Chapter 10: Senior and Junior

As the queue gradually shortened, it became evident that it was soon to be Kasai's turn to enter the examination hall. The tension in the air was palpable as students in line exchanged nervous glances and last-minute words of encouragement.

As he approached the entrance, Kasai noted with mild amusement that the individuals tasked with facilitating the exam were his Hotaru Sensei and another instructor from the academy named Issei. It was a familiar sight, and he couldn't help but wonder where the rumor about the Hokage coming to the academy as an exam facilitator had originated. It was a curious mix-up, perhaps fueled by the students' collective anxiety and desire for a bit of excitement during the exam. Nevertheless, with Hotaru Sensei and Issei present, Kasai knew that the exam would proceed as per the usual routine.

Observing Kasai as he made his way towards the center of the examination room, Hotaru nodded in acknowledgment and offered a warm smile. In return, Kasai respectfully lowered his head and greeted the two instructors. 

Their current professional rapport was a far cry from the initial encounters between Kasai and Hotaru Sensei a week after Kasai had transmigrated to Naruto's world. At first, Hotaru Sensei had been less than welcoming, his initial perception colored by his interactions with the original Kasai. The original Kasai had been a rowdy troublemaker, showing little regard for authority figures other than Hina. His habit of causing disturbances throughout the village had not endeared him to Hotaru, and the fact that he was an outsider had only exacerbated the instructor's reservations.

Almost every day when Kasai attended school, he was met with disdainful looks from Hotaru and many of his classmates. While it hadn't affected him initially, Kasai's early days in this new life had been trying. For a brief period, he experienced the same challenges and hardships the original Kasai had faced. However, a month after enduring this treatment, Kasai managed to bring about a significant change.

Hotaru was the first to notice the transformation in Kasai's attitude. Instead of being boisterous and unruly, Kasai became quiet and attentive in class, consistently attending academy sessions. This shift compelled Hotaru to cease his hostile glances, prompting him to take a more inquisitive interest in Kasai. Hotaru began to observe every action Kasai took during class, realizing that he was becoming more dedicated to his training and studies. Over time, Hotaru's opinion of Kasai underwent a gradual transformation. Secretly, he started to pay more kind and encouraging attention to Kasai, and as a result, Kasai became more open to his entire class.

As Kasai approached the center of the examination room, he noticed Hotaru and Issei seated behind a substantial table. Neatly arranged on top of the table were Konoha forehead protectors, each one a symbol of achievement that would be granted to those who successfully passed the practical exam. The anticipation in the room was palpable, and Kasai felt a blend of nervousness and determination fueling his focus as he prepared for the evaluation. Each step he took towards the table felt like a stride towards the next stage of his journey as a shinobi.

As Kasai reached the center of the examination room, Hotaru began to address him. "Kasai, for this practical exam, you will be required to perform a specific jutsu in front of us. The jutsu you'll need to demonstrate is the Bushin no Jutsu, which I taught in class about a month ago. I hope you've had the opportunity to master it by now."

Issei, sitting alongside Hotaru, chimed in with additional instructions. "Indeed, Kasai. Whenever you're ready, you can begin. Keep in mind that you have three chances to successfully execute the Bushin no Jutsu."

Listening intently to their instructions, Kasai felt a surge of confidence and satisfaction. The Bushin no Jutsu had been part of their curriculum for the past month, and he had dedicated himself to mastering it over the last two weeks leading up to the exam. This preparation had him feeling victorious and delighted as he readied himself to perform the technique.

Kasai stood firm, his hands weaving the signs for the Bushin no Jutsu with precision. Within moments, he conjured a perfect duplicate of himself, mirroring his appearance in every detail.

Hotaru and Issei observed the technique unfold before them, both wearing expressions of approval and satisfaction. While Kasai's hand seal weaving might not have been as lightning fast as some of his peers, he executed the jutsu admirably. Hotaru couldn't help but smile, proud of how far Kasai had come as a student, given his initial challenges.

Exchange glances and sharing a nod, Issei and Hotaru voiced their consensus. "Well done, Kasai. Congratulations, you've successfully passed the practical exam," Issei announced, with Hotaru echoing the sentiment.

Kasai respectfully bowed towards Hotaru and Issei, his gratitude evident. "Thank you, Hotaru Sensei and Issei Sensei," he expressed sincerely.

Hotaru returned the bow with a smile. "You've earned it, Kasai. Now, go get your forehead protector, and prepare for tomorrow. We'll be announcing your assigned squad."

Kasai accepted the forehead protector with a sense of pride and determination. "I will, Sensei. Thank you again," he said before turning to leave, eager to embark on this new phase of his ninja journey.

Inside the room, Issei turned to Hotaru with a curious expression. "So, that was the kid you were talking about?"

Hotaru's smile remained as he nodded. "Yes, that's him. Kasai may not be a genius, but he's got talent. I believe he'll develop into a fine shinobi."

Issei raised an eyebrow. "It's interesting how highly you think of him, especially considering he's an outsider."

Hotaru chuckled softly. "I can't explain it, Issei. I just had a feeling it would turn out this way."

Issei, upon hearing Hotaru's reply, let out a small laugh and was about to respond when another student walked into the room.

Outside the room, Kasai was greeted by Hina, who had stayed to wait for him after passing the exam. "You passed?" she inquired anxiously, not wanting to hear anything else.

Kasai smiled and nodded. "I did. It was so easy," he replied, feigning arrogance as he gave Hina a playful side glance.

Hina giggled at Kasai's playful attempt to act arrogant. "You've become so cocky now, huh?

"Why not? I did pass the exam," Kasai retorted.

Hina grinned mischievously. "I think you're forgetting something."

Perplexed, Kasai gave Hina a questioning look. "Forgetting what?"

Hina cleared her throat, striking a mock pose. She raised her left hand, pointed at herself, and declared, "That I passed the exam first! So, call me Senior!"

Kasai nodded, playing along. "Yes, Senior!"

Hina couldn't hold back her laughter, and amidst giggles, she continued, "Very well, junior Kasai! Come, follow your senior to the ramen shop!"

"Yes, Senior!" Kasai exclaimed, joining in the laughter.

As they left, some students who had been watching them were confused, while others threw ridicule their way. Nonetheless, the pair simply walked past, not bothered by the remarks.