"Lord Sui, are you going to teach at the Ninja Academy?"
Itachi asked curiously.
He remembered that the man before him had been a teacher at the Ninja Academy five or six years ago. He himself had once been his student.
The theories he taught in class and his wealth of experience had amazed Itachi and earned his deep admiration. Even now, Itachi still used what he had taught him in battle.
"Yes. Teaching is what I love most."
River answered with a smile.
Just then, the Ninja Academy's bell rang.
"It's time to head inside for class, Naruto."
River said.
"Yes, Uncle!"
Naruto answered happily, then turned and ran toward his classroom.
He swore he had never looked forward to class this much in his entire life.
Sasuke bowed to River again, then turned and ran off.
"Itachi, let's talk another time when we're free."
River said to Itachi.
Itachi nodded. "Please go ahead, Lord Sui!"
The Ninja Academy was not large, and its layout had changed little since River left.
It was still the same office. Carrying his books, River sat down at his desk.
This small office had originally been his alone, but looking around now, he could tell that others shared it.
"I've been away for five or six years. Looks like the Ninja Academy has more teachers now!"
River sighed softly, a smile on his face.
A moment later, hurried footsteps sounded at the doorway, and a figure soon came into view.
"A-are you Teacher Sui?"
A man wearing a forehead protector and a chunin uniform hurried over, excitement written across his face.
When he saw River sitting there, his eyes immediately lit up with delight.
Then, as though realizing something, his expression changed, and he bowed solemnly.
"Iruka, paying his respects to Teacher Sui."