Opening: A Challenging Trial
The atmosphere in the academy courtyard was thick with tension. Twelve of Konoha's most elite students stood facing what could be the greatest challenge of their lives.
Under the serious gaze of the Third Hokage, their teachers, and their peers, Satoru stepped up to the podium. His voice was calm but carried the weight of authority:
"Before we begin, I want to say this: All of you are the future of Konoha. This isn't just an exam—it's a test to determine who is worthy of protecting this village."
Every eye focused on him.
"The ninja world isn't fair. The strong survive. The weak are left behind. But being strong isn't just about power—it's about using your mind and your strategy."
Sweeping his eyes over the students, Satoru then announced the rules:
"Each of you currently holds a scroll labeled 'Earth.' But to pass this exam, you must acquire a 'Heaven' scroll."
A wave of murmurs broke out.
"There are five Heaven scrolls hidden across five stone pillars in the western forest. Our Jonin have hidden them. Each location holds only one scroll."
Gasps echoed across the courtyard. Five scrolls. Twelve candidates.
Satoru continued, his tone firm:
"You can fight for them, steal from others, or bide your time. Whether you go solo or team up, it's up to you. But remember—the only ones who survive in this world are those who adapt."
A heavy silence fell.
These young prodigies began to weigh their odds, considering strategies. Some hesitated. Others already had a plan.
The Third Hokage gave a slight nod, his expression full of expectation.
"Jonin, begin the operation!"
The Jonin Preparations
As soon as the command was given, Konoha's elite Jonin moved out.
They raced across the treetops, carrying the five Heaven scrolls to their designated hiding spots.
• One Jonin used Earth Release to form a tall stone pillar, hiding a scroll within.
• Another placed a scroll atop a roaring waterfall, where the only way up was through the deadly current.
• A third buried a pillar beneath the earth, nearly invisible except to the most observant eyes.
Each site posed a unique challenge, ensuring that only the truly worthy would claim victory.
An hour later, everything was set.
The battle would now begin.
The Candidates' Thoughts and Tactics
At Satoru's signal, the twelve students shot off into the forest, each choosing a direction and a strategy.
1. Obito - Cautious and Calculated
• Obito Uchiha watched Kakashi and Gai closely.
• Not wanting to engage them head-on, he turned in the opposite direction.
• "I'll go after someone easier."
2. Tokuma - Bias Against Shisui
• Tokuma Hyuga held a strong disdain for the Uchiha.
• Seeing Shisui head toward the same area, he immediately switched paths.
• "I won't let an Uchiha get the upper hand."
3. The Future Bodyguards - Calm and Controlled
• Shiranui Genma, Tatami Iwashi, and Namiashi Raido didn't rush.
• They moved steadily, surveying the terrain and waiting.
• "Let the hotheads clash first…"
4. Hayate Gekkou & Uzuki Yugao - Inspired by Satoru
• Gekkou and Yugao stayed together.
• Every so often, they glanced back at Satoru, admiration clear in their eyes.
• "If only we could be as strong as him…"
Shadows Race into Battle
Among the thick forest canopy, twelve young ninja dashed like wind:
• Kakashi moved like a phantom, eyes sharp and unreadable.
• Obito activated his Sharingan, sticking to the shadows, avoiding unnecessary conflict.
• Shisui disappeared into the mist, relying on his unmatched speed.
• Asuma crept toward a pillar, preparing for the worst.
• Gai blazed forward, unstoppable and full of youthful energy.
None of them knew what awaited.
Closing Scene
Back at the courtyard, the Third Hokage, Satoru, and Eren stood watching, following the young warriors' retreating silhouettes.
Hiruzen sighed, eyes full of hope.
"The future of Konoha… may lie in their hands."
Satoru crossed his arms, a faint smirk on his lips.
"These kids… they're going to do something great."
Their shadows faded into the forest, carrying dreams, ambition, and the fate of the next generation of Konoha shinobi.
END OF CHAPTER 89