Some of the orphanage staff were former shinobi, capable of watching over him.
And more importantly, the orphanage was closed to outsiders.
If Naruto were isolated there, he would be safe.
It would also be a way to test Shisui's true intentions.
"Yūgao, make sure to protect Naruto closely. As for Hayate, he should keep observing Shisui."
"Yes!" Yūgao replied.
Half an hour later.
Naruto, now clean of paint stains, was sent to the orphanage.
"Think carefully about what you've done, you little rascal!"
Clang.
The scolding behind him faded with the closing of the iron gate, leaving him alone at the orphanage entrance.
Yet, what others saw as a lost sheep among the flock... was in truth a hungry wolf released among lambs.
"..."
Like a big bad wolf, Naruto gazed indifferently at the children running in the courtyard.
What really held his attention was the "big sheep" taking care of them... A certain nun with white gartered stockings.
Amidst the rowdy kids, Nonō radiated an intense maternal aura.
Her angelic smile made her look like a saint descended to Earth.
If this world had a god, Nonō would head straight to heaven upon her death.
Her nun outfit symbolized purity and holiness.
But the curves outlined by her clothes at her wa!st added a touch of devilish temptation.
Thud.
Suddenly, a child tripped and began crying, his knee scraped.
Nonō immediately knelt to comfort him, gently tending to his wound.
This overflowing display of motherly tenderness could melt anyone's heart...
But Naruto, instead, was staring at the slit of her robe.
Her shapely legs were already a sight in themselves.
But what truly awakened the beast within...
Was the fleeting glimpse of her white gartered stockings beneath the robe.
As Nonō activated her medical chakra, her hands glowing green, the child's injury healed as if by magic.
Her mastery of medical ninjutsu was unmatched.
In Tsunade's absence, no one in Konoha could rival her.
Shortly after, sensing a burning gaze on her, Nonō turned...
And saw Naruto.
In an instant, Naruto's pervy expression turned into a silly smile, eyes squinting.
"Naruto-kun?" Nonō stood up, adjusting her robe, which fully covered her stockings again.
"Director…"
Naruto explained why he had been sent there.
This child is so pure... Nonō thought. He's just going through a rebellious phase. He needs guidance.
"Painting the Hokage Monument… it bothers people, you know."
She led him to a quiet resting room, away from the noisy children.
"If you want to be acknowledged, there are better ways..."
In a second, Nonō had seen right through Naruto's motivations.
Where others saw only a troublemaker, she understood he was desperately seeking attention.
Kyûbi: "Pff… what a fool.
This brat doesn't really mean what he says!"
Naruto listened quietly, nodding.
Nonō sighed, moved. "Such a good heart... so easy to guide..."
"Director... can I learn medical ninjutsu with you?"
The perfect opportunity.
To heal Hinata's mother, to grow stronger... everything was within reach.
"That way, I can help the kids here... and later, heal the elderly who fall, or even injured shinobi..."
Faced with such nobility, Nonō almost shed a tear.
Such a good child...
And I still have to lie to him...
A pain pierced her heart.
But she quickly hid her emotion, determined to teach him all she knew.
"Of course. But before the practical part, we need to cover theory. Let's start with the Yang affinity..."
Shortly after, a familiar figure appeared at the orphanage.
Yūgao, officially there as a volunteer, was now able to closely monitor Naruto...
...
Outside, hidden in the trees, Shisui watched the scene, frowning.
Sending Naruto here as punishment made sense...
But it now kept him away from him.
The orphanage was semi-closed, with two guards on duty.
Impossible to infiltrate unnoticed.
Not far away, thanks to his Doton: Tōton, Hayate smiled internally.
Shisui is frustrated.
Proof that he wants to approach the jinchūriki!
He's working on a plan.
Proof he's up to something!
Conclusion: The Uchiha want the Kyûbi!
...
The sun rose on a new day.
The first phase of the Chūnin Exam — the written test — began in Room 301 of the academy.
Candidates, in groups of three, were flowing through the hallways.
Itachi, alone, stood still in the middle of the courtyard.
His solo participation at such a young age immediately drew attention.
Under hostile stares, he remained impassive and entered the exam room...
Among the candidates, six disguised Kiri ninjas had also infiltrated the ranks.
Following Jūzō's orders, they had to qualify without being noticed...