At night, the barbecue restaurant was filled with an enticing aroma. Naruto, Shikamaru, and Choji sat around the grill as slices of meat sizzled and danced on the hot plate. Choji's face glowed with blissful redness.
Once the meat was cooked, Choji enthusiastically distributed the grilled slices onto everyone's plates. Naturally, his own portion was the largest. Though Choji loved to eat, he did not mind sharing good food with his friends—except for the last bite. He snatched the final slice of grilled meat away with lightning speed.
Shikamaru lazily watched the flames flickering over the grill. He recalled what his father had said before he entered school. "There are many rumors in the village about that child, but you need to see him with your own eyes."
Now, watching Naruto listen attentively as Choji explained barbecue techniques, Shikamaru felt that Naruto was a pretty decent guy.
The next day, in the Ninja Academy classroom, Naruto prepared to treat everyone to ramen as promised, but he was also planning to expand his circle of friends. Besides Shikamaru and Choji, he had specifically invited several other classmates.
First was Kiba, that impulsive young boy.
Upon hearing Naruto's invitation, Kiba readily agreed without the slightest hesitation. Ever since witnessing Naruto and Satsuki's taijutsu match, a clash on par with a battle between real ninja, Kiba had been full of curiosity about the blond boy.
Then Naruto turned his gaze toward Shino, who stood quietly in the corner, and invited him as well.
Shino slightly raised his head. He remained silent for several seconds before gently nodding in agreement.
By noon, Naruto and the others noisily prepared to head to Ichiraku Ramen. Satsuki joined the group as well, but just when everyone thought the whole group had arrived and they were ready to