Ring, ring, ring~
At the Konoha Ninja Academy, the dismissal bell finally rang.
Young figures streamed off the training grounds in a crowd, their chatter carrying throughout the campus.
At the edge of the grounds, however, the four-person squad was already geared up, the atmosphere especially solemn.
Uchiha Lei stood tall, a faint, cool aura surrounding him. The Uchiha Clan's aloof pride was etched into his bones, and his eyes were calm and untroubled, yet concealed unfathomable strength.
Kakashi Hatake still had that air of maturity beyond his years, his eyes sharp and his bearing agile. Despite his youth, his composure and combat prowess far surpassed those of his peers. His aura was restrained; one glance marked him as a first-rate genius.
Kurenai Yuhi's pretty face brimmed with unconcealed excitement and anticipation, her eyes sparkling. This was her first time leaving with the squad on an official mission, and everything felt fresh to her. She was eager to try her hand.
Only Obito Uchiha hung his head, his face full of misery and frustration, the corners of his mouth drooping almost to his ears as he sulked.
The four had just stepped through the Ninja Academy's gates when they found a tall, imposing figure standing at the entrance, his gaze directed straight at Kurenai Yuhi.
It was Kurenai Yuhi's father, Konoha's elite Jonin, Yuhi Shinku.
Yuhi Shinku's gaze was gentle but cautioning. He stepped forward and lightly patted his daughter's shoulder, lowering his voice to give her solemn instructions:
"Kurenai, the mission you've been selected for is no ordinary one. Don't be willful or reckless. Stay close to your teammates at all times, make sure you keep yourself safe, follow the squad's arrangements, and don't act on your own."
"I understand, Father. I'll be careful!" Kurenai Yuhi nodded obediently and