Natsumi: Beyond the Shadow of Giants.

Chapter 4 - Improving Teamwork

On that sunny day, Team Minato walked towards the photography studio, a modest place, but full of significance for the ninjas of the Hidden Leaf Village. Taking the team's official photo was an almost sacred ritual, a tradition passed down from generation to generation, marking the beginning of a journey that would unite the team with unbreakable bonds.

The gentle breeze stirred the young ninjas' hair as they walked through the village streets. Natsumi, with her loose brown hair swaying to the rhythm of the wind, led the group. Her excited smile was contagious, reflecting her enthusiasm for the moment. Right behind her was Kakashi, engrossed in his inseparable book, although his watchful eyes revealed that he, too, felt the importance of the occasion. Obito, on the other hand, walked beside Minato, struggling to suppress his nervousness while his eyes shone with anticipation.

Upon arriving at the studio, Minato paused for a moment at the entrance, gazing at his students with a serene and affectionate look.

— This moment is more than just a photo, — he said with the calmness characteristic of his voice. — It's the mark of the beginning of our journey as a team and the record of the bonds we are starting to build.

The genins exchanged brief glances, understanding the symbolism behind their sensei's words. It was more than just a simple portrait; it was the first step of something that could define their lives.

The studio, small and cozy, was decorated with old portraits of legendary teams. The photographer, an elderly man with eyes full of stories, welcomed them with a warm smile. He seemed experienced in capturing the essence of promising teams, as if he understood the importance of that moment for them.

— Come on, take your positions, — said the photographer as he adjusted his camera. — I want this photo to show who you are as a team.

Full of energy, Natsumi positioned herself in front of the group, slightly crouching, displaying a radiant smile that conveyed her welcoming and optimistic personality. Kakashi stood right behind, to the left, with his usual posture and a more serious, yet still relaxed, expression. To his right was Obito, with his confident smile and characteristic protective goggles, radiating enthusiasm. Minato placed himself behind them, slightly crouched, with his hands gently resting on Obito and Kakashi's heads, a soft smile lighting up his face.

— Are you ready? — asked the photographer, preparing to capture the moment.

— Ready! — the three answered in unison, their voices full of determination.

The flash light illuminated the studio, immortalizing that instant. It was the first official portrait of Team Minato, a record that, although they didn't know it yet, would become a powerful symbol of the bonds they were beginning to create together.

After the official photo, they went together to the Hokage's office. Every inch of that space seemed to breathe authority and responsibility, and the solemn silence was broken only by the soft sound of papers being handled by the experienced hands of Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Minato Namikaze stood beside his students, his presence as radiant as ever, though tinged with a touch of formality. His blue eyes, usually warm, analyzed the young ninja before him attentively.

With a slight smile, Minato broke the silence:
"Hokage-sama, Team 7 is ready for its first mission."
His voice was calm, carrying the confidence of a leader who believed in his team's potential.

Hiruzen lifted his gaze from the scroll he was holding, evaluating the team before him with a thoughtful expression. His eyes swept over Kakashi Hatake, whose shoulders were rigid, his posture impeccable, as if preparing for a rigorous examination. Obito Uchiha, on the other hand, tapped his fingers against his leg, unable to hide his restlessness. Meanwhile, Natsumi Senju stood in a relaxed pose, though there was something in her gaze—a mix of sharpness and confidence—that seemed to observe everything deeply.