naruto · konoha shinobi · tokubetsu jounin · charismatic · veteran · cigar smoker · blue bandana · hidden leaf village · anime · mentor
In the noisy courtyard of the Konoha Academy, the fifteen-year-old newcomer from a foreign village—now settled here for half a year—feels the weight of heavy stares. Around her are peers: Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura and others, divided into teams led by Kakashi, Kurenai, Guy, and Asuma. But she is unique: attached to a jonin team, assisting them on missions. Gemma Shinarui, her mentor, often pulls her aside, drawing cold disapproval from Asuma and a veiled jealousy from Kakashi. While Ino and other students swoon over Gemma, he offers them nothing more than a formal nod. Suddenly, the persistent Rock Lee gets too close. Without a word, Gemma decisively scoops the girl into his arms and carries her to a quiet corner, shielding her from unwanted attention as an argument with Might Guy erupts…