Excitement and Resolve

At this moment, even the usually indifferent and gloomy duo, who represented the second tier of the village, showed rare traces of joy. After all, they had finally passed the final exam, officially becoming genin. Considering the recent special exercise, it was clear that their sensei, Kakashi Hatake, an elite jounin, possessed strength far beyond their imagination. Under the guidance of such a high-level ninja, they were sure their skills would grow rapidly, bringing them closer to their goals.

The thought of this made Sasuke's heart surge with an overwhelming desire.

Although the emotion didn't show on the surface, Kakashi, on the other hand, noticed it. In the shadows, his brows furrowed slightly, but it was a brief moment before he relaxed again. He extended his arms casually, looking at his first batch of subordinates with a contented expression and spoke in a relaxed tone.

"All right, it's almost time. To celebrate the formal establishment of Team 7, I'll treat you all to a good meal today. Afterward, we'll rest up, and we'll start our official missions tomorrow!"

"Huh?"

"Really?"

As soon as they heard the mention of food, not to mention Sakura and Sasuke, Naruto's eyes immediately lit up. Naruto had a unique background as a jinchuriki, and according to Leaf Village regulations, he shouldn't have struggled to find food and shelter. However, Naruto's circumstances were special, and as mentioned before, he relied on his resourcefulness to fend for himself during these years. Iruka had only started taking Naruto out for meals in the past two years when he entered the Ninja Academy. Before that, in the first two or three years, Iruka had complex feelings toward Naruto, and his interactions were mainly due to the Third Hokage's instructions and his basic educator's principles. It was only after observing Naruto's efforts and seeing his genuine side that Iruka began to change his perspective. This transformation occurred during their six years together. Iruka recognized the significance of Naruto's efforts, both in training and character development. So, Iruka started taking Naruto out for meals occasionally. Naruto didn't eat out every day because he had limited income and relied on his own efforts to get by. However, thinking about Kakashi's treat made Naruto's spirits soar.

"Of course! You can order whatever you want. Today is a special occasion!"

Kakashi waved his hand and said generously.

As for Sakura and Sasuke, they were both extremely hungry. Their focus had been entirely on graduation, and they hadn't eaten or drunk anything for over sixteen hours since they arrived at the training ground at five in the morning. The sensation of an empty stomach was something they hadn't experienced before.

Despite the slightly inappropriate timing, when Naruto's stomach growled, he couldn't help but chuckle.

"Pffft!"

Kakashi also smiled as he looked at Sakura, who seemed a bit embarrassed, and Sasuke, whose face had taken on a slightly liverish hue.

"It seems like everyone's hungry. Let's go!"

"Yes!"

Kakashi, who took the lead, turned and left the training ground. Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura followed closely behind.

This special exercise marked the first step for the three of them and signified the beginning of a transformative era for the ninja world.

In the evening, in the slightly rundown apartment building where Naruto lived in Konoha, a well-fed Naruto returned to his residence with a satisfied expression. He patted his round belly and let out a contented burp. For Naruto, having a good meal with an open heart was a great pleasure.

Two big eaters and one member of the Konoha top three stomachs had just eaten, and although they didn't eat Kakashi out of house and home, just thinking about the moment when Kakashi paid the bill and his eye twitched slightly made Naruto chuckle.

"Well, it might be tough to come by such an opportunity in the future."

Naruto muttered with a hint of regret.

"Starting tomorrow, can we officially take on missions? It feels like it's been a long time coming, and it's quite exciting!"

Standing by the window in his room, Naruto gazed at the village outside, bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. A touch of nostalgia filled his eyes as he murmured to himself.

Twelve years!

A full twelve years had passed.

Finally, he had taken the first step.

Living under the mask with caution and performing for twelve years, Naruto had now reached a point where he could leave the village openly. It was an opportunity and, at the same time, a dangerous path. He still had to deal with Danzo Shimura, who was constantly watching him in the village, and the looming threat of the Akatsuki outside.

Fortunately, he had the "plot" to guide him, providing some reference and guidance.

"Uzumaki Naruto?"

"No! My name is Namikaze Naruto!"

A faintly mocking expression appeared in Naruto's eyes, but he quickly suppressed it. In his heart, a solemn declaration took root.

This statement was Naruto's greatest vow!

(End of Chapter 49)