Ch-26 Late Kakashi.

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After receiving a positive response from Jugram, Naruto left happily. The reason Naruto wanted to join the 'Sternritter' was that he wished to befriend everyone within the group.

As Naruto departed, Jugram watched his leaving figure, shaking his head and sighing.

Observing Jugram's reaction, Ino couldn't help but ask, "It seems like you want to recruit Naruto, but there's something holding you back."

"Indeed, I want to recruit Naruto because his potential is almost on par with Sasuke's. But I am unable to do so," said Jugram.

Sasuke was startled when he heard that Naruto's potential was on par with his own, but if it was spoken by Jugram, there must be a significant reason.

"Then why don't you recruit Naruto like you recruited us? And you don't even have to solicit Naruto, as he is willing to join 'Sternritter'," said Kiba.

Jugram replied, "The matter isn't so simple. I can't recruit Naruto because there are many complications surrounding him. If I try to recruit Naruto, then the higher-ups of Konoha who have allowed the formation of 'Sternritter' will immediately demand the disbanding of 'Sternritter' and may even try to expel me from Konoha. There are many things related to Naruto's identity that you don't know. Perhaps Shikamaru knows what I am talking about."

Shikamaru nodded, a little surprised that Jugram knew about Naruto's situation.

Seeing the confused looks on everyone's faces, Jugram said, "Okay, when the time comes, either Shikamaru or I will explain everything to you all. For now, focus on your training and don't dwell on other matters."

After Jugram's words, everyone nodded and resumed their training as before.

----

The next day arrived, and Team 7 reached training ground number 3 at 5 o'clock as instructed by Kakashi. However, there was no sign of him there, so everyone decided to wait for his arrival.

Jugram, knowing that Kakashi wouldn't arrive before 10 o'clock, said to Sasuke, "Our Jonin instructor won't be here for a while, so let's train until then."

Sasuke, already addicted to training, especially after significantly improving his strength in the past few days under Jugram's guidance, immediately began training with him.

Naruto and Sakura also observed Jugram and Sasuke engaged in rigorous training, their movements fluid and purposeful under the early morning sunlight.

Sakura, feeling a twinge of concern, couldn't help but voice her thoughts. "Don't you think Sasuke should be in his best state for the survival exercise? It could make a significant difference."

Jugram paused momentarily, wiping sweat from his brow before responding to Sakura's inquiry. "Don't worry, Sakura. I understand Sasuke's limits and capabilities better than anyone. He will be well-prepared and at his peak when he faces Kakashi."

When Naruto saw Sasuke effortlessly walking on the tree as if it were solid ground, his eyes widened in awe. Turning to Jugram with a hopeful expression, he asked, "Can you also teach me how to walk on trees like that? It looks amazing!"

Jugram glanced at Naruto, his expression momentarily conflicted before he responded, "I'm sorry, Naruto. I only provide instruction to those who are members of 'Sternritter'."

Disappointed but understanding, Naruto nodded and found a spot on the soft grass to sit, his mind filled with determination to one day master the technique.

Meanwhile, Sakura, inspired by Sasuke's display of skill, approached him with a timid yet eager demeanor. "Sasuke, could you teach me how to do that? I really want to learn."

Sasuke, engrossed in his training, barely spared Sakura a glance. "Please don't disturb me right now. I'm focused on my training," he replied tersely, his attention swiftly returning to the task at hand.

While sparring with Sasuke, Jugram mercilessly kicked and punched him numerous times to help Sasuke improve.

Each time Jugram struck Sasuke, Sakura couldn't help but curse Jugram silently for hurting her beloved Sasuke.

After three hours of intense training, Jugram halted Sasuke's session, ensuring that Sasuke would be at his peak for the survival exercise with Kakashi.

Despite being five hours late, Kakashi finally arrived at training ground number 3 at 10 o'clock.

"You know how long we've been waiting here," said Naruto, frustration evident in his tone.

"You're so late that Sasuke and Jugram have already finished their training session and even had time to rest," Sakura remarked, gesturing towards Sasuke and Jugram.

"Well, a black cat crossed my path, so I had to take the long way," explained Kakashi casually.

"So you've been training. Then I hope you don't fall behind and fail in the survival exercise," Kakashi said, directing his gaze towards Sasuke.

"You don't have to worry. I'm at my peak," reassured Sasuke confidently.

Kakashi then shifted his gaze towards Jugram, who understood his unspoken request. Jugram immediately moved aside and positioned himself on one of the tall trees, allowing him to observe Team 7's survival exercise.

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