At that very moment.
Naruto was just about to create a Shadow Clone when a voice suddenly rang out in his mind.
[It has been detected that it is currently the after-school trip home. Host, return home immediately and prepare for tonight's training, or you will be punished by the system!]
[Warning! Baptism of Lightning Release countdown: 5...]
Naruto was instantly dumbfounded. He slapped both hands against his cheeks, staring in utter shock!
"H-how can this be?!"
"System Big Brother, didn't you agree to let me go to Lord Third's house?!"
[The host's journey from the Ninja Academy to the Hokage's home and then back to his own home amounts to extra training along the way, which is permitted. However, you are absolutely not allowed to waste any more time!]
[Furthermore, the host's attempt to steal something is strictly forbidden!]
[Warning! Countdown: 4...]
"Ahhh—!"
"What about my Scroll of Sealing?!"
"What about the Multi Shadow Clone Technique?!"
"Didn't I come all this way for nothing?!"
[Warning! Countdown: 3...]
"I can't accept this!"
[2...]
"Can't you make an exception? System Big Brother!"
[1...]
"Fine, fine! I get it!"
Helpless, Naruto gritted his teeth, took one last, deeply reluctant look at the light in Lord Hokage's window, then turned around and crouched down again. He started heading toward his own home.
[Host, there is no need to be discouraged. You can comprehend the Shadow Clone Technique on your own. It may even be possible to work out the Multi Shadow Clone Technique!]
Naruto: "...System Big Brother, that makes a lot of sense!"
"Exactly! Why would a genius like me stoop to stealing? I can just figure out the Multi Shadow Clone Technique myself!"
"Ha ha ha ha!"
Having come to terms with it, Naruto raced home even more cheerfully...
Mizuki's grin had