The sky over Konoha was a clear blue that morning. An ideal day for the final exam of the aspiring ninjas. But for the Academy's teachers, one student in particular drew all the attention. Not because he was loud or unruly. But because he was… an enigma.
Naruto Uzumaki.
Since his early years at the Academy, Naruto had always been the top student in theory. His memory was prodigious, his logic razor-sharp, his strategic analysis worthy of a military commander.
Yet despite his consistent, overwhelming performance, he was never recognized for what he truly was. Why? Because of one word: Kyūbi. Because of the whispers. The stares. The fear.
They didn't see the genius. They only saw the demon.
When Naruto entered the room, everyone fell silent. It wasn't fear he inspired. It was discomfort. The unease of those who know they are in the presence of someone greater… but refuse to admit it.
He walked in calmly, his aura subtly amplified by the energy of the Dimension of Infinity, which he no longer even tried to conceal. He wore a simple, dark outfit, marked only by a discreet seal on his shoulder: an ancient symbol once used by celestial dragons to bless their disciples.
Sasuke clenched his fists unconsciously. He didn't like the feeling, but he knew it: Naruto was stronger. Smarter. More advanced.
"Tch. Always trying to act cool," Kiba muttered, crossing his arms.
Naruto turned toward him, his gaze calm. "If being serious counts as acting, then I plead guilty."
Iruka, standing at the back of the room, observed in silence. He had struggled with his own prejudices for a long time. But deep down, he had known it for years: Naruto Uzumaki was a genius. A prodigious ninja in the making, whom the world refused to see.
The papers were handed out. Questions on history, tactics, jutsu classification, complex hand seals, and shinobi ethics... Naruto took up the brush and wrote fluidly. He was already on his third page when most were still halfway through their first.
Iruka walked through the rows and paused as he looked at Naruto's paper. Clear, precise, well-argued answers. Naruto went beyond expectations. He cited sources, corrected inconsistencies in practical cases, and even suggested improvements to some classic tactics taught at the Academy.
"Once again… he surpasses everyone," Iruka murmured. "And yet, no one gives him the recognition he deserves..."
Iruka called the students one by one. Most managed to create vague, translucent clones, some barely formed. Sasuke created three solid ones, earning murmurs of approval.
Then came Naruto's turn.
He stepped forward, wordless. He joined his hands. His chakra, long since fused with the energy of the Dimension of Infinity, flowed like a tranquil river.
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu."
Twenty clones appeared. But that wasn't all. Each of those clones performed a basic technique, showcasing perfect autonomy. One cast a fire jutsu, another summoned a small fairy spirit of light, another created an analysis circle... Everything was flawlessly executed.
"He… he linked his clones to separate functions..." Mizuki stammered.
Iruka, stunned, whispered: "That's… Jōnin-level. No, higher."
Naruto looked at his teachers. "The exercise asked for three static clones. I'm proposing an evolved perspective on the skill."
Iruka proposed a mock battle against a volunteer chūnin. Hayato, known for his speed and reflexes, accepted. At the signal, Hayato leapt forward. But Naruto was already gone. He reappeared behind him, one hand extended toward his back.
"Dimensional Inversion."
A seal erupted beneath the chūnin's feet, paralyzing him instantly.
"Simulation over," Naruto declared. "No damage, instant immobilization. Maximum efficiency."
Even the ANBU, stationed on rooftops to monitor the exam, stirred in silence.
Iruka stepped to the center of the room, holding the scroll of results.
"Top of the class, unsurprisingly. Final score: 100 out of 100. Honors with highest commendation. Naruto Uzumaki."
Total silence. Then a slow, distinct sound echoed. The Hokage himself had just appeared in the room.
"Naruto," declared Hiruzen Sarutobi, stepping forward. "You never cease to impress me. This village has been blind for far too long. It's time to acknowledge your true nature."
He extended the forehead protector. "You're not just a ninja. You're a force this world won't understand until it's far too late."
Naruto took the headband, fixed it to his forehead, and calmly replied: "I never asked to be loved. Only to be seen."