The Tale of an ordinary ninja

Akira's Journey to the Academy

Akira stood outside the imposing gates of the Ninja Academy, his heart racing with anticipation. At just seven years old, he was about to take the first official step toward becoming a shinobi. Around him, other children his age were similarly nervous, chattering among themselves or fidgeting in excitement. Some wore traditional clan symbols proudly on their clothing, while others, like Akira, were civilian-born or from mixed heritage.

He clenched his fists, steadying his resolve. After two years of relentless training under Lady Mochizuki, he knew he was ready. He had unlocked his chakra network, honed his physical fitness, and could perform basic jutsu with ease.

Hokage's Office

Inside the Hokage's office, Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, sat at his desk, reviewing reports about the Academy's entrance exams. Two chunin stood before him, ready to carry out his instructions.

Chunin 1:

"Sir, we have about 300 students applying for the entrance exam this year. How should we proceed?"

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his pipe held loosely between his fingers. He exhaled a puff of smoke and spoke with calm authority.

Hiruzen:

"Separate the applicants into three categories. First, those who have unlocked their chakra network and are physically fit. Second, those who have unlocked their chakra, are physically fit, and can perform basic jutsu. Finally, those who are physically fit but have yet to unlock their chakra. Anyone who doesn't meet at least one of these criteria should be sent home."

Chunin 2:

"Understood, Hokage-sama. We'll proceed immediately."

As the chunin left to organize the exams, Hiruzen remained deep in thought.

Hiruzen's Thoughts

"Three hundred applicants… It's a decent number, especially during this time of peace. But it's still far from the numbers we had during the Warring States era. If only Tobirama-sensei were here… He would know how to motivate more young ones to join our ranks."

Hiruzen gazed out the window, watching the bustling streets of Konoha. The village was thriving, but he knew that strength was essential to maintaining that peace.

"The future of this village lies in the Academy. Among these children, I must nurture the next generation of great shinobi."

His thoughts turned to the most promising individuals he had observed so far.

Tsunade:

"Tsunade… the granddaughter of Lord Hashirama and Lady Mito Uzumaki. Her lineage alone is enough to mark her for greatness, but she's already proving herself beyond her heritage. Her chakra control is exceptional, perhaps even unparalleled. And that strength… she's inherited the Senju resilience and vitality. If she can refine her skills further, she'll be a shinobi capable of turning the tide of any battle."

Orochimaru:

"Then there's Orochimaru. That boy is a genius, plain and simple. His talent for ninjutsu is frighteningly natural, and his analytical mind is unlike any I've seen. He's quiet, observant, and always calculating. There's a darkness in him, a hunger for knowledge that worries me, but if channeled correctly, he could become one of the most powerful shinobi this village has ever produced."

Jiraiya:

"Jiraiya, on the other hand, is the complete opposite. Reckless, loud, and undisciplined. But there's something about him… a spark of potential hidden beneath that carefree exterior. He's tenacious, and when he does focus, he shows incredible promise. If I can guide him properly, he could surprise us all. Maybe even himself."

Hiruzen smiled faintly, imagining the three of them together.

"These three could become the future of Konoha. If I train them personally, I can mold them into the protectors this village needs. But for now, I must focus on the Academy. Among these 300 applicants, I hope to find at least 15 capable of reaching the rank of jonin. That will be enough to bolster our forces and ensure Konoha's strength for years to come."

Back at the Academy

The children were called in small groups to perform their tasks. Akira stood in line, observing the others. Some performed basic jutsu like the Clone Jutsu or Substitution Jutsu with ease, while others struggled.

When it was his turn, Akira stepped forward confidently. He performed the Clone Jutsu, creating a perfect replica of himself. Next, he demonstrated his chakra control by balancing a leaf on his forehead and using his wind chakra to slice it cleanly in half. Finally, he showcased his physical fitness by completing a series of rigorous exercises.

The instructors nodded in approval, placing him in the second category—students who had unlocked their chakra and could perform basic jutsu.

As Akira walked back to wait for the next set of instructions, he couldn't help but wonder what lay ahead.

"This is just the beginning. If I want to catch up to Tsunade, Orochimaru, and Jiraiya, I'll have to push myself even harder."

Akira's journey into the world of shinobi had officially begun, but he knew the real challenges were yet to come.