Ⅰ
After receiving some insightful advice from Ino, I decided to have a chat with Naruto after the exam. The test was scheduled for early morning, at eight o'clock. All students were tasked to perform a cloning jutsu (分身の術). Unlike the transformation jutsu, the cloning jutsu requires a sufficient amount of chakra to create a clone. However, for this exam, we were instructed to create two of them.
The judge would assess our chakra control as we performed the technique. Successfully creating two duplicates of ourselves would demonstrate our potential to handle a higher level of jutsu, which requires a tremendous amount of chakra to use. As more experience we would get as a shinobi, the more difficult it would be when we want to learn or create a new ability.
We patiently waited for our turn as Iruka-sensei called out our names. Once announced, he would take us to the examination room, where he and his colleague Mizuki-sensei would make a final decision on whether we could graduate or not.
I was one of the first to be summoned to perform. Focusing my mind on creating three perfect clones of myself, I was able to pass the test with flying colors. I was thrilled when I received the Konoha headband. My homeroom teacher patted me on the head after seeing how well I had done in the demonstration.
"Congratulations, Darou." he warmly said.
After my turn, it was Shikamaru's and Chouji's turnーboth were able to pass their tests with ease. Then it was Ino's turn, her usual confidence was on display as she too passed the test.
I was pleased to hear that my friends were able to graduate from the academy. It wasn't that difficult if you paid attention in class. Listening carefully to what the teachers have taught you, the chances of passing the test will increase. From this, I had a feeling that everyone would be able to graduate. Creating a clone wasn't that difficult, but making three of them may need some time and a bit of oomph to do it. You just needed patience and concentration to create in order to pass.
However, my assumption was soon shattered when I heard that one student couldn't pass. The whispers pointed to a boy known for his hyperactive nature, blonde spiky hair, with whiskers on his cheek. I couldn't bear the thought that it was him. I desperately hoped it was someone else who didn't make it. But, as reality often shows, hopes do not always come true. It was Naruto Uzumaki, my dearest friend,d who had failed the test. The news hit me very hard as it shook me to my very core, leaving me speechless.
Ⅱ
We were quickly told to assemble in front of the academy gate for our graduation photo. Standing in the center, I tried to make a smile for the camera. However, the thought of Naruto not being here for the shoot still lingers in my head. Despite the atmosphere being filled with celebratory grins from everyone else, I couldn't shake the feeling of guilt for passing the exam without him, resulting in a bitter smile.
After the photo was taken, students began to congratulate each other. Cheers of "We did it!" filled the air, accompanied by tears of happiness. Parents were standing around us, witnessing the moment. Their faces were beaming with pride as their children proudly donned the Konoha headband. Among those in attendance were Shikamaru's, Chouji's, and Ino's parents, who radiated joy at their children's accomplishments. They all gathered in a tight embrace, showering each other with deep affection.
Amidst the joyful celebration, Uncle Asuma welcomed me with his open arms. He too showed me his affection for me by gently patting my shoulder. "Well done, Darou," he praised. "You did a fantastic job." A swell of pride surged within me as I caught sight of his approving nod.
Ever since I was adopted into the Sarutobi clan, Uncle Asuma has treated me like his own son. With my grandpa occupied, leading the village, he asked his kin if someone could look after me while he handled the village affairs. Uncertain glances were exchanged as they pondered who would take on the responsibility. No one knew how to take care of me, an Ijin (異人) who had distinct features—light blue eyes and medium-length royal maroon hair tied in a ponytail. Despite the uncertainties, Uncle Asuma stepped forward to take me under his wing.
Having been exposed to foreign cultures, he was comfortable with people from different backgrounds. Though he could be strict at times, he was always there for me, providing the love and care when I needed it the most. In many respects, he was more like a father to me than simply my uncle.
That said, I wish I could share the same news with my grandpa. Unfortunately, he was very busy in his office, handling the village's important matters. It would have been nice to let him know that I passed the test despite the challenges I faced when I first arrived in Konoha. He taught me about the history of Shinobis, which sparked my interest in becoming one. He was my inspiration, and I knew he would be proud of me—just like Uncle Asuma.
"Hey, Darou!" Shikamaru called out. I quickly turned to my Nara friend and responded, "Yes, Shikamaru?"
"Chouji, Ino, and I are planning a Yakiniku party to celebrate. Wanna come?" he asked.
A grin spread across my face. "Sounds great!"
Before heading off, I sought Uncle Asuma's permission. He nodded with his usual smile. "Go ahead, Darou."
With his approval, I eagerly made my way to join the festivities.
However, before I got to them, I caught a glimpse of Naruto sitting quietly on a swing beneath the tree. He was looking at me somberly, not saying a word. His eyes were cast down, reflecting the sadness in his downturned lips. I felt a combination of emotions coming from him as if he were struggling with inner turmoil and maybe even a hint of envy at seeing his closest friend graduate.
It made me feel uneasy to see Naruto in that state. I thought about approaching him to offer some words of encouragement, but I hesitated, worried it might come across as insincere. Ultimately defeating the purpose of comforting him. All I could do was to keep looking at him and standing in the spot.
The moment was interrupted when Shikamaru called out to me, snapping me out of my reverie. "Darou," he said, reaching out to me. " Are you okay?"
I turned to Shikamaru and forced a smile, replying, "U-umm yeah, I'm fine."
But when I looked back at Naruto a few seconds later, he had mysteriously disappeared from my sight.
Ⅲ
As the aroma of the grilled meat filled the air, Chouji quickly picked the freshly cooked slice off the grill. Dipping it in the smoky sauce, he ate it with a bowl of rice. The rice helped to intensify the flavor of the meat, making Chouji's grin grow wider. "MMM~~~! The meat has cooked to perfection ~!" he satisfiedly exclaimed. His chopsticks kept moving eagerly, grabbing each slice of meat and bite of rice as he savored every mouthful.
"There is no need to rush, Chouji." Shikamaru sighed, "Your dad booked us this place for two hours, and we've only been here for thirty minutes."
Chouji glanced at him, "If you're going to keep reminding me of the time, I might as well eat until I can't take another bite, Shikamaru." He waved down the waiter passing by and ordered three servings of Tontoro for himself.
"Oh, Chouji. You should enjoy the moment more." Ino chimed in. "If you are going to keep focus on eating, you'll miss out on the whole experience of dining out." She paused to take a sip of her green tea before continuing, "We all graduated from the academy together, so you should spend some time talking with everyone."
Chouji sheepishly grinned, scratching the back of his head. "I guess you're right, Ino. I'll try to slow down a bit. But…" He looked around the table, then quickly picked up the platter of Pork Ribs and held it up. "After I finish this, if you don't mind."
Shikamaru slowly shook his head with a smirk. "Troublesome as always. But I guess that is what makes dining with you fun."
Ino agreed as she chuckled softly. The three of them continuously enjoyed the atmosphere while chatting over the sizzling grill.
However, despite the enjoyable atmosphere, my mind was somewhere else. Being preoccupied with the memory of my dearest friend's long and saddened look, I could not ignore the unsettling feeling that was surging through me. It intensified the emotions he was feeling by the way he looked. It was impossible to forget once you looked into his blue eyes, leaving a lasting impression on your mind.
Lost in my thoughts, I barely noticed Ino's voice reaching out to me. A nudge on my shoulder caught my attention, as I slowly turned my head to her.
"You okay, Darou?" she softly asked.
"Oh, umm…"
"Is there something on your mind?" Chouji asked, with his mouthful of sliced meat.
Glancing at the three of them, each had the same expression of concern on their face. I took a moment to gather my thoughts before explaining what was weighing on my head. "It's about Naruto, you see..."
After I shared my thoughts with them, they soon understood how I felt when I learned Naruto had failed the exam.
"It must have been hard for you when you heard that," Ino said quietly.
"It was." I nodded, "I was planning to talk to him after the exam, but when I heard the news… I couldn't find a word…to describe it. And…" I took a quick breath, "When I saw him at the field after we had our graduation photo taken… I couldn't forget how he looked at me with those eyes…." I took a moment to take a sip of my drink, calming myself down.
"So, what are you going to do?" Shikamaru leaned forward, his concerned expression remained.
"I don't know, Shikamaru." I replied, shaking my head in uncertainty, "At first, I thought I'd go to him to cheer him up, but… I had a feeling that he'd reject me. But if I don't cheer him up, I…" My voice trailed off as I sank deeper into my thoughts, feeling a heavy weight settle over me. A sense of helplessness washed over me, making me want to bury my face in my hands.
Then, suddenly, Choji interjected with a bright idea, "Maybe you could treat him to a meal."
"A meal?" I looked up, facing Chouji.
"Yeah! Whenever I'm feeling down, good food always cheers me up! And my go-to comfort food is Yakiniku!" Choji enthusiastically explained, pausing only to take another mouthful of pork ribs with rice.
"I'm not so sure, Chouji," I hesitated. "I doubt Naruto would be willing to have a meal, especially after what happened during the exam…."
"Don't worry, Darou. It will work out!" Choji reassured with a grin. "There's a saying you know: 'When gloominess starts to brew, Grab some food, let happiness ensue!'" With a satisfied nod, he returned to his meal, leaving his words to linger in the air.
"Umm, guys? Are you three okay?" Choji looked at us, wondering why we were quiet. Shikamaru, Ino, and I exchanged glances before returning our attention to our friend.
We were surprised by his simple but thoughtful advice. Its rhythm stuck in our minds, leaving an impact on us, especially on me.
The idea of having a meal with Naruto might be a way to approach him. It had been a while since we'd eaten together at Ichiraku, so perhaps Choji's idea could help with the situation.
After a brief moment of considering Chouji's suggestion, my blonde friend who was sitting beside me nodded in agreement with a gentle smile tugged at her lips. "It's worth a try, Darou. Naruto may not feel ready to talk about it. Still, he'd appreciate the offer."
Shikamaru reclined across the table and nodded as well. "Food does have a way of lifting spirits. Naruto could use a bite to make him feel better."
Buoyed by their support, I decided to go for it. "Alright, then. I'll give it a shot. Will check up on Naruto later tonight if he's up for it."
"That's the spirit!" Choji exclaimed, giving me a thumbs-up.
"Okay then, time for me to enjoy this celebration!" I raised my hand to catch the attention of a passing waiter and quickly placed my order. "Three servings of beef ribs, please! And make it snappy!"
Shikamaru raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Three servings all for yourself, Darou?"
"Absolutely," I replied confidently, "As Choji says, 'When gloominess starts to brew, grab some food, let happiness ensue!'"
Shikamaru chuckled softly at my remark, shaking his head in amusement. "Fair enough."
Ino giggled at the boldness of my order. Her laughter carried a hint of relief when she noticed the brightness returning to my face. And with that, I was able to relax and enjoy the Yakiniku Party as we celebrated our graduation together.
Ⅳ
After saying goodbye to my friends, I was on my way to the Sarutobi Compound. Thanks to Chouji's advice, I felt my feet light as I strolled down the street. Along the way, the sky above was shining brightly with thousands of stars. The view of the night sky was beautiful, making me wanna have a night walk after I got home.
However, all of that thought was soon shattered when I looked down toward the main gate. There, I saw a group of chunins bustling around the entry with urgency. I hastened my steps to find out what was going on. Upon arriving, I spotted my uncle giving orders to the Sarutobi Chunins who were surrounding him.
"Darou," he soon noticed.
"Uncle Asuma. What's going on?" I asked.
His response hung heavily in the air as he shared the terrible news with me. "It's Naruto. He has stolen the First Hokage's Forbidden Scroll."
