Iruka and Shizuko sat together, with the students' files laid out on the table. Basic information on every student who came in was spread out before them.
Their expressions were not as approachable as usual, because this concerned the students' futures.
If someone clearly lacked ability but still wanted to become a ninja, their mortality rate would be frighteningly high even in peacetime.
So, as a teacher, Iruka needed to weed out students like that.
It was cruel, but far better than having them lose their lives on a mission.
"All right, next."
Iruka put a check mark beside the student's Ninjutsu assessment, exchanged a glance with Shizuko, then called for the next student.
"Hehehe, um, hello, Iruka-sensei, Shizuko-sensei."
A little blond head poked inside.
"Naruto, huh? Come in."
Iruka sounded a little resigned, with a barely perceptible trace of fondness mixed in.
"How about I just pass you?"
Iruka thought about it. The Ninjutsu assessment really held no meaning for Naruto anymore.
Were you really going to test a little baby who could pilot a Wood Human by asking whether he knew the Three Basic Techniques?
"Nope."
Naruto crossed his arms, rejecting Iruka's suggestion.
"Iruka-sensei, we have to be fair, impartial, and transparent! How can you just let me pass like that!"
Actually, Naruto mainly wanted to show off a little.
"...Then go ahead. Hmm, demonstrate the Three Basic Techniques."
Iruka helplessly covered his forehead. Honestly, couldn't Naruto give him a break? Being an examiner was exhausting too, okay?
Beside him, Shizuko covered her mouth and chuckled at Iruka's pained expression.
"All right!"
Naruto's two little hands rapidly formed hand seals, and a cloud of white mist appeared.
The white mist gradually cleared, but Iruka's and Shizuko's eyes froze in place.
A breeze blew in through the window,