Chapter 17: The Squad! (Please Continue Reading)

Under the tree, Genichi Kinoshita was still engrossed in his studies, and indeed, at school, he brought immense pressure upon many, including Obito Uchiha and Genma Shiranui. Yet, at this age, very few could keep up with Genichi’s relentless pace.

Shion was one—because Genichi sat right beside her, and she admired him deeply. Asuma Sarutobi was another—because he was unwilling to lose, and also because he resented his father Hiruzen Sarutobi’s attitude toward him. Of course, Might Guy was also pushing himself hard, but not because of Genichi—he was always driven and only intensified his effort.

None of this related to Genichi’s own motivation. He did not strive because of others.

Autumn faded into winter. Unnoticed, the 42nd year of Konoha was drawing to a close.

On this day, Hiruzen Sarutobi received an application for early graduation. Raising an eyebrow upon seeing the name, he murmured, “Genichi is graduating early?”

Ryūsei Nimiki nodded. “Yes. He has essentially mastered genjutsu and Konoha-style swordsmanship; his theoretical knowledge is already impeccable. The school truly cannot offer him further growth.”

Hiruzen nodded. “Then arrange it as soon as possible.”

“Yes, sir.”

Ryūsei Nimiki took his leave, while Hiruzen began contemplating where to assign Genichi. Early graduation meant Genichi would be integrated into an existing ninja squad. Given his extraordinary talent, he needed an excellent team leader; otherwise, his potential would be wasted.

Water Release techniques… Did Konoha have a jonin particularly skilled in that? None came to mind specifically, though several jonin were proficient.

Still, for Genichi, Water Release hardly required instruction.

The next day, after arranging the graduation evaluation, Ryūsei Nimiki returned to report to the Hokage. Upon discussing squad placement, Nimiki was taken aback. “Third Hokage, though Genichi is exceptional, isn’t this placement too hasty?”

He believed it would be ideal to insert Genichi into a rookie squad this year. Such squads usually received simple missions, which would ease Genichi’s adjustment.

Yet placing him within a seasoned squad meant they wouldn’t be relegated to trivial tasks just to accommodate a newcomer.

Hence, Nimiki opposed the idea.

Hiruzen replied, “Nimiki, rest assured, Genichi isn’t as fragile as you imagine. His thinking is very mature—Minato has praised this more than once.”

“Besides, you must trust the jonin leading the team and Genichi’s future comrades.”

Considering Genichi’s brilliance and the leader’s renowned reputation, Nimiki ceased his objections.

October 8, Konoha Year 42.

Genichi completed his graduation exams without surprise, earning the coveted ninja headband.

Shion and others were still in class, so no one gathered to witness Genichi’s success.

At the school gate, Ryūsei Nimiki addressed Genichi seriously: “Genichi, from now on, you are a full-fledged ninja. I hope you maintain the same spirit you showed at school.”

“Your team leader is an outstanding ninja. Learn well from him.”

“Also, get along with your comrades. On missions, you’ll entrust your back and your life to each other.”

“Lastly, never underestimate any enemy during missions.”

Such earnest advice moved Genichi deeply; this was a responsible mentor.

He nodded earnestly. “Thank you, Teacher Nimiki. I will remember.”

Nimiki waved him off. “Go, meet your teammates.”

Genichi bowed and then vanished using the Body Flicker Technique.

Leaping across rooftops, Genichi was curious about who his team leader would be.

Definitely a jonin—but Konoha had many jonin, and he only knew a few by name, especially in this era.

Actually, he could have continued to coast, overextending his future potential once a year, accumulating progress—his mind was no fool.

But what good was mastering endless ninjutsu? Without enough chakra, one must be frugal, and power remains limited.

Thus, after mastering two genjutsu and Konoha-style swordsmanship, and as resources became scarce, Genichi chose to graduate.

There was another reason.

Most likely, next year, White Fang of Konoha would commit suicide.

Though the chance of interfering was slim, Genichi hoped to do more, overdraw his future ten years ahead, and see if he could change fate.

What if he could latch onto White Fang’s influence? His network and resources would grow, enhancing his strength.

“I hope the team leader and teammates are up to the task,” Genichi thought with both anticipation and a trace of anxiety.

After all, being a ninja was a deadly game.

Unreliable teammates meant an early death.

Soon, Genichi arrived at a rooftop, where he saw his team leader and comrades.

Wow! He had hit the jackpot!

“Teacher Shikamo!”

Genichi hurried forward two steps and bowed.

Indeed, the middle-aged man before him was none other than Shikamo Hataki.

Beside him stood two young men, both around fifteen or sixteen, who were also scrutinizing the prodigy Genichi.

Of course, Shikamo knew Genichi, even somewhat well, and smiled. “Genichi, introduce yourself so everyone can get to know you.”

“Like your favorite food, least favorite food, and your specialties.”

Genichi straightened. “Yes!”

“I am Genichi Kinoshita. My favorite food is dumplings. My least favorite food is also dumplings.”

“I specialize in Water Release, preferably in watery environments because my chakra is limited.”

“I also excel in genjutsu.”

“I have mastered a medical ninjutsu for temporary treatment.”

“Additionally, I know sealing techniques.”

The two beside Shikamo exchanged strange looks.

Is this really a fresh graduate? Knowing so much—are they joking? Has he been training since birth?

Not just them—Shikamo himself was taken aback.

He held Genichi’s dossier, which listed Water Release, sealing, genjutsu, and swordsmanship—but medical ninjutsu too? This was versatility incarnate.

“A true genius!” Shikamo thought, impressed.

He then looked at the two young men beside him.

The first, dressed in a black high-collared outfit with a sword sheath, and black hair, spoke: “I am Rōichi Uchiha, skilled in Uchiha-style swordsmanship, taijutsu, shuriken throwing, genjutsu, and Fire Release.”

“My favorite food is dumplings; least favorite is natto.”

As expected of an Uchiha, Genichi thought, bowing respectfully. “Senior Rōichi.”

Rōichi’s expression was cold but he said, “No need for formalities. Just call me Rōichi.”

Genichi nodded and turned to the other.

This one had long gray hair tied in a ponytail and smiled warmly. “I’m Honoo Yamanaka. I like ramen; I dislike sweets.”

“I specialize in sensory techniques and genjutsu.”

A Yamanaka clan member, Genichi noted, bowing politely as usual.

Honoo seemed gentle. “Genichi, just call me Honoo.”

Genichi agreed smoothly.

After introductions concluded, Shikamo spoke: “Alright, now that you all know each other, it’s time for the mission.”

“Genichi, no problems?”

Genichi nodded immediately. “Teacher Shikamo, no problem.”

He had been reminded by Ryūsei Nimiki the previous day that he would go on a mission right away, so he was prepared, carrying a backpack with a short knife at his waist.