Takezawa Masahiro found Chishima Chiba and handed him a document to read.
Chishima Chiba merely glanced at it before exclaiming in surprise, "Early graduation?"
"Yes. The Hokage personally approved it, allowing you, Tsunade, Sakumo, Orochimaru, and Jiraiya to graduate early. It's recognition of your strength—a privilege the other students don't get."
Early graduation was an honor?
Chishima Chiba didn't see it that way.
Still, he smiled and nodded. "I understand, Teacher Masahiro. I'll notify Tsunade and the others."
"Haha, then I'll leave it to Chiba. Saves me from running all over the place." Takezawa Masahiro smiled. "I'll head back to the school first. It wouldn't do to delay the students' lessons."
Takezawa Masahiro turned to leave, but after only two steps, he looked back. "Oh, right, Chiba. The Third Hokage will be visiting the Ninja Academy tomorrow, so don't be late.
After all, the Third Hokage will also be presiding over your early graduation ceremony."
"I understand, Teacher Masahiro. We definitely won't be late."
Only after receiving Chishima Chiba's answer did Takezawa Masahiro leave in satisfaction. But the moment his figure vanished from sight, the smile on Chishima Chiba's face disappeared.
"Sarutobi Hiruzen isn't an idiot. He's finally noticed something and has begun making his move."
Chishima Chiba's thoughts were tangled, but he quickly steadied himself. "But it doesn't matter. I've gathered all the outstanding talents of this generation under my wing. Sarutobi Hiruzen won't be able to influence them so easily."
With matters weighing on his mind, Chishima Chiba returned to the Senju Main House.
The moment he entered, Tsunade came up to greet him, her little face full of curiosity.
"Chiba, what did Teacher Masahiro want with you?"
"It wasn't anything major. He just informed us that we can graduate from the Ninja Academy early."
"Early graduation? Yay!"