As Sasuke pondered his path, his gaze turned back to Konoha, filled with doubt and determination. Kakashi's influence was undeniable—his approval and mentorship were key in Sasuke's journey. The recent Thunder Release training, specifically learning the "Thunder Arrow" technique, had sparked a turning point.
Their training continued as Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke practiced tree-climbing exercises under Kakashi's watch. Sakura's steady progress surprised the group when, with a swift leap, she effortlessly positioned herself on a branch high above them. Naruto, clearly flustered, shouted up at her, "Sakura, that's amazing!" Though his words praised her, a sting of frustration clouded his expression. He could accept losing to Sasuke, but seeing Sakura surpass him struck a sensitive chord.
Sasuke's calm yet approving look towards Sakura contrasted Naruto's reaction. Kakashi, too, was secretly impressed by Sakura's control over her chakra, which allowed her to progress quickly. However, he recognized that Naruto and Sasuke possessed far more chakra, making their training naturally harder due to the greater energy they had to control. Kakashi was pleased with Sakura's progress but held back deeper praise; he knew her control was exceptional.
"Alright," Kakashi instructed, "continue your training here. I'll check back later to see how things are going." With a dismissive wave and his red book in hand, he disappeared, likely off to relax somewhere within the village.
Seizing the opportunity, Sakura moved closer to Sasuke, her voice soft yet eager. "Sasuke-kun, I've picked up a few things. Would you like to hear some tips?" Sakura's offer was brimming with excitement, feeling validated by the praise she received. Sasuke gave her a nod, and she began sharing her insights, her heart racing with the hope of deepening their bond. However, Naruto, growing more jealous, wasn't about to let Sakura's attention linger on Sasuke alone. "I want to hear too, Sakura!" he demanded, unwilling to be left out. Reluctantly, she agreed, though her focus remained on Sasuke.
Shortly afterward, Sasuke felt an energy surge as he focused his chakra to climb a tree. He heard a voice from within, confirming, Quest: Listen to experience; reward: tree-climbing effect doubled. With renewed vigor, Sasuke skillfully ascended, reaching a height close to Sakura's. This improvement shocked Naruto, who responded by concentrating even harder, his determination stoked by the rivalry. Not wanting to lag behind, Sakura quickly resumed her climb, her intense focus revealing a determination that Kakashi had not yet seen in her.
As the afternoon sun rose high, Kakashi reappeared, assessing their progress with a nod of approval. The trio's sweat-soaked, determined faces told him all he needed to know—they had worked diligently. But as he scanned Naruto, he noticed his bruises and cuts. Typical Naruto, Kakashi thought, slightly exasperated.
Sakura proudly demonstrated her progress by reaching the treetop in one swift motion. Kakashi noted her achievement but wasn't surprised, knowing she had the right control and skill for the task. Sasuke, displaying a new level of mastery, flashed across a branch above her. This feat even took Kakashi by surprise. Sasuke had advanced faster than he anticipated. His chakra control had improved despite his large reserves, which should have made it harder for him. Sasuke's natural Uchiha talent had undoubtedly surfaced.
Kakashi then turned to Naruto, who, although struggling, remained tenacious. His stubborn resolve was as solid as ever, and Kakashi appreciated his relentless spirit. "Alright," Kakashi declared, "I'm giving you two more days to master this skill. Sakura, guide Naruto in tree-climbing practice. Sasuke, you'll be training with me." Naruto's face brightened, enjoying the rare chance to learn alongside Sakura, while Sakura's spirits dipped, dismayed at missing more time with Sasuke. However, she reluctantly agreed, hiding her disappointment.
Once alone with Sasuke, Kakashi pulled out a chakra test paper, instructing him to channel his energy into it. Sasuke complied, and Kakashi watched as the paper crumpled, then caught fire and disintegrated. "You have both fire and lightning chakra attributes," Kakashi remarked, his admiration deepening. The combination confirmed Sasuke's unique potential—a Sharingan wielder with lightning chakra, the ideal candidate to inherit Kakashi's Chidori technique. The coincidence felt almost destined.
A notification echoed in Sasuke's mind, announcing a system reward: Lightning Release: Thunderbolt. Instantly, knowledge of the Thunderbolt and Thunder Arrow techniques flooded Sasuke's mind. He now held an instinctive grasp over the hand seals and execution, ready to wield these new jutsu at will. Despite the long day of training, Sasuke's contentment was unmistakable. His progress was tangible, and he was eager for more.
Seeing Sasuke's weary but satisfied expression, Kakashi suggested, "That's enough for today. Rest up. Tomorrow, we'll start on new techniques." As Sasuke acknowledged the instruction, he realized how much he had gained—a mastery of tree-climbing and two new jutsu, marking the beginning of his true potential.
Back at the training ground, Sakura, too, felt a sense of pride, having impressed both Kakashi and Sasuke. For her, this was an affirmation of her place in the team, even if her role seemed quieter compared to the boys. Naruto, still working hard, fought against his limitations, showing a fierce will to improve. Each team member was driven by different motivations, yet their goals intertwined, pushing them towards growth in unique ways.
As the sun set over Konoha, a sense of unity, challenge, and respect grew between them. Kakashi, sensing their shared determination, knew they would grow into remarkable shinobi. For Sasuke, Konoha's guidance and his teammates' support were vital, anchoring him to the village even as he faced personal struggles. His journey had just begun, but with a team like this and a mentor as steadfast as Kakashi, his future was bright.
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