Chapter 14 — Beyond the Academy Gates
The Academy gates creaked open with a heavy clang, sunlight spilling over the courtyard.
Dozens of students filed out in pairs, chattering with the restless excitement of a day without classroom walls.
Akira walked at an easy pace, hands tucked into his sleeves. His Uchiha crest caught the morning light — the deep crimson fan vivid against the black of his training gi.
Beside him, Obito bounced on his heels. "This is it! Outdoor training! Finally, I can show everyone my field skills!"
Kakashi, walking a step behind them, flipped a page in his book without looking up. "Field skills… right. Just try not to get stuck in a bush this time."
"That happened once," Obito muttered, crossing his arms. "And it was a thorn bush."
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The group was escorted by two chunin instructors, both keeping a watchful eye.
One of them, a tall man with a headband tilted slightly to the side, spoke up:
"Today's exercise will take place in the open grounds outside the east wall. There's a forested section and a small stream — both will be used for drills."
Akira's gaze flickered briefly to the treeline visible in the distance. The forest there was old, its canopy dense. He knew it wasn't exactly dangerous under ANBU supervision… but he also knew Konoha didn't pick training locations without a reason.
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As they walked, other clan heirs gravitated toward their own.
Mikoto Uchiha, a few years older and already a figure of quiet authority, gave Akira a small nod as they passed.
From the Hyūga, young Hizashi and his twin Hiashi walked in stiff, perfect posture.
Even the Nara heir, Shikaku, strolled lazily while muttering something about the sun being "too bright for thinking."
Obito glanced around, lowering his voice. "This is like… all the clans in one place. You think they're testing us against each other?"
"Probably," Akira said simply.
Kakashi shut his book and slid it into his pouch. "Or they're testing how well we work together. Which means half of you are going to fail."
Obito scowled. "You mean you're going to fail at teamwork."
"I work fine in a team," Kakashi replied. "I just prefer when the team is competent."
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By the time they reached the east wall, the gates opened to reveal the outside grounds: wide stretches of grass broken by patches of trees, the sound of running water faint in the distance.
The chunin split the students into mixed groups, intentionally scattering clan members apart.
Akira found himself with Kakashi, Obito, Rin… and a Hyūga boy he didn't recognize.
The Hyūga's pale eyes lingered a moment too long on Akira before looking away, unreadable.
"Group Two," the instructor barked. "Your first drill — capture the flag."
Obito grinned at Kakashi. "Oh, this is perfect."
Kakashi sighed. "It's going to be a long day."
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