NARUTO- CH-170. Graduation exam

But this is still too early to say.

Just because Parasite can use Senjutsu Chakra doesn't mean Shiki can use it too.

Right now, he was more concerned about developing Sage Mode.

The good news was that the power of his parasite explosion had increased several times.

"I see."

Ino believed what Shiki said.

She fell into deep thought.

As the heir of the Yamanaka clan, she could actually guess a thing or two.

Investigation was one thing, but more importantly, it was about the identities of the three people.

The heirs of the Hyuga, Aburame, and Inuzuka clans.

Although it wasn't explicitly stated, it was generally rare for civilians to be grouped together with ninja clan heirs.

Unless they were exceptionally talented.

"What about Sakura?"

Ino asked with some concern.

"Rest assured."

Shiki consoled her, "Her teammates aren't weak."

Ino was about to ask who it was when she saw two boys dressed identically walking over.

Shino and Tone.

One wore a white windbreaker, the other a black one.

After Tone was separated from Root, he gradually regained his humanity with Shino's help.

Today, he had special permission to take the graduation exam.

The teammate Shiki mentioned for Sakura was actually Tone.

"Brother."

Shino greeted.

Tone glanced at Shiki.

It wasn't arrogance, just his personality.

That was what happened after spending too much time in Root.

Just like Sai.

But unlike Sai, Tone wasn't as lucky—he was an orphan.

Under Tsunade's arrangement, he had joined Anbu and was slowly adjusting his personality.

The group quickly arrived at the classroom.

"Shiki!"

Naruto greeted him enthusiastically.

"Woof woof!"

Kiba didn't say anything, but Akamaru barked first.

Two years ago, they had finally met their dog companion.

"Akamaru has a point."

Shiki nodded slightly.

"Eh?"

Naruto was shocked, "You even understand dog language?"

Sasuke also looked over.

He was already considering learning dog language.

Because an Uchiha was never weaker than others in anything.

"I don't understand it."

Shiki smiled.

"Boring."

Sasuke walked to his seat with an indifferent expression.

"Shiki, you're so humorous."

Ino blinked at him playfully.

Love brain is really scary.

Shikamaru coughed lightly, "Good luck on the exam, everyone."

After saying that, he returned to his seat.

He wasn't Akamaru—there was no need for him to stay and eat dog food.

Hearing about the exam triggered a switch in Naruto.

His teeth flashed in a grin, he raised his thumb, and declared, "Shiki, let's start our 15,532nd competition!"

"So many times?"

Shiki asked, a little confused.

"No idea."

Naruto said confidently, "I just picked a number that sounds youthful!"

"You're really something."

Shiki turned and looked around the classroom.

He noticed Hinata.

She was holding something in both hands, looking a little uneasy, occasionally glancing at him.

Shiki walked forward.

Ino's cheeks puffed slightly when she saw this.

She clenched her small fists and waved them.

This time, she had to surpass Hinata!

In previous exams, she was always a little behind because they involved practical experience.

But that was normal.

Hinata practiced Gentle Fist.

She, on the other hand, practiced Mind-Body Switch Jutsu.

Completely different skill sets.

But today, there was no practical exam—only a written test and the three basic jutsu.

This time, she would definitely shine brighter than Hinata.

"Shiki-kun."

Hinata tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and greeted him softly.

Just like in the original story, she wore a white long coat and black trousers, more tightly wrapped than others.

The only difference was that she had already grown her hair long.

"This... is for you."

Hinata handed him something with both hands—a pink amulet.

Simply put, it was similar to a lucky charm from his previous life.

Being stared at by Shiki, Hinata's face instantly turned red.

She lowered her head, visibly nervous.

"Thanks."

Shiki took a look—it was a study charm.

"N-No problem..."

Hinata clasped her hands together, poking her index fingers, whispering shyly.

Shiki seemed to be considering something.

What should he give in return?

"Everyone, take your seats."

Iruka walked into the classroom with a stack of test papers.

"Hinata, good luck."

Shiki reached out, gently patted her soft hair, then turned away.

Hinata whimpered slightly, feeling dizzy.

"..."

Iruka clenched his fists.

He was breaking inside.

Why were twelve-year-olds experiencing sweet love?

And he was still single.

It was enough to make anyone shed tears.

"The exam begins!"

Iruka gritted his teeth, "If I catch you cheating, your score will be canceled!"

Why is the teacher so angry today?

Many students felt confused.

"Is that clear?!"

Iruka shouted.

"Clear!"

The students responded in unison.

"Kiba, hand out the test papers."

Iruka instructed after glancing around.

Because Akamaru hadn't answered.

If you can't follow instructions, you should be punished!

With Kiba's help, each student received a test paper.

The exam officially began.

Shiki quickly scanned the test—it was no different from their usual written exams.

Just slightly harder.

But for him, that was nothing.

After the morning exam, the real highlight awaited in the afternoon—

The assessment of the three basic jutsu.

More importantly, class assignments.

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Thank you all for supporting me.