In the blink of an eye, the day of the Chunin Ninja Exams had arrived.
This year's Chunin Ninja Exams were unprecedented, gathering Genin selected from the three major ninja villages and the ninja villages of surrounding smaller nations. There were an unprecedented 390 participants, divided into teams of three, for a total of 130 teams.
To ensure order, all participating Genin would have their identities verified outside the first examination venue. Once cleared, they would enter the first examination hall together.
"Next team!"
A staff member called out.
A little fellow stepped forward.
"Just you?"
"Uh... the other two went to the bathroom and haven't come back yet."
The staff member glanced at his Hidden Stone forehead protector and frowned. "Only complete three-person teams may enter the contestants' hall. Didn't your Jonin instructor tell you that? State your name. Let me see who you are!"
"N-No need! I'll go find them in the bathroom!" With that, the little fellow ran off.
At a complete loss, he ran into the temporary restroom built in the open space outside the venue.
Biting his thumb, he grumbled inwardly.
What do I do? I snuck into the group of participants, but my name isn't even on the list! I really don't know what that old geezer was thinking! He clearly promised to let me participate, then suddenly changed his mind!
Whoosh! The sound of flushing.
Kaede emerged from a restroom stall.
She looked at the little fellow, who was stamping his feet anxiously in front of the sink.
"Classmate, this is the men's restroom."
"Ah, sorry..." The little fellow immediately became flustered and ran outside with a red face.
"Wait." Kaede stopped him and said meaningfully, "You're a boy to begin with. What are you panicking for?"
The little fellow feigned calm. "W-What