Team assignments

Inside the Hokage Office.

The Jonin had gathered around the crystal ball on the Third's desk, observing the latest Ninja Academy graduates who were about to become Genin.

Today was the day the Ninja Academy graduates received their team assignments.

One Konoha Jonin would lead three Genin on missions as a team. This rule had been established as part of the ninja training system ever since the Konoha Ninja Academy was founded.

"...Neji Hyuga and Hinata Hyuga both received exceptionally high evaluations." Although Asuma had not been assigned a team, he still smacked his lips and looked up at the Clan Head standing beside his father. "Lord Hiashi, your Hyuga Clan certainly produces plenty of talent."

"That is also thanks to their own hard work." Hyuga Hiashi nodded gently, a departure from his usual stern demeanor. Clearly, he was very pleased with their performance as well.

"There's also Sasuke Uchiha," a Jonin on the other side added. "He may not be this year's top graduate, but his ability is beyond question. Even among the Genin from the past few graduating classes, few could compare to him."

"They're all outstanding kids. To be honest, I was nowhere near as good as them back then."

"Weren't you the dead last back then? Everyone in your year was stronger than you. I remember you even got beaten up at school by someone in the year below!"

Asuma gave that Jonin a sidelong glance and teased him.

"No way! My grades were excellent too. Guy, we were in the same year. Back me up here!"

"Hm? Who are you?" Hearing someone call his name, Might Guy turned to study the man's face. After thinking for a long while, he asked the question in all seriousness.

Amid the chatter of the Jonin, only Kakashi