"Sako..."
Itachi turned to his sister, who looked dejected.
But then Sako lifted her head and smiled:
"It's nothing, big brother. I'll work even harder... until Father acknowledges me."
That smile tugged painfully at Itachi's heart.
The adults who only think of themselves...
This scene overlapped in his mind with those secret clan meetings,
where extremists like Yashiro, Inabi, and Tekka voiced their resentment toward the village.
What future is there for the Uchiha?
These people...
Itachi thought back to Shisui's efforts,
worn out from serving the clan.
But did the Uchiha truly appreciate his sacrifices?
Shaking his head, Itachi pushed those thoughts away.
Was it his Sharingan?
Ever since it awakened, his thoughts had grown darker and darker...
"Sako, it's getting late. Let's go home and eat."
Itachi patted his sister's head, and they went home together.
...
The next morning.
Still half asleep, Sako shifted slightly.
"The Great Fireball Technique is a C-rank jutsu... C-rank refers to the technique's level, usually tied to its power. No one would be dumb enough to create an S-rank jutsu with the strength of an academy student..."
She mumbled ninja knowledge while slowly sitting up.
At that moment, Sako was still semi-conscious.
Dressed in her pajamas, she stood up and slowly walked toward the bathroom.
Thud.
"Ouch~!"
It was only after bumping her head on the door that she fully came to.
"Lately, I've been staying groggy longer after waking up... Maybe it's low blood pressure... Fire jutsu at C-rank also include the Fire Dragon Technique..."
Her murmurs continued, knowledge surfacing naturally in her mind.
Sako shook her head vigorously.
She was more aware than anyone of the changes happening inside her.
Overall, they were positive, so she brushed off the idea of getting examined at Konoha Hospital.
After freshening up, Sako headed to the living room but didn't see her brother.
"He's probably training hard for the Chunin Exams..." she thought.
So she decided not to bother him.
After breakfast, Sako headed out right away.
She ran across rooftops and through alleys with incredible agility, leaving behind only a blur.
At that moment, she felt free, fully enjoying the joy of growing stronger.
Soon, she landed gracefully in front of the bookstore.
"Perfect..."
Her morning run had been even faster than yesterday's.
At this rate, she'd definitely be first in the entrance tests for the ninja academy.
Sako smiled, already imagining her bright future.
She entered the bookstore, and despite the countless shelves, her eyes weren't distracted.
Among the rows, she quickly found what she was looking for.
"Complete Guide to the Chunin Exams!"
She pulled out the thick book and opened it. It detailed every Chunin Exam since Konoha's founding.
Of course, classified information wasn't included.
This book was an encyclopedia compiled by an enthusiast, based on testimonies from civilians and participating ninja.
Sako quickly skimmed through the book and knew right away it was exactly what she needed.
After paying, she sat on a bench near a small park to read it thoroughly.
"There's a 90% chance the Chunin Exams will be held jointly with allied villages."
"In 10% of cases, due to war or other factors, it's held within the village alone. This also includes the possibility of enemy ninja taking part."
"This year, Kumo and Konoha are in conflict, so Kumo ninja likely won't come. On the other hand, allies like Suna, Ame, Taki, or Kusa might attend..."
"The first test is usually written. The second is a combat trial. If enough candidates remain, a third round takes place at the Konoha Arena... This circular arena..."
Click.
Sako closed the book, having long noticed a presence out of the corner of her eye.
Naruto, hands in the pockets of his jacket, eyes squinting, walked with exaggerated arrogance.
He looked like a delinquent or a teenager in full rebellion.
"Definitely a late bloomer teen..."
That was the only logical explanation for Naruto's IQ.
"Hey! Uzumaki Naruto!"
Sako called out to him.
"Huh?" Naruto turned around.
The sun gleamed off the protective goggles hanging around his neck.
These wind- and water-resistant goggles were the New Year's gift Sako had given him.
Their reflection dazzled Sako.
"Too bright~!"
She waved her hand for Naruto to turn away.
After a moment's thought, he complied.
"What an idiot..."
Sako stood and walked over to him.
"Hey, Uzumaki Naruto, I've got a great idea. Wanna come watch the Chunin Exams with me?"
Her face, beaming with joy and pride, shone under the sunlight.
Naruto refused without hesitation: "No."
Sako: "What?!"