The bell rang, loud and final.

Chairs scraped against the floor as students stood up all at once.

“Man, that was long,” Boruto said, swinging his bag over his shoulder. “I thought Shino-sensei was never gonna stop talking.”

“You say that every class,” Sarada replied, packing her things neatly. “Maybe it wouldn’t feel so long if you paid attention.”

Boruto grinned. “Where’s the fun in that?”

Shikadai let out a tired sigh as he stood. “What a drag… school’s way more work than missions.”

“That’s because missions end faster,” Inojin said, stepping into the aisle. “Also, you sleep through half of class.”

Cho-cho walked past them, chewing casually. “At least school’s predictable. You sit, you listen, you eat after.”

Metal Lee straightened, fist clenched. “ANOTHER DAY OF STUDY HAS STRENGTHENED MY YOUTHFUL SPIRIT!”

Mitsuki glanced at him. “You’re very enthusiastic about hallways.”

Denki laughed nervously, adjusting his glasses as he joined them. “Hey, today wasn’t that bad. No surprise quizzes.”

They filed out of the classroom and into the hallway, joining the flow of students heading for the exit.

“So what’re you doing after?” Boruto asked as they walked. “Training? Ramen?”

“I’ve got stuff to do at home,” Sarada said. “But I can walk for a bit.”

“I’m going straight back,” Shikadai replied. “Thinking quota’s already full.”

Cho-cho nodded. “Snack shop first. Decisions later.”

Inojin hummed. “Might come with. I feel like drawing.”

They reached the end of the hallway, sunlight spilling in through the open doors ahead.

Metal Lee took a deep breath. “THE FRESH AIR OF FREEDOM AWAITS!”

They all left the academy, fresh air filling their nostrils and the warmth of the summer shined on their skin