Chapter 68 – Combat Training! Uzumaki Naruto vs. Inuzuka Kiba
Inoichi Yamanaka, head of the Interrogation Division, voiced no objection to Shikaku Nara's proposal. The Ino–Shika–Cho alliance had always advanced and retreated as one. The Nara clan, famed for its intellect, naturally guided the other two. Shikaku's decisions were supported without hesitation.
Hyūga Hiashi, however, had greater ambition than quiet caution.
"Hokage-sama, how many jōnin may the Police Force accept?" he asked smoothly.
Fugaku chuckled. "The more, the better, Patriarch Hiashi."
Hiashi shot Shikaku a sidelong glance, then raised both hands with a smile.
"The Hyūga clan will provide ten jōnin to support the Police Force's rebirth."
Fugaku nodded with satisfaction. "Very good. See, everyone? Patriarch Hiashi's awareness is exemplary."
With Hiashi setting the tone, the other clan heads followed, each volunteering several jōnin.
"Excellent. Now, let the new Minister of the Police Force speak."
All eyes turned to Uchiha Inaho. Startled, he straightened. He had only come to attend what he thought was a routine meeting—never expecting such a weighty appointment. His gaze met Fugaku's, burning with determination.
"Hokage-sama," Inaho said firmly, "I will give my all and not disappoint you."
"Good." Fugaku nodded. "The specific position assignments will be handled by Minister Inaho. Coordinate with him. Meeting dismissed."
Clapping his hands, Fugaku rose, ending the council.
---
Back in the Hokage's office, Fugaku set aside politics. A desktop computer had been brought in—bulky and primitive compared to the laptops of his past life, but sufficient for writing. He leaned forward, fingers tapping keys, absorbed in another story.
Meanwhile, the Ninja Academy had begun its practical training.
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Shizune, leading Tonton, strolled to the Academy gates.
But without a forehead protector or papers, the guard denied her entry. Her family home was long gone, and she hadn't carried her old registration. Tsunade's refusal to wear the leaf headband meant hers had been left behind as well.
Shizune sighed at the gates. "Naruto… I may have to break my promise."
As she turned to leave, fate intervened: an old classmate—now a teacher—recognized her. With their guarantee, the guard relented, and Shizune was allowed inside.
"You've helped me a lot. Next time, I'll treat you to a meal," she said warmly as they parted.
She entered the grounds, her eyes immediately catching a flash of unruly blond hair.
---
On the training field, matches were underway.
First-years, still fresh, knew little ninjutsu. Civilian children fought clumsily, fists and kicks wrapped with the barest coating of chakra. Two chūnin instructors watched—one calling names and recording, the other ready to step in to prevent injury.
Naruto crouched beside Sasuke, doodling with a twig, when something pink caught his eye—Tonton's nose.
"Ah, Tonton!" He leapt up to pet the pig, but Tonton darted away. Looking up, Naruto saw Shizune in her gray clothes, smiling warmly.
"Shizune-neechan! You came!"
"I'm not too late, am I?" she asked.
"Not at all—it's not my turn yet," Naruto said, then sighed. "But Sasuke already fought. I can't face him this time."
Shizune chuckled at his regret. Sasuke, nearby, only pouted silently. Sakura, however, sprang forward.
"Stop bragging, Naruto! You lost to Sasuke at kunai throwing last time, remember?"
Ino stood by, watching quietly, her expression calmer than Sakura's lovestruck glare.
"That was just because I hadn't eaten!" Naruto argued. "If I had, I would've won!"
"Excuses!" Sakura sneered. "You'll never beat Sasuke. He's the best!"
Her shrill devotion only made Sasuke frown in irritation.
"Enough," Sasuke muttered at last, silencing her.
Shizune watched, thoughtful. Is this what youth looks like? So noisy… so alive. It's nostalgic. But I'm no longer young.
She patted Naruto's shoulder and gave him a thumbs-up. "Good luck, Naruto."
"Right!" His fighting spirit reignited. Naruto clenched his fists, casting one last glance at Sakura. I'll win this time. She'll see me differently.
The instructor's voice rang out.
"Next match—Uzumaki Naruto versus Inuzuka Kiba!"
"Naruto!" Shizune waved encouragement.
Grinning, Naruto stepped forward. He caught Sakura's eye once more, then strode into the ring with confidence.
From the sidelines, Sasuke's gaze shifted to Kiba—and the puppy perched on his head. Naruto should be fine… right?
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