AN : Hey everyone. An here yet again with a third chapter. So, I don't own Naruto, Kishimoto-san does. So, here we go. Again, no flames for the sake of trolling. We're all mature, we're all smart. So let's stay like this?
Senju Naruto : Mokuton no Sennin
Chapter 2
Three years later
Senju compound
It was summer. Naruto was bored out of his mind. He was the number one slacker in the classroom for the last three years. Mostly out of sheer laziness than anything else. Also, he became even closer to any clan heir and his three other friends, Rock Lee, Sai and Shin. At first, he butted heads with Sai and Shin but later, they agreed to try and be friends. Naruto smiled as he remembered a certain girl he was very protective toward...
Hinata was not weak in his or Sasuke's eyes. Although Sasuke wasn't interested, Naruto mentioned that she's kind of cute in her own way. Of course, she fainted, much to his confusion. Shikamaru said it was troublesome to help Naruto, something that made the usually lazy blond glare at him.
Sasuke also changed a bit. Becoming more and more friendly. Although he usually never talk to civilian kids, he respected strong future comrades like Sai, Shin, and even Lee. Naruto however was much friendlier. Any kid who try and talk to him somehow ends up talking to him again and again...
Somehow, Naruto had a special charm. One that can affect anyone. From a certain Hyuga Neji to even Shin and Sai, who were utterly emotionless (Shin) or as innocent as himself (Sai). Sasuke once joked that if Naruto would face an enemy, they may win a new ally or even a friend. Judging by how Naruto was making friends with a few words, that may be true...
His musing were cut short when he was called by Tenzo. His ANBU sensei was ruthless in his teaching, but it has paid off and greatly. Naruto was wearing his usual mask, like Kakashi. His wardrobe however changed. He was dressed in a black shirt with a fur collar, a black cargo short, and a shinobi sandal. Tenzo smiled behind his porcelain mask as he saw how his "student" was ready for training. Naruto may be a lazy kid when it comes up to anything else. But when it comes up to training, he changes one hundred and eighty degree.
"Hey there, Naruto-kun. So, you finished sharpening your Doton chakra?"
Naruto smirked behind his mask. He finished that exercise some weeks ago.
"You have something in your mind Tenzo-sensei? Because I mastered my three chakra types to perfection. So, you have any jutsu as a reward?"
Tenzo sweatdroped at this. The kid was smart like his father. And he had his mother's determination...
"Well, I taught you all the jutsus I could master and yet... I guess this will take something else."
Naruto smirked yet again. True the fact that he was a real prodigy like no other when it comes up to ninjutsu. So far, he mastered all the jutsu he could put his hand on. After all, to be Hokage meant that he should be strong enough to be recognized by everyone, right? But he had another goal in mind : to protect everyone he cared about.
"Well, what will you do then?"
Tenzo then threw a ninjato to his student. Much to his surprise, the kid had an amazing affinity to the blade. He was training with the sword like he was an old hand. Something wasn't right...
"Is this the first time you train with a sword?"
Naruto nodded his head as he explained...
"Well, it is. However, it seems natural for some reason?"
'There's no mistake in it. This kid does have a natural talent in Kenjutsu. If Jiraiya-sama's words are true, then...'
"Which level you reached in Fuinjutsu?"
Naruto cocked an eyebrow in confusion before he answered the ANBU..
"Between level four and five... For an Uzumaki as Ero-jiichan says."
Tenzo then sweated profusely. He heard about the Uzumaki standards of Fuinjutsu being extremely high. But this ten-years old was progressing exponentially. Something that wasn't right at all...
"How come you're the dead last?"
Naruto smirked at this. Tenzo wanted to know his secret. He wasn't going to tell it to anyone...
"Boredom? Laziness? Being tired? I dunno. Could be none of those like it could be all of those?"
Tenzo shook his head as he frowned behind his mask. He then revealed his face. Since it was a rule for him whenever he trained the blond (secretly) Senju...
"OK, you can go and play in a poker tournament now! I mean, time to step up your training. Mokuton is great and all, but you can't use it frequently. Also, there's the if, how and when to use your other jutsus. So, today we'll try to upgrade your control over the Mokuton, Suiton, Doton and Futon ninjutsus. Any problem with that?"
Naruto smirked as he told Tenzo a secret...
"With or without the Kage Bunshin? Also, I think you made a little mistake, sensei.."
Tenzo's right eyebrow rised up a little...
"About the Mokuton, I think I know which flaw you have. However, I will not tell you."
Tenzo tried to put his 'Ghoul face' as it was dubbed, only for Naruto to chuckle mirthlessly...
"Well, simply put, you think that the Mokuton is like your typical Kekkei Genkai. Well, there's a reason why it easily rivaled even a Kekkei Tota, isn't it?"
Tenzo was about to say something before he stopped. Then he found a good idea come to his head...
"Well, those are Shodai-sama Mokuton ninjutsu. Good luck, you're gonna need it. My advise to you is... Don't try the ones that requires too much chakra. Or you may die. Now train, Naruto. May the sky be your limit!"
Naruto smiled a bit and almost cried. Tenzo had acknowledged his potential. Something only a few have done in the past..
"Thank you, Tenzo-sensei. As a token of gratitude, I'll ask you one question : I told you before that your Mokuton feels forced. Now however, I'll ask you... Which is better? Controlling the growth of a tree, or letting it go wild?"
Tenzo smiled as he went without uttering a single word. As he reached the compound's gate, he put on his mask again, and smiled as he knew the answer. It was not because he never tried to do what Naruto told him. It was because... He just can't. He was never a natural Mokuton user, born with that ability. Naruto however, is a whole another story...
About two weeks later...
Senju compound...
Tsunade smiled as she saw her grandson training and with a great determination. No matter what jutsu, kata, or exercise she gave him, he would never stop unless he finish it once and for all. She was able to drill secrecy into his head years ago. But there's one thing that worried her though...
She knew that a certain blue-haired Hyuga girl barely younger than him had a huge crush on him. She intentionally bumped into her many times to strike some conversation with her. So far she came to like the girl and wish her to end up with her grandson.
"Alright, Naruto-kun. This is it for today!"
"Baa-chan, there's something I wanted to show you. I think I'll call this, Wakusei Rasengan (Planetary Rasengan) !"
True to his word, Naruto produced three wood clones as he prepared a big ball of violently spinning and compressed chakra, while the clones were preparing a regular Rasengan. As the clones joined their Rasengans to Naruto's, it was clear why he called it like that. However, the clones froze, and the Rasengan dissipated as Naruto fell forward only to be caught by Tsunade.
"I've seen enough. Are you alright?"
Naruto smiled weakly. His first chakra exhaustion. No wonder since he spent the past days honning and sharpening his skills. However he panicked..
"I promised Hinata-chan to visit her in five minutes!"
Tsunade smiled at the selflessness of her secret heir. He was too sweet for his own good.
"I'll go instead. You rest and recover alright?"
"But Baa-chan..."
"No buts mister! This is an order!"
Naruto pouted behind his mask. Tsunade was his mother and even grandmother. His most precious person he wouldn't mind to die protecting, but she was annoying on some very rare occasions...
Naruto nodded his head in understanding. As Tsunade carried him and put him on the couch, he had no idea how this day would change his life...
Hyuga compound..
Ten minutes later...
Hinata was in the ground, panting hardly and she was also... Bloodied and beaten. Her face had bruises. She had doubtlessly some internal wounds. Her father decided to 'train' her, as he said. Hinata was able to easily beat her sister in their spar, and even hold her ground against Neji yesterday. She was exhausted however. And her father showed her no mercy.
The real reason why because he wanted her to marry someone from the main house instead of some 'demon monster street rat' in his eyes. He didn't care that the one his daughter wanted was living with Senju Tsunade no less. This came short however as a guard rushed toward him, his face was ashen in color...
"Hiashi-sama, a blond Uzumaki wants to see you now!"
"Get rid of that street rat of a demon monster!"
However, he was bombarded with a mighty killing intent focused solely on him and him only, as a dark and... Feminine voice talked to him?
"Wrong blond! And wrong Uzumaki, Hiashi-yaro! So, that's how you see the greatest hero this village ever had, huh?"
Senju Tsunade was glaring at him. No, she was glaring at his very soul. That wasn't the only thing that scared him however...
"I failed again! My own student no less!"
Jiraiya was clearly ready to chop a head, or two... Or slit many throats?
"Tsunade! Jiraiya! Stand down, both of you! Hiashi, what's the meaning of this?"
Now the Hokage himself, and he was beyond pissed. Seriously, now who? Hatake Kakashi?
"You know the rules way too well."
Jiraiya smirked a predatory smirk. He knew this would happen. And he was more than ready.
"Well, since we can't kill you before your own child, you leave us no choice. Sensei, what says the rules in this case?"
"Jiraiya, you wouldn't take sweet and shy Hinata, would you?"
Hiashi smirked. He didn't care about this failure's life. Only his for now.
"You have my permission to do whatever you like. Kill her, sell her. As long as the Byakugan's secret won't get away."
Much to the shock of the few Hyugas present, Tsunade marched toward him and flickered him with one finger. Soon, a bullet known as Hiashi was sent to the wall.
"Please, I beg of you, don't kill Hinata-sama!"
Jiraiya looked to the voice, and was shocked that it belonged to Hizashi's son, Neji. The toad sage felt a bit guilty about it.. So, he went to the teen's ear and whispered...
"You don't have to worry, Neji. I would never claim the life of an innocent child. I'll get her out of this hell. I swear it on my honor as a shinobi!"
Neji smiled at this while Hiruzen pulled off a paper from his robe...
"Hiashi, sign this paper."
It was not a quest. It was an order. Hiashi could easily tell. So, he did the only logical thing. He signed the paper that he banishes his own daughter and with his own free will...
"Your mistreatment of your own child is shameful. But perhaps you have no shame. Since you signed this paper that releases her from your care, she'll become a ward of the village."
"I could care less of that soft hearted failure."
"I knew this would happen. Well, in case I didn't tell you, Senju Tsunade-hime and Yuuhi Kurenai-chan already signed for adopting her in case you banished her out of your clan!"
Hiashi's eyes widened upon hearing this. He was too hasty. Something he now fully regretted. Now the secrets of the Byuakugan will get out of his clan and he can't do anything about it...
"Can't I get my daughter back?"
Tsunade snorted in disgust. He didn't care for his daughter as much as he cared for the prestige of his clan. Something she could barely tolerate...
"Oh, so now she's your daughter? If you try and brand her that caged bird juin, you'll have to pass through me!"
She positioned her self between a still shocked and speechless Hinata and Hiashi. She was truthful when it comes up to protecting the girl that liked her grandson.
Hiashi chuckled however.
"So, if Kurenai-san, let's say have an accident, I can get Hinata back, can't I?"
Before anyone could react, a silver haired jonin was grabbing Hiashi by the throat and had a lightning blade in his other hand, as he spat venemously...
"Try your damn luck! Anything happen to Kurenai, you will pay the ultimate price. Be it you or anyone else!"
Hiashi's eyes told the whole story to Kakashi, who snorted in disgust. Jiraiya however left along Tsunade as he glanced to Kakashi with 'We need to talk' look, as the Senju clan head shunshined with a timid Hyuga to the Senju compound. Hiruzen sighed yet again...
"I'm dissapointed in you, Hiashi-san. Perhaps it's time to tell Neji-kun the truth?"
Neji however shook his head. Hiruzen shunshined with the young Hyuga outside the compound. As Neji went inside, Hiruzen smiled inwardly...
'Naruto-kun, you're a true friend. I hope the day you surpass me will be soon...'
Some hours later...
Naruto shot from the couch like a jack-in-the-box unleashed from his confinement. He ran through the house until he reached the massive main dinning room. Much to his surprise, Hinata and Kurenai were sitting?
"Yo! Not to be rude or anything, but what are you doing here, Hinata-chan?"
Jiraiya sighed as the timid Hyuga blushed. They were just talking about the blond masked Senju.
"Er, well, you see, Tsunade-hime went to pay a little visit to the Hyuga compound, and she.. KindofadoptedHinatasinceHiashiwasareallybadfather!"
Naruto raised his left eyebrow in utter confusion as Kurenai told the whole story to Naruto. The blond kid lowered his head, making his bangs hide his eyes perfectly. Once he showed his eyes again, his usual half lidded eyes changed to a look of rage...
"Everyone, prepare yourselves. We're being invaded. Multiple hostiles."
Jiraiya focused his senses only to realise how true Naruto's words. The blond kid smirked however. This was the perfect occasion for him...
"Kage bunshin no jutsu!"
A group of twenty shadow clones appeared before them as Naruto nodded his head once. Much to everyone's surprise, ten clones rushed out by the window as the other ten just sank to the ground. Well, compound's floor.
"Let's wait.. Let's wait... Now!"
Soon, everyone heard many yells of agony and pain. Naruto however went directly to the bathroom. Hinata didn't understand why Naruto was hurling his last meals with a passion...
Tsunade frowned however. Her baby son just did the unthinkable and defended their home. As she went out, she figured that Kakashi was helping him to defend the compound, as the silver haired jonin was laying on his back as he red an orange book...
"Mokuton : Sashiki no jutsu (cutting jutsu) is scary. Don't you think so, Tsunade-sama?"
"Kakashi! What happened? Why Naruto was... Retching his soul out?"
"He had his first kill. Ten intruders. Five killed. He did not show any mercy. Or should I say his clones dispelled after taking five lives?"
Tsunade was shocked at this. Naruto was only ten. Yet he killed five people? This is gonna be one hell of a trauma for him...
"So, I'm gonna play psychologist again, huh? At least he won't freeze face of the danger in his first real mission."
"The other five? Ibiki will love to do his job I guess."
"If they're hired tools then I won't waste their lives. You know that Kakashi?"
The silver haired jonin nodded his head as he shunshined to the T&I deparetement. Ibiki and Anko will cook the intruders nicely and very slowly just for him...
Not a second later, Naruto went to Tsunade. When he saw the skewered corpses, he almost retched yet again.
"This is what I will do a couple of years later?"
Tsunade looked at him with sympathy in her eyes. Her grandfather once told her that she will take some lives. Or rather left a letter to her before his fateful fight with a certain Uchiha Madara. She now sighed as she tried to soothe her grandson...
"Naruto-kun, this is for the best. This is called being a man. You wanted to be a shinobi, didn't you?"
"Yes, but... I didn't want to become a monster!"
"You're no monster! That's what the ignorants think. You did the right thing. Defending your family."
"Taking someone's life. All he had and all he would have. Is this is what being a shinobi means?"
Tsunade frowned at this. Naruto was lazy, and stubborn. Just like his parents on the stubbornness part.
"Look, this is normal. Hashirama-ojiisama took lives three years younger than you, in self-defense. This is not different."
"It is. I could've bound them with any other jutsu!"
"You felt they were too evil, didn't you?"
That was like a slap on his face. He knew that now he had no other choice but to admit...
"That I did. They were leaking pure hatred to... Hinata-chan. I just lost it? I didn't want to take any chance. And now I regret..."
"Only a cold blooded murderer wouldn't regret, Gaki!"
Naruto smiled as he knew who was talking to him...
"Ero-jiichan! So, I'm not a murderer now?"
"No you're not. If it is self-defense or to protect someone close to you, then you shouldn't regret it. Look at me! I'm happiness incarnated and yet, I've done many hideous things in the name of self-preservation!"
"You know how to talk, silver-tongued Ero-sennin!"
Jiraiya crestfelled at this. He muttered something about getting no respect...
"Naruto-kun? Are you alright?"
Naruto eyes widened as he knew that Hinata was outside. He rushed to her immediately after telling Jiraiya, via his eyes 'Don't tell her!'. As they got in, Kurenai grabbed Naruto's arm as she gave him the 'We need to talk!' Look. As they went to the living room, leaving Hinata in the kitchen...
"So, Naruto, how does it feel now?"
"Honestly? I fell great thank you!"
"No really. I'm not kidding you know?"
Naruto eye smiled. He was honest about being better.
"Ero-jiichan told me the right words, I guess. I mean, I felt horrible at first. But now, I won't think twice if any of my friends are in danger."
"Jiraiya-sama have his way with words. Doesn't he?"
"He's the author of one of the best adventure books I ever red. I might tell him to give Hinata-chan a copy? Also, if my memory serve me right, he's the best sensei I can think of. Too bad he doesn't want the hat. I'm more than sure he would be the best Godaime we can dream of..."
"Wasn't your dream to be Hokage?"
Naruto beamed at this. It was his dream. But now, he's very close. If he wanted to, he can easily be a chunin material. But for the ones like Hashirama, he can only be a genin...
"A long road I can think of. Also, I might have too many rivals. But they should be warned. I don't take it kindly to be controlled like a tool. I might even unleash this guy if I have to. But only if someone who doesn't care for his subordinates get the hat!"
Kurenai eyes widened. Is this lazy kid really ten? Kakashi told her that it would be his greatest honor to be Naruto's sensei. Only now she realised why. Naruto can be a lazy bum. But he thinks like an ANBU captain or a jonin sometimes...
"So, if there's someone who wants to be Hokage, and he's weaker than you, yet he can manage the job... What would you do?"
"Well, Kurenai-neechan, I told you already. If he have the will of fire, and a code of honor, I won't mind. If not, his life is the price if I must!"
"Since when you're this mature?"
"Since I live with two sannin, an ex-ANBU captain, a jonin, and being visited by the second strongest Hokage."
"You knew all those people? Since when?"
"Since I remember? Then, I met Hinata-chan. You know, Kurenai-neechan? I can live with her for another million year. But I can't see her more less than a best friend. Yet, Ino is like an annoying twin sister I want to protect with my life. Hinata-chan however is... I dunno?"
Kurenai giggled as she saw Naruto struggle with words. To be innocent and very young. Yet this young and innocent child had a heavy burden since his very first hour. Add the trauma he almost had...
"We'll talk about it another day?"
"I guess. I mean, I don't understand yet, do I?"
As the two walked into the kitchen, Hinata was eating another bowl of ramen. Naruto smiled, or rather grinned behind his mask. Like him, Hinata was an avid ramen fan.
"Hinata, can I tell you something?"
"Hai, Kurenai-san."
Kurenai took a deep breath as she thought about what she should tell her little sister figure.
"About Naruto, he's a good guy. And soon enough, he'll end up as a good man. He can mature at a much faster rate than anyone else his age. Try to be his friend more than anything else. He cares for you, Hinata. He may return your feelings one day, but he's oblivious for now. I hope he won't be astray. Also, if you won't make sure he stays on the right path, he may lose grasp of who he is. I don't really know how to help you, Hinata. But if I were you, I'd try to be as close to Naruto as I can."
Hinata was stunned by the fact that Kurenai was giving her those advises, encouragements, and push to the right direction. The woman was close to her, but this was more like a mother advising her own child. Little did she know that a certain one-eyed jonin was the reason for this...
"Kurenai-san, thank you."
"Hinata-chan? I thought I should show you... Something just in case. So, you don't misjudge me like many people does or run away screaming..."
Naruto's eyes showed clear fear and uncertainty. It also showed a bit of despair and shame...
"Yes, Naruto-kun?"
"Remember how they told us that the Kyubi was dead? How the Yondaime gave his life to kill? Well... One of them are a lie!"
"N-Naruto-kun, d-don't tell me..."
Naruto sighed as he removed his shirt. Or rather raised his short up a little while focusing some of his chakra. Soon enough, a seal appeared on his stomach... He explained the reason as he pointed to his stomach...
"Here, is where the Kyubi lives. Ever since my very first hour. Also, this is half the reason I wear this mask. But I can't show my face to Kurenai-neechan, unfortunately..."
Kurenai took it as her invitation to leave...
"Hinata, do as I told you. You don't have to think a lot about it!"
Naruto then removed his mask. As he smiled, his canines were more of a two pairs of fangs than two pair of canines. Also, he had three whiskers like mark on each cheek...
Hinata smiled a bit at this. Naruto's face was almost forgotten at the academy. The fact he showed her his face meant that he trusted her.
"Naruto-kun, it doesn't matter to me. He is not your mind nor soul. If you ask me, I'd say that you're a hero. You protect everyone from the Kyubi's rampages. Also, you don't have to be ashamed if you're c-c-cute?"
Naruto put him mask on again as he frowned. He didn't like the cute part one bit. Hinata was cute, yes! But him? What's so cute about his fangs and whiskers?
"Really Hinata-chan? Cute?"
Before she knew, Naruto was tickling her with a vengeance. The shy Hyuga girl laughed hysterically as she begged the masked blond to stop. He stopped however to do something that made her even more scared..
"N-N-Naruto-kun, why are you..! No! Not my feeeehheeehaaaaa!"
After a good ten minutes, Naruto stopped as he laughed a bit. Hinata panted as she tried to get her breath to normal again.
"Hinata-chan, will you ever call me cute again?"
Hinata shook her head hastily. Naruto grinned at this behind his mask.
"That's what I thought. You know what's cute? You if your hair was longer. You would be the definition of cuteness!"
Poor little Hinata fainted on the spot leaving Naruto to a panic attack..
A week later...
Hokage's tower
Hiruzen was not happy one bit. First was the Uchiha's failed massacre three years ago. Now was the attack on the Senju compound a week ago. Unlike last time however, the attackers weren't some John Doe. This time however, the surviving attackers were from the Hyuga branch family. Even though they refused to talk, it was clear that they were some hired tools.
He made a good and deep analyse of the situation. Tsunade would never forgive them. At the same time, Neji, who took his role as the secret branch family leader, would trade his life with them. The other five were definitely from the main family, as their byakugans were not sealed despite their death. Shizune was great at her job as an authopsy medical ninja.
Naruto however was the problem. Hiashi made it clear that he would kill whoever killed his family members. Imagine his shock how they were disposed by a ten years old. Imagine his fury as how he can do nothing as they were attempting an attack on the Senju family. Despite the fact he remained quit, his fury was evident as the Hokage's words rang into his ears...
"I can't do anything. Once someone in a clan is attacked within their compound with no provocation, whoever the attacker is, if brought down, would be considered as an enemy to Konoha. Even a sannin or an ANBU captain are no exception."
"So, I can have Tsunade's and Kakashi's lives?"
"No you can't have any backup on this. If you want to try your luck, you're welcome!"
Hiashi excused himself as he went out. Hiruzen swore that he heard the swearings that doesn't exist even in the dictionary of prophanity...
So, here he was. Waiting for Tsunade's answer about the lives of the Hyuga that were captured.
"Well, sensei, how can I say this? To be frank, I want to rip them asunder. However, since they were obviously hired tools, I drop all charges and forgive them on one condition only : they tell me where can I find the Jyuken scrolls!"
Hiruzen smirked at this. It seems that Hinata was lucky to be adopted by Tsunade. That girl had a fire in her eyes. And Tsunade may be the fan that make the said fire burn even stronger.
"Tsunade-sama! I beg of you, spare my brethren!"
Neji entered and was bowing his head down to Tsunade. Tsunade immediately grabbed the Hyuga kid and raised his head.
"Neji, I don't intend on taking their lives. But since you're here, can you tell me where I can find the Jyukem scrolls?"
"If I do, will you let me help training my Imoutou, Hinata, to be strong enough to be worthy?"
Tsunade smirked. This may be good. She harbor no ill will toward the aggressors. However, whoever sent them will have hell to pay...
"Well, I see no harm in it. If you can beat Naruto that's it!"
"But he's one year younger than me!"
"So? I knew many kids who were solid jonin by his age. He may be chunin level. But you may surpass any Hyuga in the right time. Beside, you and Hinata hate that curse more than anything. If you ask me, this will be a great way to benefit both of you. Also, Naruto is the only one who can rival Hinata."
Neji's eyes went wide with that. True, Hinata had grown up almost as strong as him. But Naruto keeping up? This would be bad. If what Sasuke told him about Naruto was half-true, he may lose his life.
"Don't worry! A simple taijutsu spar with no chakra. Just dodge and try not to block."
"I see. Thank you Tsunade-sama. I shall be ready. Also the scrolls are kept inside..."
"I see! Thank you, Neji-kun. Sensei, I, Senju Tsunade, head of the Senju clan, forgive the aggressors and drop any persecution against them!"
Hiruzen nodded as he stamped the papers that release the imprisoned Hyugas. Naruto told him one week ago that he regretted what he did. Ibiki may failed to break their will, but he knew one thing : they were hired by the now deceased aggressors...
Senju compound meanwhile...
Jiraiya, Kakashi, and even Tenzo were shocked how Naruto was training for three days and three nights nonstop. Whatever it is, it will be bad once revealed. Jiraiya however was shocked how the kid took several ration pills.
"Gotta thank Hinata-chan somehow. Her soldier pills are amazing. Very well balanced... Unlike your mudballs, Tenzo!"
Tenzo's eyebrow twitched as Jiraiya and Kakashi laughed at him. True, Kakashi told Hinata to make Naruto some soldier pills if she wanted him to notice her. It may go very well...
'Let's hope so. Now, longer hair, chack. Food, check. Training next time? Or spend some time together?'
"So, Kakashi... What we gonna do about Hinata's training?"
"Sorry, Jiraiya-sama. Told me something?"
Naruto interrupted Jiraiya's next speech as he piped himself in..
"Ero-jiichan asked you about Hinata-chan's Jyuken training?"
"Damn it gaki! Anyway, I can help a lot with the Jyuken as I trained her father. But the problem is... I honestly don't have the necessary data about the Jyuken Hijutsus."
"So... My first unnoficial mission is to steal those? I can manage, but I doubt a fly possessing chakra is tolerable? In an exam it can be useful. But now?"
Tenzo's eyes widened with surprise, making him even more ghoulish.
"You can do a true henge? Like... Shapeshifting everything to the minimal detail?"
"That I can. What's the big idea?"
Tenzo was still shocked by the news. If he'll have a reconnaissance mission, someone like Naruto will be the greatest asset. Add the kage bunshin and...
"Naruto, do you train usually with the kage bunshin?"
"That I do! I don't know why Baa-chan insisted that I use them. It's almost like cheating!"
Jiraiya laughed at this. Naruto will always be... Naruto, no matter what!
The said boy jumped into a tree's branch as he laid on his back. Something he was always doing to calm down. Other than training, and sculpting wood. But to be connected to nature seemed to him like something he enjoys deeply. The closer he was to floras, the better he felt. And the same could be said about the trees, flowers, grass...
Soon enough, Naruto took a nap. Jiraiya and Kakashi took the still stunned Tenzo and went closer to the compound's house. Or castle.
"Tenzo, I know what you feel. Naruto have so much power that he may never control. But trust me, he can control it just fine."
"But Jiraiya-sama, don't underestimate the Kyubi. If it will manifest one day, even I can't hope to hold it."
Kakashi then confessed how he motivated Naruto.
"Tenzo! I told Naruto that he's the only one who can surpass Shodai-sama, Nidaime-sama and even the Yondaime."
"You're a smooth talker, Kakashi-sempai."
"No! I was telling him the truth. I won't be surprised if he'll surpass me withing the first year as a shinobi. Naruto only lacks experience. Also, he can heal any wound just fine!"
Jiraiya was shocked by the new information. Did Naruto learn the shosen (mystical palm) from Tsunade?
As if on cue, Hinata suddenly yelped her signature 'Eep' as Naruto dropped from the tree's branch. Unintentionally, she skidded as she grazed her foot. Naruto didn't waste a second as his hands glewed green while he passed them over the injured spot. Five seconds later, Hinata was feeling like she never grazed her foot..
"Th-thank you, N-Naruto-kun."
Naruto smiled at his shy friend. She was the only person who can be invisible to his 'negative sensing' radar.
"You're welcome Hinata-chan. I should thank you for making some good tasting soldier pills. I swear, you're a great cook."
"Er, I-I don't really think so, N-Naruto-kun..."
Naruto frowned at this. Then he turned to the direction of the compound's gate.
"Baa-chan is coming!"
True to his word, a second later Tsunade arrived...
"Jiraiya, Naruto, Hinata! We have something to do. Naruto-kun, come with me a second..."
"I wonder what those two are telling each other?"
"Tenzo, please, stay here!"
"Hai hai, Kakashi-sempai!"
Naruto and Tsunade finally went to everyone else. Jiraiya looked at her questionably.
"Something that bother you, Tsunade-hime?"
"Well, it's time to get everything Hinata-chan here have in her old home."
Hinata's eyes widened. Senju Tsunade, the princess of the leaf, want her to live with her permanently?
"Tsunade-sama, why do you want me to move here?"
"That's Hinata-chan, because the Senju clan have the tradition to have two heirs. A heir and a heiress. Naruto is the heir of two clans. And so will you, if you want."
Hinata's eyes widened as she fainted. Will she really realise her dream? To be closer to Naruto and... Marrying him?
Naruto was scared however as he caught Hinata before she touch the ground. Kakashi eyesmiled at the scene. Maybe those two will get married?
"OK, I'll do it, Baa-chan. Now I can do Tobirama-jiichan's Tajuu kage bunshin. Multiple shadow clones will be more than useful. However, I can do it for only five minutes..."
Everyone gasped at this. This was a kinjutsu. Yet a ten years old was able to do it? What will he do next? Creating a forest from thin air? Or a tsunami? Or a hurricane?
Tsunade was afraid now. Her little grandson was growing fast. Exponentially fast. At this rate, he may be kage level if not beyond before his second decade...
Naruto however had one thing on his mind. How to steal the scrolls from the clan that have the 'all seeing eye'? He will need a diversion. Anything that can distract.. Them!
"Kakashi-niichan, tell Kurenai-neechan to go ahead with Hinata-chan."
Kakashi, Tsunade and Jiraiya looked at Naruto in confusion before they realised his plan.
Hyuga compound, later that day...
Hinata and Kurenai entered the wolves den as Naruto dubbed it. True to the Senju's words, a main house immediately rushed to Hinata. The shy Hyuga knew exactly what would happen if the man will get her. The 'caged bird' seal, or curse mark. However, the distinctive sound of bones breaking was heard as a powerful punch impacted in the attacker's mid section, who hurtled backward in an astonishing speed. Naruto was the one who protected Hinata.
"Any of you want to take this chance?"
Hyuga Hiashi immediately knew everything. The elders plotted behind his back yet again. Soon, several other figures shunshined to Naruto's side. He was shocked how everyone formed a human shield around Hinata.
"Anyone who touch a single hair of the Senju clan, will have to pass through the Uchiha clan first!"
Uchiha Shisui and Uchiha Itachi were the first to scream bloody murder. While both are pacifist, they would never allow anyone they're indebt to be hurt. They'd rather die. And the one whose protected was Senju Tsunade and Senju Naruto. Jiraiya's eyes were terrifying. The eyes of a true sage. Yuuhi Kurenai wasn't smiling. Hatake Kakashi was ready for a long fight. And Naruto? His pupils were slits, and screaming death.
"So, how many should we kill? I didn't kill anyone since last week."
"Seriously Naruto? I had a full month with no spilled blood. You know how bad it is?"
"Shisui, I don't want to kill anyone. All we ask, is Hinata's belongings!"
"Itachi, why so peaceful?"
Hiashi snorted. He was angry, jealous, regretful. But most of all, hateful toward this tight groups that protected his daughter from her very clan. He thought about it. As much as he hated to say it, the truth is that Hinata being banished and adopted was the best thing for her...
"You got five minutes to get out of my sight!"
"You can't do this! We won't even get..."
"Kurenai-neechan, five minutes are more than enough for me. Tajuu kage bunshin no jutsu!"
Soon, a several hundred Naruto appeared as the original screamed one word...
"CHARGE!"
An earthquake as strong as an elephants horde stompede rumbled through the compound as the clones rushed through the many halls. Four and a half minutes later, Naruto rolled a huge scroll, that no one saw him pull it off, nor where it previously was...
The clones dispelled one by one as they sealed every scroll they had into the main one. What was odd was the fact that only a few clones dispelled. Where were the others?
"If you were asking, the other clones dispelled since they found Hinata-hime's room. They sealed everything in a a few scrolls which I sealed in this scroll here. Pretty handy, huh?"
Hiashi snapped at this.
"She's no longer a princess since I banished her."
"For you Hyugas, this may be true. For this village and my clan, it's the opposite. See you around!"
A shunshin later, Hiashi looked at the main house...
"We have a lot to talk about, estimed elders..."
"Hiashi-sama, the jyuken scrolls! They're gone!"
"What?"
Hiashi's and every other Hyuga's shock was evident, even in their eyes. Naruto stole the scrolls? For what purpose...?
'For Hinata's sake! I should've known!'
Senju compound
"Itachi, Shisui, why did you two helped us today?"
"Tsunade-sama, we own you a debt we can never repay. I in partical own you more than my life. You healed Kaa-san when she needed you the most. For this, I don't care if I die for you or Naruto-kun. This is the least I can do."
Naruto frowned at this. Shisui however smiled.
"Cheer up Naruto-kun. No one died, right?"
Naruto shook his head playfully. Shisui may be one of the strongest jonin he ever met. Itachi had surpassed him, true. But Shisui was always likable, no matter what.
"Really, Shisui-niichan? I mean, you're never serious, are you?"
Shisui laughed at this. Itachi smiled however as Kakashi shook his head at his two collegues. He knew very few people who can have a chance to win against them..
"Itachi, say 'Hi' to Mikoto-san and to Sasuke."
"Will do. I must leave now."
Shisui laughed a bit. Then chuckled as he knew where his friend will go...
"Well, I have to see my son. Kagami can be... Like Naruto sometimes..."
"What do you mean like me?"
"Er, hyperactive?"
Before Naruto talk back to Shisui, the man was gone.
"Why am I half angry? Why am I half proud?"
Naruto knew the two years old since a year ago when he went to Sasuke's house. Shisui's wife was dying. And young Kagami was with his father. Naruto knew why Mikoto almost adopted young Kagami. The kid was a lot like his ancestor. And Shisui was a good father according to anyone who knew him. Naruto hoped that Kagami won't be like Kakashi... Too much!
The next day...
Naruto looked at his grandfather with a hint of anger in his eyes. Jiraiya told him that it's time to meet his tenant. Naruto initially refused to rely on a power that's not his. Unfortunately, Jiraiya reminded him that he would have no choice, as the fox may be the best power source anyone can get. Finally, Naruto agreed to meet the fox for one reason only : to know him.
In his mindscapes, Naruto walked through what seemed to be a sewer overgrown with many vegetations. He found many vines, moss, ferns, roots, and even some small trees and fangus. As he felt a massive power source, he went toward it.
He finally reached the massive gates, which a terrifying power was behind it. Naruto focused one second as he felt two things : a massive chakra like no other mixed with... Something else... As he went closer, he took one step backward as a massive clawed hand-like paw impacted with the gate...
"I would have already torn you to shreds. But for some reason, your chakra is like that Hashirama brat. And Ashura. So, I may listen this once why you're here."
"I'm here for one reason only. To know you. I guess Kyubi was never your real name, was it? Also, who's Ashura?"
"Why should I tell you? I know your name already brat. Also, I told you my name in one of your dreams!"
Naruto sighed. This won't be easy. He pondered in his mindscapes trying to remember the name. It wasn't long as his eyes shot open.
"Kurama, huh? I find it fitting you for some reason."
Kurama was taken back by surprise. How come a human compliment him?
"Don't you dare and lie like them! I know you humans enough for that. All you want is my chakra, my power. All you say is Kyubi this, Kyubi that... Your greed, hate, lust, all of your emotion are bare to me. I know that you feel angry and a bit hateful sometimes kid!"
"Well, not all of humans are the same, are they? You seem to like Ashura a lot. I won't judge you. Look, I've came here with an olive branch in my hand, not a sword!"
Naruto then produced an olive tree from the sewer's floor then cut off a branch which he picked up with his right hand. His left hand rested on the stump as he made the tree grow another branch.
"Heh, your kindness kind of amuse me for a reason. So really, did you want my chakra?"
Naruto shook his head as the fox raised a nonexistent eyebrow. Then Naruto replied...
"I'd rather not use it Kurama. I mean, I don't want to borrow a power that's not mine in the first place. Also, I don't think it's nice to steal someone's chakra. I don't want that to happen to me, so definitely not you. Also, I wanted to ask you about many things. Like why do you think all humans are the same? I mean, Hinata-chan is different. I could never sense her negative emotions like many persons but one or two. This lack of, of, flaws? I mean, she's like someone special to me!"
"You'll understand that one day. Also, ask your perverted granmps about Senjutsu. When you do, I may tell you more. Now go, Naruto. And I hope you won't be like the other two stubborn hotheads!"
Naruto's eyes shot open as he glared at Jiraiya. The toad sage knew he made a mistake.
"Ero-jiichan, what's Senjutsu?"
Jiraiya was shocked at this. The fox told his grandson about that of all things?
"Er, you see, er, I think you must check with your Gakiette!"
Naruto's eyes narrowed at him. This was definitely something big. Not that he was complaining, but the fox was adament on that...
"Look, we have two choices, you tell me, or he tell me. What is it gonna be?"
Jiraiya was trapped between the hammer and the anvil.
"Alright. Listen, about Senjutsu... Do not try it under any circumstance until I tell you that you're ready!"
Naruto was annoyed by this. He was originally going to say something. But Jiraiya's expression was serious. Deep inside, it scared him...
"OK. I understand! I won't seek it out!"
Jiraiya sighed in relief. He knew that Naruto was a powerhouse. But now, the kid was only ten...
"Senjutsu is the art of sensing and using Nature's energy to become a sage. It's also known as Sennin mode. However, it's unbelievably hard. Even I am not a perfect sage yet for a reason."
"What's nature's energy?"
"The energy that circulates on the planet. In the air, water and earth."
Naruto's eyes widened. His three affinities...
"But don't mistake it for chakra. Nature's energy replenish. Also, it requires extreme chakra level, more than my own."
Naruto frowned at this. Jiraiya was one of the very few people who have more chakra than himself.
"Also, bear in your mind that it requires you to be ready phisycally. Meaning when I tell you that your body and chakra are ready, then you can train in Senjutsu. So, you remember when I told you that I have a surprise to you?"
Naruto noded again as Tsunade appeared with Hinata..
"Jiraiya, you can give it if you want to!"
Jiraiya smiled at this. Tsunade finally gave her blessing to him taking Naruto as an aprentice... For a little while at least.
"Well, see this scroll?"
Naruto's eyes widened as Jiraiya unfolded the scroll, revealing four names, among them himself and his son's, Minato, signed in blood...
Naruto knew what contract it was. Toads summoning contract.
"Sign your name in your blood and leave your fingerprints. Once you do, I'll teach you the handseals necessary to the Kuchiose no jutsu (summoning jutsu) !"
Naruto did as Jiraiya told him before he looked at him with a questionable facial expression...
"So, about the Rashomon.."
Tsunade knew what he was going to say. She once told him about her grandfather's abilities. So, she explained it to the him...
"About the Rashomon, it doesn't require a contract. Only how to do it!"
Naruto smirked at this, however, he was pulled inside his mindscapes...
"So, you'll summon toads, Naruto? You know about Senjutsu now?"
"I do. Why you told me yo ask about it?"
"Because it will help on the long run. Also, I told you that I'm composed of chakra and something else. Well, I can easily draw natural energy inside me. Only one of my brethren have the same ability, although much weaker then myself. Also, Ashura was Jiji's younger son... Your ancestor. And the only human I ever respected. Although he wasn't really a human? Anyway, I'm going to tell you something. I can't give you my chakra now. It may kill you."
"So, Ashura was my ancestor? Cool! Being a descendent of someone that you Kurama respected means that I'm not anybody, am I? Also, I don't need your chakra unless it's either that or death dattebayo. Hardworking guys like me hate to borrow or steal."
"Heh, true, true child. Listen, you amuse me Naruto. Something that's rare for a human to do. So, here's a deal. When you become a perfect sage, fight me! If you do, my chakra won't hurt you anymore!"
"Why do you want me to win against you?"
"Because if I win... You die!"
"Alright. Thanks for the company, Kurama. See you again!"
With that said, Naruto left Kurama who took a nap while he was thinking about the kid...
'Heh, interesting brat. Maybe he won't be like the other two after all...'
Back in the real world, Naruto opened his eyes sudently. Jiraiya was almost thinking about asking the kid. Then he remembered something.
"OK, say, you know how to build a house with your own chakra?"
Naruto, to everyone's surprise, nodded as he then asked the question...
"Which kind of house do you want? Show me a design and I will try to mold it."
Jiraiya sighed at this as he showed Naruto a large terrain, much to the boy's confusion.
"Well, a long tunnel like series of houses that connect the Senju compound to the Uzumaki compound next door. Well, next compound I mean..."
Tsunade's eyebrow twitched in irritation. Jiraiya was a cheapskates, but this was a lot more than she could tolerate.
"Enough! Jiraiya, what's wrong with you? I mean he's just ten for Kami's sake!"
"I think it would be... Fun? I mean, this can't be a bad idea..."
Naruto then took a deep breath as he closed his eyes. Once he opened them, his hands blurred with handseals as he finally slammed them on the ground. Not a second later, a tunnel of houses emerged from the ground.
"That was easy. It didn't exhaust me a lot at least..."
Jiraiya raised an eyebrow. True, Tsunade claimed the terrain between the two compounds and even the Uzumaki compound. But the owner was... Naruto!
Truth be told, she knew if Naruto owned the place, it would stay for a long time, seeing how she would probably gamble it away. Naruto however was gambling just for fun. Well, playing black jack and poker with her many times in the summer. She realised that whoever was unfortunate enough to gamble against the kid... Well, he would lose, even if he rigged the whole game.
She was impressed how he little grandson/son was this good. She knew that the chakra control exercises and medical ninjutsu, like the mystical palm, would come in handy one day. Naruto was two years from graduating. But one thing she hated is the fact that he was the dead last...
Well, she knew why. The kid have no interest of showing anything. He was known as Naruto. Not Senju Naruto, not Uzumaki Naruto, just Naruto. Since he didn't have to present his clan, he had nothing to win or to prove. However, no matter how he held off, when it comes up to bullies... Well, Itachi was merciful. But Naruto on the other hand was ruthless. It was like he wanted just to beat them to a pulp...
But one thing that she was sure about is the fact that he wouldn't beat them for his sake. More for someone else's. But in the case of Hinata, it was like he knew only how to beat those who bullied her. She remembered how three bullies went to the hospital. Either he broke their arms, legs, ribs...
Tsunade knew that Naruto would surpass her grandfather in the right time. When was the question. Now Naruto have the skills of a chunin and quite easily. Well, most chunins are weak compared to her grandfather. Hashirama was known as one of the strongest kages period, of not the strongest.
But for now, she was thinking how to help him and Hinata in their quest. Although Naruto was lazy, he was also a hardworker like her grandfather. She hoped he inherited his power, and her granduncle's wits...
AN : And cut! Sorry everyone if the chapter wasn't good enough. No flames please. I had so many problems, and I may get a job. But that doesn't mean I'll stop this story, I swear. I'll try to do my best. Take care everyone and have a nice day...