Atarashii Sennins no Michi

The Path of a New Sennins

To Mount Myōboku

"Human talk"

'Human thought'

"Human yell"

"Demon talk"

'Demon thought'

"Demon yell"

*Flashbacks*

A family like no one can see; a family everyone wants to be, family love comes from above; family love is softer than a dove, family means a lot, life will never rot; family means a lot; you will sometimes get caught.

A family loves you for you, and you love them very much to, a family means everything to you without them you wouldn't know what to do…a family…..By angel of passion 016.


Inside the Hokage office…

The entire office was a mess, books, scrolls and shattered window glass were scattered all over the floor. Cabinets and drawers were broken and burned. Only the wall had minor damage, a few cracks here and there. In the middle of the chaos, a small white crib with a wooden frame that looked brand new with soft cotton fabric to make it comfortable for the baby blond boy to sleep in peace. Next to he was a wrinkled old man, who was called Sarutobi Hiruzen one of two known Kage always wear the official Kage uniform. He had a small goatee and short spiked hair. He also had lines running vertically under each eye. Although the old man, age had not taken much of a toll on his appearance as it had on his skills; as it appeared to have given him some gray hair, several wrinkles, and very few liver spots. Even in his age, he was now renowned as Hokage again since the Yondiame was no longer among them. So now the Sandaime had to make the most difficult decision on what to do with the baby.

The baby name was Uzumaki Naruto the Jinchūriki of Kyūbi no Yōko and responsible for Konoha's destruction. But that was not true, the real truth was that the Yondaime Hokage used a forbidden Jutsu called Shiki Fūjin*, a powerful Sealing Jutsu that bring the Shinigami* to the land of the living, to seal the Kyūbi's soul into a small infant, but for the price. In exchange for extracting the Kyūbi's soul, his soul was also extracted along with creating the Shishō Fūin* to maintain the Bijū from escaping.

It saddened Sarutobi to no end, to think that this child held the strongest Bijū of all as a Vessel. It was a heavy burden he had to carry to keep Konoha safe from it.

'This is too many for a child to handle' he thought sadly; he could not help but feel remorse that he could not do anything to stop the young Hokage; sad that the boy will suffer the loneliness, rejection, hatred from his own Village, and angry at those Baka* that could not accept him as a hero. For he was the reason that Konoha was still standing.

'He will be shunned and isolated because of them. He will have no one to protect him from danger. Oh Minato, did it ever occur to this that you left your Musuko* all by himself' he thought.

Naruto suddenly stirred, a sign he was waking up. He let out a whimpering cry that alerted the Sandaime. Then the baby shook his tiny fists as if he were freezing from a harsh winter cold. Hiruzen quickly, but gently, scooped the boy up. Then he carefully cradled the tiny infant and soothed him with a calm tone, just like if he were his Ojii-san*.

"There there Chibi one*," the baby stopped his crying which surprised Hiruzen a little. He looked down at the baby to see he was staring back at him with his big blue eyes of curiosity. His eyes were like his Otousan*, including his blond hair. He inherit the shape of both face and eyes from his Kaasan* Kushina. Hiruzen smiled at the boy's resemblance of both his parents. Naruto saw the happy look on his face and also smiled and gurgled happily for him. He even started to spit and blow tiny bubbles too. Hiruzen chuckled at the boy's display, and he forgot about the whole thing.

Soon the fun ended when he heard someone knock on the door. He immediately, said, "Enter." The door opened. The person behind the door was a tall man, about 191.2 cm, with extremely long, and spiky white hair tied back into a ponytail with two shoulder length bangs that framed both sides of his face. He also had red lines that ran down from his eyes and wore a horned Hitai-ate* with the Kanji for 'Oil'. He wore a green short shirt kimono and matching pants; under which he wore mesh armor that showed out of the sleeves and legs of his outfit. His outfit was completed with hand guards, a simple black belt, traditional Japanese Geta*, a red cloak with two simple yellow circles, and a Gama summoning scroll on his back. His name was Jiraiya, one of the Legendary Sennin, who was trained by the Sandaime Hokage himself alongside the two other Sennins. In the past, he was known as Sato no Kyōki*, but now he was a self-proclaimed Gama S*, Yondaime's ex-Sensei, and mega-pervert.

"Ah Jiraiya, good you are here. How is the situation in Konoha?" he asked. Jiraiya let out a tiring sigh and said.

"Well how do I start, the Village is in critical condition? We lost more than 200 Shinobi, and the injured Shinobi keep piling up in the hospital so many that I've almost lost count. And the Villagers have started mumbling about, well you know," the last part was a whisper, but Sarutobi heard him clearly.

"Yes…I know," he lets out a sigh, and his headache was coming up. He looked down at the baby who was still gurgling and smiling at Sarutobi.

"He really likes you," said Jiraiya.

"Hmhmhm yes, he is certainly an amusing boy," said Hiruzen.

Jiraiya watched the cute display with a smile but soon his feature turn into frown. This boy looked so much like his prized student, Minato. When, he heard the news about the deaths of both Minato and Kushina his heart filled with sorrow over the loss of both precious people. Now Naruto, the only living member of the family, was alive and well. Which meant he was now Naruto's only family member left since Minato and Kushina named him after the main character of his novel, making him Naruto's Godfather. But he did not know how to take care of a baby and was not sure he was ready for this. Hiruzen noticed his ex-student was quiet the whole time. He looked up to see that Jiraiya seemed to be thinking based on the frown on his face. They both stood in eerie silence for a while, and Sarutobi could not take it.

"Jiraiya," he called, which startled the S. "Quit acting like a statue and come up here and meet your Godson."

Jiraiya was taken by surprise then he began to hesitate. He was not ready to see him yet, but if he were not going to see his Godson now then when? Or maybe he would not see him. Just thinking about it made him feel like a coward. How could he think like that? Minato would be furious for thinking such negative thought, and Kushina would be madder as hell and punch him till he bled. A ghost of a smile appeared on his face those two knew how to convince him in the most painful ways. He walked up to Sarutobi and Naruto till he was facing the Sandaime and Naruto.

"May I…hold him?" Jiraiya asked. Sarutobi nod and gently gives Naruto to Jiraiya. He made sure to keep his head straight and made sure he was comfortable in his arms. Naruto looked to see the other man with long spiky hair. He kept staring at him for a while; then he began to smile.

Naruto's smile was even wider than before. He seemed to be really happy to be in the arms of the man. Jiraiya smiled; he probably knew he was his Godfather. Or who knew, maybe he was just glad that the boy accepted him.

"He like you already, Jiraiya," said Hiruzen and the S smiled.

"Well of course, he knows whom I am. I'm Jiraiya one of the strongest S, all wise and brave Shinobi! Foes fear me; men idolize men, women adore me, and children want to be like me. Author of great the Icha Icha* books and Jiraiya gōketsu Monogatari*, who happens to be the main character of this great novel are me. What's there not to like?" Jiraiya's ego was getting to him again. Hiruzen shook his head at the S, sometimes he wondered when he would act like an adult.

"Don't get too cocky," said a very annoyed Kage, but glad that he was his usual self. Jiraiya grinned and scratched the back of his head while Naruto watched the man's display with a weird/cute face.

A knock on the door disturbed them. Sarutobi said, "Enter," again. This time, an Anbu, entered the office and bowed into a half kneeling position.

"Hokage-sama* the Counselors are requesting you in the meeting hall to discuss the…problem."

"'Sigh' all right I'll be there in a minute, thank you." The Anbu nodded and stood up, but just before he left he looked at the baby in the Sennin's arm. Both his hands curled up into fists clearly angry at the beast for almost destroying his home. Jiraiya noticed the Anbu's glare at Naruto…and he glares back at him with malice and granting him death if he dare come within an inch if he tries to harm him. The Anbu flinched and quickly left the office.

Jiraiya watched the Anbu leave and let out an irritated growl. Had he no shame? Did not he realize he was disgracing the Yondaime's last wish?

"I'm sorry Jiraiya I have to get to the meeting, but I assure you I will do everything I can persuade the Counselors to drop the death charge toward Naruto," said Hiruzen.

"Chikusyou*…Are there any members who are opposing the Counselor's decision?" Asked Jiraiya.

"Yes, the Nara Clan, Akimichi Clan, Yamanaka Clan, Inuzuka Clan, Aburame Clan, and your friend Haruno Takashi. Even two elite the Hyuuga and the Uchiha." When the Sandaime mentions the Uchiha and the Haruno, he is not shock at all. In fact, he knew those two were on good terms with Minato because they were part of Team Jiraiya. Uchiha Fugaku, Haruno Takashi, and Namikaze Minato were boy's only group cause they were not many female Ninja back then, but they were considered as the best assassination team in Konoha. Maybe in the whole Fire Country. They were known for their stealth; enemies did not know what hit them. Their Ninjutsu, Genjutsu, and Taijutsu were flawless, and their record as the invincible team could rival the S.

That team was the best, and not to mention their friendship toward each other almost made those three like brothers in arms. They had a bond that would never break. They were truly feared and respected, and even the Villagers had given them the title of Ryūketsu no Arashi*.

"That's great, those Counselors will not stand a chance."

"Yes…but even with many Head Clans on our side it will not be enough," said Sarutobi in a sad tone.

"What do you mean?!" Jiraiya asked.

"It's about Naruto's well fare. Who will take care of him? Who will provide him shelter, food, and the much needed love and attention? I thought to put him in an orphanage, but I doubt anyone will take him. Or worst they will leave him there to starve to death." That last part hit Jiraiya hard. He would never have guessed his people would be this cruel to an innocent infant. If, the orphanage would not take him, who would? He thought he should do it, but he could not since he was leading a spy network for Konoha, traveling from country to country. And researching for his new Icha Icha book, which would not be any good for Naruto to be around. Then he thought about his ex-mentor. He could do it, but then again that wouldn't do too since he was now renewed as Hokage would be too busy to pay close attention to Naruto. It seemed hopeless. Till an idea, struck him.

"Jiji-san* I know someone who can be Naruto's caretaker," he said with joy.

"You do? That's excellent news…Who?" Asked Hiruzen.

"Well…it not exactly a 'someone'," said Jiraiya. Hiruzen was confused at his words. What did he mean by not someone?

"You might say they're not even humans because Naruto will be taken care by…the Gamas*"

…..

…..

…..

"Are you suggesting that we put Naruto's care in the hand of… amphibians?" he said it to make sure he heard it right, or if his mind were playing tricks on him. He was feeling too old for this.

"There, not just amphibians, they're talking amphibians, and don't worry about it too much, Naruto will be in safe hands."

"ARE YOU OUT OF YOUR MIND?! No forget it, weren't thinking straight. What made you think that your friends are capable of taking care of a baby Human child? And let's not forget…THEY ARE GAMAS!" he yelled.

"Look Hiruzen Sensei," Wait did he calls him Sensei? He doesn't call him Sensei unless he it was something serious. "No one in the Village wants him. They all just want him dead. The Counselors are cunning and un-trustworthy; they won't keep their word even if you announce it, which leaves Naruto to fend for himself, he won't have a happy childhood. He will be shunned, hated, unloved. But on Mount Myōboku* he'll have a family, a big family. They'll even teach him the way of Senjutsu. Please Hiruzen Sensei think about what is best for Naruto," he said pleading with him to consider his idea.

Hiruzen thought long and hard about what Jiraiya just said. Maybe this was what Naruto needed, a family. But it wasn't such a good idea for a Gama, a large Gama to be exact, to care for such a small infant.

…..

…..

…..

It seemed that no matter what he tried to think of as another option it always led to a dead end. Jiraiya's idea seemed to be the best choice. He sighed. He guessed desperate times called for desperate measures. He looked up at Jiraiya with a serious expression. "Very well Jiraiya, you will take Naruto to Mount Myōboku and inform them about the situation. Don't leave anything out. Also, they mustn't tell Naruto about Kyūbi's attack against Konoha or being a Vessel. Another thing, you must be present in Naruto's life and notify me every month about his status. Finally, at age of seven, Naruto must return to Konoha to begin his Ninja training in the Academy," his voice was full of the authority and superiority of a true Hokage that could make the toughest Nuke-nin quiver and never question him.

"Wait…just seven years but Sensei…"

"If Naruto stays any longer than necessary, the Villagers and the Counselors will get agitated, do you understand?" said Sarutobi.

"Well…yeah but…"

"Jiraiya, I know you're concerned for him, but wouldn't it be better show them what he really is, than hiding him?" His Sensei was right. This was an opportunity to show them that Naruto was a Vessel and not the Kyūbi in human form. He nodded his understanding to his mentor.

"Good, now take Naruto to his new home, and I'll take care of the Counselors." Jiraiya nodded again and disappeared away to outside of Konoha's gate. Now Hiruzen had better got to the meeting before they started without him. He looked around his office one more time then at the empty crib where Naruto slept in peace without a care, in the world, he smiled, and this was defiantly worth fighting against those stubborn old geezers. He headed to the door, twisted the door knob, and left his office.

Mount Myōboku….

The place where all Gamas lived, it was home for huge and tiny Gamas alike. Mount Myōboku was a rich and beautiful land. It would take a long amount of time to move to it on the secret paths from Konohagakure for humans, but if you have a contract with the Gamas they can let a Gama use Gyaku Kuchiyose no Jutsu*, a technique that allows an animal to summon a human, to travel instantly to Mount Myōboku.

In a small cave the two great elder Gamas, Fukasaku and Shima, were currently cooing over their new cute Otamajakushi*, Naruto. It was easy to see that the cave was the home of the two elders. It was filled with lush plants, large mushrooms, wooden furniture, and small portraits. The two elders had greater authority than even a Kage.

"Awww, aren't you the cutest little Otamajakushi I've ever laid my eyes on," said Shima.

"He certainly a hyper one, isn't he?" said Fukasaku.

"Don't forget adorable. Oh, he is going to be so handsome when he grows up. Wait till you taste my food!" said Shima, happy like a little girl who just got a new doll. They both exchanged conversation, and Naruto was happily making cute baby sounds, so they forgot about Jiraiya, who was still behind them with a frown on his face. It seemed he didn't like being ignored, and was jealous that his Godson was becoming the center of attention so easily. He coughed so he could get their attention and pass his info to the elders. The elders stop what they were doing, and they stare at Jiraiya.

"Oh, you still here, Jiraiya-chan?" said Fukasaku.

'….. I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS THEY FORGOT ABOUT ME' he thought angrily at being left out. But he compose himself and explained everything the Kyūbi's attack, the Yondaime's and his wife's deaths, the Villagers and the Counselors wanting Naruto dead, and announced them to be Naruto's guardians.

They were shocked, stunned, bewildered, and angry. Absurd, how could they think of killing an innocent child who had done nothing to anyone. But they're actually happy and honored to have Jiraiya's Godson in their care.

"We would be honored to have Naruto in as part of our family," said Fukasaku.

"You can count on us, Jiraiya-chan," said Shima. Jiraiya was pleased and grateful. Now he had nothing to worry about, Naruto was in safe hands.

"Thank you so much, Pa, Ma'am."

"No thanks needed Jiraiya-chan, it's the least we can do."

"Pa is right, dear," said Shima.

"Well, thanks again. I wish I could stay and chat, but I better head back and leave for an important mission. So I'll see you guys in four weeks," once said he vanished in a cloud of smoke again.

"Well, I should probably report to Ōgama S* about Naruto," said Fukasaku.

"All right then I'll go make dinner and make something for Otamajakushi," she said, already fixing dinner for Pa while he hopped to the Great Gama's house. Shima hop over to Naruto and scoop some worms from the plate to begin to feed the baby.

"Open a wide sweetie. Yummy worms," Naruto stared at the strange looking food, but never the less food was food. He opens his mouth ready to be fed when suddenly Jiraiya appeared again with panicking expression, he turns pale when he sees the spoon filled with worms only an inch from being devoured by Naruto.

"NOOOOOO MA'AM! DON'T FEED HIM!" he yelled

"Jiraiya-chan, what the meaning of this?"

"Naruto doesn't eat solid food yet. In fact, he is not ready for your tasty food yet," he said that because he didn't want to hurt Shima's feeling about her cooking. Plus he came back because he remembered that the Gamas only eat bugs, which Naruto was not familiar with.

"Well, what does he eat then?" She asked. Poor Jiraiya, he had to explain everything about, well everything! This was going to be a long day.


Japanese to English Translation:

* Shiki Fūjin…Dead Demon Consuming Seal.

* Shinigami…Lord of the Dead.

* Shishō Fūin…Four Symbols Seal.

* Baka…Stupid/Idiot.

* Musuko…Son.

* Ojii-san…Grandfather.

* Chibi one…Little one.

*Otuosan…Father.

*Kaasan…Mother.

* Hitai-ate…Headband.

*Geta…Wooden sandals.

* Sato no Kyōki…Konoha's Mad Man.

*Gama Sennin…Toad Sage.

*Icha Icha…Come Come.

* Jiraiya gōketsu Monogatari…The Tale of Jiraiya the Gallant.

*Hokage-sama…Lord Hokage.

* Chikusyou…Damn/Damn it.

* Ryūketsu no Arashi…Konoha's bloody Storm.

*Jiji-san…Old man.

*Gama…Toad.

*Mount Myōboku…Mountain of Bewilderment.

* Gyaku Kuchiyose no Jutsu…Reverse Summoning Jutsu.

* Otamajakushi…Tadpole.

* Ōgama Sennin…Honorable Toad Sage.

List of Jutsus:

*Shiki Fūjin…The Dead Demon Consuming Seal: is a seal which invokes the power of the death god. Once called upon, the death god hovers behind the user and wrapped its left arm with prayer beads, which causes a seal to appear on it. The soul of the summoner is also seen along with the death god, restrained by its hair but still attached to the user. The death god then inserts its arm into the user's soul. At this stage, only the user can see the death god. To perform the seal, the user need only grasp the target. The death god's arm extends from their chest and grabs the soul of the target, immobilizing them and allowing them to see the death god as well, the death god then performs the sealing.

*Gyaku Kuchiyose no Jutsu…Reverse Summoning Jutsu: The counterpart of the Summoning Technique, this Jutsu allows an animal to summon humans that they have a contract with.