CHAPTER 23:PRACTICAL DUEL

Konoha Academy grounds buzzed with energetic students – Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura's class was outside for recess.

Naruto Uzumaki, always eager for adventure, ran around with his friends, laughing loudly.

Naruto never minded Izumi accompanying him – actually seeming to enjoy her company –

and would often eats his ramen or snacks that izumi made during lunch.

Meanwhile, Sasuke Uchiha stood nearby, talking to his mother, Mikoto Uchiha, who had visited school today.

Sasuke said firmly, though respectfully:

"Mother, you don't need to walk me home or wait during classes. I'm old enough to take care of myself now."

Mikoto smiled proudly, touching Sasuke's forehead:

"Very well, Sasuke. You're growing up strong like your father... but Izumi accompanies Naruto everywhere, why not you having me?"

Sasuke rolled his eyes good-naturedly:

"Naruto likes Izumi around – I like my freedom, Mother."

Naruto, overhearing, grinned at Sasuke:

"Hey, Sasuke – Izumi's company isn't so bad! She brings lunch for me!"

Iruka Sensei stood before his excited class, a wide grin spreading across his face.

"Today's lesson will be... Practical Ninja Training Class!" he announced, eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

The classroom erupted into cheers and applause – Naruto yelled loudest of all:

"WOOHOO! Finally, we get to use our jutsu in real training battles!"

Students buzzed with excitement, forming informal groups to discuss strategies.

Ino Yamanaka and Sakura Haruno stood near each other, exchanging icy glares:

Ino whispered to Sakura, "Think you can finally land a hit on someone besides air, Sakura?"

Sakura shot back, "At least my hits won't be as weak as your personality, Ino!"

Meanwhile,Hinata Hyuga blushed softly, her eyes darting between Naruto and Sasuke:

Her heart skipped beats as she gazed at Naruto's enthusiastic smile, but then Sasuke's brooding gaze caught her attention too...

Sasuke Uchiha stood tall, his eyes fixed intensely on Naruto – almost as if sizing him up:

His expression remained neutral, but his eyes narrowed slightly, thinking:

"Naruto's improved slightly... but still no match for me."

Naruto, oblivious to Sasuke's gaze, pumped his fist excitedly:

"Alright class – let's line up! I call dibs on being opponent and want to see how everyone improved!"

Iruka Sensei's voice echoed across the training grounds:

"And our first battle will be... Ino Yamanaka vs Sakura Haruno! Let's see which kunoichi will claim victory!"

The students cheered as Ino and Sakura faced each other, their eyes locked in determination.

Ino glanced sideways, catching Naruto's enthusiastic thumbs-up and encouraging grin:

He mouthed silently: "You got this, Ino!"and her confidence boosted slightly.

Meanwhile, Sakura's gaze drifted towards Sasuke, anticipating his attention – but he stood impassive:

His eyes remained fixed on the ground, seemingly uninterested in the battle or Sakura's participation.

Sakura's face flickered with subtle disappointment before she refocused on Ino.

The two kunoichi took their starting positions – Ino cracking her knuckles, Sakura clenching her fists.

**Iruka Sensei raised his hand, then dropped it sharply:

"Begin!"

The battle erupted instantly:

Ino launched herself forward with Mind Body Switch Technique, attempts to invade Sakura's mind.

Sakura countered with Chakra Enhanced Strength punching towards Ino with formidable force

Naruto yelled excitedly:

"Yes, Ino – resist her punch and switch minds!"

Sasuke still didn't react – his eyes now fixed on the battle itself, analyzing techniques.

[ COMTINUE ]ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧

Want to read advanced chapter?

Give me your stone to this novel to reach the milestone that will give you bonus chapter per day!!!

5-10 Power Stones = 1 Bonus Chapter / Day

10-20 Power Stones = 2 Bonus Chapters / Day

20-30 Power Stones = 3 Bonus Chapters / Day

Please support me?

See ya!!