Chapter 35: I’m bored… let’s graduate.

Author Note: Nothing of importance, just enjoy the chapter, and if you have any questions, make sure to comment!

And like always, remember if you want to read up to 13-15 chapters ahead go to https://www.patreón.com/cornbringer

I'm currently updating the novel 2-8 chapters a day in patreeeeon. On chapter 47 so far, though by the end of today it will be chapter 49-51.

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Enjoy you sexy bastards.

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[Arata Takeshi - POV.]

The morning sun filtered through the trees as I met up with Itachi in our usual training spot in the forest. Like usual, we weren't at the academy. We had both grown tired of the mundane lessons and repetitive drills that were below us. In fact, the academy was so mundane compared to our usual training that I had decided to bring up an idea that had been simmering in my mind for a while.

"Itachi," I began, stretching my arms above my head, "what do you think about taking the graduation test early?"

Itachi paused in his stretching, raising an eyebrow at me. "Graduation test? We've only been in the academy for a few months, Takeshi."

"Yeah, I know," I said, shrugging, a faint smile on my face. "But let's be honest, the academy is beyond boring. We're both way ahead of the curriculum. We practically never go in person, 99% of the time sending shadow clones to cover for us."

Itachi's lips twitched into a small smile. "True. Our clones probably know more about the academy's day-to-day life than we do."

My clones hated me for sending them to the academy. Not only did they have to deal with the boring aspects of it all, but also with the fangirls. I had no idea how I had even acquired them. I wasn't exactly friendly, and more often than not, I just ignored everyone unless forced to do otherwise by the teacher. Itachi had fangirls as well, but he was more polite and friendly than me, so it made more sense with him.

"Exactly," I replied, grinning. "So why not take the test and move on to something more challenging? We've already mastered everything they're teaching and will teach. We did it before even entering the academy."

Itachi tilted his head, considering my words for a moment before speaking. "It's not a matter of capability. I know we can pass the test without breaking a sweat. But there's more to think about than just passing. We've only been there for a few months. Wouldn't it look suspicious if we suddenly graduated?"

I shrugged again. "Maybe. But it's not like we're hiding our abilities. Everyone knows we're ahead of the class. They call us the geniuses of our generation. And besides, wouldn't it be more suspicious if we kept hanging around, obviously bored and disinterested?"

Itachi frowned, crossing his arms over his chest. "I see your point. But the academy isn't just about learning jutsu and techniques. It's also about building relationships and understanding our peers."

I looked at him with an expression that said: Really? "Yeah, I get that. But again… we send shadow clones to the Academy. If that's the point of the academy, we are already breaking it. Plus, let's say you are right. After graduating, we would join a team and start real missions, gaining actual experience, and the interaction part you speak of."

Itachi's expression grew more serious. "If we take the exam, we would pass. Once we're out in the field, the risks become real. The life of a shinobi is dangerous. We would be sent on missions that could put us in real harm's way. Are you ready for that?"

I looked at him, understanding the weight of his words. "I get that, Itachi. I know the risks. But isn't that the point? To face those challenges head-on and prove we can handle it?"

Itachi nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "I suppose you're right. Experience is invaluable, and we're both more than ready for it. But we need to approach this carefully. We can't just demand to graduate early. We need to prove we're ready in a way that leaves no room for doubt."

"Itachi… our academic average in all subjects is 100 out of 100," I said, raising an eyebrow at my friend. "We've mastered all the techniques taught at the academy before even starting the year, and even a few advanced ones that aren't in the curriculum. What other proof do they need?"

He stayed silent for a moment, clearly taking my words into consideration. "Well," he finally responded softly, "I suppose I have no valid argument against it."

Good… one of the reasons I hadn't taken the exam was that chances were, I would have to deal with someone I didn't like in my team, but if Itachi graduated with me, things would be bearable.

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[Third Person POV.]

[Ninja Academy.] 

The classroom buzzed with the usual chatter of kids as the two top students, Uchiha Itachi and Arata Takeshi, approached their teacher's desk. Their presence immediately drew the attention of their classmates, curiosity flickering in their eyes. The teacher for the day, because Mr. Hagumoto was sick, was a stern-faced man named Mira Sato.

The teacher looked up from his papers, raising an eyebrow at the two boys.

"Sensei," Itachi began, his voice calm and respectful, "Takeshi and I would like to request to take the graduation exam early."

The teacher blinked, clearly taken aback. "Early? You've only been here for four months. The graduation exam isn't typically taken until the end of the academy curriculum, which is after six years."

"We understand that, Sensei," Takeshi added, a faint smile on his face. "But we believe we're ready. We've mastered the material being taught and feel that staying any longer would be a waste of time for us."

The teacher sighed, rubbing his temples. Mr. Hagumoto had talked about these two, but nothing suggested the two wanted to graduate early. "This isn't just about mastering jutsu. The academy is about more than just learning techniques. It's about discipline, teamwork, and developing the skills necessary to be a successful shinobi."

"We're aware of that, Sensei," Itachi said, nodding. "And we believe we're ready to demonstrate those skills."

The teacher regarded them both for a long moment before shaking his head. "I can't just let you skip ahead based on your word alone. The graduation exam is rigorous and designed to ensure you're truly ready."

"Then let us take the exam," Takeshi insisted, keeping his smile. "If we pass, it proves we're ready. If we don't, we'll continue our studies without complaint."

The teacher sighed again, clearly weighing his options. The classroom had fallen silent, every student listening intently to the exchange. Finally, the teacher nodded. "Alright. I'll allow it. But if you fail, you will not get another chance until the scheduled time for the rest of your class. Deal?"

Both boys nodded, showing no signs of concern about not being allowed to take the exam again if they failed. "Thank you, Sensei," they said in unison.

The teacher stood up, signaling the class to settle down. "Alright, everyone, settle down. Itachi and Takeshi have requested to take the graduation exam early, so pay attention."

The room buzzed with whispers as the two boys stepped forward. Sato-sensei gestured to Takeshi first. "Takeshi, you're up."

The graduation exam consisted of three parts: the Henge, the Clone, and the oral exam.

Takeshi nodded and stepped to the front of the class, taking a deep breath. He performed the hand signs quickly and efficiently. In a puff of smoke, he transformed into a perfect replica of the teacher, drawing gasps and murmurs of approval and envy from the class. Another puff of smoke, and he was back to himself.

"Well done," the teacher acknowledged with a nod, his surprise evident. "Now, the Clone Jutsu."

Takeshi performed the hand signs again, creating two identical clones of himself beside him, perfectly formed and indistinguishable from the original.

"Excellent," the teacher praised, his shock growing. "Now for the oral exam."

Takeshi nodded, standing confidently before the teacher. "What are the three fundamental principles of a shinobi?" Sato-sensei asked.

"Stealth, endurance, strategy, and teamwork," Takeshi answered without hesitation.

The teacher nodded, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Very good. Now, explain the importance of teamwork in a mission."

"Teamwork is crucial for the success of any mission," Takeshi began. "It ensures that each member's strengths are utilized effectively, compensates for individual weaknesses, and provides support and backup in dangerous situations. A well-coordinated team can adapt to unexpected challenges and achieve objectives that would be impossible for a single shinobi."

The teacher's eyes widened slightly at the thoroughness of Takeshi's answer. "Impressive. What are the basic rules a shinobi must follow?"

"A shinobi must always put the mission first, never show emotions, and never show their true feelings. They must also respect their comrades and protect the secrets of their village at all costs," Takeshi recited confidently.

The teacher nodded, clearly impressed. "Well… I'll be, you pass."

The class erupted in applause from Takeshi's fangirls and shouts of anger from his haters, as Takeshi stepped back, a satisfied smile on his face. It was Itachi's turn now.

Just like Takeshi, Itachi performed the Henge Jutsu flawlessly, transforming into the Third Hokage before reverting to his usual self. His Clone Jutsu produced three perfect clones, each standing at attention. For the oral exam, however, the teacher decided to test him even further.

"Itachi, explain the significance of the Will of Fire," the teacher asked, his tone serious.

"The Will of Fire is the belief that the strong will of the people of Konoha is what binds the village together and makes it strong," Itachi replied, calmly. "It emphasizes the importance of protecting the village and its inhabitants, valuing every life, and fostering

 the next generation. It is the foundation of our village's strength and unity."

The teacher nodded, clearly pleased. "And what is the role of a shinobi in times of peace?"

"A shinobi's role in times of peace is to maintain order, protect the village from any potential threats, and support the village's growth and prosperity. They also serve as role models and mentors to the younger generation, ensuring that the values and skills of the shinobi are passed down," Itachi answered.

The teacher nodded in approval, clapping his hands. "You both pass. Congratulations."

"Where are our headbands?" Takeshi asked, and the teacher chuckled softly.

"Well… we don't have them here, because… well, you guys weren't supposed to graduate yet," the teacher confessed, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. "But rest assured, I will have them ready in no time. You can pick them up tomorrow morning."