Author's Note: We are at the point of no return. The calm before the storm. From this point, things are going off the rails. We'll return to the canon path, but it will be a while. This chapter covers the bell test and Team 7 hanging out/growing closer. It's shorter than usual but I think it's fine. Regardless, this story requires you to wait. I have a plan, just let me write. There are mysteries and things I haven't explained because we haven't reached the right time. Furthermore, Naruto and Sasuke are the main characters in this story. There will be moments where one of them does a lot and the other does nothing. Again, I have a plan, trust me and hold on tight. Nevertheless, leave any constructive criticism/feedback as it helps with writing. Enjoy and thank you.

Chapter 7: New Bonds

AUGUST 21st KONOHA – HOKAGE'S OFFICE

Kakashi ascended the steps of the Hokage Tower with his usual laid-back demeanor and a well-worn orange book in hand. His lone visible eye flicked over the pages as he maneuvered through the familiar corridors, barely paying attention to the occasional passing shinobi who greeted him with a respectful nod.

He stopped in front of a pair of heavy wooden doors, guarded by two ANBU shinobi in standard masks and black cloaks.

They stepped aside without a word.

Kakashi snapped his book shut, tucking it away, before knocking his knuckles lazily against the wood.

"Enter," came the deep, authoritative voice from within.

Pushing open the door, Kakashi stepped into the spacious yet cluttered office of the Third Hokage. The room smelled faintly of ink, parchment, and tobacco. Piles of documents were neatly stacked on his desk.

Behind the desk, Hiruzen Sarutobi, lifted his gaze, offering a warm but knowing smile. The lines on his face deepened, but his dark eyes carried sharpness beneath the mask of aged wisdom.

"Ah, Kakashi," Hiruzen greeted, setting down his brush. "I've been expecting you."

Kakashi tilted his head. "I wasn't exactly subtle about wanting a word, was I?"

Hiruzen chuckled, taking a slow drag from his pipe. "You have questions about your team."

Kakashi gave a single nod.

Hiruzen exhaled a thin stream of smoke before rising from his chair.

"Come," the old Hokage gestured toward the door. "A walk would do us both some good and we can get away from all the prying eyes and ears."

Kakashi raised a brow but said nothing, heading for the door as the Hokage led him outside.

They moved through the village, the midday sun casting long shadows along the dirt roads. The village was alive with activity—shopkeepers haggling, civilians bustling, the occasional genin squad darting across rooftops.

"Naruto is… difficult," Sarutobi started. "A free spirit. Unpredictable. He only follows orders when they align with his ambitions."

Kakashi hummed. "Sounds familiar."

Hiruzen smiled faintly. "Yes. Kushina was much the same. She had a fierce will, but she loved deeply. Naruto… doesn't allow himself that."

Kakashi glanced at the passing vendors as they moved through the market district. "And is he like Minato-sensei?"

"Naruto shares the same sharp mind—quick, tactical, always ten steps ahead." Hiruzen sighed. "But where Minato valued people. Naruto values strength."

"Hmmm," Kakashi squinted his eye. "And his personal life? Does he have any close friends?"

Sarutobi slowed, pausing by a small red bridge overlooking a koi pond. He watched the fish glide beneath the surface, their lazy movements distorting in the rippling water.

Hiruzen exhaled deeply. "He keeps others at arm's length, even when they try to reach him. He is alone, by choice."

Kakashi's brow furrowed.

"But he seems to be fascinated with Sasuke Uchiha."

Kakashi's visible eye narrowed slightly.

"Sasuke? Why?"

Hiruzen stroked his beard. "I don't know why. He mentions him often, though not in the way most would expect. Naruto doesn't talk about people—he talks about their potential. And he says Sasuke is 'interesting.' But those two spend time together in a way Naruto doesn't with anyone else so I thought it would be good for them to be on the same team."

Hmm, Kakashi filed that away for later.

"What about the Kyūbi?"

Hiruzen's face turned serious. "Naruto knows about his burden and who his parents are."

Kakashi stiffened slightly. "How did he learn?"

"He stole the scroll of sealing from my office and saw a painting of his father and connected the dots. He may talk to you about them which I doubt as he solely talks about his parents."

Kakashi's visible eye tracked a koi moving through the pond. I don't know if I'm ready for those conversations.

"As for the Kyūbi, it appears he met and spoke with the beast and maintains direct communication with it." Hiruzen continued.

Kakashi shoulder's tensed "Is that a problem?"

Hiruzen's eyes flickered with uncertainty, something rare for the Professor.

"Not yet. But I've caught him searching through the restricted archives. He's looking for something. Keys. Reverse-sealing jutsu. I don't know what he's planning, but if it involves the Kyubi then it isn't good," he concluded. "It wouldn't be good if anyone else knew about this. It would lower Naruto's reputation even further. Keep this between us."

Kakashi narrowed his gaze.

"I don't wish for Naruto to get hurt, especially by his own stupidity. Watch over him and learn what he's planning to do."

Kakashi absorbed this in, before nodding. "I'll watch him."

"Good." Hiruzen smiled faintly.

"I want to see where Sasuke lives, if you wouldn't mind, Hokage-sama."

Hiruzen nodded and led them down a quieter path, moving toward the Uchiha Compound.

Hiruzen and Kakashi walked through the southeastern sector of the village, where the new Uchiha Compound had been established. Unlike the grand district that once housed the clan, this smaller, more compact section of land felt eerily vacant. The space had been carved out near the Konoha Military Police Force Headquarters, a reminder of the Uchiha's past authority. But now, the compound's main occupants weren't Uchiha at all—it was the Fūma Clan, distant relatives who had since integrated into Konoha's infrastructure, taking over much of the Police Force.

Only three Uchiha remained here.

As they moved deeper into the compound, they approached an old traditional house, its tiled roof resembling the back of a slumbering dragon. Kakashi took in the architecture—the white plastered walls, the raised wooden porch, and the koi pond shimmering under the afternoon sun. It was dignified, strong… yet undeniably lonely.

Kakashi had reason to suspect this is where Sasuke lived with Kaori and her father, Naobito.

"Humble, isn't he?" Kakashi muttered dryly, eyeing the house. He had spoken to Naobito once and had decided that was enough for a lifetime.

Hiruzen cleared his throat as if ignoring the remark. "Naobito Uchiha personally requested you as Sasuke's sensei and I agreed. Sasuke has potential, but… he is hesitant to fight. He is too indecisive and that will get him killed."

Kakashi took a moment. "He reminds me of Itachi," he admitted.

"Itachi was more willing to take action. Sasuke has similar traits, but he lacks motivation. He is comfortable where he is at. Stagnation is death for a shinobi."

Let's hope he doesn't try to kill his team, Kakashi thought, thinking about the Uchiha Massacre. He couldn't believe a guy like Itachi would do that. But there was no point in thinking on it right now.

They continued through the district, passing occasional Fūma clan members who patrolled the area. However, they came to a halt when they heard laughter and spotted a familiar shock of white hair from a fair distance away.

The white-haired figure stood near one of the houses, leaning casually against the doorframe with his signature cocky smirk. Opposite him, Kaori Uchiha had her arms crossed, lips curled in amusement. She nudged him playfully as Naruto leaned in, whispering something into her ear. She rolled her eyes before shoving his face away with a light push.

Hiruzen stopped, watching in curiosity. Kakashi was curious as well.

Then—Naruto followed her inside, shutting the door behind them.

Kakashi blinked. "That's… surprising."

Hiruzen's face turned slightly red before putting a palm on his face and shaking his head. "That boy…"

They stood there in awkward silence before—

"Well, well, well," a voice drawled from behind them.

Hiruzen and Kakashi turned to see Naruto grinning, hands in his pockets. "You know, old man, if you're gonna spy on people, at least be more subtle about it." His grin widened. "You've been reading too much Icha-Icha Paradise."

Kakashi arched a brow.

Hiruzen coughed into his fist, regaining his composure. "No, I was merely… concerned for your… uh, safety."

"Oh no. No, no, no," Naruto tsked, shaking his head dramatically. "Old man, you were thinking something filthy, weren't you?"

He seems more relaxed with the Hokage. That's something at least, Kakashi thought viewing the interaction.

Kaori emerged from the house with an effortless stride, her presence commanding yet entirely relaxed. Her dark eyes held the same piercing intensity as the fiercest Uchiha, but her smirk carried something far more playful.

"Hokage-sama. Kakashi-san." Her voice was smooth, assured.

Kakashi raised a hand in greeting. "Yo, Kaori. Where's Sasuke?"

Kaori shrugged, "He went for a walk or something so he could read his book in peace. She turned to Kakashi, tilting slightly. "How's Yugao-sensei? I rarely get to see her now."

"She's fine. Busy watching over Maki while I'm here."

"I need to visit her." Kaori hummed in acknowledgment before her smirk widened. "But you two—spying on us? I expected this from Kakashi but not you Hokage-sama. I thought we Uchiha had suffered enough."

Hiruzen cleared his throat again.

Naruto crossed his arms. "See? Even she thinks you're creeping, old man."

Kaori scoffed, flicking Naruto on the forehead. "I was referring to myself, idiot. Like I'd ever give you a chance."

Naruto's grin faltered, just for a split second. It was subtle—so subtle that most wouldn't catch it. But Kakashi saw the way his fingers twitched slightly before he recovered.

Hmm, Kakashi thought.

"So, what do you guys want besides trying to spy on me? You need to do a better job at hiding your chakra signature. I could sense you guys coming from half a mile away," Naruto stated.

Good, his sensory abilities seem to have improved. I'm guessing his range is about half a kilometer. Kakashi thought to himself.

Hiruzen exhaled. "We were here to speak with Sasuke, but I suppose you'll do for now."

Naruto laughed, throwing an arm around Kakashi's shoulder. "So, Kakashi-sensei, did you get my gift?"

Kakashi tilted his head. "Oh, I got it. But I've decided to get a gift for you too."

"Oh? What is it?" Naruto asked, looking around.

Kaori suddenly averted her gaze, shifting awkwardly. "Naruto-kun… I have something to tell you," She murmured, her voice softer than usual.

Naruto removed his arm from Kakashi's shoulder and turned towards her, starting to get confused. What's with that tone?

She reached out, grasping Naruto's wrist. She leaned in closer, her dark eyes locking onto his through his tinted glasses.

A bead of sweat formed on Naruto's forehead, and he felt his heart skip a beat.

Naruto blinked. "Uh…" he simply could not find his usual bravado.

His instincts screamed that something was off, but his brain was still catching up to whatever the hell was happening. Kaori never spoke to him like this. And why the hell was she holding his hand?

"Naruto…" she whispered into his ear. "Look down."

Then—Kaori vanished in a puff of smoke.

"What?"

"Doton: Shinjū Zanshu no Jutsu (Earth Release: Headhunter Jutsu)"

Naruto looked down just in time to see two pale hands emerging from the ground.

"Oh, you've gotta be kidding me—"

With a sharp tug, Naruto was yanked into the earth. When the dust settled, only Naruto's head was visible above ground and Kakashi was crouched beside him, giving an eye-smile.

Hiruzen looked at Naruto while the other 'Kakashi' poofed into smoke.

Naruto scowled and glared at Kakashi. Kakashi couldn't see his eyes but knew they were trying to pierce his soul.

"Shinobi Rule 15. A shinobi must always be on alert."

Naruto scowled. "Laugh it up, Hatake. I'm coming for you when I get out of here."

Kakashi patted his head. "Looking forward to it." He turned, waving, and leaving the two. "Once you dig yourself out, come find me. We're doing some training."

Naruto grumbled as he struggled to move. "That bastard."

He felt the sunlight dim as he looked to see Hiruzen looking down on him with a neutral expression.

"What? I'll get out here in a minute," Naruto started. He tried activating his technique; however, he couldn't form a seal with his entire body trapped. A couple of minutes had passed, and he made no progress.

Hiruzen sighed before he effortlessly yanked Naruto free from the earth. The boy stumbled slightly before rolling his shoulders and activating his technique to get all the dirt off his clothes with an annoyed scoff.

The Hokage simply watched him, arms crossed. His expression wasn't scolding, nor was it amused—it was quiet, assessing.

Naruto noticed.

"Tch, what?" he muttered, slipping his hands into his pockets. "I was going to get out of there in a minute."

Hiruzen didn't answer immediately. Instead, he turned, beginning a slow walk toward the shaded area beneath a lone tree. The wind rustled through the leaves as he sat down on a worn-out stump, gesturing for Naruto to join him.

"Sit down for a while Naruto. There's something I need to discuss."

Naruto sighed but followed, dropping onto the grass with little grace, legs stretched out in front of him. His arms rested lazily behind his head, but his eyes—hidden behind his dark shades—remained fixed on the old man.

"Alright, old man," he said. "What do you want?"

Hiruzen inhaled from his pipe before exhaling softly. The tendrils of smoke curled in the breeze, dissipating into the sky.

"I heard about what you did for Konohamaru and the others."

Naruto's fingers twitched slightly.

Hiruzen continued, voice calm, measured. "I was surprised you didn't stick around."

Naruto scoffed. "Didn't feel like dealing with the council and listening to them to talk. That's all."

A silence settled between them.

Then, Hiruzen smiled faintly. "Regardless of your reasons—thank you."

Naruto blinked behind his glasses.

"You ignited a fire in Konohamaru," Hiruzen continued. "He looks up to you."

Naruto made a face, shifting uncomfortably.

Hiruzen's gaze softened. "Even Kakashi is grateful."

Naruto scoffed again, rubbing the back of his head. "Tch. I owed you and Asuma a favor, so it's whatever."

Hiruzen chuckled. "I see."

For a moment, there was a companionable silence. The wind stirred the grass, and a single leaf drifted down, landing near Naruto's outstretched leg.

Then—Hiruzen's tone shifted.

"I want to talk about your placement on Team 7."

Naruto didn't move, but the air around him seemed to tense slightly.

Hiruzen exhaled slowly. "I understand that you're far beyond the usual level of a genin. Your skill in ninjutsu, fūinjutsu, your dōjutsu, and your kekkei genkai… you're already operating at a chunin level—perhaps higher. You are strong although, your taijutsu is shaky and needs work."

Naruto rolled his eyes at the taijutsu comment. He hated to admit it but once he learned how to use his kekkei genkai had stopped focusing on taijutsu.

Hiruzen continued, "However, being part of a team isn't just about strength. It's about growth—about learning to rely on others and letting them rely on you."

Naruto's lips curled into a smirk. "You're gonna tell me that 'bonds are important' speech again, aren't you?"

Hiruzen chuckled. "Something like that."

Naruto tilted his head back, staring at the clouds in the sky. "…I see potential in Sasuke."

Hiruzen's brows lifted slightly.

"But the guy's too timid," Naruto went on. "Karin? She's a walking liability. Outside of that reversed chakra of hers, she's useless in a fight." He clicked his tongue. "You put me with a bunch of charity cases."

Hiruzen's eyes narrowed just slightly.

"That's where you come in," he said smoothly.

Naruto glanced at him.

"You can help them get stronger," Hiruzen continued. "Help her get stronger."

Naruto laughed.

"Help her? Old man, she's not my family." He shook his head, scoffing. "Yeah, yeah, same clan, same bloodline—but that doesn't mean anything. I don't know her. We have nothing in common."

His voice dipped lower.

"It's like my parents."

Hiruzen said nothing.

Naruto turned to him, an unreadable expression behind his glasses. "I don't know them. And I don't like them."

Hiruzen's jaw tightened slightly. "…Naruto—"

"They gave their lives for the village," Naruto interrupted, voice mocking, detached. "They were heroes, right? That's what everyone loves to say."

Hiruzen was silent.

Naruto's smirk faded.

"Tell you what, old man," he murmured. "They were fools."

Hiruzen inhaled sharply.

Naruto's fingers curled into the grass beside him. "They died for a village that hates their son. Why?" His voice was calm, but there was something heavy beneath it. "Why protect people who would rather see me dead? Why not just—leave?"

Hiruzen's heart ached at the quiet bitterness in his voice.

"…Do you think they even loved me?" Naruto finally asked.

Hiruzen set his pipe aside.

He met Naruto's gaze evenly. "I know they did."

Naruto scoffed, looking away.

"They didn't protect the village because they didn't love you," Hiruzen continued. "They protected the village because they did."

Naruto's jaw tightened slightly.

Hiruzen sighed, standing up.

"Strength alone won't give you the answers you seek," he said. "You want to be the strongest? Fine. But don't ignore the people standing beside you." He turned, looking toward the horizon. "You still have a choice, Naruto. You can still forge your own bonds."

Naruto remained still.

"…Yeah, whatever."

Hiruzen smiled faintly, shaking his head. "You're more like Minato than you think."

Naruto tensed. Then, abruptly, he stood up, stretching.

"Well, this was a fun heart-to-heart," he said lazily. "Are we done?"

Hiruzen sighed.

"Gather your team and meet Kakashi on the rooftop above the academy. He'll give further instructions from there."

Naruto grinned. "Got it."

Then, he made the snake seal and, in an instant, vanished.

Hiruzen remained where he was, gazing at the spot where the boy had been.

A rustling noise sounded behind him.

Hiruzen didn't turn.

"Did you get what you needed?" he asked.

Kakashi emerged from the shadows of the nearby trees, hands in his pockets. His face was unreadable.

"…Yeah," he murmured.

Hiruzen exhaled. "I hope he isn't too much of a handful."

Kakashi gave a small chuckle. "Too late for that."

They stood there for a moment, watching the wind carry away the last remnants of smoke from Hiruzen's pipe.

Then, without another word, the two shinobi walked further into the village.

KONOHA

The walk to Karin's apartment was a quiet one.

Kakashi followed a step behind Hiruzen, hands tucked into his pockets, his visible eye betraying nothing of his thoughts. His mind, however, was busy processing everything the Hokage had just told him about Naruto as well as the interaction he had witnessed. The boy truly was an enigma—brilliant, powerful, but dangerously unpredictable. The way he spoke about his parents, about strength…

He's playing a dangerous game.

Kakashi didn't have time to fully dissect his concerns before they arrived at a modest two-story building nestled within a quieter part of Konoha.

Hiruzen knocked.

A few seconds later, the door cracked open, revealing Karin Uzumaki.

Her sharp crimson eyes flicked up at them, briefly widening in surprise before settling into something more neutral.

"Hokage-sama?" she greeted, adjusting her glasses. Then, her gaze shifted to Kakashi. "And… Kakashi-sensei?"

Kakashi gave her a lazy wave. "Yo."

Karin blinked, adjusting her glasses again as she stepped aside. "Come in, I guess."

The inside of her apartment was neat and sparse.

The furniture was minimal—a small couch, a simple dining table, and a bookshelf filled with medical texts and scrolls. Kakashi noticed there were no family photos, no decorations, nothing particularly personal aside from a few scattered notes and scribbled-out diagrams on chakra flow.

Karin gestured toward the couch, but Hiruzen remained standing. Kakashi leaned casually against the wall.

"I assume this isn't a social visit," Karin said, crossing her arms.

Hiruzen gave her a small, approving smile. "No, it isn't. We're here to talk about you and your role on Team 7."

Karin stiffened slightly.

"I figured as much but what do you want to about me with?"

Kakashi watched carefully as Hiruzen exhaled a soft breath.

"Your past," the Hokage said simply.

Karin's grip tightened on her arm. "I don't see what that has to do with anything."

Hiruzen ignored her defensiveness. "You have a gift, Karin. A rare and powerful one. I also want to make sure that Kakashi is up to date regarding your situation."

Karin's jaw tightened.

"I heard you were trafficked as a child," Kakashi said suddenly.

Karin's head snapped toward him.

Kakashi's voice remained calm, and nonjudgmental. "That Kusagakure used you for your healing abilities. That they sent you to battlefields to restore their shinobi at the cost of your autonomy. You were a tool to them."

Karin's fingers curled into fists. "That was… a long time ago," she muttered.

Hiruzen nodded. "Yes. But it shaped who you are now. And it made you stronger."

Karin stayed silent.

Kakashi tilted his head. "Your healing abilities. That's not just ordinary medical ninjutsu, is it?"

A beat passed.

"…No," she admitted, shifting uncomfortably.

Hiruzen took that as his cue. "Kakashi, Karin is one of the very few individuals capable of using Reversed Chakra."

Kakashi's visible eye narrowed.

"Reversed chakra?" he echoed. "Can't say I know much about it."

Hiruzen smiled faintly. "That doesn't surprise me. It's a rare field—one even many advanced medical-nin cannot perform."

Kakashi listened intently.

Hiruzen clasped his hands behind his back. "Most shinobi utilize negative chakra when performing ninjutsu, genjutsu, and even medical techniques. The chakra's natural flow is negative—thus, the flux remains in that state."

Kakashi nodded. "And reversed chakra… flips that?"

"Precisely." Hiruzen's gaze sharpened. "When you reverse chakra, you switch the flow from negative to positive. This requires extraordinary precision—one slip, and the technique becomes unstable. But for those who can master it, it grants unparalleled abilities."

Kakashi glanced at Karin. "Like reproducing blood, organs, and flesh?"

Karin nodded slowly. "I can heal someone by letting them bite me or placing my hands on them."

Kakashi blinked. "That's… unconventional. I guess I know which one you prefer."

Karin sighed, rubbing her temples. "Tell me about it."

Hiruzen continued, "But reversed chakra isn't just for healing. It can fundamentally alter how certain jutsu function. It's the foundation for the most advanced nature transformations. The ability to shape chakra in a way that defies conventional ninjutsu. It's what makes Karin's abilities so valuable."

Kakashi hummed in understanding. Then, his mind drifted to a certain Uzumaki who seemed to be obsessed with the unconventional.

"So," he mused, "I'm guessing Naruto tried to get her to teach him how to use this. It seems like his MO."

A heavy silence fell over the room.

Karin didn't react outwardly, but Kakashi noticed her shoulders tense.

Hiruzen exhaled. "Yes."

Kakashi studied Karin carefully. "And you failed."

Karin's lips pressed into a thin line.

"…Yeah," she admitted. "I did."

A beat of silence.

Then, softly: "He wasn't happy about it."

Kakashi filed that away.

Hiruzen's tone was gentler now. "She used to live with him."

Karin flinched, remembering those days. Kakashi was getting angry. He could deal with arrogance but couldn't let his genin treat his teammates like this. It didn't matter that he was his sensei's son.

Hiruzen didn't press, but his voice carried quiet understanding. "I thought it would be good for you both. That being with Naruto might help you both grow."

Karin swallowed.

"…But you asked to be moved," Kakashi finished.

Karin clenched her jaw.

A long, tense silence stretched between them.

Then, finally, she spoke.

"He never treated me like a person."

Hiruzen closed his eyes briefly.

Kakashi remained silent, letting her talk.

"To him, I was just an asset." Her voice was quiet, but there was an unmistakable sharpness beneath it. "Someone useful. Someone who could help him get stronger." She laughed bitterly. "That's all anyone's ever seen me as."

Kakashi absorbed that.

"So you left."

Karin nodded. "Yeah."

A long pause.

Then—Hiruzen's voice shifted.

"But, there's something else I would like to discuss with Kakashi here."

Karin's brow furrowed. "What?"

Hiruzen's expression darkened slightly. "I have reason to believe Orochimaru is after you."

The room grew colder.

Karin froze.

"…What?"

Hiruzen sighed. "After interrogating the Kirigakure shinobi who attacked the Academy, we discovered they were commissioned to retrieve two people: the Daimyo's daughter… and you."

Kakashi's eyes narrowed sharply.

"They were promised heavy compensation," Hiruzen continued, "funds they desperately need due to the unrest in the Mist."

Karin's hands trembled slightly.

Kakashi exhaled slowly.

"So Orochimaru wants her, too," he muttered.

Hiruzen nodded grimly. "And we both know why."

Karin's breath was shaky. "He wants my bloodline."

Hiruzen confirmed it with a small nod.

Kakashi processed everything quickly.

Orochimaru had always been obsessed with forbidden knowledge. If he was after Karin, that meant he saw value in her abilities—likely her unique chakra, or maybe her knowledge of reversed chakra itself. I might need to start training again.

Kakashi turned to Hiruzen. "What do you need from me?"

Hiruzen's voice was firm.

"Protect her."

Karin blinked.

Kakashi tilted his head. "And?"

Hiruzen smiled faintly. "Help her. Be a good sensei."

Kakashi glanced at Karin, who looked away, adjusting her glasses.

"…Alright," he said simply.

Karin hesitated before speaking. "…I don't need protection."

Kakashi gave her an eye-smile. "Lucky for you, I'm not asking for permission."

She huffed. "Great."

Hiruzen chuckled. "I appreciate it, Kakashi."

Kakashi exhaled. "No pressure, huh?"

Karin sighed, rubbing her temples. "This team is gonna be a nightmare."

Kakashi grinned.

"Oh, you have no idea."

KONOHA NINJA ACADEMY – ROOFTOP

A soft evening breeze rolled through the village, rustling the leaves of nearby trees as the sun shined brightly above the village. The sky was tinged with deep and bright blue, casting warmth across the tiled rooftop of the Konoha Academy.

Two figures stood waiting, the silence between them thick with unspoken thoughts.

Sasuke leaned against the railing, flipping through the pages of a worn book with deliberate slowness. His sharp eyes barely lifted as Karin paced, arms crossed, her growing impatience evident in the way her foot tapped rhythmically against the ground.

"Where the hell is Kakashi-sensei?" she muttered. "He's the one who told me to come over here."

Sasuke didn't even look up. "He's late."

Karin groaned. "You're just fine standing there reading, huh? What is that, anyway?"

Sasuke turned a page. "A book."

Karin shot him a deadpan glare. "No kidding, genius. What's it about?"

Sasuke hesitated, eyes flicking across the words. Then, in a voice quieter than before, he replied, "A man who doesn't run from his beliefs, even when the world is against him."

Karin blinked, caught off guard by his seriousness. "Well, it seems like a nice book."

Sasuke only nodded, his eyes returning to the pages.

Before she could press further, Naruto appeared in a swirl of static energy, his white hair tousled from the teleportation. His signature dark-tinted glasses rested on his nose, and he had the usual cocky smirk on his face.

"Yo."

Karin snapped toward him. "Where the hell have you been?!"

Naruto tilted his head. "Just walking around, ya know. Has Kakashi-sensei gotten here yet?"

Sasuke snapped his book shut, glancing at Naruto with mild irritation. "No."

Naruto grinned, shoving his hands into his pockets, and taking a seat on the steps. "Good."

Karin raised an eyebrow. "What?"

Naruto ignored her, stretching his arms behind his head. "So, what's the deal with this meeting? I thought we were going to train, not listen to some motivational speech or something."

Karin let out a deep breath. "Why are you like this?"

Before Naruto could respond, a sudden gust of wind swept through the rooftop—and just like that, Kakashi appeared with an easygoing eye-smile.

"Yo."

Naruto whistled. "Man, that was dramatic. You should teach me that one, ya know. It's a good party trick."

Kakashi chuckled but said nothing.

Karin crossed her arms. "You're late."

Kakashi tilted his head thoughtfully. "Ah, well, you see… I got lost on the road of life."

Sasuke sighed.

Kakashi clapped his hands together. "Alright," he said lazily, "introductions. Likes, dislikes, dreams for the future—you know, the usual team-building exercise."

Naruto scoffed, stretching out on the rooftop like he had all the time in the world. "What, are we supposed to hold hands and sing next?"

Karin rolled her eyes. "Just go already."

Kakashi gestured lazily. "Ladies first."

Karin crossed her arms. "Fine. My name is Karin. I like reading, medical research, and helping people." She hesitated for a brief moment, then continued, "I don't like people who use others for their own gain. My dream…" Her voice softened slightly. "I want to use my gifts to help the village and to heal people."

Sasuke gave her a side glance, nodding in approval at her goal.

Naruto simply rolled his eyes, thinking it was stupid.

Kakashi nodded. "That's a good goal."

Karin smiled.

"Your turn, four eyes."

Naruto smirked. "I'm Uzumaki Naruto. I like myself, ramen, and sweets. I dislike idiots. My dream is simple—become the strongest shinobi in the world."

Karin groaned, rubbing her temples. "That's not how this works—"

Kakashi raised a hand to stop her. "And why do you want to be the strongest?"

Naruto grinned, but his gaze flickered with something sharper. "Because only the strong get to make the rules."

Kakashi raised an eyebrow. "That's it?"

Naruto's expression flickered for just a moment before he shrugged. "Well, I also need to get back at you."

Kakashi gave him an eye-smile. "You're welcome to try."

Sasuke, however, wasn't amused. He closed his book, eyes narrowing. "That's all? You have no actual goal beyond yourself?"

Naruto stretched, grinning lazily. "What's wrong with wanting power?"

Sasuke's jaw tensed. "And then what?"

Naruto blinked.

Sasuke leaned forward slightly; eyes sharp. "Let's say you become the strongest. Then what? What do you do with all that power?"

Naruto stared at him and took a quick pause. Then, he let out a short, dismissive laugh. "I dunno. Haven't decided yet."

Sasuke's fists clenched. "You're ridiculous."

Naruto rolled his eyes, waving a hand. "Tch. You sound like an old man."

Karin sighed. "You two are already getting on my nerves."

Kakashi cut in before Karin could strangle Naruto. "Sasuke?"

Sasuke turned to Kakashi, his voice steady. "Sasuke Uchiha. I want to protect my family and uncover the truth about my clan."

Kakashi nodded slowly. "Uncover the truth? About what?"

Sasuke hesitated.

For a second, Naruto saw something flicker in Sasuke's eyes—uncertainty, pain.

Then, Sasuke's voice hardened.

"The Uchiha Massacre. I want to find out what really happened, and I want to find my brother."

Naruto's smirk faded slightly, remembering that night along with Itachi's words.

Kakashi, for the first time, looked serious.

"…I see."

The rooftop fell into an odd silence, the weight of Sasuke's words settling over them.

Then—

Kakashi's easygoing demeanor returned instantly.

"Well, then! Looks like we've got a passionate bunch. Good! You'll need that for what's next."

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "Let me guess. A survival test?"

Kakashi clapped his hands together. "Yes. I wonder how you could have known." He gave them his usual easy-going smile.

Karin stiffened.

Sasuke remained unfazed.

Naruto opened his mouth to speak but Kakashi silenced him.

"I know what you're about to say but this isn't going to be what you think," Kakashi added. "We are doing something new."

Naruto raised an eyebrow with Sasuke and Karin bringing their attention to Kakashi.

"I'll explain more on the field. Just follow me."

KONOHA – TRAINING GROUND 7

The clearing was still, save for the occasional rustling of leaves as a gentle breeze rolled through the training ground. A large, open field stretched before them, the early morning sun casting long shadows across the grass. There were three wooden posts planted in the earth and the air was damp.

Kakashi stood before them with his usual slouched posture, hands tucked into his pockets. His single visible eye curved in an eye-smile, the picture of ease.

Naruto, Sasuke, and Karin stood opposite him, waiting for instructions. Well, at least two of them were waiting. Naruto was already looking incredibly bored.

Kakashi raised a small silver object between his fingers.

A single bell.

"Alright," Kakashi drawled. "The rules are simple. Naruto, your job is to keep this bell until the alarm goes off. Sasuke, Karin, and I? We're going to take it from you."

Naruto cocked his head, hands shoved into his pockets. "Huh. So, it's a three-on-one?"

Kakashi nodded. "That's right."

Naruto let out a sharp laugh. "Damn, you hate me already."

Karin frowned. "Why are we working together? Shouldn't we all be fighting for a bell?"

Kakashi wagged a finger. "Normally, yes, but Naruto here is unproven."

Naruto's smirk twitched.

Kakashi continued, his tone almost too casual. "See, you talk a big game, Naruto. About how you're the strongest. But all I've seen so far is a lot of attitude and a questionable fashion choice." He gestured lazily toward Naruto's dark-tinted glasses.

Naruto grinned. "Oh? You jealous, old man?"

Kakashi chuckled. "Of course. Every shinobi should aim to look like a discount musician from a back-alley bar."

Sasuke didn't react but Karin let out a small laugh.

Naruto, however, merely stretched his arms behind his head. "Alright, alright, I get it. Three-on-one handicap. So, what—am I supposed to take all of you down?"

Kakashi shrugged. "Not quite. You just have to hold onto the bell until the alarm sounds." He tapped the small clock resting atop a wooden post. "Seems easy, right?"

Naruto raised a brow. "So, let me get this straight—all three of you against me. And I just have to keep the bell? That's it?"

"That's it," Kakashi confirmed. "Unless you're scared?"

Naruto snorted. "Scared? Nah. Just wondering how boring this is gonna be."

Kakashi's eye crinkled in amusement. "Good. Then this should be a piece of cake, right?"

Naruto stretched lazily before shooting him a mocking grin. "Easiest thing I've done since faking a stomachache to get out of class."

Sasuke scoffed. Karin pinched the bridge of her nose.

Kakashi sighed dramatically. "Alright, alright, enough chit-chat." He threw Naruto the bell and motioned for him to stay put. "You wait here. I need to talk with these two."

Naruto waved him off. "Yeah, yeah, whatever. Take your time."

Kakashi turned and led Sasuke and Karin into the treeline, out of Naruto's sensory range. As soon as they were far enough, his playful demeanor vanished, replaced by sharp focus.

Kakashi crouched slightly, lowering his voice. "Alright, now that we're alone, tell me what you two can do."

Sasuke folded his arms. "I have a kekkei genkai outside of my Sharingan. It's the Tokusa no Kage Bōjutsu. I can summon Shikigami—they take the form of creatures and help me in battle."

Kakashi nodded. "How many?"

"Three. Nue, an owl that can use fly and use Raiton. Divine Dog: Totality, a werewolf good for offensive attacks, and Gama which is toad that can mask chakra signatures if I am inside of it" Sasuke listed.

Kakashi filed that away. "Can you use elemental ninjutsu?"

"I know a couple Katon jutsu."

"Can you use Raiton? You said Nue can but what about you?"

Sasuke paused for a moment. "I don't know. I've never tried."

"Hmm," Kakashi said, before pulling out three sheets of small paper. "Do you two know what this is?"

Sasuke shook his head while Karin raised her hand. Kakashi gave her the green light.

"Isn't that chakra paper?"

Kakashi nodded, "Good. Each person's chakra has an affinity to one of the five basic nature transformations."

He held up one of the chakra papers for Karin and Sasuke to see. He poured chakra into the paper causing it to wrinkle up.

"For each nature transformation, the paper will have a unique reaction. For lightning, the paper will wrinkle, for fire it will ignite and turn to ash, for water it will get damp, for earth it will turn to dirt, and for wind, it will split in two."

He handed a sheet to Sasuke and Karin who pinched it between their fingers.

"Focus on pouring your chakra into the paper," Kakashi instructed.

Sasuke pinched it between his fingers, and the thin sheet crinkled up before bursting into flames and turning to ash.

"Your primary affinity seems to be Lightning," Kakashi noted. "And your secondary affinity is Fire."

He turned to Karin. "And you?"

Karin poured chakra into the thin sheet before it got damp and turned to dirt. "Woah."

"Water and Earth… interesting," Kakashi stated.

"Are we only limited to using elemental jutsu that aligns with our affinities?" Sasuke asked.

Kakashi shook his head. "You can use other elemental ninjutsu, it just becomes hard to learn and perform. You have a much easier time controlling a chakra nature that aligns with your affinity. You can learn other natures but it is extremely difficult and rare. Most jōnin only have mastered two natures."

"How many people can master above three?" Sasuke questioned.

"Maybe one in one thousand. There are even fewer who master four or five natures. The Third Hokage is the extremely rare case of being a master of all five. That is why he is considered the strongest living Kage."

Sasuke nodded taking in this information. I wonder what kind Naruto has.

"Anyway, Karin. What else can you do?"

Karin pushed up her glasses. "I can use Reversed Chakra. I'm better at healing than fighting, but I'm proficient with barrier jutsu and defensive fūinjutsu. I also have Kagura Shingan (Mind's Eye of the Kagura). It's a sensory technique which lets me sense chakra across long distances."

Kakashi tilted his head. "So, you can track him?"

Karin nodded. "As long as he doesn't suppress his chakra, I'll always know where he is."

"Good," Kakashi murmured.

These two have a lot of potential, I'll have to work on other stuff at a later date but they have the solid fundamentals. Now, he needed a plan to deal with Naruto.

"Sasuke," Kakashi started, "have you fought against Naruto before?"

Sasuke stiffened slightly before nodding. "Yeah, we when were kids."

Kakashi's eye sharpened. "How does he fight?"

Sasuke exhaled slowly. "He… waits. He lets his opponents attack first."

Kakashi frowned. "So he's reactive?"

Sasuke hesitated. "Not exactly. It's like he's always testing something. He keeps his distance and baits people into revealing their moves."

Kakashi nodded, urging him to continue.

"He has a barrier technique that makes it impossible to hit him. Mugen, is what he calls it. He's… untouchable." Sasuke's hands clenched. "I've fought him a few times. I've touched him maybe once or twice. But I've never won."

"However, he has to perform a hand seal to activate it," Sasuke added.

That's good to know, Kakashi's brow rose slightly. "And his movement?"

Sasuke scowled. "Fast. Really fast. He has some sort of teleportation technique, like the Fourth Hokage's."

Kakashi's expression darkened. Flying Raijin? That would be… problematic or good. That jutsu takes up too much chakra especially for someone his age. Regardless of him being an Uzumaki he won't be able to abuse it.

Karin spoke up. "Naruto wanted me to teach him Reversed Chakra. He said it might help with his technique." She hesitated. "I don't know much, but I do know that… it hurts him."

Kakashi's interest piqued. "Hurts him?"

She nodded. "Every time he pushes himself too far, his head throbs. He started bleeding from his nose once."

Kakashi's mind immediately recalled something Sakuto had told him. Naruto started bleeding after using his technique.

So it has a limit.

"What about his glasses? Why does he wear them?" Kakashi asked.

Karin shrugged while Sasuke scratched the back of his head.

"I don't know, he's never said. I just know his eyes are very blue. It's not natural," he said.

It could be a dōjutsu, but I'm not sure what it can do.

"Alright," Kakashi said, standing up. "Here's what we'll do."

Sasuke and Karin leaned in as Kakashi began explaining.

The clearing was quiet. Too quiet.

Naruto stood alone, hands tucked into his pockets, a smirk tugging at his lips. The soft rustling of leaves filled the silence, but beyond that? Nothing. Not even a flicker of movement from the forest.

An hour had passed since Kakashi and the others disappeared.

Naruto sighed, rolling a loose rock under his sandal. "Man… this is boring." His voice carried across the training ground, but no one answered.

He tilted his head back, gazing at the sky. I know you guys are trying to wear me down. Hoping I'll waste chakra keeping my technique up. It's clever but annoying as hell.

Still, Naruto wasn't stupid. Infinity had a weakness. The technique wasn't just a barrier; it was a constant calculation, his brain processing distances at an inhuman speed. The stronger the attack, the more precise the numbers had to be. And if he exceeded his limit?

He'd fry his own damn brain.

Reversed Chakra could fix that, he mused, flexing his fingers. Too bad I don't know how to use it yet.

So, for now, he had to let his opponents attack first and keep his distance.

What are you planning Kakashi? he mused until he felt a breeze sweep through the clearing and a single leaf drifted lazily to the ground.

Then—A sharp whistling sound.

Naruto's head snapped up just as a barrage of kunai and shuriken came soaring toward him from the treeline.

A sharp grin spread across his face. "Finally."

In a single fluid motion, Naruto formed a hand seal. "Mugen."

The air warped around him as the projectiles froze mid-air, held inches from his body as if caught in an invisible net.

Naruto clicked his tongue. "C'mon. You really think this is going to work?"

From the treeline, a figure emerged.

Kakashi strolled out casually, hands in his pockets, posture relaxed as ever. But Naruto wasn't fooled. That guy was always watching.

"Oh?" Kakashi said lightly. "Were you expecting something more?"

Naruto cracked his knuckles. "Yeah. A challenge."

"Careful what you wish for."

Kakashi vanished.

A blur of movement—faster than a blink.

In an instant, he was in Naruto's space, a kunai flashing toward his throat. But Naruto didn't flinch. His Infinity remained active, stopping the blade before it could even graze him.

Naruto smirked. "Tsk, tsk, sensei. You really should do your homework."

Kakashi's lone eye gleamed with amusement. "Oh, I have."

Then—he twisted.

Naruto's instincts flared just as Kakashi twisted, his other hand already swinging. Naruto dodged with ease, stepping back and teleporting behind him in a flicker of motion.

Naruto barely had a second to react before Kakashi's other hand shot forward, fingers aiming straight for his face. He dodged, flipping back, teleporting behind Kakashi in a flicker of motion.

Kakashi turned smoothly, kunai still in hand.

Naruto tilted his head. "Where are the other two?"

Kakashi's tone was light. "Worried about them?"

Naruto grinned. "Nah. Just don't want anyone interfering."

Their eyes locked.

Then, in a single breath—both of them lunged.

Naruto exploded forward, twisting into a kick aimed at Kakashi's ribs.

Kakashi raised his forearm, absorbing the impact, then shifted his weight smoothly, retaliating with a sharp jab.

Naruto dodged—effortlessly. Too effortlessly.

Kakashi's eye narrowed. I'm hitting him… but not really.

His attacks connected in theory—his range, his timing, all precise—but they never actually landed. Every strike was caught in the invisible space that separated Naruto from the world.

So this is his Infinity. Kakashi pressed forward, sending a flurry of strikes toward Naruto, watching carefully. Naruto dodged them all, barely moving an inch from his spot.

Not bad… but not perfect. But how long can you keep this up?

Kakashi decided to apply a little more pressure on Naruto to test him.

Naruto weaved through the attacks with that same lazy grin, his movements smooth but inefficient. He wasn't using proper form—just relying on his sheer speed. His fighting style relied on his speed rather than true taijutsu skill. He covered weaknesses with raw ability instead of discipline. A bad habit.

Still, he wasn't making this easy. His teleportation let him reposition instantly, slipping out of Kakashi's grasp before he could establish control.

Why wasn't he using shadow clones? Would it put too much strain on his body? Kakashi tucked that observation away.

The fight blurred into a rapid exchange, movements clashing, dodges weaving, counterattacks forming. Naruto was still grinning, but Kakashi noticed the small shifts—the slight hitch in his breath, the way his shoulders tensed just a fraction more than before.

A bead of sweat formed at his temple.

90 seconds.

Kakashi's mind tracked the time.

Still too soon.

They clashed again—this time, Kakashi faked high and caught Naruto's wrist, twisting slightly.

Naruto smirked. "What's the matter, old man? Thought I'd be tired by now?"

Kakashi matched his grin. "Not at all. Just surprised."

He tightened his grip.

And then—

Infinity flickered.

For the first time, Kakashi could feel his wrist.

180 seconds. Better than I initially thought.

Kakashi moved instantly. He twisted, throwing Naruto toward the nearby pond. He didn't launch him too hard—just enough to see his agility.

Naruto flipped midair, adjusting instinctively before he landed gracefully atop the water's surface.

Kakashi smiled beneath his mask. Good, it looks like his chakra control is fine.

Naruto wiped a bit of sweat from his brow, exhaling. "Not bad."

"Likewise," Kakashi replied, lowering his stance.

Naruto cracked his neck. "Alright. Playtime's over."

Then—a screech.

Nue.

Naruto's eyes flicked up just in time to see the massive beast burst from the treeline and dive toward him, wings crackling with lightning.

"Crap," Naruto muttered, shifting to teleport—

But Kakashi was already behind him, holding him in place.

"You should pay more attention, Naruto."

Naruto simply gr.

Then—his body rippled and collapsed into water.

Kakashi's brow twitched. A water clone? He's got an affinity for Suiton… like Kushina.

Before he could react, Nue crashed into him, sending arcs of lightning scattered across the pond.

The real Naruto burst from the water, twisting midair before driving a brutal kick into Kakashi's chest.

Kakashi was sent flying, crashing into the dirt with a hard thud.

Naruto landed lightly, stepping off the pond, his grin widening. "I told you not to underestimate me."

Kakashi's body poofed into smoke.

Naruto's smirk twitched. A shadow clone? I should've guessed.

Then—he felt it.

Naruto moved instantly, leaping into the air as a dark shadow emerged from behind.

Sasuke.

His sharp black eyes glinted in the fading sunlight, expression unreadable.

Naruto chuckled as he hovered above. "Almost got me."

Then—a screech.

Nue was coming back. Lightning surged across its wings, locking onto Naruto's position in midair.

Naruto's grin sharpened. "Not bad."

As the beast crashed toward him, Naruto formed the snake seal—

And vanished.

In an instant, he reappeared on the ground, hands still in his pockets.

Sasuke landed, spinning to face him. He rushed forward—

But Naruto lifted a single hand.

The air shuddered.

Sasuke's momentum halted instantly.

He wasn't stopped by force. He wasn't caught in an illusion.

It was something else entirely.

His body froze mid-motion, hovering inches above the ground.

Naruto exhaled, reaching up slowly. His fingers slipped around the frames of his glasses. And then, he took them off.

A sharp, unnatural glow pierced through the dimming light.

His Rikugan flared to life, twin pools of eerie, luminous blue, radiating an energy that made the air feel thicker.

Sasuke's stomach clenched. This… pressure. It's overwhelming.

Naruto's lips curled into a smirk. "I have to admit—I underestimated you."

With a flick of his wrist—

Sasuke was hurled backward, crashing into a tree with enough force to rattle the branches.

From the bushes, Kakashi observed the fight.

Two-minute limit on Infinity. Teleportation confirmed. Space manipulation. And now, he's unveiled his dōjutsu. his eye narrowed. What other tricks do you have up your sleeve, Naruto?

Sasuke groaned, shaking off the impact. The force behind Naruto's technique was unreal, but he wasn't going to let that stop him.

That jutsu… I can't let him hit me with it again.

His fists clenched. Then—his eyes shifted.

The world sharpened, colors deepened, and his Sharingan spun to life.

Naruto smiled seeing that Sasuke had activated his Sharingan and his Rikugan gleamed in response.

From the treeline, Karin crouched next to Kakashi, her breath slightly uneven from tracking the fight.

She adjusted her glasses, watching Naruto carefully. "That dojutsu of his… what the hell is it?"

Kakashi hummed, keeping his gaze steady. "That's what I'd like to find out."

Karin frowned. "I don't like it."

Kakashi chuckled. "You're not supposed to."

Naruto stretched his arms behind his head, rolling his shoulders. "You sure you wanna do this, Sasuke? I mean, don't get me wrong—I'm flattered. But you just got thrown into a tree, and I'd hate to embarrass you twice."

Sasuke didn't rise to the taunt. Instead, he adjusted his stance, muscles coiling like a spring, and then, he launched forward.

Naruto sidestepped the first punch, deflecting it with his forearm before countering with a kick.

Sasuke immediately pivoted, driving an elbow toward at Naruto's ribs.

Naruto teleported—

—only for Sasuke to already be there, predicting his movement.

Naruto's eyes widened slightly. "Oh?"

Sasuke threw a sharp knee to Naruto's stomach, but Naruto blocked just in time, the force still making him skid back.

Kakashi's eye flickered with interest. "Naruto's fast," he murmured under his breath.

"But his form is sloppy," Karin added.

Kakashi hummed in agreement. "He relies on his speed to compensate, but that won't always work against someone who can keep up."

Karin frowned. "Sasuke seems to be keeping up. He's… reading him."

"Yep, one of the many gifts of the Sharigan," Kakashi replied. They seem even in terms of speed and technique, although Naruto has more power.

But indeed, Sasuke was adapting.

Naruto wiped his mouth, grinning. "Not bad, not bad. I was worried you were gonna let me walk all over you like I did when we were kids."

Sasuke remained silent.

Naruto darted forward again. He faked left, then shifted at the last second, aiming a sweeping kick.

Sasuke barely had time to react but the Uchiha recovered mid-air, twisting to land on his hands before flipping back onto his feet.

Naruto clicked his tongue.

Sasuke dashed in low, shifting at the last second to strike Naruto's blind spot.

Naruto barely avoided it—Sasuke had started reading his timing.

Their clash escalated, fists and kicks exchanged in a rapid dance of raw speed versus precise counters. The ground cracked beneath their footwork, the air snapping with tension.

Then—Sasuke leapt back, creating distance.

Naruto exhaled, rolling his neck. "Oho? What now?"

Sasuke inhaled deeply, hands blurring through seals.

"Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu!"

A massive fireball erupted from his mouth, roaring toward Naruto like a miniature sun.

Naruto's grin widened. "Ohhh, bringing out the big guns?"

Without hesitation, he formed a series of seals.

"Suiton: Mizu Nami (Water Release: Water Wave)!"

A torrent of water burst from his mouth, surging forward to meet the incoming fire.

The moment the two jutsu collided—

BOOOOM.

A massive cloud of steam erupted.

The entire clearing was instantly engulfed in thick mist, obscuring visibility.

From his hidden vantage point, Kakashi's brow lifted. "That confirms it," Kakashi turned to Karin. "Get ready. The real fight's about to start."

The thick mist clung to the air, shrouding the battlefield in an eerie veil, but Naruto remained still, his Rikugan shimmering faintly through the mist.

I can't see a damn thing. But that doesn't matter.

Naruto closed his eyes, allowing his other senses to take over. The world around him pulsed in waves of chakra signatures. Three distinct presences.

Kakashi—lurking. Watching.

Karin—farther away, preparing something.

Sasuke—close. Moving. Fast.

A sharp flicker of movement cut through the mist.

Sasuke emerged from the steam, silent, precise. His Sharingan spun, tracking every shift in Naruto's body language.

Naruto remained still.

Sasuke's muscles coiled, and then—he struck.

A hand darted toward the bell on Naruto's hip.

For the first time, Naruto's grin twitched.

At the last possible moment, Naruto twisted, barely avoiding Sasuke's grasp. But it was close—too close.

Sasuke's fingers brushed the bell.

It jingled.

Naruto's eyes widened.

Sasuke's Sharingan gleamed. I got him—!

But before he could tighten his grip—

A shockwave erupted from below, sending Sasuke hurtling into the air.

Naruto exhaled, adjusting his stance, looking up at the airborne Uchiha. "Tsk, tsk, Sasuke. You almost had me there." His grin stretched. "Almost."

Sasuke twisted mid-air, trying to reorient himself. But Naruto was forming another hand seal.

"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu—"

Then the air shifted.

Naruto's eyes snapped down.

A deep, ominous humming resonated in the battlefield.

Naruto snapped his head down.

Four dark-orange chakra walls shot up around him, forming an enclosed barrier.

Naruto's grin faltered slightly as he took in the walls of the seal. The energy crackled, extending high into the sky, cutting off any immediate escape routes.

"Karin, huh?" he muttered, eyes flickering toward the redhead.

She stood a fair distance away, hands pressed together in a seal formation. Sweat beaded her brow, but her smirk was triumphant.

"Nailed you."

Then—he looked down.

A series of paper bombs covered the ground beneath him.

"Oh, you've gotta be kidding—"

The explosion ripped through the clearing, sending shockwaves that rustled the trees and kicked up massive plumes of smoke. Karin staggered slightly from the force, but kept her hands steady, holding the barrier in place.

Sasuke landed a few feet away, his eyes locked onto the flaming destruction where Naruto had been.

"…Did we get him?" he asked.

Karin took a slow breath before closing her eyes.

Then—her eyes snapped open.

"No," she muttered. "He's gone."

Sasuke tensed. "Where?"

Karin activated her Kagura Shingan, her sensory abilities expanding across the field. It took barely a second before she found him.

Her red eyes snapped open.

"He's in the forest."

Sasuke's grip tightened. "Let's go."

They vanished into the treeline, chasing after him.

Kakashi, still hidden, let out a quiet hmm. They're learning how to work together. He smirked beneath his mask. Now, let's see what Naruto does next.

The dense foliage of the forest rustled as Naruto crouched on a thick tree branch, his breathing heavier than before. His body burned with fatigue, the repeated teleportations, and extended use of his Rikugan finally taking their toll.

The Rikugan could see far distances, see chakra flow, techniques, and provided enhanced perception, but it fed too much information into his optic nerves. He could see everything, every twig, every branch, every strand of grass. It was too much.

Short-range teleportation is fine, he mused, wiping the sweat from his forehead. But the further I go, the more chakra I burn through.

He clicked his tongue in annoyance.

Damn you Kakashi. From the moment the fight started, you've had been playing the long game. Forcing me to use my abilities over and over again.

He touched the inside of his nose, feeling wetness. "I still not there. I can probably use Mugen one more time, however…"

He closed his eyes, stretching his sensory field.

Two signatures, moving towards him.

Sasuke and Karin.

Naruto sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Man, she's good at tracking," he muttered, standing up straight. His usual grin returned. "Guess I'll just have to even the odds."

The air pressure shifted as Naruto extended his right hand, letting chakra gather at his fingertips. A deep hum filled the space around him, the very air vibrating from the energy he was concentrating.

"Mukagen no Jutsu: Ao"

He propelled the blue sphere forward. A violent burst of energy erupted outward, ripping through the forest in a destructive shockwave. Trees snapped like twigs, the ground splintered, and a massive section of the battlefield was reduced to nothing but a flat land.

Sasuke and Karin, who had been rushing toward him, were forced to stop abruptly.

Debris swirled in the air and trees were reduced to nothing.

As it cleared, Naruto stood in the wreckage, dusting off his jacket. He cracked his neck, smirking at his stunned teammates.

"You know," he called out lazily, "I gotta admit… I'm kinda impressed. You two actually made me work for this." His deep blue eyes reflecting the sun, while he was stretching out his neck. "Buuut, let's be real here."

His gaze flicked to Sasuke. "You're basically out of chakra."

Then, to Karin. "And you don't have anything to challenge me directly."

Sasuke gritted his teeth. He hated to admit it, but Naruto was right. His reserves were dangerously low, and Karin's strengths lay in her support skills—not direct combat.

Naruto grinned wider. "So, I win."

That's when Kakashi's voice cut through the clearing.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that."

Naruto's smirk faltered just slightly.

Kakashi stepped into view, hands tucked into his pockets. His usual eye-smile was present, but there was something sharper about his gaze now.

Naruto tilted his head. "Look who finally decided to show up," he drawled. "You sure you don't wanna sit back and let your little minions finish the job?"

Kakashi's expression remained neutral. "I wanted to see how far you'd go. But…" he tilted his head, "I still don't think you have what it takes to be a shinobi."

The smirk on Naruto's face twitched.

Kakashi continued, his tone light but taunting, "I mean, you keep talking about being the strongest. So why don't you prove it? Hit me with your best shot."

Naruto's smirk returned—wider, sharper.

"Oh?" He flexed his fingers, rolling his neck. "You sure about that, Sensei?"

Kakashi nodded. "Show me what you've got."

Naruto's grin turned feral.

Chakra roared to life around his right hand, spiraling into a perfect sphere of blue energy. The ground beneath him cracked under the pressure of the Rasengan forming in his palm.

Sasuke's eyes widened in shock.

"Wait… that's—! Isn't that the Fourth Hokage's signature jutsu? How does Naruto know how to use that?"

Even Kakashi was genuinely impressed. He had suspected Naruto had learned the Rasengan but seeing it up close was another matter.

But he wasn't done surprising his student just yet.

With a casual motion, Kakashi raised his right hand—

And formed his own Rasengan.

Naruto froze.

His mind blanked for half a second.

Then, he burst into laughter.

"Oh, this is gonna be fun."

The two launched forward.

Rasengan met Rasengan.

A deafening explosion erupted.

The force sent a shockwave across the clearing, uprooting trees and kicking up a storm of dust. The sheer impact cracked the earth beneath them, the energy release sending both combatants skidding backward.

As the dust settled, Naruto staggered.

His right arm was shaking.

Blood dripped from his palm, his fingers burned and scarred from the clash. The pain shot up his arm, forcing him to clench his teeth.

Kakashi, on the other hand, landed gracefully a few feet away, barely affected. He straightened, turning toward Naruto with ease.

The difference in experience was clear.

Naruto clenched his jaw, frustration creeping in. He had lost the exchange.

Then—

The alarm rang.

Naruto exhaled, letting his shoulders relax. He turned to Kakashi with a lazy smirk. "Welp. Guess that's it, huh?"

Kakashi gave him a pointed look. "Guess again."

Naruto blinked.

Karin held up the bell.

Naruto stared.

"…Wait, what?"

Kakashi smiled. "While you were focused on me, Sasuke used your own shadow as a window for Karin to slip in and take the bell."

Naruto's brain short-circuited.

Naruto stared at the bell. Then at Karin. Then at Kakashi. Then back at Karin. Then at Sasuke.

He opened his mouth. Nothing came out.

Karin smirked. "Surprised?"

He lifted a finger. Still nothing.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he grumbled, "This is stupid."

Kakashi watched Naruto carefully.

That arrogance. That belief in pure strength. That refusal to lean on others. It was all too familiar.

For a moment, his mind flickered back to another time—to a young boy with silver hair, standing apart from his team. To the weight of expectations pressing down on him. To a mission gone horribly wrong.

Back then, he thought power alone was enough, too. Naruto's attitude wasn't just bravado—it was a defense mechanism. One Kakashi had seen before. One that had nearly destroyed him.

And if Naruto didn't learn soon… he might walk the same path. Hopefully, I can teach him.

Kakashi exhaled quietly before slipping back into his usual easygoing demeanor and clapped his hands together. "And that, Naruto, is why teamwork is important."

Naruto narrowed his eyes.

Kakashi continued, his voice softer now. "You're talented, Naruto. That much is obvious. But talent alone isn't enough. You're strong—but real strength comes from the people around you. The ones you fight for."

Naruto didn't say anything.

Kakashi's expression turned serious. "You think being the strongest is enough. But strength without purpose? Strength without bonds? That's just power. And power alone… won't save you when it matters most."

Naruto clenched his fists. He hated to admit it… but he understood.

After a moment, he exhaled, rolling his shoulders. Then, he grinned.

"Alright, alright," he waved a hand. "Fine. You got me, Hatake."

Sasuke and Karin walked over, standing beside him.

Kakashi glanced at them. "You're a team now. Learn to work together."

Naruto briefly smiled.

"Alright," he said. "Just don't hold me and Sasuke back, Karin."

Karin scoffed. "Says the idiot who lost."

Sasuke, arms crossed, merely huffed. "This is going to be annoying."

Naruto turned to Sasuke, a teasing smirk on his face. "I'm not gonna go easy on you, ya know."

Sasuke met his gaze evenly. "Good. Because I won't either," he said, giving Naruto a light nudge on his shoulder.

Kakashi eye-smiled. "Then I won't go easy on any of you."

The tension eased slightly and Naruto smiled at Kakashi with Kakashi returning his own smile, even Sasuke cracked a smirk.

Then—

Naruto flexed his burnt, bloody hand.

"…Okay, but Karin, can you heal this? I kinda need my hand."

Karin rolled her eyes, stepping forward. "You're lucky I'm in a good mood."

Naruto grinned, then paused.

"…Also, has anyone seen my glasses?"

The group sighed.

And with that—the Bell Test was concluded.

SEPTEMBER 1ST KONOHA – TRAINING GROUND 7

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the field as Team 7 stood together, waiting for Kakashi. The day had been exhausting, but in an exhilarating way—between sparring, training, and Kakashi's seemingly endless supply of cryptic wisdom, they had grown.

Naruto stretched, his white hair catching the sunlight. "Tch. Took him long enough," he muttered.

"You were late this morning," Sasuke reminded him, arms crossed.

Naruto scoffed. "That's different."

Before Sasuke could retort, Kakashi appeared in his usual fashion—casually, as if he had been there the whole time. "Well, look at that," he said cheerfully. "We actually survived our first week together."

Karin adjusted her glasses, frowning. "You make it sound like one of us wasn't going to."

Kakashi chuckled, pulling out a camera. "Alright, everyone, line up. Time for the official team photo."

Naruto groaned. "Why?"

"For memories, of course," Kakashi said, setting the camera up on a wooden post.

Naruto rolled his eyes, but didn't argue as they stood together. Sasuke was, as usual, composed and indifferent, though a ghost of a smirk tugged at his lips. Karin smiled warmly, adjusting her stance. Naruto, of course, had to be dramatic, throwing up a peace sign with his usual cocky grin.

Kakashi set the timer and moved into place, standing behind them.

Click.

And just like that, Team 7 was immortalized on film.

Kakashi handed each of them a copy of the picture.

"Tch, Sasuke, you look like you're posing for a funeral. Smile a little, will ya?" Naruto commented.

"And you look like you're auditioning for a bad play. Try looking serious for once," Sasuke retorted.

"Hey, at least I don't look like I'm constipated."

"You're one to talk, usuratonkachi."

"Will you two ever shut up!?" Karin shouted. "Who cares?"

Kakashi smiled at the three, getting memories from his time on Team Minato and remembering the many arguments he had with Obito.

Naruto looked at the photo once more before stuffing it into his pocket. "Alright, we done? I'm starving."

Kakashi eye-smiled. "Glad you brought that up."

Naruto blinked. "Huh?"

"I'm inviting you all to dinner at my place," Kakashi said simply. "You three deserve a reward for your hard work."

Sasuke and Karin nodded without hesitation.

Naruto narrowed his eyes. "Tch. I'm good."

Kakashi expected as much, but before he could nudge further, Sasuke beat him to it.

"Just come, usuratonkachi," Sasuke said, walking past him.

Naruto scoffed. "Why do you care?"

Sasuke didn't answer, but the look he gave Naruto was enough to make him pause. Something about the way Sasuke said it made Naruto hesitate—perhaps for the first time, he felt like Sasuke wasn't just tolerating him, but expecting him.

"…Fine," Naruto muttered. "But if it's nasty, I'm leaving."

Kakashi clapped his hands together. "Perfect. Let's go."

KONOHA – HATAKE RESIDENCE

The Hatake household was quiet and peaceful, nestled near a forested edge of the village. As Team 7 stepped inside, they were greeted by a little girl with silverly-white hair that had violet streaks and brown eyes.

"Kaasan! Tousan's home!" she called excitedly, before blinking up at Naruto. But then, her face scrunched in confusion. "Papa?"

"Awwww, that's so cute," Karin said, "she thinks you're Kakashi-sensei."

"You two do look alike." Sasuke chimed in.

Kakashi sighed. "Maki-san, that's not me."

Maki tilted her head. "Oh. You have the same hair."

Naruto was confused by the child's gesture but after a quick moment, he softened up. He smiled at her and ruffled her hair tenderly. "That's right, kid. But I'm way cooler."

"Debatable," Karin muttered.

Before Naruto could respond, a new voice entered the mix.

"Maki-san, what did I tell you about running through the house?"

A woman with violet hair and sharp eyes stepped into the room. Yūgao Hatake—the woman who had once been ANBU and now was Kakashi's wife.

She stopped when she saw Naruto, her eyes narrowing slightly.

"…You."

Naruto grinned. "Me."

Her gaze flickered to Kakashi. "Why is he here?"

"I invited them all," Kakashi said lightly.

Yūgao sighed, rubbing her temples. "You didn't tell me he'd be coming."

"What's the problem?" Naruto asked innocently. "I'm delightful."

Maki giggled.

Yugao, however, was unconvinced. "That depends. Are you going to behave? Or are you going to pull another prank?"

Naruto smirked. "That depends. Are you going to let me?"

Karin groaned. "Please don't antagonize her."

Sasuke wisely stayed silent.

"Alright, alright," Kakashi interjected before Yūgao could throw Naruto through a wall. "Let's eat."

Dinner was surprisingly warm.

The food was simple, but it tasted like comfort. The warmth of the meal contrasted the chill of the evening air outside, and slowly the atmosphere in the room shifted from awkwardness to something more familiar. Kakashi and Yūgao exchanged a few words about their day, but most of the conversation flowed between the kids. Even Yūgao, despite her initial irritation with Naruto, found herself softening, occasionally allowing a small smile at his antics.

Naruto, of course, couldn't resist the opportunity to tease whenever he got the chance.

"So, Sakuto," he began, leaning back in his chair, "how's the academy? Got any girls falling for you yet? Or are you still trying to figure out how to talk to them?"

Sakuto frowned, glancing at him warily. "What is your wrong with you?"

Naruto leaned forward, his grin widening as he rubbed his hair and squished his face. "What do you mean? I'm just making sure you don't turn out as boring as your tousan."

Kakashi rolled his eyes, clearly unfazed, but there was a hint of pride in his gaze.

Sakuto, clearly annoyed, slapped Naruto's hand away. "Quit it. I don't want to be anything like you," he said, pushing Naruto's hand off.

"Missing out, kid," Naruto shot back, smirking at Sasuke, "Who wouldn't want to be like me?" He nudged Sasuke with his elbow. "Right, Sasuke?"

Sasuke, with a deadpan expression, took a bite of his food. "You're a bad influence. He would have you eating ramen every day."

Naruto laughed, shaking his head. "Ramen's a delicacy, Sasuke. You wouldn't get it. You probably think sushi's just fish with rice."

Sasuke smirked, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Says the guy who thinks ketchup is gourmet."

"Hey, that's a food group!" Naruto countered, leaning in close with exaggerated seriousness. "You should try it sometime, you might enjoy being cultured."

Naruto turned to Sakuto once more. "C'mon, kid, don't you want to bask in the presence of the great Naruto Uzumaki."

Sakuto scowled. "No, you're annoying."

Yūgao nodded approvingly. "Smart kid."

Karin couldn't hold back her laugh, and even Maki, the little girl, let out a giggle. Even Yūgao, who had been eyeing Naruto warily, couldn't help but smile, shaking her head at his antics. The air around the table felt a little lighter now.

"Okay, okay," Yūgao said, shaking her head. "At least the food is good. It's the company that's questionable."

"You like us," Naruto said with a grin, clearly satisfied by the effect his teasing had on everyone.

Yūgao shot him a sidelong glance. "If I didn't, I'd have kicked you out by now."

"I'll take that as a compliment," Naruto replied, his grin widening even further. "I knew you would come around. I'm irresistible."

Yūgao's eyes narrowed slightly, but her lips twitched upward. "I'll reserve judgment," she replied dryly.

Despite all of the teasing, the night carried on in good spirits. It wasn't often any of them got to experience something like this—something normal.

Something… close to family.

The night was cool as Team 7 left the Hatake residence.

The crisp air nipped at their skin, and the faint sounds of crickets filled the silence as they stood outside, lingering for a moment. The warmth of the evening had slipped away with the setting sun, leaving a quiet calm.

Kakashi glanced at them, his tone unusually serious despite the casual air. "You all did well this week. We have some training coming up before our first mission, so get some rest."

Sasuke nodded, his expression unreadable, but there was a subtle approval in his eyes.

Karin stretched her arms above her head, letting out a relaxed sigh. "Sounds good."

Naruto yawned, looking unaffected. "Rest is for the weak."

Kakashi smirked, eyes narrowing behind his mask. "We'll see." With a final, casual glance, he turned back toward his house, his voice softening. "Good night, team."

The three watched him go, the soft thud of his footsteps against the pavement gradually fading.

Sasuke turned toward the path leading home. "I'm heading home."

Karin gave a quick nod. "See you tomorrow."

Naruto stood there for a moment, lingering in the quiet, then shook his head. "Later." The words felt heavier than usual as they left his mouth, but he couldn't place why.

And just like that, they parted ways.

Naruto walked alone through the winding streets of Konoha, the cool night air wrapping around him. The village felt strangely distant, even though it was alive with the sounds of late-night chatter from the few remaining pedestrians.

His house sat on the edge of the village, tucked between the trees and rolling hills. It was his parents' house—the one they had lived in before everything changed. The one he would've lived in with them.

It had always been too quiet, too still for him, yet it was the one place that truly felt like home.

He stepped inside, the door clicking softly behind him as he entered the empty house. Silence greeted him, wrapping itself around him like a familiar cloak. His gaze drifted across the small, neat space, and for a moment, it felt too still. Too empty.

Naruto didn't mind it. Not usually.

He crossed the room, picking up the team photo from the desk and placing it gently next to an old, worn picture of Minato and Kushina. His fingers hovered over the edges of the frame, but he didn't touch it right away. Instead, he just stared at it—at the faces frozen in time.

His heart tightened, but the feeling was fleeting, quickly buried beneath the usual distractions.

With a small scoff, he turned away from the photo. He pulled off his headband and placed it neatly next to his glasses, his movements deliberate, though they didn't quite match the emptiness in his chest. Without another word, he dropped onto his bed, the weight of the day finally catching up to him.

He closed his eyes, letting the quiet of the room settle over him.

For the first time in a while, a small part of him didn't feel quite so alone.

/END OF CHAPTER/

Last happy moments before despair (hehehe). I want to show that Naruto and Sasuke are equal when you take away Naruto's Infinity. With the Infinity, it's not close (of course). I mentioned this before I don't want Naruto to be ridiculously OP at this current moment, it would make the story boring since fights would end in like two seconds. He'll be the Strongest/OP eventually but not at the moment. There is probably an inconsistency with the Infinity time limit. He can use it for ~2 minutes and then there is a cooldown. Infinity/Mugen is separate from his "telekinesis" powers. He can spam the Space Manipulation allowing him to fly, hover, manipulate the ground, etc., etc. Let me know how I can better implement it. Making sure the technique is strong but not so OP at least for now.