Outside the fence around the Forest of Death, rows of Ninja Academy students stood in formation.
At the front of the formation, a group of Konoha Jonin stood alongside the Ninja Academy teachers.
Iruka, representing the Ninja Academy teachers, approached the Jonin and said politely, "Sorry for the trouble, seniors!"
Kakashi waved a hand to show it was no trouble.
Asuma, standing nearby, complained, "It's just an ordinary entrance exam. Is there any need to hold it in a place like this?"
Kurenai chimed in, "This place is far too dangerous for the Ninja Academy students."
Iruka looked a little helpless. "I'm sorry to trouble you, seniors. The entrance exam was ordered by the Elder Council. There's nothing we can do."
Kakashi gave a lazy yawn. "Go on and get busy. We were just making a casual complaint."
Iruka bowed, then withdrew to begin preparations.
After Iruka left, Asuma muttered, "I haven't heard the old man say anything about this. Did one of the elders arrange it at the last minute?"
Kakashi seemed to realize something, and his expression darkened.
Mitaraishi Anko, her hands in her pockets, noticed Kakashi's expression. "What's wrong? Is something off?"
Kakashi shook his head.
Asuma patted Kakashi on the shoulder, then jerked his chin toward the distant woods. "Don't worry. Look over there."
Everyone looked, and saw several ANBU figures in the forest.
Clearly.
The higher-ups had thoroughly assessed the safety of this Ninja Academy entrance exam and arranged sufficient safeguards.
Shizune looked a little exasperated. "Is all that really necessary?"
Kurenai glanced at the student formation nearby and smiled. "Don't underestimate these brats. There are quite a few monsters among them!"
"Monsters?"
Shizune also looked toward the student formation, her eyes full of scrutiny.
Before long, she furrowed her brow, noticing something unusual.
A