naruto. Jiraiya has pressing matters to attend to and won't be able to return until the Chunin Exams, which are four months away."

Naruto and Mai exchanged surprised glances. The prospect of working with Jiraiya had been exciting, and the news of having a substitute brought mixed emotions. Hiruzen continued, "In the meantime, I've arranged for you both to work under a skilled ninja from my personal guard. Consider it an opportunity to learn from different perspectives."

Mai, always composed, nodded in understanding. "Thank you, Hokage-sama. We'll make the most of this experience."

Hiruzen smiled at their willingness to adapt. "Good. This will be a valuable time for your growth. Learn well and represent Konoha with pride."

Naruto slurped his ramen with enthusiasm, savoring the celebratory atmosphere at Ichiraku Ramen. Steam wafted from the bowls as he and Mai discussed the day's events—the graduation, the unexpected mission, and their new teacher.

Between bites, Naruto shared his thoughts, "I can't believe Jiraiya-sensei won't be back for four months. And this new teacher from the Hokage's guard... wonder what they're like."

Mai, using her chopsticks skillfully, responded, "It's an opportunity to broaden our skills. We should make the most of it."

Unbeknownst to them, a pair of sharp eyes observed from the shadows. Sasuke, hidden within the foliage, couldn't help but wonder why Naruto and Mai were always together. His thoughts swirled as he mulled over their camaraderie. "What's the big deal with these two? Why are they always hanging out?"

As Naruto continued to enjoy his ramen, he caught a glimpse of Sasuke, barely concealed among the leaves. He leaned toward Mai, whispering, "Check it out, Sasuke's playing ninja again. Should we mess with him a bit?"

Mai chuckled softly, "Let him watch. Maybe he'll learn something about teamwork."

Naruto, grinning mischievously, lifted his bowl in a mock toast toward Sasuke. Who slipped after being caught and fell face first to the ground.

Yo, I am back earlier than usual

Heh, guess you guys didn't expect such a quick update, Well I got some motivation and had the outline of this chapter finished last week and chapter was almost finished when I dropped the last one. Which is why I asked If you guys wanted to see another bonding chapter before the gennin arc. I saw a review of someone wanting to see a pre-academy chapter, well here you go. I didn't put much about their training, but I have dropped a Major hint towards one of Naruto's ability, If you can catch that let me and the others know in the review section. I didn't see the need to drag out the Mizuki situation cuz Naruto already has people looking after him and much more power, plus he knows about kyubi so their was no need for it.

Now speaking about the gennin arc, change of plans people, it's chunnin arc now, I am planning to put it after chunnin exams now, I want to show Naruto and Mai's abilities that they have developed over the years, chunnin exams prove to be the perfect spot for it. We can do Kiri and Iwa adventures after that, and ofcourse I will reveal some of the history related to the Rikugan in those arc too, so stay tuned to learn how Naruto has 'that man's' abilities.

Thank you to everyone who followed and reviewed the story. Your feedback is much appreciated.

That's it for this time, next chapter won't be this short I can promise that but It won't be this early too. See Ya next time.

UV Out.