Mutual Vigilance

"You must understand that life doesn't give them much time to prepare, and they are young. I don't think anyone can say they are too young in front of me." Kakashi frowned slightly, looking at Iruka who was about to say something more, and spoke again.

"I became a Chunin at six, and a Jonin at their age. Do you think they are still young?" Kakashi's words completely shut down all questions. Iruka stood there stunned, unsure how to respond.

"I understand your feelings. You are both looking at the problem from your own perspectives, but your intentions are for the students' well-being. Why not look at the students' own choices? Anyway, this Chunin Exam is voluntary. If they don't agree, then so be it." The Hokage said with a smile, clearing away the somewhat serious atmosphere.

"Since the list is confirmed, bring the application forms to them and ask for their opinions. Tell them that the Chunin Exam can truly lead to death, and hope they can protect themselves and take this exam that concerns their future seriously." The Hokage said, pushing the application forms on the table.

All the ninja lined up to receive the application forms and then quickly left the Hokage's office. Iruka, looking somewhat lost, walked towards the exit. As soon as he stepped out of the Hokage's office, he heard someone call his name.

Focusing his eyes, he saw Kakashi waving at him not far away. Though confused, Iruka still walked over.

"Teacher Kakashi, is there something you need?" Iruka asked with a hint of confusion.

"I just came to explain that everything I said earlier is true. Naruto and the others have grown astonishingly during this time. You should go and watch their matches when the time comes. Their performance will definitely surprise you, I guarantee it!" Kakashi said, patting Iruka's shoulder.

"I know, I'm just not used to it yet. The children I watched grow up have suddenly become ninja who have fought against Jonin. I don't know if I should be proud, or what kind of feeling this is..." Iruka's smile was a bit complex, but mostly he was happy for his students' growth.

"I understand you, and please believe in them. I'll go inform them now. Remember to watch their exam later." Kakashi said, then disappeared in a flash, leaving the building. He reappeared at the place where Nanfeng and the others usually trained.

If they weren't in Konoha, this was the only place they could be. After all, these three didn't have many hobbies, except for Ichiraku Ramen.

"What's this, the sun rising in the west? Teacher Kakashi, what brings you here?" Nanfeng looked at Kakashi with surprise, not expecting him to find this place.

"This is the application form for the Chunin Exam. Take it and fill it out. Tomorrow is the day we head to the exam venue, so prepare yourselves and don't embarrass me." After saying that, Kakashi disappeared again before the three of them could respond.

Seeing Kakashi's hurried departure, Nanfeng thought he must be rushing to buy a new book because Icha Icha Paradise was updated. "Really, as a teacher, can't you pay more attention to your students?"

"Application forms, huh? We just need to bring these tomorrow. Make sure not to lose them. See that small line at the bottom? It's only valid if all three of us participate together. I don't want to waste this opportunity because of your carelessness." Nanfeng pointed to the small print at the bottom of the application form.

"Don't worry, there won't be any problems." Naruto and Sasuke exchanged a look, then decided to leave the forms with Nanfeng.

After all, the journey back was quite long, and it wouldn't be easy to get another one from the Hokage if they lost it. Although Naruto had a thick skin, he knew when to be sensible about such matters.

Nanfeng didn't refuse. It was just three pieces of paper, after all. He put them in his ninja pouch.

The next morning, the three of them, prepared, set off for the exam location. After securing the three application forms, they passed the entrance inspection and entered the building.

This was originally the old Konoha Ninja Academy, but due to later expansion, it was used for other purposes. The first stage of this exam would take place here.

"What do you think the first exam will be?" Naruto asked curiously, looking around the environment. However, he soon noticed something, and a strange smile appeared on his face.

Nanfeng and Sasuke had the same reaction. They didn't say much, just slowly walked up the stairs.

"It's probably theoretical knowledge. I've heard about Jonin assessments; even their exams back then had written tests. Chunin should be similar?" Sasuke frowned slightly and said.

"Theoretical assessment? Then I'm screwed. Remember to let me copy your paper then?" Naruto nudged Sasuke's shoulder with his elbow and said with a laugh.

"Sasuke, long time no see!" As they were talking, Sakura Haruno's voice came from behind them. Sasuke looked helpless. How could he encounter this person everywhere?

"Oh, right! Sakura's theoretical score is perfect. Sasuke can copy Sakura's paper and then use a Secret Technique to tell us, right? I'm such a genius!" In their Secret Technique communication, Naruto quickly announced his plan.

Sasuke thought it was a good idea. Since he was going to copy Sakura's paper anyway, he let her make a fuss. Meanwhile, Sakura's current teammates looked a bit unhappy.

These two guys didn't even appear in the original story. They might be extras. Perhaps they would be eliminated in the first round of the Chunin Exam?

"Excuse us, we need to go to 302." Nanfeng stood at the entrance, looking at the two Chunin guards and said politely.

The two Chunin guards were slightly stunned. Although it was a simple genjutsu, it was rare to see someone discover it so quickly and be so polite.

"You've already noticed? So it's Mr. Nanfeng. Are these your teammates? Then hurry up and go!" The two Chunin guards clearly recognized Nanfeng. After all, a Medical Ninja from the Ninja Hospital had a certain level of fame. They might have even been treated by Nanfeng before.

"Thank you for your hard work." Nanfeng nodded, leading Naruto and Sasuke quickly up the stairs towards room 302. As for how the people behind them would pass the first test, that was their business and had little to do with Nanfeng.