The morning sun crept over the rooftops of Konoha, casting golden light into the Uzumaki brothers' small home. Birds chirped outside the window as the day began, and the quiet bustle of the village stirred to life.
Ren tightened the wrappings on his wrist guards as he stood near the door, already fully dressed and prepared. He glanced over his shoulder toward the kitchen, where Naruto stood staring longingly at the empty ramen cup on the table.
"You okay there?" Ren asked casually.
Naruto rubbed his stomach and groaned. "Ugh... I'm starving. I knew I shouldn't have listened to Kakashi. No breakfast? Who does that?"
Ren smirked slightly, shouldering his bag. "You still listened, though."
Naruto pointed at him accusingly. "Only because you didn't warn me!"
"I figured a little surprise wouldn't kill you."
Naruto pouted. "Easy for you to say. You actually get to eat before training."
Ren walked to the door and unlocked it, pausing just before stepping out. "Remember, it's a test. Not everything's about strength. Keep your head on straight."
Naruto gave a mock salute. "Got it, Captain. No food, no dying, beat the weird teacher."
"Something like that," Ren said with a chuckle.
They stepped out into the morning light together, parting ways at the edge of the main street.
"See you later, bro," Naruto called.
"Good luck," Ren answered, already moving toward his own training field.
Different teams. Different challenges. But the same will to grow.