The Shadow Hokage [DISCONTINUED]

CHAPTER 9: UNLIKELY BONDS (EDITED)

After passing the lackluster exam and receiving his black hitai-ate, Naruto was informed that he needed to return the next day for team assignments. He didn't particularly care about the team arrangements; his main objective was to develop a space-time jutsu and transport himself five months into the future. Dealing with inexperienced children who were unaware of the dangers of being a shinobi was not something he looked forward to, despite their similar ages.

Gathering his belongings, Naruto sealed them within scrolls, utilizing his imaginary bag. He dressed in his ninja attire once again. To prevent any unwelcome confrontations from the villagers, he locked his doors and windows and reinforced the seals around his house.

Avoiding the glares he often received, Naruto decided to use the Shunshin technique to teleport to the rooftop. However, he was surprised to find Sasuke leaning against the railings, quietly observing the village.

Startled, Sasuke mumbled affirmatively when Naruto approached him from behind and asked if he was admiring the view. The sudden appearance of Naruto had caught him off guard, and he couldn't hear or sense the blond's approach. Naruto noticed Sasuke's flustered expression and jokingly touched his forehead, expressing concern about a possible fever. Sasuke witnessed Naruto's genuine care, which made him realize how oblivious Naruto could be. Kurama, Naruto's inner voice, found the situation amusing.

Sasuke then complained about the two broken ribs Naruto had inflicted during their match, noting that he had to rely on the skills of an excellent doctor to heal his injuries. Secretly amused, Naruto apologized, stating that he was merely concerned. With that, Naruto walked off toward the classroom, reaffirming his belief that involving himself with others only resulted in them resenting him.

Perplexed by Naruto's sudden change in demeanor, Sasuke contemplated the blond's behavior. He considered Naruto's condition, which involved multiple personalities, and tried to recall the name for it.

~

Sasuke remained brooding as usual, while Naruto continued his slumber. Shikamaru, true to his nature, was also caught in a state of sleep. Choji, on the other hand, persisted in his constant chip consumption. Hinata nervously played with her fingers, and Kiba's boisterous nature filled the air. And then there were the irrelevant characters, Sakura and Ino, who were fawning over Sasuke, much to Naruto's disdain.

Naruto couldn't help but scoff at Sakura's passing the exam. He contemplated whether she possessed a jutsu called the "Call of the Banshees," where her high-pitched squeals could cause opponents to suffer from fatal blood loss. However, he doubted her capabilities given her infatuation and lack of skill. Naruto shook his head, disappointed by how low Konoha's standards had fallen.

Finally, Iruka arrived, using his renowned Big Headed Jutsu to silence the crowd. Naruto couldn't help but wonder how that technique actually worked.

"As you all know, today I will be announcing the team placements," Iruka began. "Before you complain to me, I must clarify that these teams were arranged by Hokage-sama and Kitsune-sama."

Naruto, as per usual, fell back asleep until Kurama alerted him that his name had been called.

"Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, and Sakura Haruno," Iruka announced.

Naruto jolted up, exclaiming in disbelief, "What?!"

"Excuse me? Did I hear that correctly? I have no problem with Uchiha, but this banshee?" Naruto declared, expressing his displeasure.

"Listen here, baka! I don't like this team arrangement because of you. I'd rather be alone with Sasuke-kun!" Sakura retorted, refusing to let Naruto insult her.