Chapter 3: Graduation and Friends
Chapter 3: Graduation and Friends
The soft murmur of students filled the classroom as Shin walked in, taking in the familiar yet foreign faces around him. Kurenai Yuhi sat near the window, her crimson eyes focused on a book. Obito Uchiha was animatedly talking to Rin Nohara, his voice loud enough to carry across the room. Nearby, Might Guy was practicing his stretches, radiating energy as always. The current Ino-Shika-Cho trio—Yamanaka Gen, Nara Shikakichi, and Akamichi Chojuro—were quietly chatting in a corner.
As Shin approached his seat, Obito immediately perked up. "Shin! You're late again!" he teased, his grin wide and infectious.
Shin raised an eyebrow. "I'm not late; there's still two minutes left before class starts."
"He's right, Obito," Rin interjected, her tone gentle but firm. "You're the one who's early for a change."
Shikakichi, leaning lazily against his desk, smirked. "The only reason Obito isn't late today is because Rin convinced him to help an old lady on the way here."
Obito's face flushed. "I was going to help her anyway!" he protested, earning a round of chuckles from the group.
Before the conversation could continue, their teacher, Himeno Jize, entered the room. "Settle down, everyone. We're heading to the training ground for your graduation test," he announced, his voice calm but commanding.
The class quickly fell into line, the excitement and tension palpable as they made their way outside. The training ground was buzzing with activity. A small crowd of onlookers—comprising Hyuga and Uchiha clan members, civilian families, and a few curious Jonin—had gathered to observe. Among them, Shin spotted the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, watching with his characteristic calm demeanor. Standing nearby as the proctor was none other than Uchiha Shisui, whose reputation as a prodigy preceded him.
The test began with kunai and shuriken throwing. Obito was the first to go, performing decently in accuracy but fumbling a bit under pressure. Rin followed, demonstrating solid skill, while Might Guy shone in his combat portion, his enthusiasm earning cheers from the crowd. The Ino-Shika-Cho trio each showcased their clan techniques with grace and efficiency.
Finally, Shin's name was called. He stepped forward, feeling the weight of dozens of eyes on him.
As he stood at the designated spot, he contemplated his next move. He wanted to showcase his potential to gain Hiruzen's favor as a protector, knowing the dangers that Danzo could pose. However, he also needed to be cautious about revealing too much.
When Shisui handed him the kunai, Shin asked, "Can I move the targets a bit farther?"
Shisui tilted his head but nodded. "Within reason. Just don't overdo it."
The targets were moved to a distance of 150 meters. Murmurs spread through the crowd—most students struggled at the standard 100 meters.
Shin focused, holding the kunai in his hand. As he threw, he channeled a small amount of Dantalion's rukh into the weapon. The kunai soared through the air, hitting the first target dead-on before veering unnaturally toward the second, and then the third. A faint blue glow shimmered briefly around it.
The crowd gasped, some commenting on how the kunai seemed to change direction mid-air. Most assumed it was an incredible feat of accuracy and skill, but the experienced shinobi—Hiruzen and the observing Jonin—narrowed their eyes. They sensed something unusual.
In truth, Shin had used Dantalion's space-time magic to create small, nearly invisible portals that guided the kunai to their destinations. He kept his expression neutral, feigning modesty as he returned to his place.
Next came the ninjutsu portion. Shin performed the water bullet technique, a simple but clean demonstration of chakra control. He avoided using Dantalion's power again, not wanting to draw further suspicion.
The tests concluded with a combat assessment. Shin fought defensively, showcasing agility and strategy while keeping his Djinn abilities hidden.
As the results were announced, most of the students—including Shin—passed, while a few civilians were advised to train further. Celebrations broke out among the graduates, with friends congratulating one another.
"Shin, that kunai throw was incredible!" Kurenai said, her eyes shining with curiosity.
"Yeah!" Obito chimed in. "How did you do that? Some kind of secret technique?"
Shin shrugged, offering a sheepish smile. "Just luck, I guess."
Shisui approached, his expression unreadable. "Luck or not, that was impressive. I'll be keeping an eye on you, Hattori Shin." His words carried weight, leaving Shin both flattered and cautious.
As the group dispersed, Chojuro suggested, "Let's celebrate at the yakiniku place!" The others quickly agreed, and they spent the evening enjoying good food and laughter, the bonds between them growing stronger.
When Shin finally returned home, he was greeted by the sight of his younger siblings, Miyuki and Mitsuki, running toward him with excitement.
"Big brother, you did it!" Miyuki exclaimed, hugging him tightly.
"We knew you'd pass!" Mitsuki added, clinging to his arm.
Their parents, Kenshin and Miho, watched with proud smiles. "Welcome home, Shin," Miho said warmly.
As he sat with his family, surrounded by love and warmth, Shin couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. This new life was his second chance, and he was determined to make the most of it.