Training and mission !

In the following weeks, Kakashi continued the rigorous training sessions focused on honing Team 7's chakra control. The serene training ground witnessed Naruto's relentless efforts in mastering the art of tree walking. Every step he took demonstrated a growing synchronization with his chakra, turning what was once a challenge into a skill he could wield with confidence.

Kakashi, lazily resting in the background, observed Naruto's progress with a discerning eye, occasionally offering guidance to ensure optimal chakra balance. Naruto's determination and the visible improvement in his technique were a testament to the effectiveness of the training.

Meanwhile, near the tranquil pond, Sasuke and Sakura refined their water walking abilities under Kakashi's watchful gaze. The rhythmic flow of chakra beneath the surface became a marvelous view, a testament to their growing mastery. Kakashi, ever the perfectionist, used multiple ways to add difficulty to their exercises,by using mental banter and teasing to disrupt their focus,and occasionally mentioning how Naruto will soon join them and leave them into dust.

Sasuke, driven by a competitive spirit, intensified his focus, eager to match and even surpass Sakura control,and not wanting Naruto to even see his shadow. Sakura, attuned to the nuances of the water movements with her chakra, sought to emulate the grace with which her teacher navigated the water and kept working on her stamina

As Naruto finally joined Sasuke and Sakura on the water-walking exercises, his determination was palpable. Initially challenged by the fluidity of the technique, Naruto quickly adapted, showcasing an innate connection with his chakra. His control improved rapidly, surprising both Sasuke and Sakura.

Sasuke, always fueled by a competitive spirit, noted Naruto's progress with angry eyes. Determined not to let Naruto surpass him, he intensified his own efforts, sparking a friendly yet fierce rivalry between the two.inside his soul,a purple light reacting to his determination.

The training ground echoed with the rhythmic splashes as the three ninjas navigated the water's surface, each striving to outdo the other. Kakashi, ever watchful, observed the developing dynamics within his team with a happy smile.

Kakashi, the perpetual troll, also found immense delight in injecting a touch of chaos into Team 7's chakra control training. With a sly grin beneath his mask, he took pleasure in tossing projectiles at his students during their water walking, disrupting their concentration and challenging them to adapt swiftly,or else they would fall.

He also made use of well-timed interruptions, causing ripples in the water and leaving Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto struggling to maintain their balance. Falling into the pond became a frequent occurrence, much to Kakashi's unconcealed amusement.

Not content with just that, Kakashi took it up a notch by making them engage in sparring sessions. Each clash on the water's surface became a dynamic display of chakra control, with Kakashi occasionally using jutsu to disrupt the serene water and catch his students off guard. 

The pinnacle of Kakashi's trolling mastery unfolded when he introduced his clones into the mix. Team 7 found themselves not only fighting each other in the water but also contending with Kakashi's clones using Jutsu and throwing projectiles at them from all directions,disrupting the water's surface unto many waves, creating a chaotic battlefield where control and adaptability were paramount.

Through it all,the trio yell and frustrated cry cursing their teacher echoed across the training ground. The unpredictable challenges he threw at Team 7 not only tested their chakra control but also fostered teamwork and the ability to handle unexpected situations—a true reflection of the ninja life they were preparing to embrace.

In the midst of all this, Kakashi took Sakura aside for a private conversation. Seated in a serene corner, he inquired about the direction of her training, seeking to understand her goals and aspirations.

" Sakura,I found your talent in chakra control very noticeable. While your reserves are not that amazing,it is not something that will affect you in this step of your training.Where do you envision your training leading you? Is there something specific you'd like to learn or focus on next?

Shaking her head,sakura told him that she's still unsure of it

"Kakashi-sensei, I've been thinking about it,and i'm still thinking of something to be a valuable addition to my skills and a way to contribute more to the team " 

"If I may suggest anything,Medical ninjutsu is an excellent choice, Sakura. It not only enhances your support capabilities but also ensures the team's overall resilience. If you agree,I can tailor your training to incorporate this element,and recommend you to someone in the hospital,giving you a small push "

"Medical jutsu ? I'm not sure about that,kakashi-sensei. I'm not sure how it can help Sasu..i mean the team that much " 

"Think of it well, sakura,being a med-nin doesn't mean you get to be weak. the healer is the most important part of any group formation " 

Getting an hesitant expression,Kakashi didn't force it and just smiled at her,with both returning to the training ground. 

This private conversation not only allowed Sakura to express her thoughs but also deepened the mentor-student bond between her and Kakashi,its also shown kakashi interest in devloppng his student potential.

Days later,In the spacious mission hall, Team 7 stood before the Hokage, a familiar air of anticipation surrounding them. Kakashi, with his ever-present book tucked under his arm, saluted in his usual nonchalant manner. Iruka, standing beside the Hokage, acknowledged their presence with a friendly nod.

Kakashi,his usual self,asked the hokage "Hokage-sama, we're ready for our next mission."

Hiruzen,his ever present pipe on his hand,smiled at them. "Ah, Team 7. I trust your training has been productive. Anything specific you're hoping for this time?"

Naruto, unable to contain his enthusiasm, chimed in with his trademark energy: "Old man, we're ready for something exciting! No more of those low-level, boring missions, please!"

Sakura,offended by how naruto called the hokage,hit Naruto in the head,giving an apology,with kakashi giving a sweatdrop at naruto manners

"Ouch ! Why are you hitting me ! He is old,and you also agree with me that those mission are boring ! " Still sharing Naruto's sentiment, she nodded her head unconsciously,then gave a blush for showing her inner thoughts. Sasuke, though less expressive, subtly conveyed his agreement with a stoic nod.

Hokage,ignoring Naruto calling him old, with a twinkle in his eye, responded: "Excitement, hmm? I'll see what I can do. Iruka, any particular files we should consider for Team 7?"

Iruka,smiling "Well, Hokage-sama, Team 7 has been making excellent progress. Perhaps a mission that challenges their newfound skills would be fitting."

Kakashi, a glint of mischief in his eye, added, "I'm sure they're up for whatever you have in mind, Hokage-sama."

Naruto, eager to dive into action, grinned widely: "Just don't give us another borig mission this time gramp. We're ready for something more!"

The Hokage, with a twinkle in his eye, decided to enlighten Team 7 on the nuances of mission classification. He gestured to a scroll on his desk, unrolling it to reveal a spectrum ranging from D to S-ranked missions.

" Missions are categorized based on difficulty. D-rank missions are the simplest, usually involving menial tasks. As you progress to C, B, A, and S-ranked missions, the complexity and danger increase."

Iruka, trying to emphasize the importance of this information, chimed in: "It's not about being boring, Naruto. Understanding the mission classification is crucial for your safety and success as—-."

Naruto, interrupting with a dismissive wave of his hand, retorted, "Yeah, yeah, mission classifications, whatever. So, where are we eating today? I'm hungry. How ramen ?or do you guys want something else ?."

Sakura, smiling at the prospect of a change, suggested, "How about BBQ? Something different for a change."

Kakashi, always the laid-back figure, added his input: "BBQ sounds good. Variety is the spice of life, after all."

Iruka, now outright annoyed, sighed in exasperation,a vein throbbing in his face.The dynamic of his old students, now discussing lunch while ignoring his lecture, was totally infuriating.Iruka, growing increasingly frustrated, raised his voice: "Naruto! Pay attention!"

Naruto looked at him with a mischievous grin: "Sensei, I got it. No Boring missions, dangerous missions, whatever. Let's just get a cool one today."

Iruka, now visibly irked, couldn't contain his frustration: "This isn't a joke, Naruto! Ignoring the importance of mission classifications could get you into serious trouble. You can't just —"

The hokage chuckling,he stopped the coming tirade "Iruka-sensei,no need to get angry.it seems like they're ready for some excitement." 

"Very well, Team 7. I'll find a mission that matches your enthusiasm. Iruka,give me the C rank mission scrolls."

The Hokage's words resonated in the office, his decision firm as he addressed Team 7.

Iruka, though still harboring reservations, nodded in compliance and retrieved the scrolls from a nearby shelf. As he handed them to the Hokage, he couldn't help but voice his concerns.

"Hokage-sama, are you sure about this? Their eagerness is commendable, but giving them a C-rank mission so early—"

The Hokage, cutting him off with a reassuring smile: "Iruka, they've been progressing well. A C-rank mission will provide the right balance of challenge and opportunity for growth. Trust in their abilities."

Iruka, though not entirely convinced, acquiesced with a nod. The Hokage, now holding the mission scroll, turned his attention back to Team 7. with a sense of gravity in his gaze, throw Kakashi the carefully chosen scroll. 

Unrolling it, Kakashi revealed an escort mission that would take Team 7 to the heart of the Fire Nation – the capital itself. The mission required them to escort a noble retainer of the daimyo, a person of considerable importance.

"Team, this mission is more than a simple escort. You'll be accompanying a noble retainer of the daimyo to the capital. The esteemed client name is Lady Matsumoto. While it's not likely that you'll encounter direct enemies, this mission serves as an opportunity for you to learn about the world beyond our village."

Kakashi, ever calm, acknowledged the mission parameters: "Understood, Hokage-sama. We'll ensure Lady Matsumoto safety and make the journey to the capital."

As Team 7 gathered to discuss their mission, Naruto couldn't hide his excitement.

"The capital! This is gonna be awesome! I hope we can have some fights on the way ! ."

Sasuke, more reserved, commented: "Idiot, this isn't a sightseeing trip.even the hokage told us that we won't meet shinobi presence."

Sakura, always practical, added: "We should prepare for the journey. Gather supplies, check our equipment, and be ready for any unforeseen challenges."

Kakashi, interjecting with his usual laid-back demeanor, remarked: "Good points, team. Let's meet tomorrow morning at the village gate, where we'll join the noble convoy. Lady Matsumoto will be relying on us, so let's make sure we're well-prepared."

After Kakashi's brief instructions at the mission hall gate, he disappeared in a burst of smoke, leaving Team 7 to go their separate ways. Sasuke, being the first to turn around, headed off, leaving Naruto and Sakura to follow suit.