HINATA IS BROKEN

Naruto's straightforward philosophy took the ninja world by surprise.

Not only did the Konoha ninjas find his reasoning sound, but many across the ninja world couldn't help but agree.

If teamwork was the goal of Kakashi's bell test, then it should have focused on promoting unity. One bell, shared success or failure—this would truly embody the principle of collective honor and shame.

By uniting their efforts, even the weakest members of the group would be forced to contribute in some way, whether through direct action or moral support. This would strengthen emotional bonds and foster true team spirit.

Hatake Kakashi, however, had intentionally created division by presenting two bells. His test was designed to challenge the humanity of Team Seven, forcing them to make hard choices. Yet, even if they understood the test's premise, that understanding might remain superficial. Kakashi's lack of faith in their teamwork was clear.

Across the Ninja World

Momochi Zabuza remarked grimly, "Naruto's words remind me of myself—always ready to turn against my own."

"No," Uzumaki Kushina countered. "This is Kakashi's doing, leading them into chaos."

Hatake Kakashi scratched his head awkwardly. "Hey, I didn't expect it to be interpreted this way. No wonder my teams always felt disjointed."

Uchiha Obito smirked. "I remember the scene vividly. Sakura and Sasuke passed your test because they fed Naruto. Sasuke acted out of reluctant kindness, and Sakura simply followed his lead. Your so-called teamwork is laughable, Kakashi."

"Obito..." Kakashi sighed, realizing the truth in his friend's words.

The other Kages chimed in:

Ohnoki: "It seems Kakashi can't outthink a twelve-year-old."

Fourth Raikage: "Enough teasing. Let's see how Naruto shapes the future."

Terumi Mei: "Just keep him away from Kirigakure. We've just recovered from turmoil."

Rasa: "Sunagakure doesn't even have a Fifth Kazekage candidate yet."

Meanwhile, in a Dark Cave

Black Zetsu watched the events with exasperation. "What kind of movie system is this? When will Obito finish? I still need to resurrect my mother."

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Naruto's Analysis

Back at the training ground, Naruto's words left Sakura and Sasuke stunned. Was he serious about challenging Kakashi's methods?

Kakashi, on the other hand, felt increasingly uneasy. Naruto's critique of the bell test was disturbingly accurate. The two bells were indeed designed to incite division, and Naruto was quick to expose this.

"You deliberately set us up," Naruto accused, eyes narrowing. "Two bells? That's just bait for us to turn on each other. Let's settle it another way. Leave only one bell, and we'll fight together to grab it. If we fail, all three of us will face the punishment together."

Collective punishment. It was an unorthodox but ingenious solution. Naruto's proposal emphasized unity and accountability, even if it meant shared suffering.

Kakashi froze. The sheer audacity of Naruto's reasoning was startling. He hadn't anticipated such bold logic.

---

The Other Observers

Naruto's words reverberated beyond the training ground.

Haruno Sakura blinked back tears. If they failed to grab a bell, she was certain she'd be the one left behind. She braced herself for rejection, but Naruto's confidence gave her unexpected hope.

Uchiha Sasuke clenched his fists, then released them. Revenge against Itachi burned in his heart, and he knew he couldn't waste time repeating school lessons. Naruto's resolve was undeniable, and Sasuke grudgingly admitted to himself that Naruto's approach was worth following.

Meanwhile, in the real world, Sasuke grimaced at his counterpart on the screen. "Hmph. Looks like I was completely led by Naruto."

Sakura laughed nervously. "At least his plan helped us pass."

Yamanaka Ino smirked. "Naruto's words are surprisingly effective. I'll give him that."

Even Shikamaru admitted, "Troublesome as it is, Naruto's solution fit Kakashi-sensei's criteria."

Kakashi coughed awkwardly. "Ahem, for the record, I've never looked down on any ninja. I was just testing their growth."

---

The Test Continues

Kakashi coughed again, regaining his composure. "Interesting idea, Naruto. Have you all decided? If you fail, all three of you will return to the academy."

Naruto nodded resolutely. "No problem."

Sasuke gritted his teeth. "I'm in."

Sakura's voice wavered, but she quickly agreed.

For a moment, the air grew still. Kakashi broke the silence with a sly smile. "Congratulations. You've passed."

Naruto's face lit up, while Sasuke and Sakura exchanged puzzled glances.

---

Reflections

As the scene unfolded, reactions poured in:

Sakura: "We were completely tricked!"

Sasuke: "Naruto knew all along. He played us like pawns."

Ino: "Still, it worked. You passed, didn't you?"

Shikamaru: "Naruto's reasoning was the only way to meet Kakashi-sensei's expectations."

Kakashi couldn't help but smile as he watched Naruto's determination. Minato-sensei, you'd be proud. Your son has inherited your sense of responsibility.

He felt a pang of guilt. His initial test had been designed to expose weaknesses, but Naruto had turned it into a lesson in unity.

"I was schooled by a kid fresh out of the academy," Kakashi muttered. "How shameful."

---

The Aftermath

Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura stood side by side, victorious in their teamwork. Though their journey as Team Seven was only beginning, this moment laid the foundation for their bond.

Kakashi's deadpan expression softened into a genuine smile. "You're a promising team. Keep this up, and you might even surpass me someday."

Naruto grinned, determination blazing in his eyes. "We'll surpass you and become legends!"

The chapter closed with Kakashi's quiet reflection: Minato-sensei, you were right. The next generation always has a way of surprising us.

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