Hello my darlings! I am new at this whole fanfiction stuff and this is my first time EVER publishing anything. I am honestly nervous to whether you guys hate it or not. Either way, PLEASE GIVE ME CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM! I am new and since I have schooling and all, I won't lie to you and say I'll be quick to update! I wanted to finish the story first, but I really wanna see if you guys like where this story is going! Oh! I DO NOT OWN NARUTO IN ANYWAY!
Never Said Hello
A puff of smoke from Hiruzen's pipe flowed in disfigured cylinders. The Hokage sat with composure despite his excitement branching outward in eager to get right at this remarkable mission. Waiting awhile, he sighed impatiently, contemplating whether they should have assigned someone else to this mission for its uniqueness. Though he recalled that because this mission was so unique, he can't think of anyone better to be assigned with it.
Hiruzen senses a cool presence and wore a welcoming, warm smile; a gleam of assertive compassion dazzled within his professional eyes. He knew there'd be some disagreement to his proposition, but he doubts that his 'personal mission' will be declined.
A reluctantly firm voice vibrated throughout the walls of the Hokage's quarters, "Sorry for my lateness, there was this old wom-."
"No need for an excuse, Kakashi. Let's get straight to the details of this… 'Personal Mission,'" Hiruzen cut in with contained excitement, and pushed a turtle-green scroll across the oak-wood table toward Kakashi in a formal fashion.
Kakashi lazily snagged the scroll and boringly read through it with his emotionless right eye. Kakashi's laid-back exterior was cooling the oddly energetic atmosphere. The unique ability to make things appear simple out of personal habit was beyond Hiruzen, but he always knew that Kakashi was someone you'd be able to rely on.
Kakashi read, and felt slightly irritated at this new-gained knowledge. "I knew I had the right to be skeptical when you called this a 'personal mission.'" Kakashi spoke with a monotone voice. "Hokage-sama, I don't understand why you're treating this shinobi so exceptionally remarkable. Since when did a captain of the designated ANBU squad a newbie will soon join, is to be introduced one on one before meeting the rest of the squad? Much less, traditionally being dumped within the ANBU facility and having to self-navigate to their own designated squad dorm, expected to properly orientate themselves after our minuscule tour of our rules and how we function?" the tone Kakashi gave was cautiously respectful, politely recalling Hiruzen's place and his own.
Hiruzen smiled warmly, the eyes sagely poised, but filled with sympathy and understanding. "I understand your sudden frustration. I can assure to you that I am not babying him. Understand that I'm making an exception for this shinobi because he possesses a particularly unique ability. This 'gift' puts him in consistent danger and leaves his well-being in turmoil. I am assigning this mission to you because I believe you and your squad can not just protect him, but allow him to feel better about himself."
Kakashi collected himself and thought this through. Golden strings of nostalgic memories erupted like oil-spurred fire: Obito, Rin. 'Those who leave their comrades behind, is worse than scum!' Despite his longing, Kakashi visualized Obito's last lecture. He may not know this man yet, but Kakashi full well knew that this ninja of whom was currently non-existent to his reality, was a shinobi of Konoha. Therefore, is technically Kakashi's faithful comrade?
If Obito and Rin were set in this situation, they'd embrace this unknown shinobi without hesitation. Despite what circumstantial issues may possibly arise.
Kakashi made his decision; the ANBU was mildly surprised to open his eye when he never thought he closed it to begin with.
Looking upward into Hiruzen's eyes, the ANBU slouched his shoulders backward, "I'll take on this mission and have this highly-spoken-of shinobi under my wing. I pledge full responsibility for his actions. Although, I'd appreciate Intel on his 'gifted ability' you treat highly." Kakashi realized that his tone sounded more assertive than what he intended to.
Hiruzen smiled warmly, "Alright then, Kakashi, take this." Hiruzen handed Kakashi a scroll with emerald-green edges, "Maintain security on this scroll at all times! It has Intel on the shinobi you'll futuristically have as your subordinate. As soon you're done studying the contents of this scroll, bring it back as soon as possible."
Kakashi inserted the newly-retrieved scroll within his vest's scroll pocket. He thought it'd be best to look over the scroll within his own squad's room at the ANBU facility; He preferred his own environment to focus. Out of sheer curiosity, Kakashi was somewhat looking forward to what may unravel of all this. Although, Kakashi was hoping this shinobi wasn't egotistical. Observing the way Hiruzen spoke, this shinobi may be the complete opposite of a jerk... hopefully.
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The scroll was released from the seal on the scroll. He began reading what information was given. Genma and Gai were out, most likely eating at some shop. Either way, this was an excellent time for him to relax.
Real name: Tenzo. Codename: Yamato. Chakra Nature(s): Earth and Water. Gekkei Genkai: Wood Rele-.
"So he is a Gekkei Genkai bearer of the famed Wood Release." Kakashi finally understood the Hokage's actions; Wood Release Gekkei Genkai has historical and symbolic meaning to Konoha.
After reading the contents of the scroll, Kakashi felt too lazy taking those extra steps to the Hokage Mansion. Yet, he has been ordered to return it for safety prohibitions...
The grey-haired shinobi bit his thumb and placed his right hand on the table, "Summoning Jutsu!" Pakkun the pug appeared.
"What do you need boss?" Pakkun asked obediently.
"Pakkun, can you hand in this scroll to the Hokage Mansion?" Kakashi said, pretending to do paper work while handing him the scroll.
The pug sighed unimpressively, not buying Kakashi's antics. Still, he took the scroll and padded off to the Hokage Mansion.
Now to lean back and relax... Kakashi thought to himself. He was still tired from his last mission, so he closed his eyes and leaned back on his chair.
"BOOOOOIIIIIIIIIIIICHHHHAAAAAAAAAAA!" A strong voice thundered throughout the dorm room, the door practically smashing open.
"Holy honey baby, calm your balls!" A casually humorous voice said.
Kakashi spun on his chair to only be slammed on the ground, bear-hugged by his green beast friend: Might Gai
"OUR DEAREST DISTANT-AND-WITHDRAWN FRIEND HAS FINALLY ARRIVED FROM HIS ESPIONAGE MISSION! WE CAN REJOICE WITH THE POWER OF YOUUUUUUUUUUUTH!" Gai boisterously roared with pride and happiness.
"So, does the Hidden Mist have curves?" Genma asked with a lecherous smirk on his face.
"Unf... Oof... Emf" Screw talking, Kakashi's breath was faltering by his oblivious friend.
"Gai, I think you're suffocating our captain." Genma granted, snickering.
Gai stopped to think for a moment, then let go of Kakashi, apologizing with genuine guilt.
Kakashi sighed, and brushed himself off. "We have a mission that I accepted by the Hokage himself." Genma and Gai gave a look of excitement, similar to a kid about to eat ice cream.
Whenever Kakashi is given a solo mission, he emphasized 'I' statements. If a requested mission included his squad, he referred to everyone.
"Well, what is it?" Genma and Gai asked at the same time.
"We're going to have a new member within our squad. Now, having him is a mission because we must 'make him feel as though he belongs.'" Kakashi said this smoothly.
"That's... one heck o-," Genma began.
"A NEW SQUAD MEMBER AND OUR DORM LOOKS LIKE THIS!?" Gai shouted, spreading his arms and waving them around the room. He was quite unaware to making the mess while greeting Kakashi.
Kakashi smiled at his friend, "Good point, let's clean up." He said, watching Gai excitedly clean the room.
Genma just flopped on his bed, saying that he's too tired (which is complete bullshit).
The room was finally clean and Gai was doing push-ups. "Have to look fresh for our newcomer!" Gai beamed, barely sweating.
"Gai, you do know that I'll be meeting him before you guys, right?" Kakashi forgot to mention that part.
Gai tumbled to the floor and Genma sneered at Gai's reaction.
"But... I am so eager to meet him!" Gai pouted, continuing his push-ups, but less rhythmic.
"Don't worry Gai. He'll be introduced to you guys after our private introduction." Kakashi stated his voice calm and monotone.
"Wow! Some special treatment this guy is getting!" Genma said theatrically, posing false jealousy.
"Ehhh... He's being treated like this for a reason." Kakashi said with a lighter tone.
Gai was doing his handstand pushups, Genma was throwing his senbon at a target board, and Kakashi was lying on his bed reading his book. He'd wait until notification for the introduction.
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"I hope the team I'm assigned to do not have a slave driver for a captain." Tenzo's inner was nagging.
Why did you accept the application attempt for ANBU!? You're still not going to get anywhere. Tenzo's thoughts were louder this time
"Ugh…" He's very skittish indeed.
Today was the day for him to meet his ANBU captain, then the squad. Just a few hours ago, Hiruzen met up with Tenzo and told him that he'll be calling an ANBU captain to take him in their squad. He trusted the Hokage with his life -he'd never intentionally choose someone that'd be a jerk to him-. Tenzo was certain of that. It's just... how can he be so sure?
It was 3:00pm in the afternoon and Konoha looked colorful on a warm sunny day. The birds were chirping harmonious melodies, the village was alive with incomprehensible chatter around the town market from afar, and the bridge Tenzo stood on was atop a beautiful lake, illumined by the glistening reflection of the sun.
It was a beautiful day, and Tenzo enjoyed as much he could (he's very rarely able to explore this far in the village without being tailed). He took a deep breath, and exhaled. The skittish man imagined all his stress building up, then leaving his body while breathing calmly. This moment -despite the pent up nervousness- felt peaceful.
Hiruzen walked on the bridge and welcomed Tenzo.
"Hello Yamato! That is your nickname now, young one." Hiruzen was in a good mood. He was smiling at Tenzo and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.
"Ahh… e-… My pleasure Hokage-sama!" Tenzo bowed formally. He always held high respects for his Hokage. It's because of him that Tenzo was able to progress this far throughout his shinobi life.
Hiruzen chuckled sweetly, "No need for such formality to a friend!" Hiruzen always held a soft spot for Tenzo, the boy was so kind yet treated so harshly.
Tenzo blushed a tint of pink, "My apologies Hiruzen-sama!" He was caught off guard by Hiruzen's amiable words.
"Hiruzen-sama, thank you for helping me come this far. I really appreciate it." Tenzo felt too expressive and sheepish saying that, but he felt it important for the Hokage to feel acknowledged and appreciated for his unwavering kindness.
"Well aren't you a considerate one," Kakashi landed next to Tenzo. The wood-user was caught completely off guard and felt idiotic for his combatant position in front of the Hokage.
The Hokage smiled impressively.
"Yamato, this is Kakashi, Kakashi, this is Yamato. You two will be working together." Hiruzen said reassuringly.
Tenzo put down his weaved signs and stood aside from the front of Hiruzen. He closely observed Kakashi and found him rather dull, and unique. His eye is expressionless, the posture he has is laid-back, but… his hair is the most bizarre hairstyle he's ever seen.
What's with that mask he's wearing? Tenzo thought this gray-haired man was odd. He doesn't remember ANBU wearing fabric masks on their faces in public,
"Nice to meet you, Tenzo." Kakashi was aware of Tenzo's analytical eyes. He could care less for the staring; almost everyone already does that.
Tenzo froze, and then bowed instinctively, "My pleasure as well senpai!" Tenzo felt awkward and intense.
Did he catch me staring? Tenzo thought nervously.
"Shall we continue our introductory in my office?" Hiruzen broke the silence, sensing Tenzo's unsteady persona.
"That would be a good idea," Kakashi caught onto Hiruzen's soft spot for this shinobi. He seems very polite but skittish as well.
So with that, Hiruzen weaved a few signs and they all found themselves in the Hokage's Quarters.
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"My boy, try to refrain from shyness and present your skills and abilities." Hiruzen suggested simply.
Tenzo was uncertain of presenting his Wood Style. He's been raised to resent it. No, influenced to detest it as much as the Village Elders do. He showed his water and earth ninjutsu. Of course, he was comfortable with that because it stayed within the limitations of his comfort zone. Now, he is being pushed over his bold line.
Kakashi approaches him. His hands are in his pockets, his eyes dull with no emotion. The Copy ninja knew the tightness in this man's chest. It was obvious to see the storm of emotions flashing across the wood-user's expressive eyes.
Kakashi put a hand on Tenzo's shoulder, and leaned in, "I know you're nervous, scared, and uncertain whether or not the mokuton is something you should value and have pride over. You have been taught to resent this part of yourself because others detest you for who you are. Although, you are not being judged, ridiculed, or detested for possessing the powers of the mokuton here. Artificial or not, the mokuton you posses are one of the most important assets to the Hidden Leaf. Therefore, you are important to the Leaf."
Tenzo felt significant. Maybe, he is important. The Elders are snobs, which were obvious to him. So, why does he have to put himself down because of the bickering of some old hags?
Hiruzen felt lifted by the fiercely determined look that Tenzo wore on his face.
I have to let it go! Tenzo roared inside his mind.
"Wood Style: Pillar Impale! HAAAAAH!" As Tenzo's hands hit the floor, wooden tendrils with a pointed end surged from the ground and impaled the hay dummy 10 feet away. "Split!" Tenzo swiftly shifted to a sign and wooden spikes emerged from the pillars. The dummy was completely impaled.
"I knew you could do it, Tenzo." Hiruzen complimented thoughtfully.
Tenzo gave a wide grin and rubbed the back of his neck. His eyes were closed in relief and happiness. He was glad all that was over. He still feels uncertain whether or not others may act as nicely as Hiruzen. Tenzo looked toward Kakashi's direction, and all he gets is a nod of approval.
Well, at least he isn't chiding me. Tenzo optimistically thought to himself.
"Ehem… Shall I introduce him to Gai and Genma now?" Kakashi asked Hiruzen.
"Yes, I think it's time." Hiruzen replied.
"The remaining members of your squad, Kakashi-senpai?" Tenzo asked, crisply bowing.
"Of course, Kouhai." Kakashi said, turning to walk out of the office.
"I wish you two well." Hiruzen said across the room.
"You as well, Hokage-sama!" Tenzo courteously replied.
Here we go! Tenzo was mentally preparing himself for any psychopaths.
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I am practicing the usage of semi-colons as you could have seen! I really hope I describe the characters in a nostalgic fashion! Oh, by the way, I am still wrapping myself around the whole sama, kouhai, and senpai stuff. Please forgive me if I am not using these terms properly!