SHINOBI EXAM

Mikoto Uchiha glanced at her youngest son, her maternal instinct kicking in as she noticed the dark cloud of emotions shadowing his features. "Sasuke," she said softly, her tone tinged with concern, "calm down. Mom and Naruto are right here, by your side."

Her words reached him, and Sasuke gradually clawed his way out of the abyss of his turbulent thoughts. Yet, the feeling of inadequacy lingered, an unbearable weight settling in his chest. He inhaled deeply, trying to release the pressure, but it stubbornly re-formed, tightening its grip.

The video of Akatsuki's overwhelming strength only fueled the grim reality. Naruto, the ever-optimistic loudmouth, was now a target of unparalleled power. Those who cared for him, including Sakura, Hinata, and the other young Konoha shinobi, resolved to intensify their training. Even though the Chūnin exams weren't over, the stakes had drastically shifted.

Nara Shikamaru muttered under his breath, "Such a drag," before moving to stand near Naruto.

Kiba and Akamaru followed suit, the loyal hound wagging his tail in support. Shino, ever silent, sent a single insect from his collar to rest on Naruto's shoulder—a subtle but significant gesture of solidarity.

---

Gaara's Pledge

The video transitioned back to Gaara, the future Kazekage standing before 80,000 ninja, his voice filled with determination.

["Once the enemy gets hold of him, the world will be over!"]

Naruto, as usual, was caught off guard. "Eh? Gaara, is this about me?!"

["I want to protect my friends," Gaara declared, his tone unyielding. "It is my vow—a promise I will keep even at the cost of my life. My bonds are my salvation."]

Naruto squirmed, suddenly feeling the weight of being acknowledged so publicly. "I-I'm not that weak, you know," he mumbled awkwardly, scratching the back of his head. "I don't need that much protection."

Despite his embarrassment, a small smile crept onto Naruto's face. It felt good to have someone who truly saw him as a friend.

Sasuke, watching from a distance, clicked his tongue in irritation. "Idiot," he muttered, though his words carried a hint of envy.

Shikamaru, standing nearby, raised an eyebrow at Sasuke. "Troublesome," he commented.

---

A Kazekage's Plea

The camera zoomed in on Gaara's resolute profile as he addressed the gathered shinobi.

["I want to save my friend! I want to save him, and I want to protect the world!"]

His voice, filled with emotion, resonated with the crowd.

["I'm too young and too inexperienced," Gaara admitted. "When it comes to protecting the world, I may not have the strength to do it alone."]

The camera alternated between different angles of Gaara, emphasizing his unwavering determination.

["So, I bow my head to you. I beg you—please lend me your strength! Protect Naruto, protect this world!"]

The young Kazekage lowered his head in a rare display of humility, his words echoing through the crowd.

---

Applause Across Worlds

In the audience, ordinary citizens watched with wide eyes, their hearts captured by the Kazekage's heartfelt plea. Among the ninja, the scene struck a different chord.

Senju Tobirama, observing from within the video, clapped his hands first. His usual stern demeanor softened with approval.

Sarutobi Hiruzen followed, his weathered hands adding to the applause. Soon, Utatane Koharu, Mitokado Homura, and other Konoha elders joined in. Even stoic clan leaders like Nara Shikaku, Yamanaka Hiashi, and Akimichi Chōza added their support.

The applause rippled outward, sweeping through the ranks of the Leaf Village. The sound swelled as it spread, reaching the ninja from other nations who had been watching.

---

A Shared Purpose

In the video, the 80,000-strong Ninja Alliance erupted into cheers.

["I will fight for you, Lord Gaara!"]

["Lord Gaara!"]

["For the alliance!"]

The camaraderie and resolve among the shinobi burned brightly, their differences forgotten in the face of a shared purpose.

["I'm sorry for what I said before."]

["No, it's me who should apologize. Let's fight together."]

A Mist Shinobi stepped forward, his voice steady. ["Even someone like me, who has seen so much bloodshed, must take up arms now. It's time to stand together."]

Kankuro stood by his brother's side, his painted face glowing with pride. ["That's right, Gaara! The more passionate we are, the stronger we'll be when united!"]

The cheers of the alliance drowned out the lingering whispers of doubt. At that moment, as Gaara had declared, there were no villages or rivalries. There were only ninjas.

---

Naruto's Reflection

Outside the image, Naruto's eyes shone with newfound pride. He had watched the future Gaara speak with a strength and confidence that inspired millions, himself included.

"Gaara... you've really grown," he whispered.

Senju Tobirama, arms crossed, raised an eyebrow at Naruto. "What's with that look, boy?"

Naruto scratched his head awkwardly. "Uh, nothing! It's just... I'm proud of him, y'know?"

For a moment, the pain of his shared past with Gaara seemed lighter, replaced by a sense of hope.

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