The classroom crackled with nervous energy. Sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating dust motes dancing in the air and the anxious faces of the newly graduated shinobi. Each student, on the cusp of their ninja careers, buzzed with anticipation about the upcoming team assignments. Whispers and hushed conversations filled the room as they speculated about potential teammates, hoping for alliances that would lead to success and avoid those that could spell disaster.
Naruto, seemingly unfazed by the surrounding tension, sat comfortably between Sasuki and Ino. "So," he began, turning to Sasuki, "any thoughts on who you'll be teamed with?"
Sasuki's dark eyes narrowed slightly. "Hmph. I simply hope they won't be a liability," she retorted, her tone laced with her characteristic aloofness. Naruto offered a small, slightly nervous smile; it was a typical Sasuki response.
Ino, however, leaned closer to Naruto, her usually vibrant green eyes sparkling with excitement. "I really, really hope I'm on your team, Naruto!" she exclaimed, a faint blush rising on her cheeks.
Naruto chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "That would be awesome, Ino. Teaming up with friends would be great," he replied, his voice sincere.
Unbeknownst to Naruto, several other classmates shared Ino's sentiment. Hinata, her usually shy demeanor hidden behind a facade of quiet resolve, secretly hoped to be placed on his team. Sakura, too, harbored the same wish. Naruto was, after all, the top rookie, having achieved the highest overall score in the history of the academy. He was a natural leader, and everyone knew it.
Naruto himself pondered the possibilities. Who would his teammates be? He glanced around the room, taking in the scene. The excitement was palpable. Everyone, it seemed, had embraced the occasion by sporting new, personalized ninja attire. Naruto's own clothing, however, remained largely unchanged, a testament to his practical nature: a black, open yukata that revealed his toned physique, black, baggy hakama pants tied with a long, red obi, and the familiar red bandages wrapping his shins and wrists. His red hair, slightly longer now, revealed striking blonde streaks, a subtle reminder of his unique heritage.
Sasuki, ever the picture of cool efficiency, wore a simple yet functional ensemble: a blue, short-sleeved shirt and tight, mid-thigh white shorts. Her arms and shins were still protected by black bandages. She had grown taller since their academy days, and her hair was slightly longer, but otherwise, she remained much the same – a study in focused determination. Hinata, seated a little further away, wore a purple and white hoodie paired with dark blue pants, her short, dark hair framing her delicate features. Ino, clearly aiming to make an impression on Naruto, had chosen a vibrant purple kimono top that revealed a toned abdomen wrapped in white bandages. A revealing, slit skirt showcased her toned legs, also adorned with bandages. Her long, blonde hair was styled in a high, attention-grabbing ponytail. Sakura, her pink hair now cascading down her back to her waist, tied it in a side ponytail and wore a modest, dark red, full-body kimono with black leggings underneath, a blend of tradition and practicality.
Naruto couldn't help but notice how beautiful the girls looked. They had all blossomed during their time at the academy. His thoughts drifted to his friend Tenten, who had graduated the previous year. He remembered her telling him about her team: Hinata's cousin, Neji, the quiet prodigy, and Rock Lee, the exuberant taijutsu specialist who Naruto occasionally encountered during his runs through the village. Their sensei was Might Guy, the village's most enthusiastic and arguably strongest taijutsu master. Tenten, too, had changed. She still sported her signature hair buns, but her usual attire had been replaced by a more form-fitting, Chinese-style outfit, reflecting her growing maturity and confidence. A sudden thought struck Naruto. He realized he still had those gifts he'd been meaning to give them all.
Naruto, with a warm smile, unsealed a stack of scrolls, each bearing the name of one of his friends. He carefully distributed them, saying, "These are small gifts for you all, a celebration of our graduation and a thank you for being such amazing friends." He knew, though they didn't, that their friendship had pulled him back from the brink of a dark place, and he wanted to express his gratitude. "Don't open them until you get home," he added, a hint of playful mystery in his voice. The girls, even Sasuki, were visibly touched by his sincerity. They graciously accepted the scrolls, thanking him in return. A wave of anticipation washed over them; they were now incredibly eager to return home and discover what treasures Naruto had crafted.
Just then, the classroom fell silent as Iruka entered. "Good morning, class," he began, his voice filled with pride. "Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone in your ninja careers. I'm immensely proud of each and every one of you. Now, the moment you've all been waiting for: team placements!" He paused for dramatic effect. "Team 7 will consist of Naruto..." Every student in the room leaned forward, their hearts pounding with anticipation, hoping to be on his team. "...Sakura, and Sasuki." Sakura beamed, a wide, genuine smile spreading across her face. Sasuki offered a subtle, almost imperceptible smirk. A collective groan echoed through the room as the rest of the class realized they wouldn't be joining Naruto's team. "Your sensei will be Kakashi Hatake," Iruka announced.
"Team 8 will be Kiba, Shino, and Hinata. Your sensei will be Kurenai Yuhi." Hinata, though secretly disappointed about not being on Naruto's team, understood the logic behind this assignment. "Team 10 will be Shikamaru, Choji, and Ino. Your sensei will be Asuma Sarutobi." Iruka surveyed the class. "Your sensei will be here shortly. Good luck, everyone." With a final nod, he exited the classroom.
A few hours earlier, the Hokage's office had been the scene of a lively debate. The Jonin sensei had gathered, each vying for the opportunity to have Naruto on their team. His record-breaking performance at the academy had made him the most sought-after graduate. "Alright," Hiruzen said, his voice cutting through the chatter, "I'll give each of you a chance to explain why Naruto should be on your team."
Kurenai stepped forward first. "From what I've heard," she began, "Naruto's weakest area is genjutsu. However, I also understand he's developed his own seals to compensate for this. I believe I'm the best suited to help him overcome this challenge." Hiruzen nodded thoughtfully.
Next, Asuma spoke. "Well," he said, puffing on his cigarette, "I've heard that one of Naruto's strongest elements is wind. I'm one of the most proficient wind users in the village, so I'm confident I can help him hone his skills in that area."
Finally, it was Kakashi's turn. "I've known Naruto and trained him for over five years," he stated, his voice calm and confident. "I understand how he thinks, what he's capable of, and what his limitations are. That intimate knowledge makes me the ideal sensei for him."
Hiruzen considered their arguments. "You've all made excellent points," he acknowledged. "However, since Kakashi has the longest and closest relationship with Naruto, I believe he's the best choice." Asuma and Kurenai, though disappointed, remained silent, respecting the Hokage's decision. "Now," Hiruzen instructed, "you have thirty minutes to meet your teams and dismissed them for the day."
Back in the classroom, all the teams had been called except for Team 7. Naruto, sensing the inevitable delay, suggested, "Hey, why don't we grab some lunch? Kakashi-sensei is notorious for being late. My treat." Sakura and Sasuki readily agreed, their stomachs rumbling in anticipation.
As they walked with Naruto to the nearby ramen shop, both girls were taken aback by the reactions of the villagers. They overheard hushed whispers, some not so subtle. "There goes the demon child," one muttered. "How could they let that thing become a ninja?" another sneered. Other comments, even harsher, stung their ears. Sakura glanced at Naruto, surprised to see that he seemed unaffected by the vitriol. It was clear this kind of treatment was a regular occurrence for him. Sakura felt a pang of sadness for her teammate, while Sasuki seethed with anger. How can someone so strong allow these assholes to treat him this way? she thought, her fists clenching. Beneath her cool exterior, Sasuki cared deeply for Naruto. He had helped her grow stronger, even helping her sister, Itaia open up more. Hearing the cruel whispers, Sasuki was about to retort when Naruto placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her. "Don't," he said quietly. "It's not worth it."
"Do you hear what they're saying?!" Sasuki exclaimed, her voice laced with anger. "How can you just let them talk to you like that?"
"It's just words, Sasuki," Naruto replied, his tone surprisingly nonchalant. "It's not that big of a deal." Sasuki, still fuming, reluctantly let it go. Sakura, however, was left wondering how he could endure such constant negativity.
They arrived at the ramen stand, where Naruto was immediately glomped by Ayame. "Naruto! I missed you! Congratulations on graduating!" she cried, her enthusiasm overflowing. Her embrace was tight, and Naruto's face quickly turned crimson as he found himself pressed against her ample chest. Finally released, his face was beet red. Both Sasuki and Sakura glared at Ayame, a hint of jealousy in their eyes.
"I see you've brought two beautiful ladies with you," Ayame teased, winking at the girls.
"Yes," Naruto stammered, still flustered. "Meet Sasuki and Sakura. They're my friends and teammates."
Ayame gave them a warm smile. "Nice to meet you both."
"Likewise," Sakura replied politely.
Sasuki simply nodded. They ordered their ramen and engaged in light conversation. As they ate, Naruto suddenly sensed Kakashi approaching the academy. He wished Ayame well and, with a quick body flicker, transported himself and his teammates back to the classroom.
Minutes later, Kakashi arrived, instructing them to meet him on the roof. Once they were all assembled, he had them introduce themselves.
Sakura went first. "My name is Sakura Haruno. I like helping people and learning medical ninjutsu. There's nothing I particularly dislike. My dream is to become a great medical ninja like Tsunade." Kakashi nodded in approval.
Next was Sasuki's turn. "My name is Sasuki Uchiha. I like training and tomatoes. I dislike being compared to my sister. My dream is to surpass my sister and become the head of the Uchiha clan." Another nod from Kakashi.
Finally, it was Naruto's turn. "My name is Naruto Uzumaki. I like fuinjutsu, training, and ramen. I dislike bigots and judgmental people. My dream is to restore my clan to its former glory and make it even stronger than before." Sasuki and Kakashi weren't surprised by his declaration, but Sakura's eyes widened.
"You have a clan, Naruto?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity.
"Yes," Naruto confirmed. "The Uzumaki clan."
Sakura was confused; she had never heard of such a clan. Sasuki, however, had asked her mother about the Uzumaki clan years ago. The information she received had been astounding. The Uzumaki were an incredibly powerful clan, renowned for their sealing techniques and vast chakra reserves. It was no wonder Naruto was so strong. She was also saddened to learn of their tragic fate. Sakura resolved to research the clan and learn more about Naruto's family history.
Kakashi, after listening to their introductions, informed them that they weren't officially genin yet. They still had one final test: a survival exercise. With that, he dismissed them for the day. Sasuki and Sakura hurried home, eager to open the gifts Naruto had given them. Naruto also headed home, intent on getting some training in.
As he walked, he was intercepted by a weasel-masked ANBU. "The Hokage requests your presence," the ANBU said.
Naruto nodded and, with a swirl of wind, disappeared. He arrived at the Hokage's office and knocked. He was granted entry. Hiruzen congratulated Naruto on his graduation before turning serious. He reached under his desk and handed Naruto a scroll. "This is a scroll your father prepared in case something happened to him," he explained. "I'm not sure what it contains; that's for you to discover."
Naruto was stunned. He accepted the scroll, holding it reverently. He bowed to the Hokage and left. Back at his compound, only Ayama was present. Jiraiya was away managing his spy network, Tsunade was busy at the hospital, and Kimiko was on a mission. Ayame was out training, so he left her undisturbed. He went to his private study and carefully unsealed the scroll. It was a letter addressed to him.
"Dear Naruto," it began, "If you are reading this, then it means I'm dead. First and foremost, I'm sorry for not being there for you. The Kyuubi was forcibly extracted from your mother, and I have a feeling the real me won't survive. Just know that both your mother and I love you with all our hearts. I'm sorry, but I have to burden you by making you a jinchuriki. Your life will be incredibly difficult, but I'm confident you'll pull through. There's also a secret I must tell you, one that only Hiruzen knows. My full name is Minato Namikaze Senju. I am the great-grandson of Tobirama Senju. That's why I was allowed to learn his jutsu, the Flying Thunder God. For my safety, my heritage was kept secret, so I took my mother's name. Below this letter is information about the Namikaze clans. I'm running out of chakra and will disappear soon. I love you, son. Make us proud by becoming a great man."
Tears streamed down Naruto's face as he finished reading. Hearing how much his parents loved him filled him with a warmth he had never felt before. He noticed a kanji symbol beneath the letter, labeled "Namikaze." He channeled his chakra, and another scroll appeared. He read the scroll, learning about his father's side of the family. The Namikaze were a clan of traveling mercenaries with no allegiance to any village. They accepted contracts from villages that lacked a ninja system, taking on escort missions, bodyguard duties, and assassinations. They were a highly militaristic clan, known for their incredible speed and mastery of lightning-style jutsu. However, their lack of a permanent home made them vulnerable to attacks, which eventually decimated their numbers. It was unknown if any Namikaze still lived. The scroll also contained numerous Namikaze jutsu, which Naruto immediately resolved to learn. Naruto was overwhelmed. Even though his Uzumaki blood was dominant, he now knew he carried the blood of two other powerful clans. He had much to process.
Sasuki sat in her room, a flutter of anticipation in her chest, as she prepared to open Naruto's gift. She carefully unrolled the scroll, revealing a beautifully crafted sword and sheath. It was an elegant chokuto, the Uchiha crest intricately carved into the hilt, its polished black blade gleaming in the soft light. Sasuki lifted the sword, surprised by its unexpected lightness. "Naruto made this?" she murmured, impressed by the craftsmanship. It was truly remarkable. A wave of gratitude washed over her, and she wondered how she could possibly express her thanks for such a thoughtful gift.
A small, folded piece of paper slid out of the scroll. It was a letter from Naruto. In it, he explained that the blade was forged from a special chakra-conductive metal, designed to allow her to channel her chakra through it effortlessly. He also detailed the intricate seals etched into the blade and their specific functions: one to maintain constant sharpness, another for automatic repair of any damage, and others to enhance its cutting power and channel her lightning release. Sasuki carefully read each explanation, her appreciation for his skill and thoughtfulness deepening with every word. She now fully understood the depth of Naruto's gesture.
Hinata carefully examined the bow Naruto had crafted for her. It was a masterpiece, its craftsmanship exquisite. She had never known Naruto possessed such talent for weapon-making. She read the accompanying note, her heart warming with each word. According to Naruto, the bow was designed to be sturdy enough for use as a melee weapon, and it also featured special seals capable of storing an infinite number of arrows. A soft smile graced Hinata's lips; his thoughtfulness was truly touching.
Ino, having unsealed her gift, admired the beautifully crafted necklace. Its pendant was carved with an intricate seal. Naruto's note explained that the pendant not only amplified her mind-based jutsu but also offered protection against genjutsu. Ino beamed, delighted with her gift. It was clear that Naruto cared about her well-being in his own, unique way.
Sakura, in the privacy of her room, studied the elegant ring Naruto had made. The note explained its special ability: she could store medical chakra within it, and the ring would automatically heal any injuries she sustained. She slipped the ring onto her middle finger, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. It almost felt like a proposal, a thought that made her heart flutter.
Tenten carefully inspected the throwing knives Naruto had gifted her when he visited the weapons shop to drop off some seals. The knives were so beautifully crafted that she hesitated to use them. Instead, she decided to display them prominently on her wall, a testament to Naruto's artistry. She was amazed by how far he had come in his blacksmithing skills.
Naruto had just presented Ayama with her gift. She unsealed it, revealing a pair of intricately designed brass knuckles. They were works of art. Naruto's note explained that she could channel her chakra through them to amplify the force of her blows, making them perfect for her fighting style. Ayame threw her arms around Naruto in a tight hug and kissed him on the cheek, causing him to blush furiously.
That night, Kimiko returned from her mission. In her room, she discovered a scroll on her dresser. It was from Naruto. She unsealed it, revealing a pair of gauntlets equipped with retractable blades. Naruto's note explained that the blades could be retracted simply by channeling chakra, making them ideal for assassinations. Kimiko smiled. She had never encountered someone as kind and thoughtful as Naruto.
The next morning, Team 7 assembled at Training Ground 7, awaiting their sensei. They warmed up, preparing for the unknown challenges of the survival test. Two hours later, Kakashi finally arrived, finding his students engaged in light exercises. He gathered them together to explain the exercise. He held up two bells. "I have two bells here," he announced. "Your objective is to retrieve them. Whoever doesn't get a bell goes back to the academy." Naruto's eyes narrowed; something about this didn't seem right. Sakura looked nervous, while Sasuki remained stoic. "Begin!" Kakashi commanded, and the students vanished into the trees.
Naruto, mulling over the seemingly simple task, realized the true nature of the test. Kakashi wasn't just testing their individual abilities; he was trying to force them to compete against each other. This was a test of teamwork. With this understanding, Naruto set out to find his teammates. He quickly located Sakura, who was strategizing her approach, and sent a clone to locate Sasuki. The clone found Sasuki preparing to launch an attack and subtly intervened, bringing her to Naruto's location.
"This test is a sham," Naruto declared once they were together. "It's all about teamwork. There's never been a three-man squad in Konoha's history. He's trying to divide us." The girls nodded in agreement; it made perfect sense. "I have a plan," Naruto said, a glint in his eye.
Kakashi stood in the center of the clearing, waiting. Suddenly, a barrage of kunai shot towards him. Kakashi effortlessly dodged the projectiles, then blocked a powerful kick from Naruto. They engaged in a high-speed taijutsu battle. During the exchange, Naruto subtly signaled Sasuki. As Naruto and Kakashi clashed, Sasuki weaved through a series of hand signs, unleashing a large fireball. Naruto, in perfect coordination, enhanced the fire with his wind release, creating a massive, swirling inferno. Kakashi's eyes widened as he saw the enormous, wind-enhanced fireball hurtling toward him. He quickly erected an earth wall to block the attack. Just as the fireball impacted, a kunai pierced through the earth wall. Kakashi dodged, but the kunai grazed his arm. Suddenly, the kunai transformed into Sakura, who reached for the bells. Kakashi, about to evade, found himself paralyzed. He looked down and saw a glowing seal on his arm. "Naruto must have placed it during our taijutsu fight," he realized. "Damn it, Naruto outplayed me." Sakura retrieved the bells. Naruto then released Kakashi from the paralysis.
Kakashi, slightly embarrassed at being so easily bested, addressed Sakura. "Good job, Sakura. So, now what?"
Naruto stepped forward. "It was a team effort, which was the point, right? So, we pass?"
Kakashi was surprised they had figured out the true objective so quickly. "Indeed," he confirmed. "You pass. Good job." He was genuinely proud of his new team. This test was, indeed, about teamwork. "Remember this," Kakashi said, his voice firm. "Those who abandon a mission are trash, but those who abandon their friends are worse than trash." With those words, Kakashi dismissed them and headed to report to the Hokage.
In the Hokage's office, the Jonin sensei were gathered, giving their reports. Kakashi was the last to arrive. Everyone was astonished when he finished his report. His team had not only deciphered the hidden meaning of the test but had actually succeeded in taking the bells. The other Jonin were envious of Kakashi's promising new team. Once the reports were concluded, they were dismissed.
Back at Training Ground 7, after Kakashi's departure, Sakura, her cheeks flushed with gratitude, hugged Naruto tightly. "Thank you, Naruto," she said sincerely. "The gift was so thoughtful of you."
"No problem, Sakura," Naruto replied, grinning. "You're a valuable teammate."
Sasuki, less demonstrative but equally appreciative, also thanked Naruto. "Naruto," she began, "I was wondering if you could help me learn kenjutsu."
Naruto smiled. "I know someone who's even better than me at swordsmanship. I'll ask her if she's willing to train you."
Sasuki nodded gratefully. The team then dispersed, each heading home to prepare for their first official mission the following day.
The next morning, Team 7 gathered at the designated meeting point, waiting for Kakashi. Naruto had already spoken to his friend, the Cat-masked ANBU, who had agreed to help Sasuki with kenjutsu training when her schedule allowed. Naruto relayed this information to Sasuki, who expressed her thanks. An hour passed before Kakashi finally appeared. "Alright, team," he said, "let's go get a mission." They proceeded to the Hokage's office.
"Here for a mission, I presume?" Hiruzen asked.
Kakashi nodded.
Hiruzen tossed them a scroll. "Here's a mission to capture the cat, Tora." Team 7 exchanged disappointed glances. This was their first mission?
Kakashi simply led his team out of the office. "Well, my cute students," he said, turning to them, "this one's all you."
Naruto sweatdropped. "This is hardly a mission," he muttered, "but oh well, everyone has to start somewhere. Leave this to me, guys." He closed his eyes, expanding his senses, searching for a small chakra signature. He located it—a faint signature that could belong to a lost cat. Locking onto the signal, he disappeared in a splash of water, reappearing silently behind the cat. He grabbed it gently, but the cat immediately began shrieking and scratching, desperately trying to escape. Naruto quickly placed a sleeping and summoning seal on the cat's forehead, and it instantly fell asleep. He reappeared in front of his team, holding the slumbering feline. "Mission accomplished," he announced.
Kakashi sighed. He should have known this mission would be a breeze for Naruto. He had completed it in a mere fifteen minutes, shattering the previous record by approximately three hours. They returned to the Hokage's office to deliver their report. Hiruzen was astonished to see them back so soon. "What the…?" he exclaimed. "This cat is trained to challenge rookie genin. But I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Naruto is on their team, after all," he thought. "Good job, team," Hiruzen said aloud. "This is a new record."
Over the next month, Team 7 was relegated to D-rank missions: babysitting, gardening, painting fences. During this time, Naruto had befriended Konohamaru, the Hokage's grandson, who idolized Naruto after hearing countless stories about his exploits. Sasuki had begun learning the basics of kenjutsu from the Cat-masked ANBU, discovering that the sword was perfectly suited to her fighting style. Sakura, eager to improve her medical skills, had taken a part-time position at the Konoha Hospital.
Now, Team 7 stood in the Hokage's office, requesting a more challenging mission. "Old Man," Naruto complained, "give us a real mission! Our skills are being wasted on these pointless chores. Why not give these tasks to academy students so they can gain some field experience and learn teamwork?"
Hiruzen was about to retort but paused, considering Naruto's point. That's actually not a bad idea, he thought. The students can gain valuable mission experience without risking their lives, and they'll be better prepared upon graduation. "You've given me something to think about," Hiruzen said finally. He then tossed Kakashi a scroll. "This is a C-rank escort mission. You are to escort and protect a bridge builder from the Land of Waves. Cat, bring him in."
The Cat-masked ANBU nodded and left, returning moments later with an old man who reeked of cheap alcohol. "You expect me to trust a bunch of snot-nosed brats?" the man grumbled, then stared at Naruto, his features looking strangely familiar. Sakura and Sasuki exchanged glances, their hands itching to smack the bridge builder for his rude comment.
Kakashi intervened smoothly. "Now, now," he said, "don't worry. Our team is more than capable."
The bridge builder scoffed. "Whatever. My name's Tazuna. I expect you to protect me with your lives."
Kakashi turned to his team. "Meet me at the gate in one hour. Pack for a month-long trip."
Naruto tossed Sakura and Sasuki empty storage scrolls. "Use these to pack," he advised. "It's easier and lighter than a backpack." They nodded and left to prepare.
An hour later, Team 7 met at the village gate and set out on their journey, unaware of the trials and tribulations that lay ahead.