For an instant, the classroom fell so silent it was as if all the air had been sucked out. Some of the Genin in the back rows could not help swallowing nervously.
Ibiki Morino's gaze slowly swept across the entire classroom. He lingered on each face for no more than a second, yet every Genin he looked at unconsciously straightened their backs a little.
"Now, I will announce the rules for the first test."
Ibiki nodded in satisfaction and held up two fingers. "First, submit your application forms and collect your seat numbers."
"The seat numbers are random. They may not be changed, and you may not exchange seats with anyone."
"Second, sit in your assigned seats. The proctors will distribute the written exam papers."
"That is all. Now submit your application forms and take your seats in order."
Hearing this, everyone began lining up according to Ibiki's instructions. One by one, they went to the podium to submit their application forms, received small slips of paper bearing seat numbers from the proctors, then found their seats according to the numbers.
Naruto took his slip and glanced down at the number. After finding his seat and sitting down, he turned his head and saw a pair of pale eyes quickly dart away from his gaze in the seat beside him.
Hinata sat to Naruto's right, her knees pressed together and her hands resting on them.
Her body trembled faintly, exposing how much less composed she was inside than she appeared.
"Hinata, what a coincidence."
Seeing Hinata, Naruto turned toward her and greeted her in a lowered voice.
"N-Naruto, let's both do our best on the exam!"
It seemed Hinata had exhausted all her strength just to finish those words. As soon as she did, she quickly lowered her head, her