After Naruto and Kakashi entered the Training Ground, Kakashi took out two bells.
Sunlight shone on the bells, reflecting a dazzling gleam.
Naruto stood beside Sasuke and Sakura, the three of them facing Kakashi in a fan formation.
"I've already explained the rules."
Kakashi's languid gaze suddenly sharpened.
"You'll never get these two bells unless you come at me with the intent to kill."
He deliberately shook the bells, their clear chimes piercing the silence of the Training Ground.
"Also."
As if performing a magic trick, Kakashi produced two lunch boxes and placed them on the stump behind him.
"I only prepared two lunches. Whoever gets a bell can eat. Whoever doesn't..."
He deliberately drew out his words, pleased to see Sakura's face turn pale.
"Had better be ready to go back to the Ninja Academy and repeat the course."
Naruto had received advance information, while Sasuke looked utterly indifferent, leaving Kakashi somewhat disappointed.
Still, fooling even one of them was a win.
Sakura clutched her stomach, on the verge of tears, and felt her legs go weak.
I'm doomed. I skipped dinner to lose weight, and I didn't eat breakfast this morning either.
I heard our team leader, Kakashi-sensei, is a jonin. Am I really supposed to fight a jonin on an empty stomach?
If I lose, I'll have to repeat the course. And there are only two bells, while Naruto and Sasuke are both stronger than me.
She looked at Naruto, who was itching to get started, and Sasuke, who was already ready for battle, and a wave of helplessness washed over her.
Does this mean I'll have to go back and repeat the course?
The thought brought a sting to her nose.
*I worked so hard to pass the graduation exam. Is all that effort going to