A few months have passed by.
The morning sun cast warm, golden light over the village of Konoha, the birds chirping softly as the day began. Izuna stood in the courtyard of their home, excitement and nervous energy bubbling inside him. Today was the day he would talk to his parents about something important.
He took a deep breath, then looked at his father, Raizen, and his mother, Sakuru. "Father, Mother," he started carefully, "I want to graduate from the Academy early. I want to become a Genin soon. Like Kakashi."
Raizen's eyes softened with a proud smile. "I heard Kakashi is thinking the same thing," he said. "He's a hard worker, that one. But we will talk to the instructors tomorrow and see what can be done. If anyone can do it, it's you and Kakashi."
Sakuru smiled gently, her hands resting lightly on Izuna's shoulders. "You've worked very hard, training, Izuna. Your control of the chakra and your skills have improved greatly. You must be ready."
Izuna nodded eagerly. "I'm ready."
The next morning, Izuna and Kakashi met at the gates of the Academy. Kakashi was leaning casually against the wooden frame, his single visible eye half-closed in a relaxed expression. Izuna approached him, a little nervous but excited.
"Hey, Izuna," Kakashi said with a small grin. "Ready for this?"
Izuna smiled back. "Yeah, I'm ready. I heard your dad is coming too."
Kakashi nodded. "Sakumo's here. My dad's strict, but he believes in me."
Just then, Raizen and Sakumo appeared from the village streets, walking side by side. Both fathers looked serious, yet proud as they approached their sons.
Raizen gave Sakumo a friendly nod. "Looks like our boys are ready for this challenge."
Sakumo smiled warmly. "They both have great potential. We'll see how they do."
Inside the Academy, the air was buzzing with energy and anticipation. The young students gathered in the training hall, waiting for the instructors to begin the evaluation.
Izuna's heart pounded in his chest, but he stayed calm, focusing on the lessons he had learned over the years.
The instructors began with strategy and tactics lessons, testing the students' understanding of teamwork, chakra control, and basic ninjutsu.
Izuna and Kakashi quickly proved themselves — their minds sharp and reactions fast. They exchanged glances during the tests, each recognizing the other's skill and determination.
During a break, Izuna noticed some of the other kids whispering and staring at them. Among them was a familiar face — a boy from the original Naruto story, about their age, who seemed to watch with quiet curiosity.
As the day went on, Izuna and Kakashi trained together, practicing hand signs and basic techniques outside the classroom.
"I'm impressed," Kakashi said, watching Izuna perform a swift fireball jutsu. "You've improved."
Izuna smiled. "Thanks, Kakashi. I've been training hard. But I think you're still faster."
Kakashi chuckled. "Maybe. But we'll see who graduates first."
Just then, Sakumo appeared nearby, watching the two boys with a soft smile.
"You're both doing great," Sakumo said. "Keep pushing yourselves."
Izuna's eyes lit up. "Thank you, Sir!"
Later, after all the tests and practice, the final evaluation took place. Izuna and Kakashi were paired together for the last challenge — a teamwork test designed to push their limits.
The instructors set a course filled with obstacles and enemy simulations. Izuna and Kakashi had to work together, combining their skills and tactics to succeed.
At first, they stumbled — Kakashi's calm style clashed a little with Izuna's more direct approach. But soon, they found a rhythm, learning to cover each other's weaknesses.
When they finished the course faster than anyone else, the instructors exchanged impressed looks.
"You two have great potential as a team," one instructor said. "You understand the importance of trust and strategy."
Then came the big moment — the announcement of the results.
The head instructor cleared his throat and addressed the group.
"Izuna and Kakashi have passed early, becoming the youngest Genin in the village. They are true prodigies, and their talents will shape the future of Konoha."
The hall erupted in whispers and cheers. Izuna felt a rush of pride and happiness.
After the ceremony, Izuna was invited to the Uchiha clan compound. Inside, Fugaku looked at him with approval.
"You have the heart and mind of a true Uchiha," Fugaku said in a low voice. "You remind me of the great Uchiha before you."
Izuna bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Sir. I will do my best to honor my clan."
Outside, groups of children watched Izuna and Kakashi as they walked through the village, chatting and laughing.
"They're amazing," whispered one girl. "Like real legends."
Izuna smiled quietly
As Izuna and Kakashi walked past the ramen shop, they caught the smell of steaming broth and savory noodles.
"Ramen after training?" Izuna asked hopefully.
Kakashi's mouth twitched. "Always."
They laughed and rushed inside, ready for their next adventure — but this time with full bellies.
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After finishing their bowls of steaming ramen, Izuna and Kakashi wiped their mouths and stood up, ready to keep the day going. The village was calm in the early afternoon, and the warmth from the sun made the air feel soft and easy.
"We should train more," Izuna said quietly, his eyes bright with determination. "We need to be stronger if we want to protect everyone."
Kakashi nodded, his usual calm expression settling in. "Yeah. Let's get started."