Encounter

On the bustling streets of Konoha Village, Naruto led the Village of Rain ninjas in search of lodging for their upcoming stay.

His old home, if still standing, likely wouldn't accommodate the group, and considering Naruto had set it ablaze himself that fateful night, its condition was anyone's guess.

"Let's find a hotel, preferably one with hot springs," Naruto suggested, unfazed by any financial constraints. The members of the Quanxiao organization, Nagato and Konan included, were adept at earning and saving money, thanks to their endeavors outside the village.

The Rain Shinobi behind him no longer questioned Naruto's decisions; it was clear who held the reins.

As they deliberated, a few figures approached from the opposite side of the street.

Leading the group was the handsome and aloof Genin, Sasuke of Konoha Village. Flanking him were two familiar faces: Haruno Sakura with her distinct pink hair, and the surprise addition, Sai.

Sai, formerly of the Root organization, had been groomed as a tool for assassination, devoid of normal human emotions or connections. However, influenced by Naruto, he had broken free from the darkness of Root ahead of schedule.

It seems that Sai enrolled in the ninja academy after Naruto left the village. After graduating, he joined Sasuke and Sakura's team. So, isn't it Sai, Sasuke, and Little Sakura who formed the seventh class?

When the two groups crossed paths, Sasuke didn't recognize Naruto due to his current appearance. It's understandable, given that Naruto didn't attend school during his time in the village, making it difficult for ordinary people to connect him to his present self.

Naruto had nothing to say as the two groups passed each other, unnoticed by Sasuke.

After they passed, Sasuke stopped, gazing thoughtfully at Naruto's retreating figure.

"What's on your mind, Sasuke?" Little Sakura asked, concerned. She only had eyes for Sasuke, and even the slightest change in him didn't escape her notice.

Sasuke shook his head, murmuring to himself, "It's nothing. I just feel like I've seen that person before."

"Yeah, speaking of which, Kakashi-sensei asked us to meet up at a certain location. Any idea what's going on? And Sai, can you put down your sketchbook for once and join the conversation?" Little Sakura's kindness extended not only to Sasuke but also to Sai.

Perhaps her loyalty was her greatest strength?

As for Sai, he was always engrossed in his sketchbook, seemingly wanting to capture something, though he never mentioned it to his teammates.

Once they thought about Kakashi's summons, they pushed aside thoughts of Naruto and hurried off.

Naruto didn't change his expression, unfazed by the encounter. If it were Hyūga Hinata, he might have felt nostalgic, or if it were Nara Shikamaru and Akimichi Chōji, he might have exchanged greetings.

In a dark corner of Konoha Village, Tenzo (Yamato) hurriedly intercepted Naruto's group.

"We've arranged a resting place for the Chūnin exam candidates," Tenzo announced, blocking their path.

Naruto cut straight to the point. "Is this some kind of trap?" he asked bluntly.

Taken aback, Tenzo stammered, "N-no, of course not."

Naruto chuckled, glancing towards the distant Hokage building. "That old man's up to no good. Should've put him in his place ages ago. If you've got a problem, come at me directly, none of these underhanded tactics."

Behind his mask, Tenzo's forehead broke into a cold sweat. Did Naruto mean the Third Hokage? And did he just mention that incident from years ago?

Now, Tenzo had to get serious. Raising his voice, he declared, "Naruto, remember when you deserted Konoha Village?"

Naruto raised a finger, interrupting Tenzo's impassioned speech. "And do you remember how I had almost burned down this crap hole."

Tenzo was stunned.

"As Anbu, you should be more discreet," Naruto continued, putting Tenzo on the spot. "Your actions make me question Konoha's attitude towards me. Remember, I will finish what I had left behind"

Tenzo was left shocked.

And just as Tenzo struggled to respond, another unexpected figure emerged.

"You're back," Kakashi greeted, his expression complex as he looked at the grown-up Naruto.

.....

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