[Opening Song: BLUE by Suara]
Kanashimi ikuta noseshi fune:
[The Earth comes into view shining with the sun reflecting on it.]
Horobi no uta no koe takaku:
[Trees flutter in the wind as does the grass and the water ripples in the background.]
Kuraki soko yori ukabikoshi:
[The Shinju appears shined down upon by the suns gentle rays as it glows a golden color.]
Aa kimi to ima shirogane wo nuke:
[Naruto stands outside of Konoha staring up at the clear blue sky, the wind a delicate breeze that moves his hair softly as the grass moves beneath his feet.]
Oozora he futari tobu hi no:
[Hizuki stands outside alone amongst a graveyard somewhere in Konoha while its raining, looking up at the cloudy sky as the rain continues to fall down on him with a serene expression on his face.]
Kuru wo:
[The Rookie 12 stand in the background with their sensei's behind them standing proud as they all gather around.]
Yumemin:
[Hinata sports a gentle smile on her face as she holds out her arms as the sky started to clear.]
Kuru wo Yumemin
[Naruto and Hizuki both hold hands as they lift their arms up as towards the bright sun as the sky clears with smiles on their faces as they look up at the sky together.]
Naruto yawned as he woke up from having a strange dream. It was really strange, he felt like he was in someone else's body and even spoke differently from them too. He was staring into someone else's face but he couldn't see him very well, but somewhere deep down he knew the person he was speaking to was someone precious to him. Shaking his head he got out of bed to make breakfast and head back out to see his friend again today. He was also thinking about doing some training while he was at it, but since he didn't know where to start he decided to ask his friend Hizuki for help. Having finished his food he grabbed his sack that held his father's kunai, scroll, and the Uzumaki sealing technique scroll and left his apartment complex.
Naruto, walking around the village is dangerous right now. I'll give you directions to get to me another way.
"Dangerous?"
It would appear you walking around with your Rinne Sharingan present for all to see has caused quite an uproar from the rest of the humans living in your village. I wouldn't be surprised if the Uchiha clan got wind of it and are attempting to approach you about it. For now, its best you avoid them and focus on your training.
"I see," Naruto rubbed the back of his head, "I didn't even notice."
Its fine if you didn't. Instead of going into the village to get to me I'll take you to a different route. Jump up to the roof of your apartment building.
Naruto didn't question him and did just that, "What next?"
You should be able to see the forest from where you are.
Naruto narrowed his eyes and he did indeed see the forest, "Oh, I see it!"
Jump through the rooftops but be careful.
The blonde nodded and began carefully jumping through rooftops making sure not fall and not worry Hizuki. Naruto was close enough to the forest and landed near it before walking in and heading straight to where his friend was. Arriving at his destination he smiled, "I'm here."
So I see. You seem to have brought something with you this time.
"Yeah, I know who my parents are now. Their names are Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki. The Yondaime's my dad." Naruto told him calmly.
You do not seem very pleased about knowing the identities of your birth parents.
Naruto brought out the last of the stuff he gathered last night and looked at his friend, "I thought I would too…but I don't feel anything. I think it has something to do with me."
What do you mean?
Naruto grabbed his chest, "When the mean lady kicked me out of the orphanage my chest hurt a lot. I didn't want to feel anything anymore because it hurt too much. I want to feel happy because I finally know who my parents are, but I want to feel angry at my dad for sealing Kyūbi-san inside of me."
I see. I can't comprehend such an emotion for I am not even human, but I feel as though I want to comfort you.
Naruto smiled, "Thanks. Maybe I do feel something because I brought the picture back from the house, so that means I'm happy, right?"
Possibly. Maybe soon you will regain the emotions you wished you no longer had. Perhaps someone within the village loves you deeply enough to help you with such a thing.
"You really think so? You really think there's someone in the village that really loves me?" Naruto questioned.
It's only a hypothesis…but a hopeful one.
Naruto felt something in his chest and gripped his shirt, "I fell something…what is it?"
I do not know what it is your feeling but it may possibly be the emotion known as "hope."
"Hope…" Naruto muttered.
What is it that you need help with?
Naruto gave his friend a serious look, "Can you help me with my chakra?"
I can. Testing your chakra control is the first step, I will see if your chakra control is perfect or it needs work.
Naruto nodded, "Okay."
Hokage's Office-9:45, A.M.
Sarutobi just got finished dealing with the complaints from the villagers regarding Naruto. It seems what happened yesterday refuses to go away, some of them were still asking for his execution because they believed he stole something that belonged to the Uchiha clan. Speaking of the clan Fugaku came in and demanded to see if the boy had indeed stolen one of their Sharingan. He knew deep down Fugaku didn't believe it, but of course the Uchiha elders were breathing down his neck to demand Naruto be brought to them and confirm if he did indeed steal their clan's Kekkai genkai. The old man sighed, he saw what looked to be the Sharingan embedded in his forehead yesterday but it was impossible because he'd actually seen the Sharingan from Itachi and last time he checked those red eyes only had three tomoe and not nine, so maybe it was an advanced Sharingan. Not only that, but Naruto's Sharingan was blue and not red. He also wondered if Naruto himself was possible a distant relative of the Uchiha clan but shook his head of that thought. Neither Kushina nor Minato had distant Uchiha blood in them, so it wasn't possible. If that was the case…then how?
A knock on his door interrupted him from his thoughts, "Enter." The door opened and in came Danzo Shimura his longtime friend and rival. But over the years he'd come to slowly lose his trust in the man and with good reason. He had to be on guard every time he saw the man whether it'd be in his office or during council meetings, "What is it, Danzo?"
Danzo approached the desk, "I was curious of the rumors going around the village that our Jinchuriki has somehow acquired the Sharingan. I hear the villagers are asking for his execution for such a heinous crime."
Sarutobi eyed the man with suspicion, "I've already taken care of them and no, Naruto did not steal the Uchiha clan's Sharingan. The villagers were just overreacting."
"I see, you know my offer still stands." Danzo reminded.
"As I told you the first time you proposed such a thing I will say it to you again. Naruto will not be joining your ROOT Program which I'm pretty sure I told you to get rid of the first time, and he never will. I want that boy to have a normal life." Sarutobi stated.
"You and I both know the boy cannot have a normal life with a demon sealed within him, and the civilians won't allow him to have a normal life either because they see him as evil personified. Don't you see Hiruzen. He can only benefit from-" Danzo was cut off.
"My answer will not change! Besides, Naruto will be enrolled in the Academy when he turns six. Do you understand, Danzo?" Hiruzen glared as if daring him to say something back.
Danzo stared at him for a few minute before resigning, "I understand." The man turned his back and left the office but Hiruzen knew Danzo all too well. There's no way he'd give up that easily, and that was a bad thing. He'd have to watch the man carefully.
Danzo on the other hand knew Hiruzen would refuse to give the boy to him and decided to take him by force. There was no way he'd let the boy slip through his fingers, he would not let that kind of potential go to waste. The time for mercy is over.
"Report." He said to the ROOT Agent that landed next to him.
"Sir. We've lost sighting of the Kyūbi Jinchuriki when he went into the forest." The operative reported.
"Was there a sign of a Genjutsu present?" Danzo questioned.
"There was, but it was too powerful for us. We tried to dispel it but we were not able to." The operative reported.
"Leave me."
"Understood."
Danzo was deep thought, 'A Genjutsu powerful enough that it cannot be dispelled so easily. Someone has infiltrated the village and is somehow training the Kyūbi Jinchuriki. This person must be eliminated immediately.'
Naruto was sitting down on the ground lotus style concentrating on the leaf that was on his forehead. His third eye was closed, it amazed him that his third eye would open and close on its own. The leaf on his forehead was glowing blue and it was steady too.
You can stop now. It would appear you now have perfect chakra control compared to before.
"What do you mean?" Naruto took the leaf off his forehead.
Before I could sense your chakra control was less than perfect because you have soo much of it. In terms of how much, I'd say Hokage level. I believe it has something to do with you being a member of the Uzumaki clan. They were born with large chakra reserves as well as longevity.
"Longevity?" Naruto blinked in confusion.
Longer lifespans than the average humans. The reason for this is because they were direct descendants of the Ōtsutsuki clan through Asura Ōtsutsuki. The youngest son of Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki. They were all born with red hair, but you do not have that physical trait as you've inherited your looks from your father.
"The villagers don't see that. They give me those mean glares and whisper things behind my back everytime, but unlike before I don't feel sad like I usually would." Naruto said.
They are of no importance, right now you need to focus on your training. Its best to ignore them.
"Okay. Hey, I forgot to ask you before. But how old are you really?" Naruto asked.
How old?
Naruto nodded, "Yeah. You were there to see the mean lady get sealed away forever, right?"
I will assume you mean Kaguya as the "mean lady," and to answer your other question I am not the original Shinju. I am merely a new seed that was planted when Hashirama Senju founded this village along with Madara Uchiha. During the time when they were merely children I began to grow in the same way as my predecessor the original Shinju grew. I was curious to know more about humans but they could never hear my voice, so I stopped trying to communicate with them. You are the very first human to actually hear me. That proves you are very special.
Naruto looked up at the sky, "I'm not special at all. I'm just me, Naruto Uzumaki!"
Yes you are.
Naruto smiled, "So, what's next for me to learn?"
Since you are of the Uzumaki clan it would be best if you learned their Fūinjutsu, for it is within your birthright.
Naruto nodded and opened the scroll he found in his parents house and opened it up reading the first page.
Shishō Fūin (Four Symbols Seal)-A powerful sealing technique of the Uzumaki clan of Uzushiogakure. The sealing formula is used to seal any target into a human body or an object and is mainly used when a giant enemy or evil spirit needs to be sealed away.
'I wonder if that's the same seal that was used on me.' Naruto thought as he kept on reading.
Hakke no Fūin Shiki (Eight Trigrams Sealing Style)-To use this technique the user must first summon a ceremonial throne and place the target on it.
Shiki Fūjin (Dead Demon Consuming Seal)-Performing he hand signs correctly, the users soul is partly separate from their body and suspended behind them. The soul of the Shinigami will appear behind the summoner as the Shinigami restrains their soul with its hair. The Shinigami wraps its left arm with prayer beads and chants until a curse seal appears on its arm. It then drives its arm into the summoner's soul, allowing the summoner to call upon the Shinigami to seal a target. Once the targets soul has been grasped, the summoner can remove the targets soul and seal it into their own body. When this is done, a mark appears which is the Hakke no Fūin Shiki (Eight Trigrams Sealing Style). The summoner has a few moments to say their peace allowing them to finish any lingering business they may have in the world of the living before the Shinigami their soul and the soul of the target. Ending their lives. The souls are then trapped inside the Shinigami's stomach for all eternity.
Hand Signs: Snake → Boar → Ram → Rabbit → Dog → Rat → Bird → Horse → Snake → Clap Hands.
Naruto found this sealing technique to be not so good, "This ones really dangerous. Did my clan really create this?" he shook his head as he read on.
Uzumaki Fūinjutsu (Uzumaki Sealing Technique)-This sealing technique requires the necessary hand signs, then the user places their hand on the ground as a formula appears below the target. Anything above the inscription is sealed within the formula.
Hand Signs: Rat → Ox → Dog → Dog → Clap hands → Boar → Slam hand on the ground.
Naruto blinked, "My clan's sealing techniques are really strong, aren't they?"
I've only seen the Shiki Fūjin (Dead Demon Consuming Seal) be used. I know not of the others I'm afraid.
"I want to learn my clan's sealing techniques first then learn the Hiraishin." Naruto said.
You might want to learn how to use the Rinnegan as well. Hopefully there should be something in one the scrolls to teach you or you could ask the Kyūbi.
Naruto nodded his head, "I wish you were here with me."
I do not understand what you mean by that. I am here with you right now.
"No," Naruto shook his head, "I mean its too bad you can't grab my hand, or eat, or stare up at the sky to watch the pretty stars at night."
The Shinju seemed to think about this very carefully. Technically he didn't require nourishment anymore, it didn't have to see the stars when it could feel them. But…the thought of holding his friends hand did interest it for some time now, and wondered what it would feel like?
…I understand. I believe I may have the solution to that.
Before Naruto could even ask what he meant by that the whole tree started glowing yellow making the blonde look on in fascination. The glowing light lasted for a few more minutes then stopped to surround one spot on the tree and that was the middle. There was a glowing yellow ball that separated from the tree and hovered before him for a few minutes, Naruto could have sworn he saw what looked to be a body inside the thing. It slowly landed on the ground and the ball of light disappeared and in its place was a boy with pale skin with a delicate facial feature, extremely long grey hair that was tied in a high ponytail, with two long strands that went passed his shoulders. His eyes were the same as those of the Hyūga clan, he was a wearing a white and yellow kimono shirt with long sleeves that didn't cover his hands, long white pants with yellow stripes on the side of them, and was barefooted.
Naruto stared at his friend before a small smile appeared, "You're here."
The Shinju observed its human form very carefully to see if it made any mistakes in its transformation, "It appears I made no mistakes during the creation of my human form." He felt himself being hugged by Naruto and was surprised by the contact, "Naruto?"
Naruto pulled back with a smile, "Sorry, I just felt the need to hug you, Hizuki."
Hizuki blinked then remembered the name Naruto gave him, "That's right. My name is Hizuki now, I forgot that."
"It's fine. Let's train together, Hizuki!" Naruto said.
Hizuki nodded in agreement, "Yes."
Naruto looked back down at the scroll right along with Hizuki, "Hey…you're a boy, right?"
Hizuki nodded, "I have the physical traits of a male, Naruto. You do not need to worry about that."
"Good." Naruto looked back down at the scroll in concentration, "I'll try the Uzumaki Fūinjutsu (Uzumaki Sealing Technique), what do you think?"
"It's the best decision in my opinion, also you might need paper to practice the sealing formulas." Hizuki suggested.
"Oh, I forgot to bring some!" Naruto said.
"Don't worry," Hizuki stood up and walked over to the tree, "I will handle that." Touching the tree he created stacks of paper that his friend would need.
Naruto took one and stared at the sealing formulas of the Uzumaki clan sealing technique and started writing some of them down. It was strange how easy this came to him, just looking at it the formula itself looked extremely difficult and would give anyone a headache who were trying to figure it out. Naruto was a determined little child who had no intention of giving up just because he couldn't understand something. He'd keep on trying until he eventually figure it out and smile with pride when he finally did. When it came to the Uzumaki clan sealing techniques like this it didn't seem to bother him all that much and he was able to understand what was written down for the sealing techniques for his clan.
"It looks really confusing at first but if I re-read it and write it down like this its seems easy to understand now." Naruto observed.
Hizuki nodded in agreement, "In my opinion, I believe the reason you know this so well is because you an Uzumaki."
"Maybe," Naruto kept on writing a few more formulas before he stopped and looked at his friend, "What should I work on next?"
"Combat training will do you some good as well. I will help you with your hand to hand combat training." Hizuki suggested.
"Really?! Thanks!" Naruto said eagerly.
Hizuki nodded, "Your welcome, let's begin shall we?" he stood back up.
Naruto followed right after him and stood facing his friend, "I'm ready."
Hizuki nodded his head in understanding.
"You still can't get through to where the Jinchuriki is?" Danzo eyed his operatives.
"No Danzo-sama, we are trying but for some reason no matter what we try we can't get through." One of the operatives told him.
Danzo's eyes narrowed at the forest he was staring at. It didn't take long for him to get here because he had his operatives watch the boy closely. Since they couldn't get in the forest to capture him like he had planned he decided to come here himself and see if this Genjutsu was as powerful as it seemed. Looks like it is.
'The Jinchuriki is in there along with whoever has snuck inside the village to train the boy in secret. This person must be eliminated now.'
Hizuki decided to show Naruto its own version of a fighting style that consisted of hitting with your palms and blocking by redirecting their attacks and not getting hit by them effectively. It was similar to the Hyūga clan's Juken style but different, their style attacks the tenketsu and organs, while the style Hizuki was showing him was different. He had watched and observed the fighting style of both Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha for years before their deaths and managed to come up with a fighting style that's perfect for his friend. This one would allow him to not only harm the person's organs but also shatter their bones as a result. He sensed someone was trying to break through the Genjutsu he placed around the forest where he hid himself for years from the eyes of those who could easily sense him.
I've felt this evil presence before. It must be that man-the one they call Danzo Shimura. If he is here then that means he is after Naruto. I remember him having similar intentions towards someone else before Naruto was born, I wonder if that person was his mother.
"What's wrong?" Naruto asked.
Hizuki didn't answer instead he activated his Byakugan near the area where he could sense Danzo and his minions that were trying to get to his friend for his evil purposes. Narrowing his eyes he whispered a familiar attack that originated from him, "Tomogoroshi no Haikotsu (All-Killing Ash Bones)."
Danzo and his troops were trying once again to break the Genjutsu around the forest and attempt to capture the Jinchuriki but that would soon stop when all of Danzo's troops were stabbed by what looked to be bones.
Danzo's eyes widened, "What…?" he watched as his troops turn to ash as soon as the bones stabbed them, "What is this?"
Hizuki deactivated his Byakugan, 'Maybe this will hold him off for awhile.'
"Hizuki?" Naruto called out to his friend.
Hizuki shook his head, "Its nothing. I sensed something vile and took care of it, that's all. Shall we continue?"
"Yeah."
For about 2 hours Hizuki helped Naruto with his new Taijutsu style and so far Naruto was taking to it quite well. The only thing Hizuki had to work with him on was his stance for certain moves but so far his friend was doing really well, so that was good. Next they worked on some Ninshū, Naruto decided to call it Ninshū now out of respect for the Rikudō Sennin. Hizuki respected this and told Naruto that the man would probably appreciate the fact that he was showing respect to his teachings by saying its original name. When that was done they went to practicing the Hiraishin, well Naruto did anyway, Hizuki simply watched as his friend tried to master the first level of Hiraishin. He had some difficulty at first but after awhile he was finally starring to get it, which was a huge accomplishment for him in a way.
Naruto fell to the ground on his back exhausted and sweating a little, "I'm tired…"
Hizuki sat down next to him, "You did very well. Your Taijutsu aside, you seem to be doing very well with the Hiraishin so far. I'm sure your father would be impressed."
Naruto showed no expression at the mention of his "father." Don't get him wrong its not like he hated the man, well mostly because he didn't understand what "hate" meant anymore, but he had no interest in a man that wasn't even in this world anymore. He had nothing to prove to him or anyone else for that matter either, he was only interested in staying by his friends side. Finding out you're the son of the Yondaime Hokage would make any child happy and have stars in their eyes, but Naruto just calmly accepted it but didn't hold any love for them since he hadn't experienced the feeling himself. With a sigh he sat up, "Let's go eat."
"Where?"
Naruto smiled at him, "I discovered a place with really good food. Its called Ichiraku Ramen, their ramen is the best!"
Hizuki was curious about this Ichiraku Ramen place, "I see. If you say it is good then I'm willing to try it for myself."
Naruto stood up slowly and rubbed his stomach, "I'm a little hungry now though."
Hizuki stood up and picked an apple from a nearby tree and gave it to Naruto who took it gratefully, "Thanks." He took a bite out of the apple, "So good."
"You shouldn't talk with your mouth full." Hizuki reprimanded him gently.
Naruto swallowed what he was eating, "Sorry."
"It's fine. I know a way to get there without us being bothered by the villagers or those of the Uchiha clan." Hizuki walked off with Naruto following right behind him.
"I've been meaning to ask you, but do you not like the Uchiha clan?" Naruto questioned.
"It is not as though I dislike them, but I find them to be filled with nothing but hatred and greed. This generation of Sharingan users will be no different than when Madara was still alive." Hizuki stated.
Naruto didn't quite understand what he meant by the Uchiha clan being filled with nothing but hatred and greed. Hatred…he wondered if the glares the villagers give him falls into the category no that he had the capacity to care anymore because he didn't. taking another bite out of hit apple he let his mind wander as his body instinctively followed his friend, probably to a different route in order to get to Ichiraku Ramen more quickly when they arrived back in the village. Hizuki meanwhile was constantly checking to see if Danzo Shimura was still in the area after his display of power earlier. Truthfully he did that in order to get the man away from Naruto and from what he senses it worked. His eyes and ears are the forest itself and so far he hadn't sensed the man anywhere.
'Looks like he gave up for now, but he will try again and this time we won't be in the forest to hold him back. Then I have no choice.' Hizuki narrowed his eyes, he will do anything to protect his friend.
Even kill every single person in this village if it comes down to that.
Seeing a sign that said 'Ichiraku Ramen' he grabbed his friends hand and dragged him inside. He felt the eyes of the villagers on both him and Naruto but they were mostly on Naruto, he could hear the faint whispers. He will deal with them soon enough.
"Welcome! Oh Naruto, nice to see you again. Who's your friend?" Teuchi asked.
Hizuki bowed respectfully, "Nice to meet you, my name is Hizuki Ōtsutsuki. Thank you for allowing my friend to eat here at your establishment."
Naruto wondered why he would pick Ōtsutsuki as his last name but decided to not to ask knowing his friend had a reason for using that name.
"Nice to meet you Hizuki, and there's no need to thank me. Naruto is welcome to eat here anytime he wants." Teuchi smiled, "Oh, but its best to eat healthy every once in awhile too."
Hizuki believed that as well but here was a problem with that, and that was the fact that even if his friend went inside a produce store they would attempt to throw him out because they truly believe him to be a demon instead of a human being. He wondered why Hagoromo wasted his time in protecting humanity at all? Are they even worth protecting? Worth saving?
"I will make sure Naruto eats healthy foods, namely vegetables that are good for his growing development." Hizuki stated.
Naruto blanched at the thought of having to eat vegetables, but knew that Hizuki had already made up his mind on the matter.
"Good to know Naruto has someone looking out for him, you know for a kid you know some pretty big words." Teuchi complimented.
"I am advanced for my age." Hizuki played it off.
Naruto sat down and ordered what he got the last time, and Hizuki ordered he one with vegetables. Naruto whispered in his friend's ear, "Hey Hizuki, why did you get the one with vegetables?"
"Ah, it's because I need the required sustenance to "grow up" as you would call it. My body is now that of a normal human despite some modifications, meaning that I need large requirement of water and healthy foods to grow like I did in my original form." Hizuki explained.
"What happens when your completely drained?" Naruto questioned.
"Then I will simply head back to the forest and take some nourishment from the soil there to heal any critical injuries or restore my strength should I need to." Hizuki told him as their food arrived.
Naruto understood and began eating his ramen, his friend was right though. The blonde didn't have to worry about Hizuki at all since all he had to do was go to the forest heal if he had a serious injury or anything else that might happen to his friend. He wondered if he revealed what Hizuki really was to the Hokage would the old man believe him? Would he take Hizuki away from him? The very thought was enough to make the blonde feel sick to his stomach and out of instinct he grabbed Hizuki's hand making the boy/tree look at him. He didn't want his new friend to go away. He wont let anyone harm Hizuki, it doesn't matter who they are! He vowed to protect Hizuki no matter what!
The two boys went back to eating with only one of them noticing they were being watched by two individuals. Hizuki knew they were Uchiha, but they didn't feel hostile at all but that wasn't saying much. The boy decided to ignore them until they tried to make a move towards Naruto.
Itachi had been watching them ever since they walked into the eating establishment. His eyes were on Naruto though, he couldn't see if the rumor was true about him having what appeared to be the Sharingan embedded in his forehead. At first he thought it was another excuse the villagers made up to isolate he boy even further but it caused so much commotion and the fact that the Sandaime didn't deny the possibility the boy could have it. For some reason it had bothered Itachi and not just him, Shisui was curious to know if it was true too and came with his friend to confirm it. Itachi's father Fugaku told them both that the clan elders want the boy brought to them for inspection but Itachi wasn't stupid he knew what that meant.
The elders were trying to take it, just like they tried to do with Kakashi when Obito Uchiha gave him his eye. They only wanted the Sharingan and nothing more.
"So…you think its true?" Shisui wondered.
"I'm not sure. That's why we're here to confirm." Itachi told him.
"I get it, I get it," Shisui told him, "I'm just curious you know? If he really does have the Sharingan then the clan will either try to take the eye out of him or force him to join the clan. I don't want that for him."
"Neither do I." Itachi agreed, "Their moving."
Shisui kept his eyes on them as the boys left the place, Naruto turned his head at the right time showing them that he did indeed have what appeared to be the Sharingan embedded in his forehead, but it wasn't the normal red eye, black tomoe Sharingan-oh no. It was the Rinne Sharingan! Not only was it a different color but it was glowing too. Itachi and Shisui nodded towards each other.
"We cannot let the members of our clan touch him," Shisui told Itachi with a serious expression, "There's no telling what they'd make him do. We need to report this to the Hokage immediately!"
"No, you go tell the Hokage. I'll make contact with Naruto-kun and the boy who's with him." Itachi said.
"Got it." Shisui disappeared via Shunshin leaving Itachi to make contact with the blonde.
Unaware of what was happening Naruto and Hizuki decided to just walk around the village together, Hizuki saw the hatred in the villagers eyes had intensified since they truly believed his friend had stolen a Sharingan from the Uchiha clan. Fools. His friend is no thief. And it wasn't the Sharingan it was the evolved form of both the Rinnegan and Sharingan. Rinne Sharingan. He was on high alert watching them like hawks wanting to see what they'd do. Needless to say he wasn't disappointed, out of the corner of his eye he saw a villager pick up what looked to be a rock and threw it at his friend aiming right at his head. Before Hizuki could do anything Naruto acted first, grabbing the rock and crushing it like it was nothing. He noticed that the boy's Rinne Sharingan was glowing the whole time as if sensing danger. Naruto looked at his friend as he stared at the palm of his hand, "Hey Hizuki…"
"Don't worry about it, enhanced strength comes with eating the chakra fruit. So its normal." Hizuki told him.
Naruto blinked, "I see." He walked off again missing the fact his friend activated his Byakugan sending a silent threat towards the villagers if they ever tried that again. The villagers themselves were filled with new fear seeing the demon crush a rock with his bare hands like it was nothing. They made a mental note to report this to the Council. As if sensing what they were going to do Hizuki erased their memories of the moment. Kaguya had done something similar in the past when she first met her lover and now here he was doing the same thing. However he was erasing their memories in order to protect Naruto, he didn't know why he had this instinct to protect the boy he just felt it was the right thing to do.
Hizuki sensed an Uchiha was near, grabbing Naruto's hand he dragged him towards the forest not wanting to confront one.
"Hizuki?" Naruto gave his friend a worried look.
"An Uchiha. He's following us, we have to go back to the forest." Hizuki told him as he kept dragging his friend away from the village and towards the forest, but it was never meant to be as the Uchiha wearing an ANBU uniform and mask landed before the two before they could even reach the forest.
Hizuki stood before Naruto acting as a shield, "Cursed Uchiha." The boy muttered his Byakugan active.
Itachi's eyes widened as the boy said those words. The man already knew his clan was cursed and were acting like it, but he didn't expect this child to know, and those eyes…is he a Hyūga?
"Who are you? Are you of the Hyūga clan?" Itachi questioned.
"I'm not. I'm of the Ōtsutsuki clan, and that's all you need to know. Why have you've been following us, Uchiha?" Hizuki questioned, his Byakugan still active.
'Ōtsutsuki?! They really exist!' Itachi thought in complete surprise, "I am not your enemy. I simply came to ask Naruto Uzumaki some questions regarding his Rinne Sharingan."
Naruto narrowed his eyes, "How do you know what it's called?"
"He is of the Uchiha clan, and they possess the Sharingan however their Sharingan can evolve so it's not surprising they have records about the Rinne Sharingan. I wont let your clan have him." Hizuki declared.
"You misunderstand my intention, Hizuki-kun. I have no intention of allowing those of my clan to harm Naruto-kun, in fact we have decided to keep him safe from them for as long as we can." Itachi told him honestly.
"Who is included in this "we" you speak of?" Hizuki demanded.
"Shisui Uchiha, my closest comrade." Itachi said.
Hizuki could sense no ill will from the man and no malicious intent either. So he's sincere then, Hizuki relaxed but still had his Byakugan active just in case.
"Unlike the rest of those of the Uchiha clan you seem to be sincere in your words and intentions. That's rare for the members of your clan." Hizuki stated.
"How is it that you know about the Uchiha Curse?" Itachi questioned.
"Before I tell you anything, its best to get rid of some…unwanted ears." Hizuki looked out of the corner of his eye and sensed two individuals watching them, "There's no point in hiding! Reveal yourselves!"
The two individuals appeared from the bushes revealing them to be wearing white robes. Itachi knew who they were immediately, it didn't take a genius not to know.
ROOT Agents.
"Naruto stay behind me." Hizuki told him.
"Right." Naruto got behind his friend.
Itachi stood in front of both kids, "Why are you here?"
"Stand down Itachi Uchiha. We have orders to bring in both Naruto Uzumaki and the boy with him." The ROOT Agent on the left answered.
"Hand them over now." The one on the right ordered.
Itachi was about to remove his mask to engage them both but Hizuki walked past him, "Protect Naruto. I will handle them." He said.
"You cannot defeat us. Surrender yourself, now." The one on the left stated.
Hizuki was already in front of the two agents much to their shock, as well as Itachi's, "Hakke Kūshō (Eight Trigrams Vacuum Palm)." Releasing a high-speed palm thrust he sent them both flying away from them and slamming into two trees with a loud crack. Their bodies slid down to the ground slowly and they didn't get back up again.
Hizuki deactivated his Byakugan and turned towards them, "Follow us, Uchiha." He walked off to the spot where he and Naruto first met with the blonde following right behind him.
Itachi followed without a word, but deep was curious as to know how the boy knew of a Hyūga clan's technique if he wasn't a member of their clan but decided to keep the question to himself as he followed them to a secret location.
The two boys plus Itachi arrived at the very spot Naruto first met Hizuki in his tree form anyway. The two boys stood next to each other, "Speak Uchiha, what is it that you know about the Rinne Sharingan?"
Itachi removed his mask so that they would feel more comfortable, "The Rinne Sharingan is known as a 血継網羅 (Kekkei Mōra, Bloodline Encompassing), an advanced branch jutsu. It is said to be far superior to Kekkei Genkai and Kekkei Tōta. This is the first I've seen someone with a bloodline such as this," he looked at Naruto, "The only one confirmed to have such a thing was…"
"Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki-The Rikudō Sennin, correct?" Hizuki said.
"Yes…does this mean…" Itachi wondered.
Hizuki walked over by Naruto covering his ears much to the blonde's confusion, "Naruto is of the Uzumaki clan, thus making him a clan heir however that is not all. He might very well be the reincarnation of two individuals who have all but disappeared from history."
"Who do you mean?" Itachi's eyes widened.
Hizuki stared at the man, "I sense two chakra signatures mixed in with his own. They are Hagoromo Ōtsutsuki and Asura Ōtsutsuki, it hard for me to determine which chakra signature is the most dominate so I have no choice but assume he has both."
Itachi's activated his Sharingan and sure enough he saw it. That means Naruto is a very special child that may very well save this world and bring forth peace.
"His life will constantly be in danger." Itachi said.
"It is already in danger. The villagers will resort to killing him the first chance they get, and when that day comes I will be the one to deliver their punishment." Hizuki said.
"You sound as though you were a god passing righteous judgment on the wicked." Itachi said.
"Tell me something Uchiha…have you heard of the Shinju?" Hizuki questioned.
"Shinju?" Itachi narrowed his eyes.
"Yes. It is a tree that produces chakra fruit every thousands of years, however the original one perished due to it becoming the Jūbi. However, before it disappeared completely it planted a small seed that grew over time and produced chakra fruit during the time of Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha, but neither sensed my presence, which is a good thing. Now here in this era Naruto was able to not only sense me but hear my voice." Hizuki explained.
Itachi had never heard of this before, so chakra originally from the Shinju that produced chakra fruit…wait a minute.
"Sensed your presence?" You can't be…" Itachi stared at the boy.
"Correct. I am the Shinju, child of man." Hizuki revealed.
Itachi got down on one leg and bowed before the boy, "I apologize if you feel uncomfortable about this, but I feel this is necessary."
Hizuki was honestly surprised when a member of the Uchiha clan started bowing to him. He had witnessed many Uchiha's in the past but this is the first time one had accepted the truth about things and even bowed respectfully towards him. This Uchiha was pure hearted in every way.
"Raise your head Uchiha, there is no need to bow to me. I am but a simple tree that has grown tired of observing humans." Hizuki said.
"You've been watching over us?" Itachi inquired.
"I have been watching humanity since Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha's era. I have been watching over Naruto since one of Hagoromo's creations was manipulated to fight once again by a rogue Uchiha who claimed to be Madara Uchiha, however…I find that claim hard to believe." Hizuki revealed.
"The Kyūbi was being controlled by a rogue Uchiha?" Itachi was taken back by the information.
"Yes, though I do not know of his identity it is quite obvious he despises the Uchiha clan and wants to see them disappear. Controlling the Kyūbi has accomplished that goal." The boy said.
"I see." Itachi said.
"Another thing you should know. Naruto also possesses the Rinnegan."
"The Rinnegan?!" Itachi stared at the blonde who just kept wondering why Hizuki had covered his ears.
"Correct. Once he has completed his clans sealing arts among other things I will be teaching him how to use the dōjutsu. His Rinne Sharingan possesses the same qualities as your Sharingan, meaning he could learn Tsukuyomi if he so wishes but I do not think he would." Hizuki said.
"I understand." Itachi agreed, 'Telling Hokage-sama about the fact that Naruto has the Rinnegan might be bad considering the dangers it will attract. Its best to keep this to myself.'
"It's also best you keep what I am a secret as well. There is no need for the rest of the human race to know what I am. Only Naruto." Hizuki stated.
"I understand." Itachi said.
Hizuki released his hands from Naruto's ears allowing the blonde to hear again, "What were you two talking about?"
"Don't worry about it." Hizuki rubbed his friends head making the boy pout. Itachi felt something watching this scene, it reminded him of his interaction with Sasuke. Maybe some day the two of them can become friends.
"What now, Hizuki?"
"Now, you go back to training. We will watch you." Hizuki said.
"Okay. I was thinking about working more on the Hiraishin, what do you think?" Naruto asked his friend.
"I believe that is a wise choice." Hizuki agreed.
Naruto went off to the scrolls he had laying around on the ground of their hiding place and looked over the Hiraishin notes again.
"Hiraishin…does he perhaps…" Itachi spoke carefully.
"Know who his parents are? Yes he does indeed know, but even Naruto understands that announcing his heritage would be a foolish thing to do. They underestimate him and that will be their downfall, not to mention a sign of arrogance." Hizuki stated bluntly without remorse.
Itachi was inclined to agree, "You mean the elders, correct?"
"Particularly Danzo Shimura, he has tried once before to take Naruto away." Hizuki informed.
"What? Has he come here himself?" Itachi asked with a worried tone.
"No he has not, the Genjutsu I placed around the forest prevented him and those that follow him from getting inside the forest to try and take Naruto away." Hizuki informed.
Itachi nodded in understanding. He had the same problems trying to dispel the Genjutsu himself but to no avail. So that's why…the Shinju's Genjutsu was far superior than any Uchiha's combined.
"I did it!"
Itachi looked back towards seeing him with a smile on his face, did the boy understand the Hiraishin no Jutsu?
"Hizuki, Uchiha-san, I did it." Naruto told them as he walked over by them.
"Did you figure it out?" Hizuki questioned.
Naruto pointed towards the tree before them making them look towards it and noticed their was a mark on the tree that read "術式 (Jutsu-shiki)" on it. The blonde closed his eyes taking a deep breath, "Hiraishin no Jutsu (Flying Thunder God Technique)." He muttered and disappeared in a yellow flash much to Itachi's astonishment, looking up he saw the blonde was standing on the marked spot of the tree, his feet were surrounded in blue chakra, "See? I did it."
Hizuki smiled, "Yes you did, good work."
Itachi was staring at the boy surprised by the fact he's able to transfer chakra to his feet with ease, "How…?"
"When Naruto ate one of my chakra fruits his chakra control improved, not only that but his chakra has increased but just at the right amount." Hizuki explained.
"What do you mean?" Itachi questioned.
"Exactly as I said." Hizuki responded.
Naruto got down from the tree and marked Hizuki on his left hand showing the jutsu-shiki symbol on it, "This way if we get separated I can get to you easily."
Hizuki stared at the mark on his hand in thought, "Hmmm, this is a smart strategy Naruto. This world is full of dangers and getting to each other quickly is important."
Naruto nodded then looked over at Itachi and bowed politely, "Thank you for listening to us, Uchiha-san."
"Itachi. My full name is Itachi Uchiha, but you may call me Itachi-san if you so wish." Itachi smiled at the boy.
Naruto nodded, "Itachi-san then. Let's continue training, Hizuki."
"Very well," Hizuki looked at the Uchiha male, "Will you stay as well?"
Itachi nodded, "I will." The fact that Danzo was already making a move on the boy was a sign that Naruto needed 24-hour protection. This is Danzo we're talking about here so if anyone believes it to be too much then their wrong.
Hokage's Office-1:45 PM
Hiruzen couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"Are…are you certain of this…?" Hiruzen questioned.
Shisui nodded, "No mistake, Hokage-sama. Naruto has somehow awakened the Rinne Sharingan. To be honest with you…I'm surprised to actually see it exists. It's a different color from what's been told in the Uchiha archives but there's no mistaking it. Naruto has the Rinne Sharingan. The Third Eye of the Sage."
"Third Eye of the Sage?" Hiruzen raised a brow.
"That's what the Uchiha clan called it during the time both Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha were still alive. Hokage-sama…I hope you don't think of me as being out of line for saying this but…I believe Naruto may very well be the reincarnation of the Rikudō Sennin." Shisui gave the man a serious look.
The old man's eyes widened at the proclamation. While true the Rikudō Sennin had a third eye just like Naruto does now, he'd always thought of the man to be nothing more but a legend. If what Shisui's saying is true then the boy might be the savior of the entire world.
"What makes you believe such a thing?" Hiruzen asked.
Shisui took a deep breath, "During the time Madara Uchiha was still alive there was a prophecy that sounded foreboding, but they took it to heart and took it seriously."
"What prophecy?"
"卯の女神 (Usagi no Megami, Rabbit Goddess)." Shisui said.
Hiruzen's eyes widened in complete and utter shock. He remembered that when he was chosen to be the Sandaime, Tobirama told him on complete secrecy of the prophecy that foretold of a goddess that was the first wielder of chakra. Ironically he overheard this when Madara and Hashirama were speaking to each other in private one day. Madara had mentioned it to Hashirama one day out of the blue and ever since Tobirama had felt a sense of foreboding. Like this goddess would come down and strike at them.
"I remember…Tobirama-sensei mentioned it to me once out of the blue one day just like Madara had done to Hashirama. The Rabbit Goddess…The Mother of All Charka!" Hiruzen fell back into his chair, "So…it's true then…"
Shisui nodded, "Yes. The members of the clan believed that one day the reincarnation of the Rikudō Sennin would appear in a soul full of pureness and love, the third eye is the key to confinement, should it fail a new seal will appear to seal the goddess away forever more."
Hiruzen closed his eyes, 'Naruto…' he opened them very calmly, "Shisui, do not mention this to any members of your clan. I'm sure Itachi will agree with me on this matter as well."
Shisui nodded in agreement, "Understood."
"Where's Itachi now?" The Hokage inquired.
"He's with Naruto and his new friend." Shisui said noticing the Hokage tense.
"Friend?"
"Yes. A boy probably about the same age as Naruto, his skin is fairly pale, as is his hair, and he has the same eyes as those of the Hyūga clan." Shisui informed.
"Are you saying he's a member of the Hyūga clan?" Hiruzen questioned.
"I'm not entirely sure…" he was cut off when Itachi materialized next to him.
"Itachi, great timing! Tell me of the boy that's with Naruto." Hiruzen asked.
"Sir. His name is Hizuki Ōtsutsuki." Itachi said.
"Ōtsutsuki?! The lost clan?!" Hiruzen and Shisui at the same time.
Itachi wasn't surprised that they knew about the clan, "Yes, he is of the Ōtsutsuki clan while also possessing the Byakugan. I'm sure the members of the Hyūga clan will try to approach the boy at some point, but I don't think it will go very well."
"I agree with you completely in that regard. Anyway, I'm a little suspicious of this boy. I'm assigning ANBU Dog to watch their every move specifically this Hizuki Ōtsutsuki." Hiruzen sported a serious look on his face.
Itachi thought about the boy/god tree.
"I only trust one human…and that is Naruto Uzumaki. If I sense he is in danger in any way from the humans of this village…I will be the one to end humanity."
'This seriousness of his words are not to be taken lightly.' Itachi thought. If the Shinju decided humanity was no longer trustworthy then it will be their end, and the hope for their survival is Naruto.
Naruto's Apartment-8:45
Hizuki had the blonde boy on his back as he carried him to his apartment. After Itachi left Hizuki observed Naruto as he continued to train with the Hiraishin and so far he was making good progress. When the boy ate from the chakra fruit his chakra control improved, not only that but he also gained enhanced strength and senses even though the boy was oblivious to that fact. The god tree was still trying to figure out what still possessed him to call out to the boy, was it because he held the Kyūbi within him? Was it because the child was lonely and needed someone show him at least some sign of love and affection? Or was it at some point the Shinju itself was starting to seek companionship after being on this planet and witnessing nothing but bloodshed and hatred? The thought almost made it want to laugh if that was even possible. Giving Naruto a side-glance and seeing his peaceful face for once made it actually feel something despite it not having experienced human emotions before in its entire life. If Naruto felt threatened then it would protect him, if Naruto felt sad then it would comfort him, it would seem that after meeting Naruto and communicating with the blonde made it actually "feel" something.
Opening the apartment door Hizuki walked in and set Naruto down on the bed softly before pulling the covers over him. For a while he simply stared at his friend's sleeping face with interest. Is this what humans look like when their at ease? If so then it's a very interesting expression that the god tree wanted to engrave within its memory. Crouching down on the floor the god tree leaned back into the bed and closed its eyes triggering sleep while at the same time staying alert. This is a village full of people who would love nothing more but kill Naruto for something he couldn't help, so it was only logical to protect the boy.
And protect "he" will.
Next Time: 白眼の姫 (Byakugan no Hime, Byakugan Princess)