Three days later, the new semester arrived as scheduled.
However, the figure who usually drew everyone's attention—Kakashi Hatake—was absent from the opening ceremony grounds.
It wasn't until the ceremony ended that the news gradually spread: Kakashi had officially submitted an application for early graduation to the Ninja Academy before the semester began. He was now fully preparing for the Graduation Exam three days later, and it was rumored that even the Third Hokage would personally attend to observe.
This was considered a major event, not just within the Ninja Academy, but throughout Konoha.
If he succeeded, Kakashi would break Konoha's record for the fastest and youngest graduate in history.
Because the rumors surrounding the White Fang had circulated for a very short time, his suicide had not been made public.
Therefore, in the eyes of the vast majority of teachers and students, Kakashi's sudden action must have been spurred by his defeat by Shinichi Higashino, using this method to prove that his Genius was not tarnished and that he was still the stronger one.
Of course, some careful observers felt a hint of confusion: If he only wanted to prove he was stronger, why didn't he directly challenge Shinichi Higashino to a more formal rematch? Why choose the path of early graduation?
Perhaps geniuses always possess a pride and logic of action that ordinary people cannot understand.
Whatever the reason, Kakashi's graduation controversy inevitably dragged Shinichi Higashino, the one who defeated him, into the vortex of public opinion.
While people discussed Kakashi, speculation and discussion like, "Will Shinichi, the one who defeated Kakashi, make a move too?" and "Will he also apply for early graduation?" also began to circulate quietly.
Shinichi paid no mind to these disturbances. As soon as the opening ceremony concluded, he went straight to the Teachers' Office and found his homeroom teacher, Matsumoto Fumio.
"What?"
Inside the office, Matsumoto Fumio's face was filled with astonishment. "You... you don't mean to apply for early graduation too, do you?!"
It was understandable why he misunderstood. His student had immediately stated that he had basically mastered the school curriculum and wished to access more systematic and in-depth Ninjutsu studies.
This sounded exactly like the prelude to applying for graduation.
"Shinichi, don't be rash!" Teacher Matsumoto quickly advised: "You are still too young. Don't just follow what Kakashi does."
While Shinichi Higashino's victory over Kakashi Hatake was certainly shocking, it absolutely did not mean that he currently possessed all the comprehensive abilities required of a formal Ninja.
Kakashi Hatake came from a distinguished family, and possessing five Chakra natures meant he had richer means of response and a higher tactical ceiling when facing enemies or environmental obstacles of any attribute.
"We all see your potential, which is exactly why you need to build a solid foundation." Seeing Shinichi's slightly strange expression, Teacher Matsumoto softened his tone.
"You misunderstood, Sensei." Shinichi shook his head and explained, "I don't intend to graduate early. I just wanted to ask what official channels and conditions allow access to more systematic and in-depth Ninjutsu study?"
"You want to learn higher-level Jutsu?"
"Yes."
"What exactly do you want to learn?"
"Shadow Clone Technique."
"Shadow Clone?" Teacher Matsumoto was slightly surprised. Instead of asking how Shinichi knew about the Shadow Clone Technique—it must have been seen by the diligent student in the Ninja Academy library or the Village library—he asked: "Why do you want to learn this Ninjutsu?"
"It's like this, Sensei. I always feel like I don't have enough time to train. While reviewing documents, I learned that the Shadow Clone Technique, created by the Second Hokage, can create physical clones that can act and fight independently. When dispelled, the clones' memories and experience return to the original body." Shinichi's tone was frank:
"I was thinking, since experience and memories return, is it possible that this Jutsu could be used to assist training? Theoretically, if used properly, wouldn't it be equivalent to indirectly extending effective training or study time?"
"Used for training?"
Teacher Matsumoto's heart stirred. This idea certainly matched the boy's usual diligence. "That is indeed a creative idea, but..."
He first gave his affirmation, then changed the subject, pointing out the crucial flaw:
"The Shadow Clone Technique consumes a massive amount of Chakra. While the memories and experience of the clones do return, the fatigue and burden also accumulate. Moreover, it only brings back memories and experience; the actual training results, such as physical fitness growth and Chakra refinement, still require the original body to complete steadily, step by step."
"I see." Shinichi displayed a perfectly timed look of realization.
Of course, he had known these limitations long ago, but if he acted like he knew everything, he would deprive his teacher of the satisfaction of teaching.
"Sensei, I understand the risks and limitations you mentioned. Thank you very much for the reminder."
Shinichi's gaze became resolute once more:
"But even so, its auxiliary role in certain areas is still significant. For example, I can handle Taijutsu practice myself, but the Shadow Clone might help me simultaneously study more theoretical knowledge, summarize coping strategies for different situations, or even simulate some low-intensity Chakra control exercises. This would greatly improve my learning and summarization efficiency."
"So Sensei, through what channels can I learn the Shadow Clone Technique?"
Hearing this, Teacher Matsumoto frowned slightly, showing a look of difficulty.
If Shinichi wanted to learn a D-rank, or even a typical C-rank Ninjutsu, as a homeroom teacher and a Chunin, he might be able to take charge and privately instruct him, considering it cultivation for an excellent student.
But the Shadow Clone Technique was different. It was a highly practical B-rank Ninjutsu developed by the Second Hokage. Aside from being inherited by a clan,
it usually required becoming a formal Ninja, accumulating merits through missions, and then applying to the relevant Village departments to gain the qualification to learn it as a reward.
Alternatively, it could be taught by a Jōnin Instructor who possessed sufficient authority and ability, after reporting the situation to the Village based on their team members' needs.
As for him, Matsumoto Fumio, he was merely a Chunin teacher. Within his scope of authority, he did not have the power to directly grant students B-rank Ninjutsu.
Quickly weighing his options, Teacher Matsumoto did not immediately reject his diligent student.
He pondered for a moment and proposed a compromise: "Shinichi, how about this: you go back first and formally write an application detailing your reasons for wanting to learn the Shadow Clone Technique, your understanding of its risks, and your planned usage. I will help you submit it to the Academy's Academic Affairs Office, which will then forward it to the relevant Village departments."
He paused, his tone softening, and offered a guarantee: "Of course, the approval of such applications requires considering various factors and may not pass. If the Village does not approve it..."
"...I can teach you some other practical C-rank or D-rank Ninjutsu within my authority. Although they might not perfectly align with your specific concept like the Shadow Clone, they will still provide tangible help in improving your strength. How does that sound?"
This was the best path and promise he could secure for his student within his capabilities.
Upon hearing this, Shinichi showed a grateful expression. He took half a step back and bowed solemnly to Teacher Matsumoto: "I understand. Thank you, Sensei, for considering my request so carefully. I apologize for the trouble, and I will prepare the application right away."