Since that day, Shorai noticed a change in Naruto. His determination burned brighter, now calling his dream his "own path." His constant challenges to Sasuke brought both amusement and annoyance to the class—especially to Sasuke.
Shorai maintained his training rhythm, and Sasuke, eager to reclaim their sparring dynamic, approached him in class. But Shorai declined, citing study and personal training. He was preparing for the end of the year, when Iruka had hinted that top students might be selected for a new Specialization class—an experimental program approved from higher up.
Summer approached. Iruka delivered his first-semester evaluations. After class, he called Shorai to his office.
"Your progress is exceptional," Iruka said warmly. "If not for Sasuke, you'd lead in every category."
"I have a goal," Shorai replied. "I can't afford to slack."
Iruka studied him. "Have you considered the Specialization classes? Anything interest you?"
"Yes, sensei. Fuinjutsu and Iryo-ninjutsu. Both are incredibly deep—fascinating in their own right."
Iruka blinked. "Both? Are you serious?"
"Absolutely. I've read every book in the library. Fuinjutsu is light on practical knowledge, but medicine—there's so much. And… I've practiced healing techniques in private."
Iruka shot up. "You've what?"
"Since the start of last year," Shorai admitted with a small smile.
"You're unbelievable," Iruka stared. "Show me the basic three ninjutsu."
Shorai stood, channeled chakra, and flawlessly transformed into Iruka's likeness—no hand seals, no motion.
He dispelled it, then created a clone—silent, precise.
Then, from behind, a voice: "That's just the beginning."
Iruka whirled. Shorai stood by the window, smiling.
"Shunshin?" Iruka whispered.
"Improved. I've combined chakra bursts with evasion. Kawarimi feels slow now."
Iruka's voice trembled. "You're already genin-level. If not for the Third's orders, you could graduate today."
"I avoid attention, sensei. Too much talent… attracts dangerous eyes. But I trust you—and Naruto. I plan to speak with the Hokage at graduation for protection."
Iruka's expression softened. "Thank you for trusting me. And know this—I've been reporting your progress to him. That's partly why the Specialization class exists."
Shorai nodded. "Thank you."
"One more thing," Iruka said, pulling a scroll. "Your calligraphy is strong. Ready for seals. We'll discuss it tomorrow. Keep this between us."
"Of course."
That night, during training, Shorai's sentry pulsed crimson—Unknown chakra detected, focusing.
He deactivated the Reality Stone. The constructs vanished.
After a breath, he reactivated it and reached out with his mind.
"Eh, Hiruzen?" he thought, surprised—then smiled.
He adjusted the connection, added a sensor for nearby life signs, and resumed training, his movements sharp, his chakra a storm held in check.
As Shorai trained, a subtle awareness flickered in his mind—not his own. Through the Reality Stone's resonance, he felt the presence observing him: Hiruzen Sarutobi. He didn't just sense chakra—he perceived the Third Hokage's surprise, his growing impression, even a quiet pride in what he witnessed.
For nearly half an hour, Shorai moved with precision—chakra bursts, frictionless shifts, wind weaving into his motion—knowing he was being watched. Yet he didn't falter. He wanted to be seen, just not fully understood.
When the presence finally withdrew, Shorai exhaled, relief washing over him. He severed the passive link to Hiruzen's perception and reactivated his sentry—its crimson glow pulsing silently on the tree.
No mistakes. No exposure.
Only progress.
He returned to training, wind now flaring faintly with each step—a kekkei genkai stirring, closer and closer.