Time passed quickly.
Especially during training, time seemed to fly.
Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh... Five days passed just like that.
Today was also the day the second round of the Chunin Exams ended. Naruto had been looking forward to this day morning, noon, and night. Once all the examinees emerged from the Forest of Death, he could start making friends.
Naruto got up even earlier than usual that day.
"Morning, Naruto!" Kurama, who was making breakfast in the kitchen, heard footsteps in the living room and poked his head out. He saw Naruto rubbing his sleepy eyes. Kurama checked the time. This was far too early; Naruto's usual body clock did not work like this.
Normally, Naruto and Sasuke were both extremely punctual. The moment he finished breakfast, they would get up right on time.
But today was different... Thinking that, Kurama asked curiously, "Naruto, why are you up so early today?"
"Whoa..." Naruto yawned. "I couldn't sleep last night."
"Couldn't sleep? Why?" Nine-Tails asked. Given Naruto's mental state, insomnia was not something he would normally have.
Naruto answered honestly, "I got a little excited last night. When I thought about making lots of friends today, I couldn't sleep." Since today marked the end of the second round of the selection exams, the day Naruto had been waiting for, he had tossed and turned all night.
"Oh." Kurama drew out the word, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Naruto, can you take me with you later? Please?"
"Fine!" Naruto thought for a moment, then agreed. He had nothing to hide now. Even if Kurama transformed directly, he did not think it would be much of a problem.
The moment Naruto agreed, Kurama excitedly raised his spatula and jumped up. Watching Naruto beat people up... Oh, no, make friends—how thrilling.
"I'm going to