The next day, Naruto sat at his desk and listened to Iruka-sensei distribute the genins by team. Waiting for the distribution of teams has always been an exciting moment for every graduate of the Shinobi Academy.
- Naruto Mitarashi... Iruka said, causing muffled whispers in the classroom.
Naruto straightened up, keeping an impenetrable expression on his face and trying to ignore the muffled whispers of his classmates. Being the adopted son of one of the most eccentric kunoichi Konoha has always attracted excessive attention.
"You will be assigned to Team 8 under the leadership of Kurenai Juhi," Iruka announced. - Your partners will be Kiba Inuzuka and Hinata Hyuga.
"Kiba? Okay, he's cool in his style," Naruto thought, nodding to his friend, who grinned back. Then he glanced at Hinata. The girl stared shyly at her desk, her cheeks flushed.
"Hinata... I hope I won't distract her on missions. But she did well, she worked hard at the Academy."
Kiba loudly attracted attention by stroking Akamaru.
- Hey, Naruto! Together we will become an invincible Shinobi team, the best Konoha has ever seen! He exclaimed enthusiastically.
- Take it easy, take it easy, Naruto told him, grinning. Kiba has always been able to charge with fighting spirit.
When he finished announcing the compositions, Iruka looked around the class with a stern look:
-Remember, teamwork is the basis for Shinobi. Earning the trust of your teammates and sensei is just as important as improving your own skills. This afternoon you will meet with your mentors, the Jonins. Good luck to you all!
A couple of hours later, an excited Naruto was sitting in an almost empty classroom, swinging his leg in impatience and looking back at the door every now and then. "Well, where is this Kurenai Juhi? It's about time she showed up!" he grumbled to himself. Finally, the door opened and a young woman in Jonin's uniform vest entered the classroom. She looked around the hushed classroom and smiled at the tense genins:
- Team 8? Good afternoon, I am Kurenai Yuhi and I will be your sensei from this day on. Please follow me.
Naruto hurriedly picked up his bag and joined Kiba and Hinata, who were already lined up in front of Kurenai. Kurenai led her new charges to a vast open clearing outside Konoha. Stopping, she turned to the Genins, and her face took on a serious expression:
- Before we start training together, I have to make sure that you deserve to be a real Shinobi team. To do this, you have to pass a test.
Naruto exchanged puzzled glances with Kiba and Hinata.
"But haven't we already passed the final exam at the Academy?" Kiba asked reasonably, putting his arm around Akamaru.
Kurenai nodded,
"That's right, but that was just the first step. Now you need to demonstrate the ability to work together under my command as a full-fledged squad.
She squared her shoulders.:
- Your task is to take possession of two special scrolls that I have hidden in this forest area before sunset. Scrolls cannot be found alone, they are guarded by special traps and barriers. You will have to use all the skills and abilities available to the team.
- And if we fail? Hinata asked timidly.
"Then I will declare you unfit for service as a combat unit, and the team will be disbanded," Kurenai replied ruthlessly.
Naruto clenched his fists, feeling his resolve boil up. After glancing at the tense Kiba and Hinata, he got into a fighting stance:
- No question, Kurenai-sensei! We will definitely get these scrolls! Look at what kind of team we will make!
Kurenai narrowed her eyes slyly:
- We'll see about that, Naruto. Please start. And remember - work together or fail.
With that, she made a gesture with her hand, and flashes of smoke erupted around them from all sides. When the smoke cleared, Kurenai had already disappeared.
Kiba clapped his hands vigorously:
- Well, guys, are you ready for the first serious test? Let's show this Kurenai that she got the right Team 8!
Naruto grinned at his friend, and then winked encouragingly at the shy Hinata. The smoke screen was the signal for the start of their test to find the hidden scrolls. Team 8 went deep into the forest, trying to find the hidden scrolls. Thanks to Kiba and Akamaru's nose, they were able to partially unravel Kurenai's camouflage tracks. However, they soon came across the first traps and obstacles set by their mentor. The abilities of each genin were used. Naruto used shadow clones to distract traps. Hinata and Kiba used their special Byakugan looks and the charm of the Beast to discover hidden dangers and the way forward. And when they were attacked by a group of Kurenai clones, the young Shinobi demonstrated teamwork in battle for the first time. A couple of hours later, after overcoming a number of obstacles and encounters with traps, Kiba finally tracked down the location of one of the scrolls. However, it turned out that he was in the center of a vast field of illusion traps.
Using the instructions of Naruto, who additionally studied genjutsu with Kurenai, the team was able to partially neutralize the zone of visual deceptions. Then Kiba and Akamaru paved a safe path, and Hinata used Byakugan to help Naruto overcome the remaining obstacles and get the first hidden scroll. Elated by the first success, Team 8 took a short break, but then Naruto jumped to his feet, clenching his fist in the air:
- Hey, don't relax! Where are we going without the second scroll? Come on, guys, we need to hurry up before the sun goes down!
Inspired by his energy, Kiba and Hinata followed Naruto, and they continued their search for the second scroll with renewed vigor. The sun was already sinking towards the horizon, reminding of the approach of sunset and the need to hurry. This time they had to face much more insidious and dangerous traps set by Kurenai. Hinata almost had a hard time because of the pit with deadly stakes, if Naruto hadn't saved her in time, using a clone. The team went deeper into a more remote part of the forest, where the trees grew thicker. And the further they went, the stronger the fog became, making it difficult to see and move.
"This is clearly not an easy fog trap," Kiba said, squinting, looking around. - It looks like a pretty high-level genjutsu.
"You're right, I also feel clumps of a special chakra," Hinata nodded, activating Byakugan.
Naruto clenched his fists resolutely:
- In that case, I know what we should do! Kurenai-sensei taught me some techniques against genjutsu herself.
Naruto concentrated and began to form hand seals. Suddenly, the fog around them trembled and began to change. Kiba and Hinata froze warily, watching as the clouds of fog gradually thickened and took bizarre, frightening forms.
- Beware, this is an illusion! Naruto warned, hurrying to complete the seals. - She puts the opponent into a deep nightmare trance!
Before he could finish his sentence, creepy images suddenly emerged from the fog - ferocious fire monsters, evil dead, gigantic snakes and other creatures of nightmares. Hinata screamed in horror and pressed her palms to her face. Kiba also froze in place, stunned, his pupils dilated. Naruto let out a stream of air from his lips, breaking through the genjutsu deception with his mind.
- So, friends, get together! It's all fake, just an illusion!
He wove the hand seals again and sent a wave of scattering chakra to his companions, freeing their minds from the obsession. Hinata and Kiba gasped when they woke up. The fog around them was gradually dissipating.
"Great job, Naruto," Kurenai's smooth voice came from behind.
Turning around, the Genins saw their mentor coming out from behind a tree, nodding respectfully.
- You have demonstrated impressive chakra control and genjutsu unraveling abilities. He did a great job with my illusion.
on the rest:
- Hinata, Kiba, you still have something to work on to resist the powerful genjutsu. But in general, you were able to gather your strength as a team and dispel the deception. Well done!
She took a rolled-up scroll out of her pocket and handed it to Naruto:
- You have passed the test, proving that you are able to work in a single bundle of Konoha's genes. Congratulations, from now on you are Team 8 under my leadership!
Naruto beamed as he accepted the scroll. Kiba slapped him on the back, and Hinata smiled gratefully, still a little embarrassed.
"Don't relax," Kurenai warned, but her eyes radiated pride. - Ahead of us lies a long and thorny path to the mastery of Shinobi. But I'm glad that I got such a promising team. You are all great fellows!
The Genins broke into happy smiles, feeling an incredible surge of strength and inspiration. After successfully passing the entrance test, Kurenai announced to her wards that now it was time to download them in full. Daily training has become mandatory for Naruto, Hinata and Kiba. Kurenai started by strengthening their basic skills - practicing taijutsu, throwing weapons, stealthy movement and chakra control. She also paid great attention to developing the strengths of each genin.
For Naruto, it was the improvement of the chakra reserve and cloning techniques, as well as the study of more complex techniques for creating and dispelling illusions. Kurenai methodically trained him to control the internal flows of the chakra and increase the stability of the mind.
Hinata, on the other hand, was directed by her mentor to hone the skills of a Soft Fist and Byakugan, the ability to strategize and lead. The timid girl worked hard, striving to match her clan.
And the militant Kibu Kurenai taught the techniques of animal transformations and synchronization with Akamaru, as well as developed his stealth and intelligence skills with the help of a sensitive nose and hearing.
In addition to individual training, important attention was paid to team interaction. Kurenai set tasks for the Genins that required coordinated actions. They learned to cover each other in battle, make a common plan and react to changes in the situation. After several months of training with Kurenai, Team 8 began performing routine D-rank missions within Konohagakure and its surroundings.
At first, these were simple tasks like weeding beds, helping elderly villagers with household chores, repairing fences and cleaning the territory. Naruto was often outraged, considering such assignments "unbearably boring." But Kurenai was adamant, explaining that discipline and responsibility are the most important qualities for Shinobi. Over time, Team 8 began to receive more complex tasks such as escorting trade caravans, hunting small thieves, searching for missing pets and reconnaissance trips to the nearest forests. During these missions, Genins honed their tracking, camouflage, and command coordination skills in real field conditions. Inevitably, minor excesses and misunderstandings occurred, but the team quickly learned from their mistakes.
Kurenai was quite pleased with their progress. Kiba and Akamaru worked excellently in the vanguard, using flair and stealth. Hinata improved her Byakugan and became more and more confident in herself. And Naruto proved to be a reliable partner, covering them from the rear. After a series of successfully completed D-rank missions, Kurenai Yuhi decided that her genin wards were strong enough for a real field mission. She called them to the headquarters for a briefing.
- Guys, your first serious test as a Konoha Shinobi is coming, - Kurenai began in a serious tone. - We have been assigned to escort an important client to the borders between the Land of Fire and the Land of Rivers.
Naruto, Kiba and Hinata started up, feeling both excitement and excitement of the upcoming mission.
"You've been through an intensive training course in recent months and are now ready to put your skills into practice," Kurenai continued, her gaze stern. - However, do not forget that a real operation can present unexpected surprises and threats. You have to be extremely focused and rely on each other as a team.
- We can handle it, Kurenai-sensei! Naruto exclaimed, clenching his fist vigorously. - This mission will be a simple warm-up for us after all your bullying in training!
Kiba burst out laughing, and Hinata smiled furtively, agreeing with Naruto.
"Don't swear, Naruto," Kurenai squinted, but her tone softened. - Just focus on the task at hand. We're moving out tomorrow at 6 a.m., so get your strength up. Go get ready.
In the evening, Naruto sat at the table, checking his equipment and remembering Anko's instructions on preparing for missions. The foster mother meticulously studied his ammunition.
- Are you ready for your first outing, tomboy? Anko asked slyly, giving him an approving look.
- Of course, Mom! Naruto grinned, deftly folding his weapon into his satchel. - I'm a little worried, of course, but I'm no less excited! This operation will be the first step towards my cherished goal of becoming a jonin like you!
Anko snorted and ruffled his hair:
- Yeah, modesty is not your thing. Just don't forget about the team, I won't forgive you for being reckless.
She suddenly pulled Naruto into a tight hug:
"But I'm proud of you, honey. I'm sure you can overcome any obstacles. You're my son!
Naruto hugged her back tightly, soaking up the warmth and support:
- Thanks, Mom. I'll do my best for you!
At dawn, after taking one last look at the Konoha Gate, Team 8 set off to meet their first real mission. After a half-hour brisk march towards the River Country, the detachment moved along a barely noticeable forest path. Kurenai gave the signal, and the Genins deployed a security perimeter around their client, an elderly wealthy silk merchant named Rasetsu. Kiba and Akamaru scouted ahead, sniffing and listening for every sound. Hinata was backing them up with Byakugan, looking for any signs of ambushes. And Naruto insured from the rear, every now and then releasing clones for false trails. Suddenly, Akamaru growled and cowered, warning of danger.
"Something's wrong, Akamaru senses something is wrong," Kiba warned.
Hinata with the activated Byakugan and sharply rounded her eyes:
- There's an ambush ahead! Hitherto unnoticed chakra signatures, at least four masked Shinobi!
Kurenai narrowed her eyes in alarm:
"The mercenaries must have sent the attack because of the client. Get ready to fight!
As soon as she finished speaking, a barrage of shurikens and kunai descended on them from all sides. The client screamed in horror. Instantly, the team dispersed, taking defensive positions. Naruto fired a clone forward, scattering some of the projectiles.
- Hinata, hold the position and cover the client! Kurenai commanded. - Kiba, Naruto - attack with me! Let's destroy the detractors!
The trio rushed through the whirlwind of flying weapons, boldly rushing at the opponents who had ambushed them. The skills of stealthy movement and deception allowed the mercenaries to reach the nearby positions without hindrance. A massacre broke out. Kurenai hurled a pair of deadly shurikens at two mercenaries in the blink of an eye, and then unleashed a powerful genjutsu on them, forcing them into a creepy psychedelic trance. At this time, Kiba and Akamaru launched a powerful combo attack with a Rotating Storm, scattering the ranks of mercenaries and knocking down several more.
And the non-stop hail of kunai, which released shadow clones of Naruto, hit the retreating enemies from the flanks. The battle did not last long. Very soon, the last mercenaries fled in terror, leaving several comrades immobilized on the ground. Fanning herself with tension, Kurenai proudly looked at her gennins.
- Great job neutralizing the threat! You have shown yourself to be a worthy Konoha combat team.
After successfully repelling the mercenary attack, Team 8 continued their journey through the dangerous expanses of the forest. This time they moved with redoubled vigilance, waiting for possible new ambushes and traps. Kiba and Akamaru were scouting ahead again, closely sniffing the smells and leaving special marks on the trees. Hinata covered their rear, continuously monitoring all potential threats with the help of Byakugan. And Kurenai and Naruto focused on protecting Rasetsu's trembling client. After about half a day of wandering through the thickets of the forest, the party reached the banks of a stormy river. However, the only bridge over it was dilapidated, presenting a serious obstacle.
"Damn, it looks like a trap," Kurenai frowned, examining the remains of the bridge. - The old boards could not withstand and collapsed under our weight.
- What are we going to do, Kurenai-sensei? Hinata asked. - We can't stay here for long.
"I agree," Kurenai nodded. - Naruto, give me a couple of your clones. I think I can weave a strong enough genjutsu ferry for them so that we can all cross to the other side.
Naruto immediately created several shadow clones. Kurenai joined her hands in a series of seals and released a stream of special chakra into the clones. They immediately turned into a realistic likeness of an improvised bridge over the river.
- Quickly, before my strength runs out! Kurenai commanded, being the first to enter the genjutsu crossing.
The client and the Genins hurried after him. Although the illusory bridge seemed completely real, I had to literally cling to it in order not to stumble. Kiba and Akamaru were the first to move, then Hinata helped translate the Rasetsu using her flexibility and balance. And Naruto supported the divergent Kurenai until the very end. As soon as the team passed the dangerous obstacle, there was a loud bang behind them - the illusory bridge finally dissipated.
- Phew, we missed it on time! Naruto breathed out in relief. - Great resourcefulness, Kurenai-sensei!
Kurenai smirked, accepting the praise. Kiba grinned and playfully patted Naruto on the back. Even Hinata allowed herself to smile approvingly.
"You all did a wonderful job," Kurenai confirmed. "But don't let your guard down. We still have a long way to go to the border of the Land of Fire through these inhospitable lands.
After the tense incident with the bridge, the squad had to speed up their movement in order to leave the dangerous territories as soon as possible. Whenever possible, they tried to stay away from the main roads, fearing new attacks by robbers. They decided to spend the night in a remote forest area, putting up careful perimeter security. Naruto volunteered to carry the first guard along with Kiba and Akamaru, who could smell any danger long before visual contact. After making sure that Hinata and Rasetsu were resting peacefully, and Kurenai was taking over the next shift, Naruto settled down at his post. Kiba, leaning against the trunk of an ancient tree, exchanged news with Akamaru in a low voice, while Naruto himself absently studied the foliage on the trees. Suddenly, he was distracted by a strange sound, like a soft hissing, coming from the thicket nearby. Kiba immediately fell silent and pricked up his ears, sniffing the air. Akamaru growled a warning of danger. Naruto quickly created a pair of shadow clones and silently directed them to the source of the sound. Soon one of the clones returned and said in surprise in his voice:
- Guys, there seems to be a lost child, a boy of 5-6 years old. He's injured and unconscious.
Kiba and Naruto exchanged glances, realizing the sensitivity of the situation. On the one hand, the kid clearly needed help, on the other - in these wild lands he could be the bait for another trap. Deciding not to take any chances, Kiba cautiously approached the place indicated by the clone, sniffing carefully. Akamaru nodded confidently, making it clear that he did not feel any obvious danger. A couple of minutes later, Kiba returned, carefully carrying in his arms a thin blond boy with abrasions and scratches all over his body. His eyes were closed, and his breathing was heavy.
"No sign of enemies," Kiba reported in a whisper. "It looks like he's really alone, lost in this wilderness.
Naruto frowned at the unconscious child. His condition was deplorable, he definitely needed urgent help.
- We need to show it to Kurenai-sensei, - Naruto decided. - She will be able to assess the situation and provide first aid. And then we'll decide what to do next.
With these words, he headed towards their camp, Kiba followed him with the boy in his arms. Akamaru and the Naruto clone stayed with them to cover their rear. The awakened Kurenai, having deftly examined the child, drew conclusions:
- He has obviously been through something difficult, but his life is not in danger yet. I will give him first aid to stabilize his condition. And at dawn we will decide what further actions to take.
At dawn, after a short but necessary rest, Team 8 gathered to discuss the next course of action. The boy found at night was still unconscious after first aid to Kurenai.
- What are we going to do with the baby? Naruto voiced the main question, carefully examining the boy's serene face. "We can't leave him alone in this wilderness.
"Of course not," Kurenai replied decisively. - He's injured and lost. To leave him is to condemn him to certain death.
"But dragging him with you is a big risk to our mission," Kiba chimed in. He can slow us down or even give us away to the enemies.
Hinata timidly remarked:
"But he's just a kid... We can't just leave him.
"Definitely not," Kurenai nodded. - Kiba is right, this may interfere with the task. But I still suggest we take him with us and take him to the nearest village for transfer to the local authorities.
She looked sternly at her charges:
- We are Konoha Shinobi, indifference and cruelty are alien to us. Saving lives is our main mission. If you have to choose between the easy and the right path, then duty dictates that you choose the right one.
The team bowed their heads respectfully, agreeing with the wise words of the mentor. Kurenai nodded in satisfaction and continued:
- Okay, here's what we'll do. Naruto, create a pair of clones and use them to carry the boy in turn with Kiba. This way the load will be distributed evenly. And you, Hinata, will constantly monitor his vital signs with a Byakugan in case his condition worsens. I'm going to focus on protecting our client. Any questions?
The Genins shook their heads vigorously. The elderly Rasetsu merchant, still stunned by all the adventures, looked at the team of young heroes with awe.
Soon the detachment made a new difficult march through the thickets of the forest, trying to accelerate as much as possible. Naruto's clones took turns carrying the unconscious boy, Kiba and Akamaru walked ahead, sniffing out any signs of ambushes. And Hinata continuously used Byakugan, controlling the child's condition and guarding the rear. They walked like that without stopping, only making short rest stops. Rasetsu kept squinting in amazement at the imperturbable Gennins, who carried heavy loads without complaints or questions. Leaving the thickets of the forest behind, the team finally reached the borders of the Land of Fire. The fishing village of Iwagakure was already visible ahead, peacefully located on the shore of a large lake. On the approach to the village, Kurenai signaled the team to stop and gather for the last instructions:
- Great, guys, we're almost there. Now the main thing is to remain vigilant until the very end of the route. The Land of Fire is considered a safe territory, but many gangster groups prefer to trade in the border areas.
She looked around at her charges, proudly noting their steadfastness and determination even after many days of grueling transition. Kurenai's special gaze rested on the unconscious boy, who had been carefully carried by Naruto's clones in turn with Kiba all this time.
- Hinata, how is the child's condition? Jonin asked worriedly.
"He's still unconscious, but his vital signs are stable," Hyuga replied, deactivating the Byakugan. - Your help has clearly helped him.
Kurenai nodded in relief:
- Well, then, as soon as we enter the village, we will immediately transfer him to the custody of the local authorities. Now go ahead, we're almost there!
The team resumed moving, carefully looking around in case of any danger. Soon they reached the settlement itself and passed through the village gate without incident.
In the center of Iwagakure, representatives of the local administration were already waiting for them, along with several guards. Apparently, their arrival was expected. Kurenai shook hands with the head of the village, a long-time ally of Konoha. Then she described in detail the situation with the found child and asked to provide him with proper medical care and transfer to his family, if any. The head of Iwagakure assured that the boy would be temporarily placed under supervision in one of the shelters, and only then they would try to restore his identity and family. After a short period of formalities, the team was finally able to breathe a sigh of relief. Their first serious mission outside Konoha has come to an end! Despite all the obstacles, they fulfilled their assigned task with honor. Kurenai looked at her students with a proud smile. A feeling of deep respect for these young Shinobi, who showed remarkable fortitude, courage and loyalty to their duty, flared up in her heart. After a couple of days of rest, the team returned safely to their native Konoha, completing their first real test as a Shinobi. Upon arrival in Konoha, the squad proceeded straight to the Hokage residence for a standard report on the results of the task. Hiruzen Sarutobi greeted them with his characteristic wise smile, carefully listening to Kurenai's detailed story.
"Good job, I'm glad everything went relatively smoothly for your first field trip," Hokage nodded approvingly. - Despite the complications with the robber attacks and the boy found, you have demonstrated composure, solidarity and dedication to duty. This is worthy of real Konoha Shinobi.
The Genins involuntarily straightened up from such praise, filled with pride. Naruto shot a quick glance at Anko, who was standing a little further away. His foster mother winked back at him affectionately.
"However," Hiruzen continued, puffing on his pipe, "it seems that the boy's secret has remained unsolved?" Are there any clues as to his identity?
Kurenai shook her head,
"Alas, Hokage-sama. In Iwagakura, we asked the locals, but no one knew the child or what village he was from. There were no identification marks on it. The head of the settlement promised to place him in a shelter and try to find out something.
"It's a pity," Hiruzen sighed. - I would not like such a young man to be left an orphan... Well, let's hope he finds his home. And you can go to rest with a well-deserved sense of accomplishment.
The Genins bowed ceremoniously and had already turned to leave when Hokage added:
"Just a minute." Before you leave, I would like to ask one more question to Naruto.
Naruto turned to Hiruzen in surprise. The man was looking at him with an attentive, studying gaze.
- Naruto, how did you like your first serious mission outside Konoha? Did it help you better understand your Shinobi path?
Naruto thought for a moment, choosing his words.
"It was a difficult test, Hokage-sama. But I've learned a lot-the value of teamwork, the importance of foresight and endurance. I realized that being a Shinobi is not only about fighting, but also protecting, helping those in need, and making difficult decisions. This strengthened my determination to become the great Shinobi of Konoha, who will protect my native village and its inhabitants.
Hiruzen nodded approvingly and smiled affectionately:
- Great answer, Naruto. I see you've learned the right lessons from your first field experience. Keep up the good work, and I'm sure you'll reach great heights.
After these words, the Hokage finally released them. Team 8 came out of the residence overflowing with pride and enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, everyone went home. Naruto went to his room with Anko. On the way, they discussed the details of the mission animatedly.
- You were just great, son! Anko said proudly, slapping Naruto on the shoulder. - Especially when I was fighting off that ambush from the mercenaries. Do you remember how cleverly you dispersed them with your clones?
Naruto broke into a wide smile:
- Yeah, it was a great moment! Kurenai-sensei has trained us well over these months. But the most difficult thing was to get that boy to the border with the River Country.
Anko nodded:
- Yeah, it's lucky you picked him up. They did the right thing, worthy of the Konoha Shinobi. Although they could not complicate the task for themselves.
"But he was just a kid!" Naruto exclaimed. - We couldn't leave him! As Kurenai-sensei said, Shinobi's duty is to protect lives.
Anko grinned and ruffled his hair.:
- That's right, that's how I raised you. You are a real hero, Naruto!
Upon reaching their apartment, Anko bumped into Naruto's shoulders:
- Okay, enough memories. Now get a good rest. But not for long - I'm waiting for you in a couple of days for advanced ninjutsu training. It won't be easy!
Naruto rolled his eyes happily:
- Oh, Mom, whatever you do, it's bullying!
They burst out laughing loudly and entered the apartment, happy and overflowing with energy after a successful mission.