Yukari Uchiha (English)

Chapter 18

This morning, I leave the house a bit earlier than usual. The sky is bathed in a soft, golden light as the sun begins to rise over the horizon. The peaceful stillness of the awakening village soothes me as I leisurely stroll through the streets of Konoha. Each breath feels fresh and new, as if it's preparing me for whatever lies ahead today.

My first stop is Naruto's apartment. When I quietly open the door, I see him curled up under his blanket, a little blond whirlwind finally at rest. A faint smile crosses my face. "If I didn't occasionally bring him food, the little guy would survive on nothing but instant ramen," I think with a chuckle as I head into the kitchen. It's a small, simple kitchen, but I know how much Naruto appreciates the effort I put into it.

The aroma of freshly cooked food soon fills the small apartment, and I hear Naruto stirring in his bed. I walk over and kneel beside his bed. "Good morning, Naruto. Get ready, your breakfast is waiting for you," I say softly, resting my hand lightly on his shoulder.

He opens his sleepy eyes and murmurs, "Good morning, Sister Yukari." But no sooner are the words spoken than his eyes close again. I can't help but sigh lovingly. It's always the same. But I know a way to really wake him up. With a mischievous grin, my fingers start to tickle his sides, and soon his laughter fills the apartment.

"Hahaha! Yukari, stop!" he laughs, wriggling under the blanket. His sleepiness quickly fades, and I can't help but laugh along with him.

"So, are you awake now?" I ask with a grin.

"I was awake before, really," he replies cheekily, his smile wide and bright. There's nothing more beautiful than the laughter of a happy child.

"Eat up, Naruto. I have to go to the academy now. Today's the big competition, and if you want to watch, you're welcome to come. Have a great day," I say as I affectionately ruffle his hair. Then I leave his apartment, the warmth in my heart lingering.

On the way to the academy, I feel my heart start to beat faster. Today is the big day we've all been working towards. The competition that will reveal everything. The academy is already buzzing with activity. Parents, siblings, and friends have come to see the progress of their loved ones, and the air is filled with excited chatter.

I pause briefly, letting my gaze sweep over the crowd. Then I see them: Itachi, who is talking to Sasuke, Uncle Fugaku, and Aunt Mikoto, who are watching us Uchiha children with proud eyes. Shisui, my beloved brother, is the first to spot me.

"Good morning, Yukari. Feeling nervous yet?" he asks as I approach the group. His voice is calm, but I can sense the pride in it.

"No," I say, shaking my head. "Maybe it'll come later."

Uncle Fugaku nods approvingly. "The other kids won't stand a chance against Yukari. She has no reason to be nervous," he comments, a hint of pride in his voice.

Itachi, always the analyst, adds, "She won't be competing against her classmates. As the top student of her year, she'll be facing off against Genin."

A slight smile creeps onto my face as I listen to the adults' conversation. They're speculating about how many Genin it would take to defeat me. Their support warms my heart, but I also know that today will be a real challenge for me.

Suddenly, the crowd falls silent as the Hokage enters the courtyard. His calm authority fills the space, and everyone feels the significance of this moment. Along with the sensei, he strides toward the training hall, and we follow closely behind. The hall is packed to the brim, and the tension is almost palpable.

"All second-year students, please step onto the battlefield and line up," calls Sensei Iruka, and I feel the expectant gazes of the Uchiha on me. Before I step forward, Shisui places a hand on my shoulder.