Naruto - Minato Namikaze SI

Chapter 33 - Third Year 03.

[Chapter Size: 1600 Words.]
Third Person POV
Konoha, Year 34.
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Dawn bathed Konoha in its gentle light, heralding the start of a new academic year at the ninja academy. Minato, now entering his third year, was already accustomed to the feelings of the start of the school year. He had spent the holidays dedicating himself to rigorous training and in-depth studies, with a few casual meetings among his friends, even though Mikoto had not appeared anymore after that conversation about the Sharingan he had with her.

But he hoped to see her as he walked towards the academy; other than that, Minato continued walking and mentally reviewing his goals for the year. He wanted to refine his techniques, learn all the basic jutsus, and continue to strengthen his body and mind. His third year in this world promised to be more demanding than the others.

As he approached the academy, the familiar wooden and stone structure rose before him, the fire symbol stamped on the gate in Kanji. Students of all ages were already there, all gathered in a whirlwind of activity and noise.

Minato entered the third-year classroom, his eyes sweeping the space for familiar faces. Soon, his gaze found Mikoto arguing with Tsuna about something; he walked to his usual place.

As Minato got closer, the discussion between Mikoto and Tsuna became clearer. The two were engaged in a heated debate, while many students looked on with interest, already accustomed to the fierce competition between the two 8-year-old girls.

Tsuna, with a defiant posture, taunted Mikoto, her Senju spirit evident in every word. "What do you think, Uchiha? I'm going to beat you badly this year!"

Mikoto responded with a sharp look, the typical serenity of the Uchiha present even amid the provocation. "Tsk, Senju, you're always such a wild one."

The response made Tsuna frown, her fighting spirit more ignited than ever. "What did you say? Want to get beaten up?" She stepped forward, the challenge clear in her tone.

Mikoto sighed lightly, as if Tsuna's bravado was something she had come to expect. "Please, Tsuna, you know it's not a matter of 'wanting.' It's a matter of 'can.' And we all know that, when it comes to technique and control, the Uchiha have the edge."

Tsuna laughed, crossing her arms. "Oh, yes, the famous eyes of the Uchiha. But don't forget, Mikoto, the strength and stamina of the Senju are not something to be underestimated. This year, I'll show you the true power of our clan!"

Mikoto kept her gaze fixed on Tsuna, the challenge and confidence clearly etched on her face. "I'm looking forward to it, Tsuna. You'll be surprised how much I've evolved, prepare to cry with your defeat." Her words were firm, but the small smile playing on her lips softened the threat, turning it into a friendly promise of competition.

"I see you guys are already excited..." The moment Minato intervened, both turned towards him. "Minato, you finally showed up!" Tsuna greeted him with a broad smile, her usual vibrant energy making her greeting warm and welcoming.

Mikoto, on the other hand, seemed momentarily taken aback. As soon as she saw him, a slight blush tinted her cheeks, and she averted her gaze, murmuring a shy, "Minato..." It was a subtle reaction, and neither of the other two noticed.

Minato continued his way and sat next to them; he asked a basic question. "Ready to start the year?" He maintained a cheerful smile for both of them on each side.

"Of course..." Mikoto replied, still avoiding direct eye contact with Minato, her voice calm and somewhat distant.

"Let's rock it!" Tsuna responded with her usual enthusiasm, her contagious energy filling the space around her. While Minato and Tsuna continued to chat, Mikoto remained a bit more reserved, participating when necessary but clearly lost in her own thoughts, somewhat avoiding Minato. The conversation was interrupted by the start of the class, with the arrival of a familiar teacher. "Hello third-year students, we're together once again!" Maki Fuuma announced, entering the room with an energetic vibe, surprising all the students.