Without Zabuza Momochi and Haku blocking their way as they had in the original story, the mission in the Land of Waves went much more smoothly.
Still, the three youngsters encountered several foolish ninja on the road who tried to assassinate Tazuna. They were weaker than Zabuza Momochi had been in the original story, but not by much. Unfortunately for them, Naruto and Sasuke had become far too strong under Shinichi's instruction. The two bulldozed their way through every opponent, leaving Shinichi's Shadow Clone without a single chance to intervene.
A few days later, Team 7 finally returned to Konoha under the Shadow Clone's guidance.
"Shinichi, we did pretty well this time, didn't we?"
Naruto looked thoroughly pleased with himself.
"Idiot. After everything our teacher taught us, wasn't that the bare minimum?"
Sasuke scoffed.
"Mr. Shinichi, I didn't disappoint you, did I?"
Sakura Haruno looked a little anxious.
"Not bad."
Once the Shadow Clone was dispelled, the three youngsters' experiences on the mission flooded Shinichi's mind, and a satisfied smile appeared on his face.
Although Naruto and Sasuke had done all the fighting, Sakura's support work on the sidelines had been impeccable. Clearly, she had already demonstrated considerable talent for Medical Ninjutsu.
In any case, the three youngsters' current performance had just about met Shinichi's standards.
"Don't get complacent."
Under their expectant gazes, Shinichi once again flashed his villainous smile and said ominously, "Here's some good news. This year's Chunin Ninja Exams will be held in Konoha soon. Talented ninja from all the Five Great Shinobi Villages will gather here to take the exams."
"As your teacher, I've decided to set a little goal for you first. You must pass the Chunin Ninja Exams! Naruto, Sasuke, if you don't place in the top three, don't bother coming back to see