The Approaching Chunin Exam

Hearing Nara Shikamaru use the word "monster" to describe him, Nara Shikaku's breathing faltered for a moment, surprise flashing through his eyes.

Although Shikamaru always had "what a drag" on his lips, his ambitions were not low at all... For him to give such an assessment, even with a hint of helplessness, was enough to show just how terrifying Tejima Shinichi's strength truly was!

"Third," Shikamaru paused, seemingly searching for the right words, "he's detached, but not entirely cold. He seems uninterested in many things, especially petty rivalries and pointless arguments. He can't even be bothered to pay attention to them. But it's not that he lacks emotions. He's just... more rational, more focused on his goals. He won't go looking for trouble, but once someone touches his principles or interests, his retaliation will be very decisive."

Nara Shikamaru recalled everything that had happened at the academy, as well as the occasional rumors he had heard about Tejima Shinichi.

"To sum it up," Shikamaru placed a stone and looked at Nara Shikaku, "he's someone with an absolutely sharp mind, unfathomable strength, clear goals, and extreme rationality."

"He knows what he wants and has enough ability and resolve to get it. Becoming the Hokage's Disciple... although it was unexpected, when you think about it carefully, with his talent and that... unique kind of 'low profile,' it seems only natural that the Hokage would take notice of him."

Nara Shikaku quietly listened to his son's analysis, a thoughtful expression appearing on his face.

"It seems you think highly of him." Nara Shikaku lifted his teacup and took a light sip. "For someone like that to be formally pushed into the spotlight by the Hokage at this point in time... Konoha's Wind Direction is about to change."

Shikamaru sighed and resumed his lazy demeanor.

"Yeah, troublesome things are about to come one after another. I just hope they don't involve us."

But he knew very well that, given the Nara Clan's position in Konoha, it was nearly impossible to stay completely uninvolved.

Tejima Shinichi's rise would undoubtedly place a heavy weight on the future Power Structure.

After finishing that topic, father and son fell silent for a while, both focusing on the board before them.

Nara Shikaku studied the board and placed the decisive stone.

"You lost this game," he said. Then he raised his eyes and looked deeply at his son. "Shikamaru, pay more attention to him from now on. This Tejima Shinichi... may become one of the key figures influencing Konoha's future direction."

Shikamaru looked at his losing position and curled his lip.

"Got it. Seriously... what a huge drag."

"Even if it's a drag, you still need to pay attention." Nara Shikaku looked at Nara Shikamaru and silently added, After all, you'll be the one carrying the Nara Clan in the future!

The next morning, at Training Ground 3.

As usual, by the time Tejima Shinichi arrived at the meeting point, Kobayashi Ken and Sato Yu were already waiting there.

The moment they saw him, their eyes lit up as they rushed over.

"Shinichi! Is it true?!" Kobayashi Ken's voice was full of excitement, and he practically lunged at him. "The whole village is saying the Third Hokage took you as his disciple?!"

Sato Yu stood beside him, her little face flushed as she nodded hard. "We all heard about it! That's amazing! He's the Hokage!"

There were no political calculations on their faces, only admiration and longing for the title of "Hokage."

To them, Tejima Shinichi was now the person closest to that supreme position!

Seeing his two teammates' envy and excitement, Tejima Shinichi thought of the Wood Release Scroll in his robes. His mood was indeed lighter than usual.

The corners of his lips lifted slightly as he nodded.

"Yeah."

With the confirmation, Kobayashi Ken became even more excited, gesturing wildly. "I knew it! The Top Student really is different! From now on, when Team 1 goes out, who wouldn't look at us differently?"

"Exactly! After all, we're on the same team as the Hokage's disciple!"

Sato Yu chimed in with a smile, her eyes full of pride.

Just then, a figure silently appeared at the edge of the training ground.

"You all seem very happy today!"

Yamato's voice rang out.

The three turned and saw Yamato standing at the edge of the training ground, smiling at them.

"Of course we are, Teacher Yamato!" Kobayashi Ken immediately shouted back. "Shinichi became the Hokage's disciple! Isn't that something worth celebrating?!"

Sato Yu nodded hard as well, the blush still on her face. "We're all happy for Shinichi!"

Yamato smiled and slowly walked forward.

When he looked at Tejima Shinichi, the boy still wore that calm expression. Yet Yamato could sense that compared to before, there seemed to be a faint tension missing from him.

"Ah, I already know about that." Yamato's tone was mild. "It really is something worth celebrating."

Then he changed the subject.

"Still, celebration aside, as your Jonin Instructor, I've been thinking about what comes next after seeing your recent growth."

Hearing this, all three focused their attention on him.

Yamato looked at them and announced, "Starting today, I've decided to reduce the number of D-rank missions assigned to your team."

"Really?!" Kobayashi Ken and Sato Yu cried out almost in unison, surprise bursting into their eyes. No one liked those dull, unchallenging chores.

Tejima Shinichi also raised his eyes toward Yamato. "Then will we continue taking C-rank missions?"

"No, not exactly." Yamato shook his head, cutting off his guess. "I said we would reduce D-rank missions, not eliminate them entirely. C-rank missions... aren't something you can take easily or frequently either."

He looked at his three subordinates, his expression turning serious. "Before that, I need to give you special training. You'll take on lower-level missions in moderation to maintain experience and income, while also undergoing targeted training from me. I believe all of you need to raise your strength another level."

His gaze lingered deliberately on Kobayashi Ken and Sato Yu for a moment.

The excitement on their faces faded slightly, soon replaced by understanding and gratitude.

They knew very well that there was an enormous gap in strength between themselves and Tejima Shinichi.

If they did not want to become a complete burden in future missions, or even fail to keep up with the team, improving their strength was their only path forward.

Teacher Yamato had taken the initiative to bring this up and adjust the mission arrangements for them. Clearly, he had their best interests in mind.

"We understand, Teacher Yamato!" Kobayashi Ken clenched his fists, fighting spirit blazing in his eyes. "We'll work hard!"

Sato Yu nodded firmly as well. "Thank you, Teacher Yamato. We definitely won't disappoint you."

Seeing his two teammates' attitude, Tejima Shinichi nodded slightly as well. Improving the team's overall strength would benefit him too.

Seeing that they all understood his intentions, Yamato showed a satisfied expression before slowly revealing his true purpose.

"The main reason is... I want you to take part in the Chunin Exam two and a half months from now."

"The Chunin Exam?!"

This once again drew startled cries from Kobayashi Ken and Sato Yu.

The Chunin Exam!

It was an important path for Genin to advance to Chunin, as well as a stage for every nation to display the strength of its new generation!

For Genin like them, who had only recently graduated, it was undoubtedly a highly challenging yet deeply enticing goal!

A faint glint also flashed through Tejima Shinichi's eyes.

The Chunin Exam... That meant Senior Brother's plan targeting Konoha—or more precisely, Sarutobi Hiruzen—was about to begin!

"Two and a half months... That's a tight schedule."

Tejima Shinichi pointed out the key issue.

"That's right." Yamato nodded. "That's why special training is especially important. I'll formulate suitable training plans based on each of your strengths and weaknesses. The goal isn't merely to participate, but to pass the exam and become qualified Chunin."

He swept his gaze across the three of them and encouraged them.

"What do you say? Do you have confidence?"

Kobayashi Ken and Sato Yu looked at each other. They both saw blazing determination and a trace of nervousness in the other's eyes, but even more than that, eagerness.

"Yes!"

The two answered in unison, their voices loud and clear.

Tejima Shinichi looked at Yamato and spoke two words.

"Of course."

Seeing the fighting spirit ignite in the three of them, Yamato clapped his hands and praised them.

"Excellent! That's the spirit!"

"Then let's begin today!"

"Yes!" x3