Kakashi's words had sounded rather casual, but the threat behind them sent the three home with their own thoughts.
That night, one stayed awake until dawn, one rested up, and one continued training in silence.
As dawn broke and the first rays of sunlight reached Konoha at five in the morning, the three members of New Team 7 had already gathered at the appointed place.
The Training Ground Kakashi had chosen was much larger than the ones Konoha normally opened to its ninja. When Naruto arrived, a quick look around was enough for them to recognize it as a practice ground reserved for the village's veteran Jonin.
It was the same size as the Training Ground Guy had given Naruto before, and was most likely a private facility the village had assigned to Kakashi.
"Naruto-kun, about that danger Kakashi-sensei mentioned yesterday, do you think..."
Hinata looked worried as she turned to Naruto, wanting to discuss what might happen today.
"Don't worry, Hinata. Whatever happens, I'll protect you!"
But Naruto remained as carefree as ever. He gave Hinata a thumbs-up, then flashed his pearly whites at Sasuke beside him.
"You too, Sasuke!"
"Hmph. Just worry about yourself. And stop imitating Rock Lee. It makes you look even stupider." Sasuke ignored Naruto's antics, adjusted his Ninja Tool Pouch, then leaned against the tree trunk behind him and closed his eyes to rest.
Hinata paused, seemingly noticing that Naruto was exceptionally confident today. Never one to doubt him, she nodded and said no more.
As the minutes ticked by, the sun, which had barely brought a pale glow to the horizon at first, rose high above their heads, its heat growing steadily more intense.
Naruto, who had initially been eager and ready for anything, gradually ran out of patience and completely let his