Mizuki hurried into the classroom just as the bell rang, catching the attention of his classmates and the teacher who appeared in a puff of smoke.
Teacher: "Alright class, today we're delving into Ninja World History."
The class groaned collectively, showing less enthusiasm for this particular subject.
Anko leaned over to Mizuki with a mischievous grin. "Do you think he ever gets tired of that entrance?"
Mizuki chuckled softly. "I wonder how you manage to slip in unnoticed every time?"
Anko winked playfully. "A ninja never reveals her secrets, Mizuki."
Mizuki grinned back. "I guess that's your secret technique for avoiding trouble?"
Anko nodded, her eyes sparkling. "Exactly! Helps me catch up on sleep during class."
The two shared a quiet laugh, trying not to draw attention from their teacher who was engrossed in his lecture on ancient ninja clans.
The class passed swiftly thanks to Anko's lookout for Mizuki whenever he nodded off. When the bell signaled the end of class, Anko quietly nudged Mizuki awake and whisked him out the door. They made a beeline for their favorite dango shop, indulging in dumplings before parting ways.
Mizuki thought to himself as he savored the last bite. "This place, the dumpling shop that many Naruto characters love, sure has a nostalgic charm."
Just as he was finishing up, a voice startled him. Mizuki turned to find Obito standing there, a smirk playing on his lips.
Obito: "Ah, so Anko's the one you've got your eye on, huh? Not a bad choice."
Mizuki smirked back. "You're one to talk. How's it going with Rin?"
Obito's cheeks colored slightly. "I... uh... well..."
Mizuki chuckled knowingly. "Don't worry, it's obvious."
Obito sighed in defeat. "Yeah..."
Mizuki glanced at the time. "Anyway, I've got things to do."
The boys parted ways swiftly. Mizuki headed towards the academy, only to spot Might Guy waiting for him. Today, they were scheduled for Taijutsu training with his father, Might Duy, renowned for his mastery of the Eight Gates technique.
Mizuki's excitement bubbled up. "I'm going to train under Might Duy, the Eternal Genin, the Mustache Boy himself!"
The training grounds were deep in the forest, where Mizuki saw a man with bushy hair and a magnificent mustache, pushing his body to the limits.
Might Duy: "998... 999... 1000!"
Finishing his set, Might Duy turned to find Guy and Mizuki waiting.
Might Duy grinned at Guy. "Is this the young man you've been talking about?"
Guy nodded enthusiastically. Might Duy then turned his gaze to Mizuki, who couldn't help but shiver under his scrutiny.
Might Duy: "So, you want to get stronger?"
Mizuki nodded eagerly. "Yes, sir!"
Might Duy: "And why do you seek strength?"
Mizuki's eyes gleamed with determination. "To protect my friends and survive any challenge that comes my way!"
Might Duy burst into hearty laughter, surprising Mizuki.
Might Duy: "Are you sure about learning from me? I'm just a genin, you know."
Mizuki met his gaze confidently. "Rank doesn't define strength. I've trained under old man Kosuke, and I've learned a lot from him."
Might Duy's eyes widened slightly, impressed by Mizuki's resolve.
Might Duy: "Alright then, let's see if you can match that determination in practice!"