Natsumi: Beyond the Shadow of Giants.

Chapter 5 - Test of Trust

Months had passed since the formation of Team Minato, and although the missions they had completed so far were simple and seemingly trivial, like capturing missing animals, weeding gardens, walking animals, collecting medicinal herbs, and babysitting, these small challenges proved essential in building a solid foundation among the members. At first, tasks like these caused frustration, especially in Obito, but over time the team began to find small moments of fun and learning even in the simplest activities.

The communication among the members, once marked by provocations and tensions, was starting to improve. Natsumi, always trying to be the mediator, noticed that Kakashi and Obito, despite their constant bickering, were slowly beginning to work together. It was a slow progress, but noticeable.

At Training Field 1, the daily training sessions helped solidify the group's evolution. Minato, with his patience and ability to identify strengths and weaknesses, created exercises that challenged the genin. There was everything: chakra control, ninjutsu, kenjutsu, taijutsu, and even training to improve stealth and teamwork coordination.

Despite the progress, the Hokage often compared Team Minato to the legendary Sannin in their youth: chaotic, but full of potential. Obito, for example, did not hide his dislike for Kakashi, whose competence and indifference deeply irritated him. To Obito, Kakashi was a "stuck-up arrogant" who always seemed ready to point out his flaws, while everyone admired him for being a prodigy since his early age. Kakashi, on the other hand, did not have any declared enmities but saw his teammates as "inexperienced" and often treated situations with a calm indifference.

Natsumi, on the other hand, balanced the dynamic with her contagious energy. She knew that, even with the tensions, the group had the potential to overcome their differences. What she really wanted was to see the team become a true unit, capable of facing any challenge together.

On that particular day, the sun shone brightly over the training field. Minato, as usual, arrived early, calmly observing the space and preparing the day's training. Soon after, Kakashi appeared, punctual as always, leaning against a tree with an air of quiet superiority.

"Predictable as always, Hatake," Natsumi teased, arriving with a mischievous smile.

Her brown hair waved in the wind, and she carried a basket with snacks prepared by her mother. Kakashi lifted his eyes from the book he was reading, raising an eyebrow.

"Maybe," Kakashi replied, then quickly returning his attention to the book. "But being predictable has its advantages."

"Only for those who aren't bold," she retorted, handing the basket to Minato, who received it with a gentle smile.

"Always thoughtful, Natsumi. But we're still waiting for Obito," Minato said.

Kakashi huffed, crossing his arms.

"As always."

Before anyone could comment further, a distant shout echoed across the field.

"WAIT FOR ME!"

Obito was running down the dirt path, out of breath and clumsy. He nearly tripped over his own legs but kept moving forward with determination.

"Finally," muttered Kakashi, with his usual tone of impatience.

"At least he's unpredictable," Natsumi teased, drawing a faint smile from Minato.

"In the worst way possible," Kakashi replied, his voice dripping with impatience.

Obito stopped in front of the group, leaning on his knees as he tried to catch his breath.

"I'm... not... late, am I?"