Inside Team 7's designated classroom, the mood was a mix of anxiety and boredom.
Sasuke sat in his usual cool posture, arms folded, eyes half-lidded.
"Please… not that loudmouth Naruto. Anyone but him. His brother's more tolerable."
Sakura, sitting a few rows ahead, looked around eagerly.
"Imagine if Ren and Sasuke are on the same team… we'd be unstoppable!"
Her eyes practically sparkled at the thought.
Just then, the door slid open.
Ren Uzumaki stepped into the room — calm, composed, headband properly in place, eyes steady.
Sakura brightened immediately. "Yes!"
Even Sasuke straightened up a little in his seat, though he kept his expression neutral. Inside, however, a flicker of interest passed through him.
"This… might actually work."
Ren looked around the room, confused but silent, and took a seat without a word.
Moments later, the door opened again. This time, Iruka-sensei stepped in with Naruto in tow, looking sheepish.
"Sorry for the interruption, everyone. There seems to have been a mistake."
He glanced at Ren. "The instructor earlier mixed up your room assignments. Naruto was sent to Team 1's room, and Ren, you were directed here by mistake."
Naruto gave a goofy grin, rubbing the back of his head. "Heh… they thought I was you again."
Ren sighed but smiled faintly. "Of course they did."
Iruka motioned to both of them. "Alright, come with me. We'll get this sorted."
As they exited, murmurs filled the classroom.
Sakura's excitement faded into a pout.
Sasuke watched the door thoughtfully.
"So… not yet."
The room settled again, but tension lingered.
Two brothers. Two unknown teams. And still, the real announcements hadn't begun.