New Era

by nana p30

In a world where only people with abilities can fight demons, we follow Sakura Haruno, recently accepted to the prestigious Senju Gakuen, trying to find her place between social ascent, political games and raising love.

2. Welcome to Senju Gakuen

Somewhere in a residential district of Neo-Tokyo

"Good morning, Neo-Tokyo! It's 7:30 AM, and we're joining Naka-san for our morning news flash!"

"Thank you, Haruka-san…"

-Wait… 7:30?! Rin, why didn't you wake me up?!screamed a young girl, her voice cutting through the air like a gust of classes start at 8—I can't afford to be late on my very first day!

These words burst from the lips of Sakura Haruno, a seventeen-year-old girl with a slender frame, barely 1.6 meters tall. With a swift motion, she stepped over the pile of dirty clothes that had been lying there since the previous evening, the result of accumulated exhaustion. She rushed into the bathroom. The dark circles under her eyes betrayed restless nights, too little sleep, and too much stress over the new school year, most likely. Yet, they did nothing to dim the piercing brilliance of her deep emerald-green eyes, sparkling with mischief and an ever-present energy.
She turned on the cold water tap and bent over to run her wet hands through her hair in a clumsy, hurried attempt to tame it. The vibrant pink hue of her locks, striking and unusual, perfectly complemented the intensity of her gaze. Six months ago, she had decided to change her style, abandoning her tomboyish look to let her hair grow out. Once neglected, her hair had become a daily challenge. But time, as always, was scarce, and her hair remained untamable.
Glancing at the clock, she realized she was too pressed for time to attempt any miracles. Instead, she opted for her fallback solution: a red ribbon, a gift from her older brother on her tenth birthday. With almost automatic ease, she tied it in place as a makeshift headband. Splashing her face one last time with cold water, the refreshing droplets chased away the lingering fog of sleep. She patted her cheeks lightly, a quick gesture to wake herself up, before hurrying back into her room.
There, she noticed her familiar hadn't budged an inch, as usual, curled up in a ball at the foot of her bed. Its snout rested tenderly against its fluffy tail, an image of calm and comfort. The timid morning sun began to pierce through the windows, its warm rays caressing Rin's long ears, highlighting their bright white fur. Sakura paused for a moment, a soft smile gracing her lips, and gazed affectionately at her companion.
Then, quietly, she turned to her uniform, carefully laid out the night before. In one fluid motion, she slipped into the pleated black skirt that reached just above her knees and closed her eyes for a brief moment, taking a deep breath. She began the ritual of putting on her uniform, fastening each button of her crisp white shirt with deliberate precision. She tied the black tie adorned with fine silver stripes and donned the matching blazer.
One detail stood out on the blazer's shoulder—a silver, stylized "S," meticulously embroidered, glinting subtly in the morning light. She cast one last glance in the mirror, smoothing down a rebellious strand of hair that refused to stay in place. Satisfied, she grabbed a bun on her way out and headed for the door.
Her black shoes, perfectly matched to the uniform, clattered softly against the floor as she hastily slipped them on. The door shut behind her with a muted thud, and without wasting another second, she bounded down the stairs two at a time, her heart racing at the thought of missing the Aerotram.

Once outside, she rushed into the street, the cool morning breeze whipping against her face, her heart hoping fervently that she hadn't missed the last departure. She finally reached the station at 7:50, breathless. She hadn't run that fast in a long time. As always, the tram was packed, and she found herself pressed against the window, unable to move an inch. Though the discomfort was palpable, she contented herself with enjoying the view. From here, the city seemed endless. Neo-Tokyo, the largest metropolis in the world, stretched as far as the eye could see. The city's boundaries were invisible, swallowed by the horizon. Yet, each district had its own identity, and Sakura knew how to recognize them. Her own neighborhood, residential and tranquil, with no pretensions in its architecture but a certain soft charm, was a haven of peace, especially in the morning. She spotted the grocer from the store where she did her shopping, deep in conversation with the elderly woman she often saw at the bottom of her building, who never failed to remind her to slow down on the stairs. She had only lived there for six months, in a small 20-square-meter apartment, but despite the limited space, it had become her home, and she felt comfortable there.
Her gaze drifted for a moment, scanning further ahead, where the home she had grown up in took shape in her mind. She noticed the pine tree still standing proudly in the center of the yard. She promised herself she would get around to trimming it one of these days. The tram then entered a tunnel, one of the many underground passages that connected the city through the hills. As it emerged, Sakura found herself immersed in the business district, an ocean of gleaming skyscrapers, each more extravagant than the last, in a silent competition to touch the sky. She imagined, for a brief moment, working in one of these towers, and was surprised to find herself dreaming of the view from the top floor of the Hyuuga Tower, the immense structure that had dominated the city for thirty years. Passing by a sleek, oval-shaped building with minimalist design, Sakura recognized the Yamanaka Center, a high-tech complex where the latest innovations from the group were revealed. It was recently said that they had developed a device capable of transcribing dreams into reality. The idea intrigued her, and she wondered what it might actually be like.

After thirty minutes of travel, the tram's robotic voice finally announced: "Senju Gakuen Stop." At the sound of the name, Sakura weaved her way through the passengers, apologizing in a hurried voice every time she bumped into someone. As soon as the doors opened, she sprang out of the carriage and rushed toward the exit, her only desire being to avoid finding the school gates already closed. To her great surprise and relief, they were still open. She even spotted a few students in uniform entering the school grounds, their relaxed steps contrasting with the urgency pounding in her chest. Intrigued by their calm, Sakura took out the official letter that Senju Gakuen had sent her regarding her admission:

"Miss Haruno,

We are pleased to inform you that you have secured first place in the entrance examination for Senju Gakuen. You are therefore invited to join the Civil Section as a second-year student in the upcoming school year: September 2nd of the year 111.

Your first-place ranking also grants you access to the Senju Scholarship, which covers all fees related to your admission to our institution. Enclosed, you will find a voucher to collect your uniform at the store, as well as a list of textbooks required for your courses.

We look forward to welcoming you on September 2nd at 9:00 AM in the Tobirama Hall of our school.

Welcome to Senju Gakuen,

Your Principal, Tsunade Senju"

"So, I'm expected on September 2nd at 9:00 AM…" Sakura repeated softly. She looked up and noticed the time on the administrative building's clock: 8:30. "I'm early." She burst out laughing, a little nervous, astonished by her own haste. She had perfectly kept track of time this morning, but with the past few weeks of working at the café, volunteering at the shelter, and the mountain of paperwork for her school transfer, she had remained stuck in her old routine. Her gaze shifted back to the letter, then to the clock, and a sigh escaped her lips. "Well, I guess I have some time to explore the campus before the ceremony starts…" she murmured, a faint smile on her lips, deciding to make the most of this unexpected head start. She carefully slipped the letter into her shoulder bag before walking through the gate, as relaxed as the students around her. This was only the second time she had crossed this threshold, the first being the day of the entrance exam, two months ago. She wondered if, by the end of her studies here, she would still be as awestruck by the grandeur of the place. The gate, a monumental work of art, was covered in silver and golden leaves, intertwined in delicate engravings depicting various species of trees and plants. All these engravings converged toward the central crest, an imposing "S," the same as the one embroidered on the students' jackets. The crest alone was about the size of Sakura, yet it represented only a quarter of the size of the gate, impressive in its refinement.

Sakura tried to recall the path leading to the ceremony hall. She recognized the central statue, erected just behind the gate, visible to all. It depicted the founders of the Guard, Hashirama Senju, and the school, Tobirama Senju. The statue, as impressive as the gate itself—if not more so—showed them in armor, each wielding their iconic weapon: swords for one, a two-meter-long spear for the other. As with the gate, the weapons were finely adorned with engravings evoking the majestic trees of the forest, a subtle tribute to the Senju clan's unique mastery of wood manipulation. Behind the two warriors stood proudly two imposing creatures: a saber-toothed tiger, Sari, and a piercing-eyed phoenix, Suzaku, the two founding "Childs." The four figures stood upon a base composed of what appeared to be remnants of demons. Although she had only encountered them through books, Sakura easily recognized the various types of demons sculpted on the base: level 1 creatures, the weakest yet most common, all the way to level 4 demons, rarer but responsible for the most devastating damage, such as during the invasion 13 years ago. The newcomer circled the statue and made her way toward the administrative building, just as imposing as it was majestic. The statues of the headmasters who had succeeded each other since the school's founding were installed directly on the façade, a silent reminder that, even in death, the elders continued to watch over those who followed in their footsteps. Sakura passed through the grand doors and entered a vast entrance hall. Far more understated than anything she had seen so far, the place was no less impressive. Natural light gently filtered through a skylight, brought in by the glass dome that crowned the building. The central staircase, made of white marble, rose at the back of the hall, its handrails crafted from noble wood, carefully carved and adorned with the same motifs of branches and foliage found throughout the school. The floor, also made of marble, was decorated in its center with the school crest, accompanied by its motto:Together, we shall rise.

The young girl made her way toward the staircase, and after a brief moment of hesitation, chose to turn left. In her memory, the hall was located on this side of the building, and she wanted to be certain before the ceremony began. She walked down the corridor, her steps echoing softly on the marble floor. As she progressed, she passed numerous paintings, each telling a piece of the school's history: significant battles, the founding of the school, its opening to civilians, not to mention portraits of the Childs and renowned masters who had contributed to the school's fame across the world. There were also portraits of civilians—those who, although unable to manipulate abilities, had played a crucial role in the country's reconstruction and development.
Sakura continued on, but the further she went, the more she began to doubt the direction she had taken. Just as she was questioning herself, voices reached her ears from further ahead. She instinctively moved toward the source of the conversation. After a few steps, she located the office from which the voices were coming. On the door, she read: "Student Council / Apprentices' Representatives." The door was slightly ajar, and curious, she peered inside. She saw two students, dressed in all-white uniforms, with a golden "S" crest embroidered on their shoulders. Apprentices, she thought. One of them, tall and dark-haired, absorbed in thought, was reading aloud what seemed to be a speech, while the other, blonde with blue eyes, was yawning loudly on the couch.
-Is it really that boring?the dark-haired one asked, a weary frown on his face.
No, no, it's just really early...the blonde replied, sitting speech is fine,he reassured him.
It was at that moment that Sakura took a deep breath and, gathering her courage, timidly knocked on the door. She gently pushed it open and poked her head inside, a shy smile on her face.
-Hello, I'm sorry to interrupt, but I'm new, and I'm desperately looking for the Tobirama Hall, she asked, her voice betraying a slight hesitation.
The two young men, interrupted in their activities, looked at her with palpable surprise. The blonde stood up first, walking toward her with an unsettling casualness, hands in his pockets. He leaned slightly to study her more closely, observing her for what seemed an eternity to Sakura, her cheeks turning from pink to a deep red under his insistent gaze. Finally, he flashed a broad smile and, cheerfully, replied:
- Nice to meet you! I'm Naruto Uzumaki! Pleasure to make your acquaintance!
Sakura, a little caught off guard by the young man's enthusiasm, extended her hand and returned his smile.
- Sakura Haruno, nice to meet you too,she replied, feeling a bit more at ease.
At that moment, the door opened fully, revealing the entirety of her uniform, which made the dark-haired one react. He observed her for a moment before speaking in a much colder tone.
-You're a civilian? Civilians don't have access to this wing of the building,he remarked with a hint of disdain.
Sakura, unsettled by the shift in tone between the two friends, momentarily lost her smile. She took a deep breath, straightened up to regain her composure, and flashed a more polite smile, though less sincere than the previous one.
-As I said, today is my first day, and I'm still unfamiliar with the school. I got a little lost looking for the hall,"she explained calmly. She slightly tilted her head, marking a silent respect."I apologize if I disturbed you in your lifted her head, locking eyes with her interlocutor.
The dark-haired one, suddenly taken aback by her demeanor, realized he had spoken without thinking. His cheeks turned a shade of pink, and, embarrassed, he looked away.
No need to apologize for something so trivial,he responded, softer Uchiha, nice to meet you. The hall is on the other side of the building. Just follow us.
- With pleasure,Sakura replied, all smiles. She stood in the doorway, her hands crossed behind her back, waiting for the boys to adjust their ties and jackets, taking the opportunity to observe them more closely.
Naruto Uzumaki, a tall blonde with unruly hair, seemed to struggle just as much as she did with taming his wild locks. His bright blue eyes reminded her of a cloudless sky, and there was a spark of pure joy in his gaze, an energy that seemed to fill the room with a pleasant warmth. He had that rare ability to radiate good cheer, as if his mere presence had the power to make the world a little brighter. As for his companion, there was no doubt: this man was an Uchiha. His ebony black hair and eyes immediately drew attention. His face, perfectly symmetrical, exuded a natural presence, almost regal. He didn't need to speak to command respect; his charisma was evident in every movement, every glance. Sakura, though she had only met a few members of the Uchiha clan at official ceremonies, could already sense that distinctive aura emanating from him, typical of his lineage.
She was interrupted in her observation by the two boys stepping toward her. She politely moved aside to let them pass and followed them down the corridor. Sasuke, still focused on his document, silently repeated his speech.
- He doesn't look like it, but he's a bit stressed about speaking in front of the whole assembly,Naruto whispered discreetly to Sakura. Not discreetly enough, apparently, for his comment earned him a murderous glare from Sasuke. The blonde, sensing the situation was becoming tense, decided to change the subject to divert the dark-haired one's , Sakura, what year are you in?
-I'm joining second year, the young girl replied proudly, raising her fingers in a victory sign.
-Oh, so we're in the same class then!Naruto exclaimed, turning to you hear that, Sas'ke?
-Same year, yes. Same class, no,Sasuke answered, without looking up from his speech.
- Ah, right, the civilian and apprentice classes are separate,Naruto muttered aloud, scratching his chin. Sakura picked up on the subject.
- But are there any shared classes between the two, or maybe activities? she asked.
- No,Sasuke replied simply, not even looking at her.
- What Sasuke means,Naruto interjected,is that even though we share some teachers, our schedules are totally different. They've tried organizing things between us in the past, but it never worked. You see, you have to study to become a doctor, teacher, firefighter, or something like that. But for us, a big part of our training is focused on demons and how to fight them.
-So, does that mean you don't really have any other choice but to join the Guard?Sakura asked, surprised.
- Oh, no, of course not,"Naruto replied, it's pretty limited. Even if we join the civilian side, we're still part of the reserve. And to be in the reserve, you need military training. See the problem? We're not forced to join the Guard, but anyone with an ability has to undergo military training. So, the options after school are pretty restricted. Unless you come from a family with a big company, then you've got more possibilities.
-I see…Sakura thought for a moment.t's a shame you don't have more choices. An ability isn't something you choose, you're born with it or without it. That means, from birth, they dictate whether you have to risk your life for others… In a way, they take away your free stared at her for a moment, then responded in a terse tone:
- In times of war, society has to do what it takes to survive. That's just how it is.
He stopped abruptly, signaling the end of the conversation.
- We've arrived at the hall,he announced, pointing to a door at the end of the Naruto said, civilians and apprentices are separated, so you don't enter through the same entrance. Yours is on the other pointed to a large white wooden too hard to find, I think,he added with a sarcastic tone.
Sakura blushed slightly, irritated by the remark, but she composed herself and turned to the two boys.
Thank you for your help, I wouldn't have wanted to be late on my first day.
Naruto, a little embarrassed, scratched his head. He leaned toward her and, in a low voice, whispered:
It's nothing, honestly, it was more interesting talking to you than hearing his speech again.
Sakura burst out laughing. Then, turning to Sasuke, she winked mischievously and said:
Don't worry about your speech, no one listens to them suddenly felt satisfied with her little revenge and, before he could respond, quickly slipped away.
Sasuke, still absorbed in his speech, furrowed his brow, frustrated, and crumpled his paper in irritation. Naruto, on the other hand, stifled a laugh at the scene.

It was now 8:50, and the flow of students into the hall was increasing. Sakura had quickly spotted the section reserved for her class and took a seat near the central aisle. As she observed the assembly, she noticed that the civilian section seemed to be two or three times more numerous than the apprentice section. Her eyes scanned the crowd, looking for faces she might have seen on the news or in the papers. Two figures stood out: their black hair with purple highlights and pale pupils, characteristic of the Hyuuga clan, left no doubt about their origins. She also spotted the heir to the Yamanaka family, a young woman of legendary beauty, often showcased by her family to promote their products. She was interrupted in her thoughts by the arrival of several students who took seats beside her. She turned her head and smiled warmly at her neighbor.
- Hello, I'm Sakura Haruno. I've just joined the school in second year. Nice to meet you!
- Nice to meet you, Sakura. Yui Kazane, editor-in-chief of the school newspaper,replied her neighbor, extending her hand, which Sakura gladly shook.
- Do you know how the ceremony goes?"Sakura asked, curious about how long they would have to stay there.
- Oh, yes, of course. It's always the same every year. The principal comes to give her opening speech, where she reminds us that we are the future of the country, that our parents and society have placed all their hopes in us, and that we must study hard so as not to disappoint them... Blah blah blah,Yui said with an ironic smile and a bored , the valedictorians of each class come up to give a speech to congratulate their peers for still being here. After that, in a burst of pride and love, we sing the school anthem in unison before heading back to class. Basically, this whole charade lasts about half an hour,she concluded with a big smile. Sakura burst out laughing. She herself wasn't particularly fond of ceremonies and felt reassured to see that Yui seemed to share her perspective.
- I see that this kind of event isn't really your cup of tea,the young girl replied, amused.
- Oh, I love it!the young journalist the best part is that, as editor-in-chief, I'm in charge of writing the article about the ceremony. So, in addition to having to listen to all the speeches, I have to analyze them to make sure I don't miss anything. Luckily, this year, the valedictorian of the second years will be pleasant to look at,she added with a mischievous wink.
A bell rang through the school, signaling the start of the ceremony and imposing an immediate silence among the students. The principal made her entrance through the main door. The only sound disturbing the heavy silence was the clicking of her heels on the floor. She walked confidently across the hall, ascended the large stage, and positioned herself in front of the microphone.
Dear students, both civilians and apprentices, I welcome you to this new year at Senju Gakuen. I hope your summer was pleasant,she began in a calm yet firm voice.
Sakura, captivated, watched the principal. She was impressed by the presence of this woman, whose aura commanded respect and attention. She knew her story: a member of the legendary trio, she still held the record for the most successful level 4 missions. Her exceptional abilities in the medical field had led to the development of numerous remedies and techniques that drastically reduced human losses within the Guard. Highly respected in military circles, her opinion was always sought for the most delicate decisions. Physically, the principal was far from the stereotypes usually associated with women of her generation. Time seemed to have slipped past her. Her sculpted, energetic body would make any twenty-year-old girl envious, and Sakura herself could only admire her.
- Now, I will remind you of a few points from the school regulations,"the principal announced, taking on a more formal , access to the East Wing is strictly forbidden to all students. Second, civilian students are not allowed in the buildings dedicated to apprentices, unless accompanied by a teacher. Third…"She suddenly paused, casting a piercing look at a student seated in the second row, to the left of the hall. Sakura recognized strictly forbidden to ride a motorcycle into the gymnasium, under any circumstances. As well as anywhere else on the campus, of course.A laugh rippled through the audience, and Naruto, red with embarrassment, sank into his chair, trying to disappear into the floor. Sakura couldn't help but smile at the scene.
- What's that story?Sakura murmured to her neighbor.
- Apparently, he lost a bet to Kiba Inuzuka during a mission and had to obey all his requests for an entire week. One of those requests involved using the motorcycle in the gymnasium. The story spread around the campus last year. It amused everyone, except the principal, of course. But since Naruto is her godson, he didn't risk much, aside from this little public humiliation,the young journalist explained, a mischievous smile on her lips.
The principal concluded her speech with these words, clearly satisfied with the effect she had created, and handed over the podium to the valedictorian of the first years. A young girl from the civilian section, clearly impressed by the event, stepped up to the podium, her slight stutter betraying her nervousness. However, as her speech progressed, she relaxed and managed to continue until the end. The applause, initially timid, grew louder as she stepped away from the podium, and excitement was palpable when the next speaker was called. Sakura had no trouble recognizing Sasuke. His natural charm had an undeniable attraction on the female students. Applause rang out from all sides of the hall—civilians or apprentices, they all seemed to be at his feet. He walked up calmly, placed a crumpled sheet of paper on the podium, and tapped the microphone to request silence. It was immediate, every movement of Sasuke capturing attention. He loosened his tie before preparing to read his speech, the one he had rehearsed over and over.
- Dear second-year classmates...His voice, calm and composed, resonated through the hall. He lifted his eyes, searching for his audience. At that moment, his gaze briefly met two green eyes staring at him intently, not with admiration, but with a kind of calm, distant attention. That look, far from the unconscious adoration of the fan group that usually surrounded him, unsettled him. It lasted only a fraction of a second, but long enough to break his 's right,he one pays attention to what I say, it's just another pointless speech added to the long list of meaningless speeches,he thought with boredom. He sighed inwardly, took his paper, and turned it over. He took a deep breath, then placed his hands on either side of the podium, his body tensing you have already heard, our families, our parents, and society as a whole expect a lot from paused, scanning the apprentice section with a more focused many of us here today...He stopped for a moment, almost as if to emphasize the weight of his words...our future is already set and leaves little room for improvisation. As the valedictorian and representative of the second-year students, here is my message for you. Make the most of your time here to learn, of course, but also to try new things, experience new opportunities, and seize what comes your way. Before the course of life catches up with you. In short... be teenagers and have fun.
He concluded his speech in complete silence, which sharply contrasted with the applause he had received at the beginning. He searched for his best friend in the crowd. His friend stared at him for a moment, stunned, before rising and whistling loudly in approval. Soon, the entire hall followed suit, rising as one, clapping unanimously for the young Uchiha. Sasuke turned his gaze to the other side of the hall, where he spotted that same gaze that had disturbed him earlier. The young girl, also standing among her class, applauded him vigorously. She gave him a nod, as if signaling that she fully agreed with his words. This unexpected gesture drew a slight, almost imperceptible smile from him. He retrieved his speech, crumpled it into a ball, and without another word, returned to his seat at the back of the stage.
The ceremony stretched on for an additional fifteen minutes before it was finally time to head to the classrooms. Sakura followed her classmate, who turned out to be in the same class as her. As civilian students, they had to cross the courtyard and head to a building located at the far west of the campus. The apprentice section was to the south, while the administrative area was to the north. Along the way, students were lively discussing the valedictorian's speech. Many were surprised by how his words stood out from the usual routine.
- See, even an Uchiha can think freely,one boy in the group remarked.
- I found him very brave,another girl chimed took a big risk. It's not well seen to step off the beaten path and defy the official speeches.
- Brave, my foot,"a third voice intervened with a 's still an Uchiha. I bet no one will criticize him. They're too afraid of his family for that. And what he said, honestly, it's not revolutionary: 'be young, have fun.' What a revolution!he mocked.
Opinions were flying in all directions, but the one that interested Sakura the most was that of the journalist.
So, what are you going to write in your article?she asked, curious.
- That madness has reached the Uchiha clan!Yui replied, miming a catchy , this time, the ceremony will be on the front page of the paper!she exclaimed, visibly excited."He finally made this ordeal interesting! Look at how people are talking about it! No matter what we think of his words—whether it's immature, given the war looming, or brave, because he dared to defy the apprentice establishment—he broke a taboo and started a real debate. It might only last a few hours, but for once, people are talking about him for something other than his looks or the latest girl he was seen with at the mayor's dinner.
Sakura smiled at her neighbor's analysis before focusing on the path, trying to memorize it properly. Their classroom was on the second floor, in a room that looked like every other classroom she had known so far. She felt a slight disappointment: she had hoped for a bit more creativity in the decor, but the place remained rather conventional.

The homeroom teacher entered then, a man of modest height, barely taller than Sakura. Unlike the principal, whose appearance seemed frozen in time, the years were clearly etched on the teacher's face. His glasses were slightly askew, and he adjusted them with a habitual gesture before starting the roll call. After that, he handed out the timetables and began his history lesson, his voice steady but tinged with a certain weariness.
The lunch bell rang, and all the students headed towards the cafeteria, located at the heart of the campus. Where simplicity reigned in the classrooms, grandeur reappeared in full force. The entrance door, majestic and adorned with finely crafted sculptures, resembled those Sakura had observed in the administrative building. As she stepped through the threshold, she was immediately enchanted by the intoxicating aromas wafting from the kitchens. With a quick step, she made her way to the buffet, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
What she found there exceeded her expectations: a feast worthy of the grandest tables. Specialties from all corners of the country, all prepared on-site, spread their colors and flavors across sparkling displays. A dessert bar, a true sugary paradise, overflowed with sumptuous pastries and a variety of sweets—melt-in-your-mouth éclairs and delicately golden tarts. Sakura's eyes lit up at the sight of her guilty pleasure, and knowing her allowance covered the entire feast, she indulged without hesitation. Her gaze lingered for a moment on the pastries, a slight smile curling at the corners of her lips. Once her tray was generously filled, she made her way to the dining hall.
Inside, the decor was grand. The walls were lined with dark wood paneling, accented with subtle gold leaf that caught the soft light of the crystal chandeliers. Large windows let in natural light, illuminating the long black marble tables, each carefully set with immaculate place mats. The high ceiling, decorated with delicate frescoes depicting historical scenes, gave the room an atmosphere that was both intimate and grandiose. The students, already seated, spoke in hushed tones, their conversations blending with the pleasant clinking of cutlery and quiet laughter.
She scanned the vast room for an empty table, her eyes sweeping over the rows of seated diners, engrossed in their conversations. In the distance, she spotted a figure waving energetically. Thinking the gestures were directed at someone behind her, she briefly turned, but saw no one react. Returning her gaze to the person calling her, she squinted and, after a moment's hesitation, recognized the messy blonde hair of Naruto. She gave him a discreet wave to let him know she had spotted him, then made her way to the back of the room. As she moved forward, Sakura felt the eyes of the civilian students on her. The intensity of their gazes, filled with curiosity and questions, unsettled her slightly. She soon realized that, like the rest of the institution, an unspoken separation existed in the cafeteria: civilians on one side, apprentices on the other. The tables seemed to be arranged according to this invisible rule, and as she moved toward the area where the apprentices were seated, she became aware that she was crossing an implicit boundary. After all, she was invited by Naruto, one of their own. This thought reassured her and gave her a bit of confidence. Ignoring the gazes that continued to follow her, she continued on her way. She took a seat across from him.
- So, first impressions of the school?Naruto asked between bites of ramen, his mouth still full.
- Well, it's really big, for starters,Sakura replied, beautiful too, although the classrooms are a bit plain in comparison. And so far, people have been really welcoming toward me,she added with a smile, pointing her chopsticks at her friend, who returned her smile mischievously.
- What did you think of Sasuke's speech?he asked, sipping some broth.
Sakura paused for a moment to think before responding.
- I feel like it really got people talking, didn't it?
- That's an understatement,Naruto replied, his mouth 's been in the principal's office for half an hour.
- Oh, I didn't think it was that serious!Sakura exclaimed.
- You have no idea,Naruto answered, 've been told since we were kids that our only purpose in life is to kill demons. That we have a rare gift, and with it comes great grabbed another bowl of most of us, life is just that: go to school, take classes in the morning, train in the afternoon, and then do missions in our "free time"... And we've been doing that since we were 12 or 13. So hearing the general's son say we should enjoy our youth? That's a big gave her a knowing smile.
- Yeah, I get it,Sakura replied, her gaze turning that case, I think he was right to use his position to send that message.
- Honestly,Naruto said, shrugging,if we hadn't crossed paths this morning, he never would've had that idea. So, part of the credit goes to you, you know?The blonde winked at her, making Sakura blush.
- Part of the punishment too, then?interrupted a deep voice behind her. Sasuke had arrived, sitting down next to Sakura and letting his tray fall heavily onto the table.
- So, what happened?Naruto asked, a worried look on his face.
- Well, news travels fast,Sasuke began, helping himself to some had my father called in. He lectured me about how, as Uchiha, we're supposed to set an example. He said it was completely immature of me to encourage my classmates to indulge in "frivolity," especially with the war raging and all the sacrifices we have to took a bite of meat with a , and I almost forgot: your brother would never have stooped to that level,he added, mimicking his father's authoritative tone.
- Ouch! That one stings,Naruto replied, his voice betraying amusement despite the tense the punishment?
- Mandatory attendance at the mayor's annual dinner,Sasuke said with boredom, absently eyeing the next bite he was about to take.I'll have to give a speech to motivate our generation to fight.

His gaze wandered for a moment, resting on his wrist where a gold watch lay, delicately set with black stones. The object, simple yet luxurious, caught the soft light of the room, and Sakura discerned subtle details that hinted at the Uchiha clan's history: the dial, adorned with fine engravings of flames, alluded to the mastery of fire, an ancestral heritage that was the pride of this lineage, while the hands, too, were marked with the family crest. With each turn of the dial, as the second hand passed before the others, the red and white fan, the clan's emblem, slowly reformed.

-Damn…he murmured, finishing his bite and emptying his glass of water in one 're late. Kakashi wanted us to meet him before training addressed his colleague, who, for his part, was already devouring his third bowl of ramen, unconcerned with the passing time.

-But Kakashi's always late, the blond can afford to linger a bit longer, RIGHT?The brunet shook his head with a determined gleam in his eyes.

- No. I accounted for his delay in my time popped the last piece of brioche he had been saving for dessert into his mouth, rising quickly and heading toward the waste area with brisk steps.

-Sorry, Sakura. Duty calls. He gave an exaggerated military salute before grabbing a chicken thigh and hurrying to join his friend, the urgency of the situation clear in his swift movements.

Sakura suddenly found herself alone, abandoned at her table, surrounded by the apprentice section. Eyes converged upon her, heavy and penetrating, filling the air with a palpable tension. Every gaze felt like a weight, thickening the atmosphere and slowly suffocating her under an invisible pressure. A deep unease gripped her. She decided to cut her meal short. Leaving the cafeteria, she escaped into the quiet of the park, hoping to find a moment's respite, far from the silent judgments.

Summer still reigned. The sun hung high in the sky, at its zenith, spilling golden rays onto the earth and infusing the air with a pleasant warmth, not overwhelming. Birds sang softly, and a light breeze brushed the tree leaves, offering a welcome coolness. Sakura made her way to a shaded part of the park, where several students had already settled. Some enjoyed the shelter of the large trees for a picnic, others played peacefully, or lay down, absorbed in restorative naps out of the sun. She moved a little farther from the group, seeking a quieter spot, an isolated tree. There, on the soft grass, she laid down her jacket, folding it neatly before leaning against the trunk. The coolness of the bark contrasted pleasantly with the gentle warmth of the sun, and, letting out a deep sigh, she closed her eyes. The shade and calm of the place enveloped her, and, rocked by the soft murmur of the breeze, she surrendered to a well-deserved nap, even if it would last only a few moments.

After a few minutes, she suddenly sensed the absence of the sun's gentle rays on her face. The next moment, her eyelids slowly fluttered open, still heavy with sleep. She found herself facing a motionless male figure, scrutinizing her without hesitation. The shock of this unexpected encounter made her recoil sharply, causing her head to strike the trunk behind her with force. A sharp pain shot through her skull, making her wince. Instinctively, she placed a hand at the back of her head to soothe the pain.

—Oh no! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to scare you! the young man apologized, his words rushed, accompanied by multiple 's just that you looked so beautiful under this tree, and I couldn't help but come introduce myself. I didn't realize you were sleeping. Sorry, sorry... my bad.
Sakura, whose headache was gradually easing, turned her gaze toward the one who had disturbed her rest. He was wearing the uniform of the apprentice section. His round face was accentuated by an old-fashioned haircut, a kind of bowl cut that made his eyes appear even heavier. His eyes were hidden beneath a thick fringe, almost blending with his bushy eyebrows, giving him a somewhat awkward look, bordering on childish. Not really my type, Sakura thought, feeling a little embarrassed by the situation.
—It's fine,she finally replied, trying to shake off the growing actually did me a favor. I forgot to set an alarm, and I probably would've been late for the afternoon class,she added, punctuating her sentence with a light, clear laugh.
The young man, clearly charmed by her laugh, blushed deeply. It took him a few seconds to regain his composure. Coughing awkwardly to clear his throat, he extended his hand in a solemn gesture.
—Allow me to introduce myself: Lee Rock!he exclaimed with known by my admirers as the "Jade Dragon." Third year. Nice to meet you…?The question hung in the air, like an implicit invitation for her to respond.
Sakura, somewhat disoriented, took a moment before , uh... Yes. Sakura Haruno, second-year student. Nice to meet you too,she replied with an awkward smile, accepting his hand and quickly standing up. She dusted off her skirt with a swift motion, tucked her rebellious strands behind her ribbon, and suddenly felt a little more at ease.
—Dear Sakura,Lee continued, his eyes shining with an intent she could not ignore,would you allow me to accompany you to your next class to make up for my behavior?
Sakura, taken aback by the question, found herself caught in a dilemma. The young man had clearly set his sights on her, but she felt no attraction whatsoever. She knew it was just a naïve flirtation, but she didn't want to give him false hope. On the other hand, he was an apprentice, and she couldn't ignore the complexity of the situation: a blunt refusal could easily be misinterpreted. Plus, she had no desire to risk getting lost in the halls searching for her next class. So, she decided to play the diplomatic card.
—Alright,she replied after a moment of thought,thank you for your offer, Lee.
By agreeing, she had, albeit reluctantly, accepted company she hadn't asked for, but which, at that moment, seemed more practical than an outright refusal.
She let Lee take the lead, trying her best to hide the discomfort that overwhelmed her under the weight of his gaze. This wasn't new to her. The persistent stares of boys, the forced compliments, or even the awkward advances in the street—she was used to it. With her pink hair and large green eyes, it was hard not to stand out. And, to be honest, she didn't hesitate to use her assets from time to time, when the opportunity have to use what nature gave you,a colleague had once told her at the café. And a well-placed smile could sometimes make all the difference, especially when it came to a good tip.
—I'd never seen you around here before, did you just join the school?Lee asked, clearly trying to break the awkward silence.
—That's right, today is my first day. I took the entrance exam two months ago and was able to join directly into the second year,she replied calmly.
—Impressive! I heard the exam for civilians is really tough, you have to work really hard to make it,Lee said, casting an admiring glance at her.
—It's true, it wasn't easy,Sakura confirmed with a small you, where does the nickname "Jade Dragon" come from?she asked, more out of politeness than anything else.
—Oh, it's because of my combat skills!he explained with a proud the battlefield, I become a real beast, fierce and unstoppable. Also, since I can control crystals, my teammates gave me that nickname. It's a bit cliché, but...He shrugged, clearly happy to talk about , unlike many apprentices, I don't come from a big family. I'm the first in my family to develop an aptitude, so getting a nickname like that shows I've made my mark.
Sakura looked at him, 's pretty rare, isn't it? Aptitudes are usually passed down through generations. I've never met anyone like you before.
—Yeah, it's rare...he replied more it's not easy to make a name for yourself. You have to work two or three times harder than others to get the same results. I only have myself to rely on to climb the puffed out his chest with my hard training, I'll show them that anyone can start from zero and reach the top with enough effort.
Sakura began to feel a certain respect for him. After all, they weren't so different. Neither of them had been born into the higher echelons of society, but thanks to their hard work, they were both carving their own paths toward the elite—her among the civilians, and him among the apprentices.
—Well, Lee, I wish you good lowered her voice a little, as if to ensure no one else could hear.I'm here thanks to the Senju scholarship. I understand what you're going through. But if I work hard, I'm sure I'll climb the ranks and change my fate.
Lee's eyes, already mesmerized by Sakura's beauty, lit up with Senju scholarship? Does that mean you came first in the exam?he asked, impressed.
—Indeed,she replied with a smile, raising her index finger as if to underline her victory.
— seemed to think for a moment before proposing,I have an idea. Let's say in ten years, when I'm a colonel in the Guard and you're...He looked at her, waiting for her response.
—A pediatric surgeon,she answered, amused by the question.
—And you'll be the most respected pediatric surgeon in the country, we'll meet under that tree over there and toast to our success!He cheerfully extended his pinky, as if to seal the promise, just like they used to do as children.
Sakura, surprised but amused, extended her pinky in 's a deal!she laughed. They continued walking, talking about anything and everything, until they arrived in front of Sakura's building.
—We've turned to her and, with a theatrical bow, made her feel a little dear Sakura, it was a pleasure meeting you today, and I hope we'll have the chance to talk again in the future. Until next time!
—Until next time, Lee! Good luck!she replied, waving him off from the steps of her building, a small smile on her lips, already feeling a bit more at ease after their encounter.

She began climbing the stairs towards her classroom. The hallways were almost empty, her classmates had not yet returned from break. She walked slowly toward her seat at the back, near the window. After a few minutes, footsteps echoed in the hallway, and the first students began to return. Their chatter stopped abruptly as soon as they saw Sakura, sitting alone, absorbed in her reading. A group of three, with Yui at the front, quickly approached her, each taking a chair and arranging them in a circle around her desk. Sakura looked at them, confused.
- Yes...?she said, not quite understanding what was happening.
- Do you know Sasuke Uchiha and Naruto Uzumaki?!asked Yui, her eyes sparkling with excitement. The small blonde with glasses and the boy with gray hair waited eagerly for an answer.
- Uh... yes, I suppose you could say that,Sakura replied, a bit there a problem?she asked, feeling uncomfortable.
- No, no! It's just incredible!exclaimed Yui, gesturing 's the first time since... since... I don't know, the first time we've seen apprentices eating with a civilian in the cafeteria! And, on top of that, members of the Elite!
Sakura suddenly remembered the tense atmosphere during lunch when Naruto had invited her to join him. She now understood that the distinctions between the promotions were not only social but almost cultural. And she, who hadn't wanted to make waves, had attracted the attention of the whole school with a simple gesture.
- I wasn't aware of that...she admitted, invited me to join him, so I didn't really question it. Honestly, I only met them this morning. They helped me find my way around the administrative building; I got a little glanced at her classmates, who were listening intently.
The little blonde then spoke, her high-pitched voice betraying a feeling of frustration.
- Life is really unfair!she sighed, visibly depressed, leaning on her friend.I've been trying to get noticed by him for five years, and you, on the first day, bam, you're sharing a meal with him!
The boy with gray hair shot her a knowing look and replied:
- She's part of Sasuke's fan club,he felt obliged to clarify.
Sakura, a bit taken aback, tried to lighten the mood.
- If it helps, we exchanged three sentences at most, and he didn't even speak to me during shrugged, as if to show that it really wasn't a big deal. But she wasn't prepared for the reaction that followed.
The blonde seemed to explode with rage, her aura almost turning black, and she slammed her fist onto the desk with surprising force.
- You should be thrilled!she you know how many girls would kill to be in your place, even just for half a second?! Apprentices can be around him every day, and still, only the girls from the Elite can have this kind of privilege!She seemed about to you know the last time he spoke to a civilian?!she added, locking eyes with Sakura, who nodded, growing more and more !she concluded, banging the table with a firm fist.
Sakura thought to herself:I feel like I'm going to have to learn all the invisible rules fast if I want to survive here...The hallways became louder, and the three students who had surrounded her desk returned to their seats. But the young girl could still feel the murderous aura of her bespectacled classmate, sitting two rows ahead. She promised herself, right then and there, never to be within five meters of Sasuke Uchiha again. Clearly, her life depended on it.
She tried to immerse herself back in her book, hoping to distract herself from the situation. The students were beginning to flood into the classroom, and she felt heavy, almost hostile, gazes weighing on her. She sank deeper into her chair, trying to make herself as small as possible, almost disappearing under her desk. The afternoon was devoted to mathematics, a subject Sakura particularly enjoyed. She hoped it would help her clear her mind. While waiting for the teacher, she organized her things on her desk, unable to shake the feeling of being watched. The bell rang, but the teacher still hadn't arrived. This didn't seem to bother her classmates, who continued to chat, although much of their conversation seemed to concern her. She focused on her work, silently praying for the teacher to finally arrive and end the awkwardness.
The teacher entered after a long wait of 14 minutes and 59 seconds precisely. He was much younger than their homeroom teacher, with long, unruly gray hair, clearly defying the laws of gravity. He wore a scarf that covered half of his face, accentuating the bored look in his eyes. One would almost think he had just been woken from a nap. He sat at his desk with a casual gesture, letting a textbook fall with a thud that immediately silenced the room.
Silence filled the room. His eyes scanned the class before stopping on Yui.
- Kazane, did you take the roll call?he asked, grabbing the student list from his desk.
- Yes, Mr. Hatake. Everyone is here,Yui confirmed, standing as a sign of respect.
- teacher seemed to smile under his scarf. Then, he turned to the board, took a piece of chalk, and wrote his name with a fluid hand:Kakashi , I'll be your math teacher for this year. I had most of you last year, so I know your level. Don't disappoint surveyed his students, his eyes gleaming with a quiet 's begin!
The class started. During the next two hours, although Kakashi seemed nonchalant, Sakura quickly realized he was not one to let mistakes slide. Despite his relaxed demeanor, he knew how to keep the class under control and give each student the attention they deserved. The pace of the class kept her busy, and gradually, the tensions of the day began to dissipate. The bell rang again at 4:00 p.m., signaling the end of classes. The students began packing up, ready to head home or go to the nearest mall. But their teacher had other plans.
- One moment, please!he called out, loud enough to cut through the chatter of the students.
Normally, such a remark would provoke a wave of protests, or so Sakura expected. But here, the mere declaration from the teacher instantly silenced everyone. All eyes turned to him, hanging on his every word.
- I need one of you to help me pick up some handouts for tomorrow's class.
As soon as those words were spoken, a rush toward the desk began. All the students rushed forward, except... the new girl. Sakura, still a little lost in this new environment, watched in disbelief as the chaos unfolded around her. It was as if the situation had taken a turn she could never have imagined. She wasn't even sure she understood exactly what was happening. Kakashi, on the other hand, seemed overwhelmed by the commotion unfolding before him. He stood up from his desk to take a step back, trying to regain some control. His gaze lingered on a pink-haired head, well at the back of the room. Perplexed but calm, Sakura continued packing her things without hurrying. Kakashi glanced at the roll call list, then pointed at her.
- You tilted his head toward Sakura, who, hearing her name, looked up abruptly, eyes wide. She stood up quickly, surprised by the sudden attention.
- Sakura Haruno, is that right?he asked in a neutral tone.
- Yes, sir!she replied, her voice a little shaky.
- Come with me to the apprentices.
The effect was immediate: the atmosphere, which had been tense, froze in an instant. A heavy silence descended on the room, and a palpable tension filled the air. Sakura quickly understood what had just happened: the rules were clear, a civilian could only enter the apprentice building when accompanied by a teacher. And Kakashi had just invited her to follow him, the new girl, who had spent the last two hours trying to stay unnoticed. A sense of unease washed over her as she connected the dots. A golden opportunity for a civilian, and it was her who had seized it. Her stomach tightened as she felt literally trapped. The room, which had seemed ready to explode, was now filled with a heavy and almost threatening aura. Sakura, overwhelmed by the situation, slumped slightly, trying to make herself as small as possible. Kakashi gave her a look that left no doubt: she had to follow him. She stood up and, with hesitant steps, began making her way through her classmates, who threw jealous glances her way. She quickly left the room and made an effort to keep up with her teacher's quick pace. Silence stretched between them as they walked across the campus from West to South. They headed toward the apprentice building. Unlike the others, this one was protected by a large majestic gate, flanked by imposing statues of a tiger and a phoenix — the founders of the school and the Guard. Kakashi paused for a moment in front of the gate and observed the tiger statue. Its stone eyes, initially a deep blue, turned green, and with a metallic click, the gate opened, allowing them to pass.
Sakura approached her teacher, a bit intimidated by the solemn atmosphere of the place. The building before them was colossal, much more imposing than the civilian one. The pair moved down the central path, lined with statues of the founders, some of which she recognized immediately, having studied their history in class. Upon reaching the steps, Kakashi stopped abruptly. The student, not expecting it, bumped into him slightly, surprised. The teacher turned toward her and gave her a knowing smile.

- Welcome to the apprentice's building,he said.

Sakura nodded, feeling a little more at ease, and resumed walking, following Kakashi with a more confident step. They passed through the front door and took the first hallway to the right. She barely had time to read the sign that said "Training Zone" before following her teacher down the corridor. They passed several rooms, some with glass doors, and Sakura's curiosity led her to sneak a glance, staying close to Kakashi. In the first room, students were sparring in close combat, their movements precise and swift. A little further down, the room seemed dedicated to simulations. A level 2 hologram floated in the center of the ring, surrounded by three students focused on their positions, searching for the best angle to attack. Kakashi stopped in front of the third room, a faint smile on his lips.
- We're here!he said, turning toward her. He opened the door and motioned for her to enter for me here, I'll grab the documents. I'll need you to take them back to the classroom before you head out,he added quickly. Sakura nodded to signal that she understood. By the time she looked up, he had already disappeared. She was left alone, her eyes drawn to the bustling activity in the room. In front of her, apprentices were warming up in silence, so focused that they hadn't even noticed her arrival. Sakura quickly spotted the young Hyuuga and the Yamanaka heir, faces she had seen during the ceremony that morning. Her gaze shifted to an apprentice taking out his frustration on a punching bag. He stopped dead when their eyes met, his fists still clenched, before striding toward her with a threatening look.
- Hey, you there! How did you get in here? Civilians aren't welcome in this part of the campus,he called across the room, drawing the attention of several other apprentices.
Sakura, surprised by his aggression, straightened immediately. She puffed out her chest, trying to regain some confidence. She responded in a calm but firm voice.
- I'm accompanying Professor Hatake. He's bringing me some documents for our class tomorrow.
The apprentice, a sarcastic smile on his lips, replied at once.
- And I'm the head of the council! I don't see any professor beside you,he said, sweeping his gaze across the rules are clear: no civilians around without a nanny. Add to that, you look more like a "tourist" right now. We've got better things to do than babysit fangirls. So, get out before I become less tolerant,he threatened in a menacing tone.
Sakura didn't back down. She held his gaze unwaveringly, hardening her features.

- I'll repeat: I'm with Professor Kakashi Hatake, who's gone to fetch some copies for me to deliver. Is there a word in that sentence you don't understand? "Accompany," perhaps?she responded sharply.
The apprentice narrowed his eyes, clearly furious.
- You'll change your tone with me, civilian,he have no idea who you're talking to.
- Sakura held his gaze, her face impassive.
- I'll speak however I choose, apprentice,she shot back, challenging him with her stare.
The young man, growing more agitated, took a heavy step toward her, as if ready to engage physically. Sakura, however, didn't budge an inch. She stood firm, rooted to the ground, ready to face her opponent.
- Kiba, that's enough.A deep voice suddenly rang out from the back of the room. The one called Kiba stopped dead in his tracks.
- But Sas'ke, can't you see she's lying!? No sign of Kakashi anywhere, and she's standing there like a flower, watching us the whole time,he snapped, his fists clenched.
- I said: enough. Don't make me repeat myself a third time,Sasuke Uchiha replied coldly, his piercing gaze fixed on Kiba.
Kiba growled but resigned himself. He turned abruptly, and before walking away, he threw a venomous remark loud enough for Sakura to hear.
- You'll regret this.
She responded with a completely fake smile, though her mind was already analyzing the situation. She had realized that Sasuke had just intervened, though she was in perfect control of the situation. She hadn't spotted him yet, hidden behind the ring that stood in the middle of the room.
He stepped toward her, dressed in black workout gear: a loose t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves that revealed his muscular arms and shoulders, baggy pants that gave him a relaxed air. His hands were wrapped in bandages, likely for hitting the punching bag. A few beads of sweat glistened on his forehead, the only signs of an intense workout. Sakura felt her heart race a little despite herself. She now understood better why so many girls were at his feet. He exuded an undeniable charm, an aura that drew attention, and despite her efforts to remain impassive, she had to admit that she wasn't immune to it. She shook her head to clear her thoughts and focused again.
- Haruno, can I know what you're doing here?Sasuke asked in an authoritative my friend pointed out, civilians don't belong here. This is the second time I've had to remind you today, it's starting to get a bit much, especially for the first day,he emphasized, stepping closer to her. He leaned slightly toward her ear.I might even start to believe Kiba is right and you're one of my fangirls.
The sudden closeness made Sakura blush, and she felt her heart race despite herself. She quickly regained her composure and, determined to stay calm, stepped back a few paces to put some distance between them. Her gaze turned to the back of the room, where she spotted her teacher's gray hair.
- Finally! Took you long enough to find your copies!she called, trying to mask the embarrassment that burned her cheeks, drawing the brunette's attention elsewhere.
- Sorry, Sakura. I forgot which drawer I put them in,Kakashi apologized awkwardly.I see you've had time to get acquainted with my lovely glanced at Sasuke, who, now that Sakura's story had been validated, relaxed and began turning away.
-You could say that... Can I go now?she asked, eager to leave this awkward situation.
- Yes, of course. Sasuke!Kakashi called, stopping the brunette in his escort this young lady to the exit, like the gentleman you are,the teacher ordered with a smile.
Sakura and Sasuke exchanged a look—one surprised, the other downright annoyed. She quickly looked away, embarrassed, while he sighed heavily.
- I can find my way on my own, I assure you,Sakura protested, her face showing a hint of exasperation.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced.
- You can't wander around this area by yourself,he said, his tone betraying a hint of 's already late. Our class was supposed to start half an hour ago. If he keeps dragging his feet, he'll end up getting a warning from the 's awkward laugh confirmed his words.
He headed toward the door, motioning for Sakura to follow. For her, it was a cold shower: two hours earlier, she had sworn to keep a safe distance from the Uchiha heir. Mission clearly failed. As she reluctantly followed him, she silently prayed that no one—absolutely no one—would see them together. Trying to keep a respectable distance, she discreetly slowed her pace, but Sasuke wasn't fooled. He stopped abruptly, glaring over his shoulder.
- I'm not going to spend all evening here. Pick up the pace, will you?he said.
Sakura bit back a sharp retort and quickened her pace. She ended up walking to Sasuke's left, trying not to draw too much attention. He, on the other hand, remained silent, but his eyes were studying her with a curiosity he couldn't hide. Her pink hair, which he had noticed this morning, seemed almost unreal in the dim light. It strangely complemented her vibrant emerald green eyes. Those eyes had fascinated him since this morning. Those eyes, intense, which had troubled him during his speech earlier in the day. Those eyes that hadn't flinched, even when Kiba had bared his teeth. Despite the apparent softness of her features, there was a strength in her gaze, a determination that intrigued him, whether he liked it or not. He found himself wondering what she was like in the ring.
- Can you fight?he asked, surprising himself with the question.
Sakura turned her head toward him, a little caught off guard.
- Uh... I defend myself... well, I think so,she replied, hesitation in her voice.
- Hmmm...Sasuke responded, his curiosity piqued as they reached the gate. He stopped in front of the phoenix statue. The statue's eyes shifted from red to green, and the gate opened.
- If I were you, I'd try to avoid drawing attention tomorrow,he advised, before turning to head toward his class.
Sakura stood frozen for a moment, caught between exasperation and weariness. She hadn't caused any trouble today. Nothing. And yet, she had somehow, as if by magic, found herself at the center of attention. With a weary sigh, she turned back toward her building. As she walked through the hallways bathed in twilight, a fleeting thought crossed her mind: she hoped the night would erase her from her classmates' memories and that she could start fresh tomorrow.