Three days later, the new semester began as scheduled.
But at the school opening ceremony, one figure that everyone admired was missing: Kakashi Hatake.
It wasn't until the ceremony ended that the news gradually spread: Kakashi had officially submitted his application to graduate early to the Ninja Academy before the start of the semester, and he was preparing for the graduation exam in three days. It was said that even the third Hokage would be attending the exam in person.
This is a major event in the Ninja Academy and even in the entire Hidden Leaf Village.
If he succeeds, Kakashi will break the record for the fastest and youngest age to graduate in Konoha's history.
Because the rumors about White Fang circulated for a very short time, his suicide was not made public.
Therefore, in the eyes of most teachers and students, Kakashi's sudden action was probably because he was defeated by Shinichi Higashino and was stimulated, so he used this method to prove that his talent was not obscured and that he was still stronger.
Of course, some observant onlookers felt a little puzzled: If it was just to prove that he was stronger, why not just launch a more formal revenge battle against Shinichi Higashino? Why choose the path of graduating early?
Perhaps geniuses always possess a pride and a logic of action that are difficult for ordinary people to understand.
Regardless of the reason, Kakashi's graduation controversy inevitably dragged Shinichi Higashino, who defeated him, into the vortex of public opinion.
While people were discussing Kakashi, speculations and discussions began to circulate, such as "Will Shinichi, who defeated Kakashi, also make a move?" and "Will he also apply for early graduation?"
Shinichi paid no attention to all the commotion. As soon as the opening ceremony ended, he went straight to the teachers' office and found his homeroom teacher, Matsumoto Fumio.
"What?"
Inside the office, Matsumoto Fumio's face was filled with astonishment: "You... You don't mean you're also thinking of applying for early graduation, do you?!"
He couldn't help but misinterpret it as Shinichi said he had mastered the school curriculum and wanted to learn more systematic and in-depth Ninjutsu.
This sounds like the prelude to applying for graduation.
"Shinichi, please don't be impulsive!"
Matsumoto quickly dissuaded him: "You're still too young. Don't just copy what Kakashi does."
While Shinichi Higashino's victory over Kakashi Hatake was undoubtedly a stunning triumph, it does not mean that he now possesses all the necessary abilities of a full-fledged ninja.
Kakashi Hatake, with his clan's extensive Chakra tradition and mastery of all five basic chakra natures, possesses a wider range of countermeasures and a higher tactical ceiling when facing enemies or environmental obstacles of any element.
"We've all seen your potential, and that's precisely why we need to proceed with caution and prudence."
Seeing that Shinichi's expression was a bit strange, Matsumoto's tone softened.
"You misunderstand, sensei."
Shinichi shook his head and explained, "I don't want to graduate early. I just want to ask, through what formal channels and under what conditions can I access more systematic and in-depth Ninjutsu training?"
"You want to learn higher-level techniques?"
"Yes."
What specifically do you want to learn?
"Shadow Clone Jutsu."
"Shadow Clone Jutsu?"
Matsumoto was slightly surprised.
Instead of asking Shinichi how he knew about the Shadow Clone Jutsu, which this diligent student must have found in the Ninja Academy's library or the village library, he asked, "Why do you want to learn this Ninjutsu?"
"It's like this, sensei. I always feel like I don't have enough time to train. While researching, I learned that the second Hokage created the Shadow Clone Jutsu, which can create clones with physical forms. These clones can act and fight independently, and their memories and experiences return to the original body after they are released."
Shinichi's tone was frank.
"I was thinking, since experience and memories can be regained, is it possible for this technique to be used to assist in training? Theoretically, if it can be used properly, wouldn't it be equivalent to indirectly extending the effective training or learning time?"
"For training?"
Matsumoto's heart skipped a beat; this idea was quite in line with the child's consistent diligence: "It is indeed a creative idea, but..."
He first gave his approval, then changed the subject and pointed out the key point: "The Shadow Clone Jutsu consumes a lot of Chakra. The clone's memories and experiences will return, but the fatigue and burden will also accumulate. Moreover, it only brings back memories and experiences. The actual training results, such as the increase in physical strength and the refinement of Chakra, still need to be completed step by step by the original body."
"So that's how it is."
Shinichi's face showed a perfectly timed look of realization.
He was certainly aware of these limitations, but if he acted as if he knew everything, it would only make the teacher lose the sense of accomplishment in teaching.
"Teacher, I understand the risks and limitations you mentioned. Thank you very much for reminding me."
Shinichi's gaze hardened once more: "Even so, it still plays a significant supporting role in certain aspects. For example, I can hone my Taijutsu skills on my own, but Shadow Clones can help me learn more theoretical knowledge, summarize coping strategies in different situations, and even simulate some low-intensity Chakra control exercises, which can greatly improve my learning and summarizing efficiency."
"Then, teacher, how can I learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu?"
Upon hearing this, Matsumoto frowned slightly, revealing a somewhat troubled expression.
If Shinichi wanted to learn a D-rank or even a regular C-rank Ninjutsu, as the homeroom teacher and a Chunin, he might be able to give him some private guidance, which would be considered as nurturing an outstanding student.
However, the Shadow Clone Jutsu is different. It was developed by the second Hokage and is a highly practical B-rank Ninjutsu, used only by clan members.
Typically, one needs to become a formal ninja, accumulate merits by performing missions, and then apply to the relevant departments in the village as a reward to obtain the qualification to study.
Alternatively, a Jonin with sufficient authority and strength may teach the team members after reporting to the village, based on their individual circumstances.
He, Matsumoto Fumio, was merely a Chunin instructor. Within his authority, he did not have the direct authority to grant students B-rank Ninjutsu.
After quickly weighing the options in his mind, Matsumoto did not directly reject this diligent and studious student.
After a moment's thought, he proposed a compromise: "Shinichi, how about this, you go back first and write a formal application, explaining in detail your reasons for wanting to learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu, as well as your understanding of its risks and your usage plan. I will submit it to the school's academic affairs office for you, and then the school will forward it to the relevant departments in the village."
He paused, his tone softening, and offered a guarantee: "Of course, the approval of these kinds of applications involves considering many factors, and they may not be approved. If the village doesn't approve it..."
"As a teacher, within my authority, I can teach you some other practical C-rank or D-rank Ninjutsu. Although they may not fit your specific ideas as well as Shadow Clone Jutsu, they will still be of real help in improving your strength. What do you think?"
This was the best path and promise he could secure for his student within his capabilities.
Upon hearing this, Shinichi's face showed gratitude. He took a half step back and bowed solemnly to Matsumoto: "I understand. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration. I will prepare my application as soon as I get back."