It was as if he had suddenly attained enlightenment and then used it. It was a terrifying and powerful talent." Hong recalled for a moment before answering truthfully.
"I know... In the third test a week from now, I'm afraid Orochimaru has other purposes. Stay alert. All right, let's go!"
"Yes!"
After everyone had left, Sarutobi Hiruzen took a drag from his pipe and exhaled. "Do you want to draw him into the darkness now..." After pondering for a moment, he shook his head again. "Mirai still has a long way to go... Dragon."
"Lord Hokage." A masked ninja appeared before Sarutobi Hiruzen, kneeling on one knee as he spoke respectfully.
"What do you think of Mirai?" Sarutobi Hiruzen looked out the window at the birds flying through the sky.
"Although Mirai only used restraint techniques, the level of restraint he displayed surpassed ordinary restraint techniques. He is extremely strong—a genius skilled in instantaneous movement techniques and swordsmanship."
"Mm..." Sarutobi Hiruzen acknowledged this, then said solemnly, "In that case, there's no need for him to take the Chunin Exams either. Inform Mirai to become a Chunin ahead of time."
"Yes, Lord Hokage!" The Anbu ninja codenamed Dragon voiced no objection and answered respectfully. Then, in a flash, he vanished.
Sarutobi Hiruzen gazed at the spot where Dragon had disappeared. "Mirai..."
"..."
"Hey, Mirai, where are you going?" Mirai was carrying Kiba on his back as he walked along the road home when Naruto caught up and called out.
"Ah... Naruto..." Hideki lay on Mirai's back. Seeing that it was Naruto, his face reddened and he lowered his head.
"Of course we're going back to get something to eat and have a good sleep!" Mirai rolled his eyes at Naruto. Feeling Yokota's little movements behind him, he could not help but