Chapter 27: The Chunin Exams
Though Aizen's performance wasn't flawless, his astonishing comprehension had dazzled everyone.
A distance of twenty meters.
This meant Aizen had managed to accurately condense chakra and execute the technique, even if only briefly. While this was child's play for a Jōnin, for a rookie who had just become a Genin, it was unprecedented.
"Kurenai-sensei, I'm sorry. That's all I can manage," Aizen said, heaving a convincingly disappointed sigh as he looked at the mere twenty-meter gap.
"Don't be discouraged, Aizen. Achieving this level is far beyond my expectations for you already." Kurenai walked over to him, bending down slightly to offer a warm, encouraging smile. She was as approachable and charming as an elder sister.
"Aizen's right, you know," Kiba chimed in from the sidelines. "Just being able to use the Body Flicker Technique at all is amazing! Look at the three of us—we're still covered in dirt and can't even manage the basic chakra control."
Though Aburame Shino remained silent, the kind smile on his face said everything.
Hinata watched Aizen quietly, her cheeks tinged with pink. Every time she met his gaze, her heart fluttered strangely. The feeling was a confusing mix of excitement and nervousness, filling her with a sense of beautiful anticipation.
Gradually, Team 8 had become an inseparable unit. They had truly accepted each other. Even though Aizen had started later than the rest, they continually encouraged him and supported him from the sidelines. They believed that with his prodigious talent, he would catch up in no time. Perhaps, under his influence, Team 8 could even rise to become the most shining new star among Konoha's fresh Genin.
"Thank you for the encouragement. I was taking it too seriously," Aizen said, lifting his head. The disappointed look vanished, replaced by his usual, gentle, sun-like smile.
"Now, that's the mindset a proper ninja needs," Kurenai praised, casting an appreciative glance his way. Aizen was not only talented but possessed the best possible attitude. Combined with his humble and gentle personality, he was practically perfect. Having such an excellent seedling as her own student filled Kurenai with joy. In her eyes, Aizen's emergence was a boon for Konoha itself.
"Alright, let's set the Body Flicker practice aside for now," Kurenai said, swiftly changing the subject. "Actually, I have another important piece of news for you all today." She had been waiting for the right moment to bring this up.
"What important news? Don't tell me the Old Man is rewarding us with another ninjutsu scroll?" Kiba's eyebrows shot up, a sharp glint in his eyes. For him, the more ninjutsu, the better. He would never refuse the chance to learn more.
"Don't get ahead of yourself," Kurenai said, shaking her head with a wry smile. "Any rewards have to be earned based on mission completions. The Third Hokage is a shrewd man." Her expression turned serious. "This matter is very important for all of you. One month from now, the Chunin Exams will be held here in Konoha!"
"The Chunin Exams?!"
Hearing Kurenai's words, the four Genin were momentarily stunned, then a brilliant light ignited in their eyes. Though they were new ninja, they all aspired to grow stronger. The title of Chunin was a coveted goal.
"Yes, the Chunin Exams," Kurenai continued methodically. "It's an examination for Genin from Konoha, Sunagakure, and other surrounding smaller nations who wish to be promoted to Chunin. It's not only meant to strengthen the bonds between our allied villages but also to ease tensions among the great nations. Therefore, this exam will draw a lot of attention. If you can shine at this grand event, you will make a name for yourselves in the shinobi world."
"Awesome! I've been waiting for this moment!" Kiba raised a fist high, his face alight with excitement. He wasn't the only one; Aizen and the others were equally filled with anticipation.
This feast, this gathering of talented ninja from various countries, filled them all with a surging fighting spirit