Chapter 2: Family
Three months later
"That would be it for today, Naruto-kun." Kosuke told him after they finished with their daily training regime.
Every day after the Academy, where Naruto would spend around eight hours from the early morning, he would train with Kosuke. Initially it was, just like in the Academy, only chakra control, learning necessary hand seals, etc. After the first two weeks he began learning the basic taijutsu katas that were also the first steps towards the more advanced taijutsu styles, that were taught throughout Konoha to the standard shinobi forces who came from civilian backround and didn't have the clans to rely on. But instead of those standard ones, Naruto for his taijutsu training with Kosuke took one scroll which had the Nidaime's taijutsu style inscribed in it. Fortunately, Kosuke, even if he did not know that style, was able to help Naruto to get into its initial forms. But the style itself was a lot more complex than it seemed. It was based on the agility and speed, which also made his great-grandfather famous. Speed and agility that Naruto didn't have at the moment.
"I must also regrettably inform you that I have a mission tomorrow."
"Oh, how long will it last, uncle?"
"One week at most, unless something drastic happens." Ever since the first day he met him, Naruto knew that Kosuke would have to, sooner or later return to do missions – albeit not as often as he used to.
"I have prepared everything that you will need for the time I'm not here." He continued listing things as they sat on the nearby garden bench to rest. "If you need anything from the village, don't hesitate and use the transformation." He could do that. It was the first technique Kosuke taught him after he properly learned how to mold chakra. Aside from that, he also learned the Body Replacement Technique and the Body Flicker Technique just last week, but not after being drilled into the long chakra control exercises of the tree walking and the water walking, much to the Kosuke's dismay after finding out that the tree and water walking were taught only once one became a Genin. Being a Jinchūriki and having the large chakra reserves, both from the beast that was sealed inside him and blood of his clans – it was prudent for Naruto to know them.
After finishing his duties with Kosuke, Naruto went inside to his house, getting himself something to eat, before going to his father's office. Which was also the office of his grandfather and great grandfather in their time. It was a rather large room with no windows as it was in the middle of the residence, plus connected to the Hokage's Hill directly. The first time he entered the room, he was in awe of the countless books he found. From history books, to geographical, religious, adventurous to even the three romance books that the old man always read. For the first two days after moving into his new home, Naruto had spent his time reading whatever had caught his hand first. There were countless instruction manuals on how to be a shinobi, introductions to different ninja arts, including the elemental manipulation and the training regimes that the Senju clan practiced during the Warring States era. But aside from the introductions, there was not much more on those topics. There were various other scrolls with different techniques, but they were up to the B-rank at most. Still, you do with what you had at hand.
He showed some of the training regimes from the Warring States to Kosuke, to which the man smiled and told him that the Nidaime would also drill all of his students with the same heat. Nonetheless, Naruto easily found out why his clan was feared during their time. To even use the resistance seals contrary to the more popular weights. It not only increased their already large chakra reserves, but also speed during the battle. It made Naruto ponder on how his clan got decimated so easily with the power they possessed. The Sandaime had told him that many of his clansmen, being the prodigies in their own rights – graduated early from the Academy. And considering the village was in the state of war with other nations, they had no choice but to deploy them when needed.
Naruto sighed. As Jiji said, you learn from your mistakes.
Since Sunday was the day off with no classes. The only day during the week they had that generosity, Naruto could stay awake a little more. Currently, he was reading the official history of the Third Great Ninja War, battles that were fought, particularly the battles in which his father has fought and his rivalry with the son of the Third Raikage – A, who was also a designated heir to the seat of the Raikage, being the Yondaime Raikage now in his own right.
Completely lost in time as he read, Naruto ignored the hooting of the owls from the outside. Eventually, a small yawn caught him as he accidentally pushed the wooden cup to the back of the table which was mere inches from the wall, just enough for the said cup to fall. Luckily it was empty, so the floor wouldn't get wet and no damage to the parquet would be made. Plus he wouldn't need to try and move the supposedly unmovable table.
"Ugh, getting clumsy like this." Naruto grumbled as he stood up over the table to try and pick up the cup. But as he leaned in and moved his hand over the small space between the table and the wall, the built-in bookshelf to his left side started moving slowly further left, catching him off guard.
"Wha- What is this?" Waiting for the bookshelf to stop moving – which it did, Naruto completely forgot about the cup and turned his attention towards the bookshelf. Now fully moved, a place where the bookshelf was formerly at place, revealed an entrance to the moderate-sized tunnel that went deep into the hill with staircases going down and sconces at the wall supporting the potential torches. Looking down the place between the table and the wall, Naruto saw a glimpse of a wooden cup that was on top of a rather unnoticeable switch from a normal point of view. Cup must have triggered the opening. And the bookshelf acted as the door.
Since he had a free day tomorrow, Naruto decided to investigate further into the night. Taking nearby lampshade with him – he started walking into the tunnel. At the very entrance he saw another switch with a similar shape like the one behind the desk, only on the wall. Figuring it will simply close the door, he turned it on, proceeding to walk further into the cave carefully stepping on each stair, right hand holding the lampshade, left one leaning on the wall as walked down. Wall on which he leaned was layered in chakra, similarly to the walls of his home, layer of chakra that prevented outsiders from coming in. I will need to have some torches placed here one day...
After ten meters or so of quiet walk, he finally got to another room, larger than his own. There were various bookcases on the edges, and one working table to his right. This must be the clan's secret library. One that only the current clan head must know of. What would happen to this place if the Yondaime died childless? He didn't want to dwell on that thought, proceeding to look around.
Bamboo and wooden scrolls – instead of the usual paper ones – were, for the most part the most populous habitants of the various bookcases that graced this large room. Probably to survive the test of time. That didn't mean there weren't other books as well. Books that his normal library didn't have, as he saw some titles for the first time.
In one corner of the room there was a large shelf with various weaponry and armory, from Hiraishin kunai's that were hanging on the wall, to the beautiful coal-of-color Kusarigama and the one katana that had the Senju clan's symbol engraved on its sides. There was one object that greatly resembled Vajra from his clan's symbol. Gently taking it as it was a religious relic – well to Naruto, anything from his family's possession was, he inspected it with curiosity. Due to his excitement, with both blood and chakra running wild through him, like a river torrent on a stormy day with winds making it faster than usual – strange object suddenly lighted itself, full in yellow color and magnificent glory, almost making him drop the lampshade. Like lighting. Naruto thought. Wait! Lighting? This must be The Sword of the Thunder God, great grandfather's sword that he used in battle with his own Hiraishin kunai's. He knew about it from stories Kosuke told him.
"Amazing." He uttered out loud for the first time since coming to this room.
Turning it off and gently laying it down, he looked at other objects that were there. There was one of his father's coats he wore after becoming Hokage. But what mesmerized Naruto the most was the blue armor that stood attached to a wooden doll with dirty white fur and spider webs around it. "This must be Nidaime's battle armor. One he wore during the Warring States era and in which he fought his last battle." He said to himself as he made the line from dust as he traced his small fingers across its stomach.
"I can't believe place such as this actually exists..."
He looked towards one part of the room with its entire side filled with a line of bookcases that had 'Ninjutsu' written at the center above it. Approaching it, he looked around the various wooden scrolls that each had its own small sign on what it contained. Shadow Clone Technique? Shrugging off his shoulders and taking it – maybe he would be able to learn it. If it was different from the one Academy is supposed to teach from the second year onwards, maybe he'll be able to master it. Regular clone was borderline impossible for him, no matter how much chakra control exercises he performed. He could mold chakra correct way. But he would always produce one sickly clone laying on the ground.
It won't hurt to try. He hoped. Apparently, this technique was created by Nidaime himself, who also created it's various other variations as Naruto read the scroll and it's contains.
- Having to fight the Uchiha's since I could walk, I learned that there is nothing more infuriating than having your hard work stolen. Spending weeks, even months, creating, perfecting, mastering, new techniques, only to have a member of that cursed clan flash his red eyes and simply copy it – it would make even a member of Nara clan rilled up. Hiden clan techniques are generally – harder to copy as other clans do not fight the Uchiha's as much as we, Senjus do. Not to mention, reducing hand seals necessary to perform it. So why not create something that could kill two fleas with one hit? But what? The answer is – Shadow Clones. While Uchiha's tend to be predictable fighters, even with their Sharingan, I'd rather not have someone sneak out from the fight and later distribute my hard work to them. To even use it against my own clansmen. Kage Bunshin, while splits the user's chakra, can also kill the user if he doesn't have enough of it. Which Uchiha's in general – do not have. At least by the Senju and Uzumaki standards. There is nothing more satisfying than having your opponent cripple himself during the fight, making your job a lot easier. Because that's what shinobis do – they win. Not by honorable means, for we are not samurai's. We simply win.
Following part of the bamboo scroll explained the simple hand seal for making the Shadow Clone and the way charka should be molded to create it. Naruto found it easy to learn and given his already large chakra reserves, he doubted the jutsu would have negative effects on him. Nidaime himself had a large chakra, but even he didn't have one like jinchūriki's did. The rest of the scroll explained the other purposes of the jutsu, that had more flexible use than Naruto originally thought. It could transfer anything the clone learned to the original. It was also good for spying and intelligence gathering missions.
Ideas running through his mind, Naruto imagined what could he do once he mastered it. Sending clone to the academy to the theoretical work? Yes, he would do that. Help him with elemental manipulation once he started it? Yes, he will do that. Help him in a fight and overcome the opponent with sheer number? It was an unorthodox approach to fighting, sure, as it would pointlessly waste chakra. But still. This jutsu was a goldmine of possibilities.
At the thought of elemental manipulation, Naruto looked around the other bookcases of the room, and found few that had countless scrolls for each element. While his regular library had those as well, this one had the advanced and higher-ranked techniques and theory explanation behind which he could develop some techniques further. Looking around he saw one book with theory behind bloodline mutations. But for now he would not touch that. He would go step by step.
He returned to his room not soon after and went to sleep. He had a free day once he wakes up and he was going to use it the best way he could.
Tomorrow, outside of Naruto's house
Standing in the middle of his backyard where he usually practiced taijutsu and basic kenjutsu with Kosuke, Naruto prepared himself to perform the shadow clone technique he had read about last night. Kosuke already went on a mission. Naruto had to imagine his face once he saw him do it.
Inhaling than exhaling few times Naruto made a Kage Bunshin's hand seal, molded chakra the way it was needed and poured as much as he could, in the end saying. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
As soon as he did that, everything around him was covered in smoke.
The Hokage's office
Sitting in his office, overlooking some paperwork that he was buried in, Sarutobi suddenly felt a large surge of Naruto's chakra coming from the east, his home. Not thinking about paperwork for a second anymore, Sarutobi leaped forward, his ANBU guards following him in his wake.
As soon as he arrived at Senju compound, he was astonished by the sheer number of blonde heads that covered the surroundings. Even the hidden roofs of the nearby storage buildings.
Quickly composing himself, while some of his ANBU's were still in the state of shock, he decided to approach young Senju and get some answers out of him.
"Oh, good day, Jiji. What brings you here?" Naruto asked grinning like never before. Proud with himself with the amount of Shadow Clones he made. Nidaime, in the scroll, suggested that those who had large chakra should make ten clones at most, even if he himself could create more than that. Mostly for the sake of effectiveness. Although chakra would return to the original, unless of course completely wasted from the clone's side or dispelled during the combat. It would be a strategic blunder to leave the main body weak, even for a moment. Neither Sharingan nor Byakugan could see through it. And Nidaime was not the man to take the risks needlessly.
"Naruto-kun, what were you thinking using this jutsu!? Don't you know it's dangerous?" He questioned sternly. "What was Kosuke thinking of teaching it to you?"
"Uh? Uncle Kosuke didn't teach me Shadow Clones." Naruto said.
"Then who did?"
Naruto for a moment looked towards the other ANBU's who were present, all of them looking at him, then towards Hokage himself. "I found it in my library." He omitted saying which library. If old man could figure it out somehow, he would keep it to himself. As the head of his own clan, he could understand the need to keep some things secret.
Sarutobi in the meantime wanted to slap himself for forgetting that it was his sensei who created that jutsu. Of course he would have it personally, even if he declared it kinjutsu. One of the few kinjutsus that many shinobis didn't want to use even if they had some desire.
"I see... But you should know it is dangerous. Some ninjas died trying to perform it." He told him, still serious from the entire situation.
"I know, the scroll said as much. But it is easier for me, as I already have large reserves plus my tenant who constantly expands them." Among other things. He didn't need to mention resistance seals that Kosuke showed him how to place on himself. It was much safer if the user did it himself as it could prevent someone else from using it against him during the fight. And adding additional levels later when he wanted. Not to mention, he wanted to surprise the old man one day when he decided to test him.
Sarutobi sighed. "Very well, but please for my sake, don't use it around the village. I don't want people being suspicious of you and complaining later on."
"I understand, Jiji."
"Oh, I almost forgot. Don't use it with its variations, at least not on this scale." If he had a scroll for regular Shadow Clones, Shadow Clone Explosion would be no exception. With that said – Sarutobi and his ANBU left Naruto and returned to the tower.
Naruto simply smirked and promised he wouldn't before he left, after which he ordered his clones to dispel. Which might not have been his brightest idea as he was suddenly hit with memories of all one hundred of his clones.
Clutching his head in slight pain, Naruto moaned. "Ughh, I need to learn how to sort out memories in a better way." Scroll explained that it would be best to do it one by one, or if one had very good chakra control to sort the memories out in his brain with more numbers.
In the meantime, Sarutobi thought as he walked towards his office. I wonder how those three would react if I told them the amount of shadow clones Naruto-kun can make. That very thought brought a smile to Hiruzen's face. Ever since he was young, he enjoyed seeing flabbergasted expressions on their faces. Danzō was better at keeping his emotions from the public eye. Sarutobi couldn't remember when was the last time he saw his rival speechless about anything. When Minato was chosen as Yondaime, he could at least see him growling. Heart attack maybe? He continued imagining how that conversation could develop. Danzō's potential expression could make it to the history books, but the thought of it suddenly made him frown.
Danzō would no doubt attempt to kidnap Naruto and brainwash him into his personal drone if he knew Naruto's almost limitless potential. Even if he didn't tell him about Naruto's progress, war-hawk would no doubt find out himself. Gritting his teeth, Hiruzen knew he would need another conversation with him.
As Kosuke went on a north-eastern border with the Land of Hot Water to help the teams there reinforce the defense of the borders of the Land of Fire. He would need to place additional guards around Naruto's home for the duration of Kosuke's absence. On any sane day, he would execute the man for defying him, but since the New Year, Uchiha clan has been restless for being suspected for Kyūbi's attack. New arrangments would need to be made for the time being.
"Cat!" Sandaime called out one of his ANBU who momentarily appeared before her leader.
"Yes, Hokage-sama?"
"Arrange with Boar and Falcon to make a guard duty for Naruto Namikaze for the duration of seven days. The mission might be prolonged depending on the situation. At least one of you must be watching him while he is out of his home all the time. Dismissed."
ANBU nodded and went on to make the arrangments for the mission. Three ANBU's from six who knew about Naruto's incident from a few months ago. Kosuke would hopefully finish his mission on time. There weren't many shinobis older than sixty with his experience and knowledge of the Land of Fire's terrain. That's why his presence was needed there. Otherwise, Sarutobi would need to bring in some other people into this case, omitting certain truths of course.
With Naruto at the same time
After resting for a bit, Naruto decided to the basic physical exercises that he done with uncle Kosuke before. The next thing he did was perfecting the Body Replacement Technique and Body Flicker Technique. Kosuke told him that he should never underestimate low-rank jutsu such as that one, for it was life savior on the battlefield.
As he performed various katas, Kosuke thought him, Naruto realized it was better if he had a partner to spar with. Quickly making another shadow clone he started sparring with him – careful not to dispel him. He didn't need to worry himself regarding that. Another clone would take his place. But following Nidaime's words Mind – Technique – Body, it was prudent of him to know how strong of a hit he would land on his opponent, when will he land the hit, and how will he land a hit.
Fūinjutsu was an art he not only hoped to learn, but needed to, given his status. While initially resentful of his father for placing such a burden on him – with passing time, anger lessened. Now Naruto understood the dilemma his father probably had. Shodai Hokage, Hashirama Senju was the one who captured the Kyūbi and other tailed beasts. Forcing someone else to carry the weight and balance of Elemental Nations was out of the question. Being the Hokage at the time didn't help either. Village was founded on the principle of Will of Fire, ideal, that his clan embodied most of all – sacrificing your own for happiness the greater good. If he wasn't ready to sacrifice the happiness of his only son for the sake of the village, how could he expect others to do the same – even if many of them spat on his wish later.
Hearing his stomach grumble in hunger, Naruto decided to go to the village and get some ramen to eat. Using Henge, he transformed into an older, imaginary version of himself with red hair without whiskers and went on his way.
Teuchi and his young daughter were always welcoming of him in their shop and they knew about his Henge as he told them. It wouldn't do good to freak them out if his henge dropped, or even for them to freak out, hearing order of nine bowls of miso ramen from someone that was not him. Few times, Naruto noticed people suddenly leaving if they saw him enter the shop, or even if they approached it – they would pass it by with disdain in their ugly eyes when they saw him in.
After all, eyes are the reflection of the soul.
The Academy, 1st February
"Today we will be having our first traditional shinobi spar, class." Sadoru-sensei told them. "Please be quiet as you step out of the room. We don't want to disturb other classes."
There was an immediate chorus of happy and excited shouts from the children. Sadoru sighed at the disregard for her order. They'll learn in time. Hopefully.
"Troublesome. I hope I won't have to fight today." Shikamaru mumbled besides Naruto. For three months after meeting Shikamaru and Chōji, Naruto remained friends with them. While he still didn't go to the playground. He would always have lunch with them at the Academy. On a few occasions, Shikamaru brought a shogi board with him and asked him if he wanted to play. While never playing it before, Naruto quickly started catching up, after Shikamaru thought him how on one of their breaks – if serious expression on Nara's face, during their last two matches was any indication.
As they arrived at the Academy's field that was meant for practice, Sadoru-sensei started explaining rules and rituals before and after every spar. Regarding the actual spar itself, for now they would pick two students randomly by opening their sheet-record, to see if they practiced any of the actual kata's they were thought previously.
"Okay, the first draw is Uchiha Sasuke." Sadoru-sensei announced. At the same time many of the girls squealed in delight of seeing him in action.
"The other one is Namikaze Naruto." She told them and looked towards him, smiling.
"Good luck, Naruto." Chōji told him. Shikamaru offered his support as well.
As they stood across each other, making Seal of Confrontation, both boys were studying their respective opponent. Sasuke had a confident look on his face. The only thing he knew about Naruto was that he was an orphan, coming from civilian backround, but he had a strange aura around him which made Sasuke weary. Senses, he didn't know he had until now warned him not to be overconfident.
Naruto on the other hand, knew quite a bit about Sasuke, or better said – the Uchiha clan. He knew nothing about Sasuke personally. He spent yesterday evening in his clan's secret library. Unlike son and grandson, Nidaime had much prejudice against the Uchihas. And while Naruto never had any bad engagement with them, he started understanding his ancestor's paranoia. Losing two of his brothers, father, and countless other relatives during the Warring States period, didn't help it either, for Tobirama was a man who neither forgave or forgot easily. But he could pass by his prejudice for the good of the village as he had an Uchiha student himself.
Reading about some of Tobirama's ideas and personal thoughts inspired Naruto that he could do the same for the villagers. That, he would muse about later, as Sadoru-sensei soon announced the match with. "Begin!"
Neither boys moved, but stood in their own respective kata's.
Sasuke in his own Uchiha style, a predecessor before he awakens his Sharingan – after which the style itself needed to be adopted to conjure better movements with his eyes.
Naruto in the meantime stood in his great grandfather's style Suijin's Fury(1), which was based on cooperation with Suiton element in addition to Nidaime's famous speed and agility. Albeit Naruto didn't practice or even knew if he had that element, style itself was flexible and is focused on speed and precise hits. Similarly to the Hyūga's clan Gentle Fist, yet different all the same.
Sasuke narrowed his eyes. That's not the academy style... No matter, I'll still beat him. He thought confidently as he leaped forward.
As Naruto saw this, knowing he was faster than Sasuke, now with his resistance seals off, stood calmly, preparing to evade when the time comes. Sasuke had his fist ready to hit Naruto, exactly thirty centimeters distance between the two, before Naruto jumped and swirled around in the air, as Sasuke's arm passed where Naruto's body should have been. For a second, while he was in the air, Naruto prepared his own fist and quickly punched Sasuke right in the face, his cheek to be more precise, which caused the young Uchiha to fall to the ground immediately.
The silence was a bit unnerving as everyone watched what happened. Sadoru-sensei quickly announced. "Winner: Namikaze Naruto!"
Naruto approached Sasuke and offered his hand, which the Uchiha accepted, proceeding to ask "What was that? It wasn't any of the academy's kata we're thought here."
"It's not. It's a work in progress, for now at least." Well it was, even if you don't have Suiton mastered, you still need to have your body adjusted to the style, and Naruto started learning it for give or take – three weeks now. His muscles were hurting a bit now.
"Well, it's good. Will you teach me once you master it?" Sasuke asked bluntly.
Naruto raised his eyebrow, but answered nonetheless. "Only if you teach me your Uchiha style."
Sasuke looked at him with a blank expression on his face, but then he smirked. "Not a chance, but a fair point."
"Nice fight buddy." Chōji congratulated him.
"Thanks."
"What was with that style? I've never seen it before." Shikamaru asked him.
"It's a work in progress." Naruto only said.
Shikamaru looked to accept the answer, after which three boys resumed to watch few more spars, chatting between them in the meantime.
"You like gardening?" The question came from Chōji.
"Yes, I do. Or at least I'd like to try." Naruto told him. There was a strange sense of euphoria on the notion of having such hobby. Training and reading were fun and all. Notion of gardening almost seemed integrated in him. "Do you guys know where I can buy some seeds?"
"Try Yamanaka flower shop. Aside from flowers, they also sell seeds for those who want to garden." Shikamaru suggested.
"I didn't know ninja clan did that type of business." Naruto wondered.
"All clans do." Shikamaru said as it was the most common thing in the world.
At Naruto's raised eyebrow he continued. "Troublesome. But all larger clans have different source of income. Yamanaka, Nara and Akimichi have partnership between us. Yamanaka supplies us both with various plants from which Nara clan makes medicines to supply Konoha's hospital and shinobi forces, just like Akimichi's make food pills. Other clans have their own type of income growth, though I'm not familiar with them."
"I see, it would be hard to keep the income high as not everyone in the clan is shinobi. And those who are would most of the time have their own families within the clan to support, in addition to the clan itself. So these businesses are generally safe from the dangers some higher-ranked missions can posses, but still give you guys fairly good source of wealth. Am I right?" Naruto concluded.
Shikamaru smiled and said. "You are. So, will you visit the Yamanaka flower shop today, then?"
Naruto nodded "I would like to. Will you show me where it is?"
"Sure, my mom wants me to pick up some flowers for her – even if she could do it herself. Says it's to cure my laziness – whatever that meant."
"So, meet you here in the afternoon today, is that okay?"
"It is."
Two years later. Naruto age: 8.
Hokage's office
Rubbing his temples, Sarutobi sighed as thoughts about events from four months ago appeared before his eyes. He always tried banishing hatred from his heart in his profession, as it was one of the emotions that would hinder his ability to be shinobi and could potentially be his downfall as a Hokage. Just like sensei told him before he died. But he couldn't feel anything but hatred and sorrow right now.
Hate towards Fugaku for his ambition to start a coup d'état and trying to use Naruto as a means to diverge his attention from the clan, and later weapon to have better control over the village. Fugaku was not an honorable man as he led everyone else to believe. Two weeks before Itachi fulfilled his mission and eradicated his clan – there was a break in security, as someone leaked to the village information that Naruto killed three Academy students who bullied him. While he wanted to simply execute Fugaku for leaking it, as it was he who did it according to Itachi – he couldn't. Uchiha clan was too involved in the coup. Had he not ordered what he ordered, civil war might have broken out in the village anyway. Uchiha's might not have possessed manpower to overthrow him. Far from it. But it would cause much wider damage, as they could use civilians to gain popular support. Worst part? Many shinobis came from civilian backround originally. They could be swayed. The village was weakened enough from the Kyūbi's attack. More bloodshed was not needed. Ironic.
Danzō was the second person he hated. Had he didn't create friction with the Uchiha's, none of this would have happened. Sarutobi ordered him to disband the ROOT, but he doubted his rival would do as he asked. Probably went further into the underground. He would let him continue to defend the Konoha from the dark, mostly because he didn't know what to do with more than a hundred highly trained drones. At the very least, he could stop him from recruiting this way. This made him hate the third person most – himself.
Had he been the true shinobi as Tobirama-sensei always envisioned him to be, the day Orochimaru escaped, countless problems could have been avoided. Jiraiya would not need to run around Elemental Nations, chasing after him, fixing Hiruzen's mistakes. Jiraiya could stay in the village with his godson. Naruto would not be alone for the first few years of his life and would not need to unleash the Wind element to defend himself at the age of six.
Had he not been sentimental craven, he would have executed Danzō a long time ago and would not walk around and did as he pleased. Now too deeply involved and in order to defend Konoha from potential threats - he allowed Danzō to walk freely, again.
Result of his weakness?
Four hundred and fifty-five dead Uchiha's, including forty-seven children from which 6 were just out of the cradle. Sasuke Uchiha being the last Uchiha alive. Last 'loyal' Uchiha. Hiruzen corrected himself mentally.
Naruto 'Namikaze', last 'loyal' Senju becoming introverted and slightly misanthropic towards certain villagers. Kosuke reported that the boy was pretty normal outside of the wider circles of society, but it wasn't healthy behavior. He didn't want a boy to become a certain type of eccentric person. While he still had two friends in Nara and Akimichi's boys, he was distanced from the rest of the class. Much like Sasuke was. But while for Sasuke, his classmates reserved pity, for Naruto they felt fear.
This was all too much for him to bear. If only Tsunade decided to return to the village and become the Hokage. She was young, in her own way. But she had a reputation of being hothead who didn't take no for an answer. If she ordered the villagers not to shun Naruto, they would probably kiss the ground he walked over. Maybe he was exaggerating, but she was the perfect candidate. As Jiraiya didn't want the job.
Sometimes he felt that Two World Wars during which he led the village were easier than political climate ever since Minato died. Rebuilding the village from the damage of the Kyūbi's attack. Reorganizing shinobi forces and forcing retired ninja's on active duty. Funding for orphans from the war and the attack, latter of one leaving many more than the war itself. Hyūga Affair, Naruto's incident and finally the latest one, Uchiha's plan for Coup d'état.
If only Jiraiya was here right now...
"Did you miss me, Sarutobi-sensei?"
Speak of the devil.
"Jiraiya?" Hiruzen happily exclaimed.
"What's with the gloomy look, old man? You're fifty years too late to refuse the job." He joked, as he entered the office through the window.
"It's yours if you want to take the carriage from this old man's back."
"Pass."
Hiruzen smiled, he needed someone to talk to. Someone he could trust with no reservation. Ordering his ANBU to leave and setting up the privacy seals, he turned to his student.
"You have no idea how happy I'm to see you, Jiraiya. I've been looking everywhere for you for nearly two years."
Jiraiya, still keeping a small smile on his face, took a seat in front of the Hokage. "You know the spymaster's job, sensei. I needed to lay low for a while. Especially when searching for Orochimaru."
Setting up in serious expression, Hiruzen asked him. "What have you last heard of him? Did he defected to some other village?" It would be even more prudent to eliminate him. If he defected to Kumo or Iwa, there was no question that they would need to reorganize their entire defenses. There was no telling what Orochimaru would tell them.
But that was a low possibility. For all their rivalry and hate with Konoha – Kumo and Iwa hated Orochimaru for killing some of their top shinobis and being one of most militarist figures in their enemy who pushed for further war with them. Kiri was a possibility as it had a lot of bloodline holders. Something Orochimaru loved. But being a caste-based society with paranoic leadership, suspicious of its own citizens. Kiri would be hard to press to accept him. The most likely scenario is that they would execute him and try to figure out Konoha's weaknesses, themself.
"No. At least not in a traditional sense." Jiraiya started. "I found out that he was keeping some connections with few clans in Land of Rice fields ever since the start of the Third War. One branch of Fūma Clan, Shiin, Endō, Ii and various others. There is also rumor of a hidden village forming in that country."
"Aren't they sixty years too late for that?" Sarutobi snorted and Jiraiya laughed, but his expression turned serious after a while. "We'll need to investigate that in any case. If Orochimaru is behind its creation, he will definitely pose an even bigger threat to us in the future. New hidden village that borders us is a potential threat. Especially if Orochimaru is behind it. We've never had good relations with those clans."
"There is more, sensei." Jiraiya said after a small pause. "After fleeing the village, Orochimaru joined a criminal organization, named Akatsuki, composed of few other S-rank missing-nins."
Hiruzen's eyes widened. S-ranks shinobis were not so easily found under a rock. In fact, right now, they could be listed in Konoha on one hand, all five fingers not needed.
"Do you know any of their members? Aside from Orochimaru of course." He asked.
"No, but you know one of them. In fact you sent him there, didn't you sensei?"
Keeping his straight face, Hiruzen closed his eyes and nodded, muttering "Itachi-kun..."
"Yes. Him." Jiraiya confirmed. "You don't know how shocked I was when he sent his crow and caught me in that genjutsu of his for a second." Jiraiya said smirking. "I must be getting rusty lately... Anyway. After he caught me in his genjutsu, he told me of his mission against his clan. Political climate in the village, prior to the massacre. Including the incident about Naruto." Jiraiya glared at Hiruzen after mentioning the name of his godson. Hiruzen simply continued nodding. "I will tell you everything about Naruto-kun, Jiraiya, after you tell me of this Akatsuki organization. Before he left, Itachi told me he will join them, but nothing more."
Jiraiya sighed and stood up, approaching the window of Hokage's office, looking at the village. "I don't know much about them. Members or goals. Itachi told me he will deliver more information on them after he establishes himself for some time." Smiling at the next thought, Jiraiya continued "But he did tell me just before I arrived here, again via his crows, that Orochimaru tried to take him and his Sharingan."
"I see that deluded student of mine failed in his endeavor." Sarutobi smirked. "What happened after?"
"Not much, aside from Orochimaru fleeing. Possibly towards the clans of Land of Rice Fields." Jiraiya answered. "We can safely assume that the Akatsuki and Orochimaru will be at each other's throats for a while. Initially I wanted to suggest you to send few teams and investigate those clans, but if Rice Daimyō has given him asylum and word gets out we're having incursions to a country that is not in any sort of alliance with Land of Fire... It could cause an international incident – worse, a new World War. It would be best if I go there and try to investigate it myself."
"Indeed." Sarutobi said. "I know that Fire Daimyō would support us if it got to that. He always did, ever since he ascended to his position. But I don't want to abuse his fondness of us. If we did send few platoons, Rice Daimyō could call upon other neighboring countries and make it like we're invading them for more land, where we would be drawn to war with other smaller villages. I have no fear that we would beat them, but it could potentially weaken us and give more leverage to either Kumo or Iwa to take the chance and act against us. I don't want another episode of Hyūga Affair. One was more than enough." The last words were spoken by Sarutobi in gritted teeth.
After lighting his pipe, inhaling and exhaling some smoke, Sarutobi spoke. "Officially. We will do nothing but watch for now. With all that happened in the last few years, there is nothing more we can do. You on the other hand should try to find out as much as you can."
Jiraiya nodded. "I'll keep my eyes open on this small war between Akatsuki and Orochimaru. If they end up destroying each other in the process, good for us. One of them should be weakened by the end. We could use that." Sarutobi grunted in affirmation.
"Now... Tell me about these incidents with Naruto." Jiraiya said with a serious expression, taking his seat once again.
"Very well."
For the duration of half-hour, Jiraiya listened to everything Hiruzen told him. From the first time Naruto had unintentionally used the Wind element, to his time at the Academy. Listening to Sarutobi speak, Jiraiya had to occasionally frown, and sometimes smile after hearing that Minato's boy is a top student, not just in class, but entire Academy. It seems that talent passed from father to son, each generation of the Senju clan. Jiraiya didn't doubt that Kosuke thought him well. It seems that Eternal Genin decided to exit his shell of self-loathing. It especially pleased him when he heard that Naruto was friends with heirs of Nara and Akimichi clans, even after truth about the incident was revealed to the public. Seems Shikaku and Chōza had good sons to lead their families one day. Even if Minato's boy was a bit introverted, according to what sensei said, he was highly intelligent. He hoped Naruto could see the reason for Jiraiya's absence.
"He should be at the Academy now, right?" Jiraiya asked after hearing the full story.
"Yes, they're having a taijutsu class right now, if I'm not mistaken."
"Well, I'm going to watch it."
Sarutobi raised his right eyebrow "No research right away? That's unusual." He smirked.
"Some other time sensei. This is my priority now."
At the Academy's training ground
"Hatano Unagi against Namikaze Naruto. Begin!" Sadoru-sensei announced after pairing them together for taijutsu spar.
Unagi stood at his side of the sparring field, looking at the Naruto with fear in his eyes. Why the hell was he paired with him? For the first year and a half of the Academy, Unagi didn't think much of Naruto aside from being good at everything he did. Good didn't do him justice. Naruto was best at everything. Shuriken and kunai throwing? He'll hit every target he was told. Geography? He'll tell you about types of trees that grow in Land of Waterfalls. History? He'll tell you about the battle Nidaime Hokage had with Kinkaku unit – like he was there himself.
The most disturbing part about him was the story about the incident that happened two years ago. Incident where he killed three older Academy students with Fūton ninjutsu, as some rumors said. What was he? Why was he allowed to enter the Academy after doing that?
Unagi remembered the time when he and Hibachi called him a geek, nerd. Out of jealousy. Thoughts about what his blonde classmate could do to him after revelations, brought shivers to his body. But standing in his academy kata facing Naruto, adjusting his glasses, he tried putting his false sense of courage. He practiced with his older Chūnin brother. He would put up a fight, even if he lost. But fear in his eyes and shivers in his body never left him.
"Shinobi rule number eighteen." Were the words that left Naruto's mouth, before he leaped forward. Unagi's eyes widened at the show of speed, as Naruto surged towards him, his own fighting style in place – hitting Unagi's shaken hand before leaving his straight hand in front of his eyes.
"A shinobi must never show any weakness." Naruto said seriously before leaving the sparring ground, not bothering to do seal of reconciliation.
But what if you don't have strength against the demon?
At the Academy's rooftop
"This is what I was telling you about." Sarutobi said. "He goes leaps and bounds compared to his peers. I could let him graduate early, he could have been made Chūnin now. Kakashi certainly did before him. But you know how many Senju's died doing that. In times of peace we are, but nothing is certain once you go outside." Sarutobi finished and inhaled smoke from his pipe.
Jiraiya said nothing, but kept looking down from the roof at his godson. He knew that style of fighting, at least from the history books when he saw the fighting pose of Nidaime Hokage. Deadly fighting style, Naruto looked like he was adept at it, if his standing was any indication. He hoped his godson would open up to him, even if he failed him as a godfather for most of his life.
"You can talk to him after classes, for now, let's go and eat something." Sarutobi suggested. "And I want you to tell me if you found anything new about Tsunade."
After the Academy's classes
"See you tomorrow guys."
"Later!" Shikamaru told him after departing from the Academy and going in his own direction.
Naruto continued on his way to his home. Uncle Kosuke had an entire free week, so he could help him further his Suiton elemental manipulation. For now, he was at the second stage of Suiton manipulation, while Fūton would come on later. He found out that he had an extremely strong affinity for Suiton, in addition to an equally strong affinity to Fūton. Offensive and defensive element. His clan's library said that if one could master Fūton to it's fullest extent, he could utilize it as a defense as well. Suiton could suit as offensive too, although, he did not need to master it to fullest if he wanted to use it that way. Nonetheless, Naruto was adamant in mastering both.
Entering through the backyard door to his home, Naruto found Kosuke, Sandaime Hokage and a tall white-haired man talking to each other like war pals. He looks kind of familiar. Before it clicked him. This was Jiraiya of the Sannin, his father's sensei, and one of Konoha's finest. And his godfather. Now, what would he look for him after eight years? He would find out anyway.
"Uncle Kosuke, Jiji." Naruto called with a small smile on his face. These people never shunned him either for the fox, or the incident. Uncle Kosuke was not just his trainer, but a family as well. Old man as well. He would occasionally invite him for lunch at his tower when Kosuke was away for a mission.
"Jiraiya-sama." Naruto said formally.
"No need to be formal around me kid, I'm not the one for it either." Jiraiya smiled.
"Since you already know about Jiraiya here, he wanted to speak to you about some things." Sandaime said a bit awkwardly. Granted, he already told Naruto who his godfather was when he told him about the fox. But some things happened over the two years...
"Anyhow, I have something to speak with Kosuke here, so I'll leave you two to talk." Sarutobi said and, along with Kosuke left two of them alone.
Silence stretched and it was obviously unbearable for Jiraiya. "So, uh. I guess since you already know who I am, there is no need for an introduction. Hehe."
"Let us go inside." Naruto said, leading Jiraiya to the part of the house that was not covered in seals.
As they walked in silence, Jiraiya looked around the house, memories of walking through it with Minato, sometimes, when he was at the village, sleeping here. Minato always invited him in. Man was like a son to him. Hopefully, Naruto would let him into his life as well.
After a short walk, they arrived in the living room. Naruto motioned for Jiraiya to sit at the nearby furniture, while he himself sat on another.
Silence stretched once again, and Jiraiya decided to break it once it became awkward. "So, uh... Look, Naruto, I know you're angry with me for not being the..." He didn't continue further as Naruto held his arm up.
"I'm not angry with you."
"You're not?"
"No. Well, I was at the beginning, and later when the village found out about the incident... I resented you for a time, because if you took me with you, none of it would have happened to me. But, the old man always told me about your missions and how dangerous it would be for me outside. Not to mention your other teammate who is a dangerous enemy." Naruto said. It was true. Old man told him about Jiraiya's job. As well as the fact that his godfather did take care of him for the first few months of his life, just before Orochimaru went rouge.
"No, I could have done more. I could have found Tsunade, so at least she could take care of you, but then Orochimaru betrayed us and I had to hunt him down..."
"No need to worry, I'm not the one to wallow in self-pity anyway. So I won't turn you away. I would be a hypocrite if I did anyway."
"Huh?" Jiraiya was puzzeld.
"As I said, I was initially bitter at you for abandoning me, but as the time gone by and I spend time reading some of my fathers writings, I changed that opinion. He always spoke highly of you and said you were one of the most responsible Konoha-nin's at his time doing the best of your abilities for the good of the village."
Jiraiya stood up and walked over to Naruto, sitting beside him and placing his hand on his shoulder. "You don't need to feel so let down, my boy. And you don't need to be so lenient towards me either. I failed as a godfather and I'm sure Minato will not forgive me either, regardless of the duty I had. Not to mention Kushina..." Jiraiya said with a sad smile.
"Well, I always wanted to have a large family myself. I have a wise and experienced uncle, old man Hokage as a grandfather and what is another grandfather as well? Even if he's pervert." Naruto smirked in the end.
"Wait, wait, wait just a second. How the hell do you know I'm a pervert? I didn't even do my introduction." Jiraiya asked completely off guard.
"Dad had your pervy books in the library, along with your first one. Which is a good book by the way, if a bit too idealistic and unrealistic in my opinion."
"Oh, so you read them?" Jiraiya exclaimed happily, but then shivered. "Wait, you read Make-out Tactics!?"
"Uh, no. Just a backside and seeing front cover the first time was enough to let me know what it was about." Naruto said smiling.
"Good, because Kushina would kill me double once I die, if you did." Jiraiya exclaimed relieved.
"So will you stay in the village for now?" Naruto asked. It would be good to have more people around him who are not afraid of him or outright hate him.
Jiraiya nodded. "I sure will. I'd like to get to know you better, Naruto. And I'd like to train you sometimes when I'm in the village."
"Great!"
After that they talked for the next few hours. Jiraiya already knew most of the things about Naruto's private life from Sandaime, but was curious about Naruto's training nonetheless. Suffice to say, he was in awe from the shinobi knowledge Naruto possessed. As well as an amazing repertoire of jutsus, given his age. By the time he graduates, he would be far ahead of anyone from his generation if he continued with this road.
Maybe I should test him? Jiraiya thought.
"I'm still a beginner with fūinjutsu, but that's because I haven't touched that art as much as I would like to." Naruto said.
Jiraiya nodded. "You're in luck! Because I'm a fūinjutsu master myself. I'll gladly help you advance your knowledge in the art. And I also have a few techniques I'd like to teach you myself, ones that I invented." Jiraiya said.
"Really? Which ones exactly?" Naruto asked being excited at such notion...
"You'll find out tomorrow." Jiraiya grinned.
"Fine. But I was wondering about something. How come you never managed to find my aunt Tsunade? I thought she would be easier to find than your rouge teammate."
Jiraiya sighed. "You can never know with that woman what she's up to. I admit I didn't try as hard as I wanted, but I tried nonetheless. I only run at her debt-collectors."
"It seems she's adamant about not being found by anyone from Konoha, but at least I can breathe easy knowing she's alive." Jiraiya finished.
"You mean she's angry at Konoha for losing her brother and lover?" Naruto proposed.
"Not only on Konoha. But she was angry at your father as well."
"My father? But he never wrote anything bad about her..."
"Hah!" Jiraiya exclaimed. "Of course Minato will not write anything bad about anyone. Especially her. She was his family. What I meant was – she was angry at your father for not letting her use some of the clan's money for gambling." He snorted. "Man, I remember her leaving the village for the last time cursing Minato and her own foolishness."
"Her foolishness?" Naruto asked.
"Yeah. Originally, she was the head of the clan, but passed that title to Minato after she retired from shinobi life. But, I'm sure she would return and raise you if she knew that you exist, though. For all her faults, she is a good person." Jiraiya told him with a nostalgic smile.
"I hope so..."
"Now that I think about it, Minato's death must be the reason she doesn't want to return to the village or have anything with anyone from Konoha. Last time I saw her was before Kyūbi's attack. She must have been thinking of Konoha being cursed towards her and her family..." Jiraiya muttered in the end.
Two years later, Naruto age: 10
Sitting under one of Konoha's waterfalls, Naruto, with another nine shadow clones, was focusing on splitting the waterfall with his Wind chakra. This was the third out of five steps of elemental manipulation, particularly, Wind manipulation. First was splitting the leaf on the number of times he wanted, second one splitting the rock same way. The third one was splitting the waterfall. The fourth one would be drawing the sign on the hard ground using nothing but wind. The fifth part was simply using all that and shape the wind around him with his chakra with the help of the respective hand seals, although it wasn't easy as it seemed. Wind was infamous as the hardest element to master with a reason.
Chakra control needed to be a place in order for Wind techniques to be as deadly as they were in theory. Wasting as little chakra as it was possible as well. The third and fourth steps were optional. As shinobi could utilize this element with his battle-fan, in addition to have a good chakra control. Element itself was tied tightly to the user's own affinity and control of the air on the field around him. But, Naruto had very strong anyway so once he master's the element he will be as unpredictable for such an element as it is possible.
Contrary to the Wind, Water elemental manipulation was of course different. Naruto had to dampen the leaf for the first step, pull the water out of the lake for the second, stop the flow of waterfall for the third. He finished the fourth step already which was pulling the water from the trees and plants during meditation in one of the more denser forests of Konoha. Fifth step – he would finish after the fourth step of Wind manipulation. This one would possibly be the hardest one. For he needed to turn the aqueous vapor into the liquid state on instinct. Not many ninja's bothered with this step as it required very good chakra control, better than average reserves and pure dedication.
He could use both Wind and Water techniques after the second step. Third, fourth and fifth would only make it easier and make him a master of those elements as well. Most of the ninjas didn't bother mastering their element further after the second step and occasionally third, jumping straight towards the fifth one. Even in Sunagakure, they prefer a battle fan to help them with Wind manipulation in combat. While in Kiri shinobis having primary affinity for Water for most of the time, only went up until the fourth step, with Kage's doing the fifth. Yet even with the fifth step, no-one has ever got to his great-grandfather's level. Yet.
Unlike two of Naruto's affinities, the Earth element, which could easily help its user in ninety percent of situations simply due to the fact that it didn't require from the user to master various steps which could take years. Larger chakra reserves and better control was needed if one wanted to call himself a master of that element. Iwagakure loved that fact, henceforth they preferred quantity over quality of their forces, unlike Konoha. Although, they did like experimenting with advanced nature transformations.
Lighting and Fire were different from the other elements. While Wind and Water required from its user to have control of the nature around him in addition to having mastery of his chakra and element within his body, Fire and Lighting more depended only from it's user and his own body and chakra.
"That would be enough elemental training for today, Naruto-kun. Let us turn to kenjutsu practice for a while." Kosuke called him out from his elemental training.
While not an adept at various kenjutsu styles Senju clan practiced, Kosuke was quick to correct Naruto's posture whenever he made some visible mistake. He was a master at Konoha-Ryū and it's sub-styles, Konoha's most famous kenjutsu school.
For the next half hour they engaged in the spar, with Kosuke being better than Naruto, but it was expected anyway.
"Very good, Naruto-kun. Dare I say, you will surpass me in the near future." Kosuke complimented with one of his traditional smiles.
Naruto grinned. "Can we go for taijutsu next?" This was part where Naruto would soon enough surpass Kosuke, mostly due to his speed and youth. Still Kosuke was no pushover at his old age.
That would go on for the next few hours before the evening, with Naruto and Kosuke sparring in various shinobi arts, like every other day. As he had tomorrow day free from the Academy, Naruto would spend time in his clan's secret library reading whatever came to his hand. Bidding goodbye to Kosuke, Naruto went on his way towards his home.
For the past four years, ever since he found the room, Naruto was influenced by the writings of his ancestors, but most of all, his great-grandfather, Tobirama Senju.
Despite his pragmatic nature, that he claimed to possess, and as history books described him – Tobirama was very antagonistic in his belief towards certain villages, particularly Kumo and Iwa. It was funny to Naruto, because those two fought against Konoha in every war. With former one influencing Nidaime more than anything. With particular theft that would later help the formation of Kumogakure. And two brothers who were responsible for it.
As he sat in the library, he took a book titled 'History of the Sage's blood and divergence from its mainline(s)'. Written by the none other – Tobirama Senju.
Naruto read the first seven chapters already. They described the history and formation of both Senju and the Uchiha clans. Their diplomatic relations with their various customers, to their influence on the development of the shinobi world and other clans, but from Tobirama's point of view. The book was written from the time of the ending of the Warring States to the time when he became the Second Hokage. Two clans apparently descended from the two brothers who were sons of the legendary Sage of Six Paths. His name was nowhere mentioned, but the name of one of his sons was – Asura.(2) Tobirama reasoned that the name of the Sage was lost due to the destruction of certain documents, similar to the name of the Uchiha's clan progenitor. To fill the gap between the information that was not available, Tobirama would present some of his own theories regarding their origins. But aside from the Senju and the Uchiha's there were 'offshoots' of both clans, with one of them claiming to possess the blood of both clans, the Hagoromo clan. Naruto started reading the chapter that described that clan.
- Hagoromo clan is an offshoot of Senju clan, or rather one particular Senju man and woman claiming to be part of Uchiha clan, although there was no evidence to support this claim, aside from common Hagoromo legend that their founder Senju Hagoromo and woman of the 'Uchiha' clan fell in love and produced seven children together. I'm not someone to believe that every black-haired and black-eyed woman with slightly bigger ego than usual, is a member of the Uchiha clan. But even that didn't stop the Uchiha's from allying with them. From the clan's genealogy that was looted, after the attack 'I' led on them, no evidence was found about intermarriage with either the Uchiha's or Hyūga's. But there were few shreds of evidence that I found among them that suggest they may have connections to both of those other clans in a rather unorthodox way...
Naruto continued reading through the next few pages which described their daily life, founding date, their fighting style, techniques and political alliances with mission records that were looted from them by Tobirama Senju, shortly before the formation of Konoha. Naruto looked up towards one of the bookshelves with various wooden scrolls, that had Hagoromo clan's symbol with the name under it. Records of their missions and other stuff must be there. Naruto remembered. He knew about it already but didn't divulge further until now.
He continued reading the rest of their history and battles with Senju's. Reading it, he found out they killed many of his clansmen as they were allied with the Uchiha's during the Warring States period.(3) Part that piqued his interest particularly was Tobirama's own theory about their origin from gathered pieces of information after their destruction. Few following sections and paragraphs said:
- Many clans possess the 'bloodlust', or at least claim they do, but many of them use it simply in the thrill of battle, usually conducted with their techniques and styles. Hagoromo clan does that too, but on a far wider and far more savage scale than the others. But even with that – there aren't many clans who do that. Although one other comes to mind particularly. Kaguya clan.
- It is no secret that for all their conservative attitude, the thrill of taboo cannot escape even the Hyūga clan. So it is not surprising when a woman of Hyūga clan decided to impregnate herself with 'bad boy' Uchiha. Naturally, Hyūga didn't like that, for it brought great shame upon the clan, causing them to expel the woman and her bastard son. Hyūga woman, named Kaguya went on with her son, Kimaro, initially to the Uchiha clan, but was refused an entry. In order not to get off from the subject at question here. But after it was formed, initially in the Land of Hot Water, Kaguya clan gained an infamous reputation as being a clan of bloodlust savages, but with a powerful gift – Shikotsumyaku, the Dead Bone Pulse. No doubt that the imbalance from mixing Uchiha and Hyūga blood caused this, but resentment of their banishment as well. Kaguya clan, however in my time held their 'bloodlust' and lust for battle more as a conservative tradition and their trademark, with occasional clan leader trying to increase their savagery. as only 14 of them in all of their existence possessed Shikotsumyaku. Their taijutsu prowess is undeniable, however, in other chapters, dedicated to them, I will give more space to this clan.
- If Senju Hagoromo fell in love with this woman, it could be that she was of Kaguya clan, or at least offspring from some of Kaguya's rape campaigns. In addition to having the blood of mad Kaguya's who themself have blood of Uchiha's and Hyūga. Next generations of Hagoromo's inherited the 'madness' of Kaguya's and large chakra reserves of Senju. From one side, they could become one of the most powerful clans to ever live, but luckily for us, they were only mad savages like initial Kaguya's, if a bit more intelligent than them.
- The main evidence to support this claim lays from the fact that the first matriarch of the clan had two marks on her forehead as their revered illustration I found, suggests. In no other clan can this be found, but Kaguya.
- Imbalance by mixing Uchiha's and Hyūga created Kaguya's. Now, a new imbalance by mixing this fusion with Senju's created further imbalance resulting in the Hagoromo clan.
- Case closed. Try picking mushrooms around your own fields!
Naruto drank everything his ancestor wrote for a second. It made sense, in a certain way. As the first bloodlines were unbalanced initially, thus resulting in bloodline clans having to only marry among themself to balance it out and keep it to themself. It wouldn't be different for the same thing to happen with more powerful and more mythological clans. Still, unlike those other clans, it seems that Senju's don't generally need to marry in-clan only, but do need to be careful with whom they marry. Every man must have it's own forbidden fruit to avoid, it seems.
"Try picking mushrooms around your own fields!" Naruto had to laugh at his ancestor's advice. It wouldn't be possible now to do that. Would it? But his clan didn't need to resort to incest to keep their blood "pure" in the first place. Hashirama's and Tobirama's mother was not from Senju clan, yet two of them were hailed as strongest Senju's to ever live, and one of the strongest shinobis to ever exist.
- Downfall of Hagoromo clan
- Hashirama's dream of creating a peaceful environment where children of all clans within the Land of Fire(and beyond as he likes to point out every single day) could grow up to actually become adults was coming to fruition. While it was only a matter of time before Uchiha's surrender, Hagoromo's still stood loyal to Madara in opposing Senju's, more than Madara's own clansmen did. If Hashirama actually wants his dream to come to realisation, he should know that it cannot be realized with Hagoromo's walking around. Even surrounded Uchiha's know that.
- As he is my brother, I know Hashirama better than anyone, no matter how many times he claims it is Madara who knows him best. Because I know him, I knew he would (try to) bring Hagoromo's to the fold eventually. But will the village and society work after that? The answer is – NO. Senju's are not the only ones who are at war with Hagoromo's. While they are allied with the Uchiha's, it is only for the purpose of defeating us, Senju's. Entire Land of Fire knows about raids Hagoromo's committed upon the clans of Yamanaka, Nara, Akimichi. Does Hashirama think those clans will be willing to join the village if it means living next to them? I had a problem with coming to the reality I'll live next to the Uchiha's. And we fought them since the dawn of days.
- Hagoromo clan needed to fall. Before the actual talks about creating the village came to the wider masses.
- Attack on Hagoromo's was the first joint mission of the future village. Hashirama can think of this as a prototype. Allying with Yamanaka's, Nara's and Akimichi's brought downfall on the Hagoromo clan. During the battle, I sensed all of the ones we knew of within the compound. With my sensory skills, I tried to pinpoint if any of them were outside of the compound during the attack. And there were. Approximately twenty-eight of them. None was spared in the following campaigns.
The next few pages described the battle with the clan itself. Tobirama Senju led it, with clan heads of Yamanaka's, Nara's and Akimichi's acting as support, supplanting the assault with their own clansmen. Planning the attack and execution. Everything went flawless, which made his great-grandfather even more famous through the Elemental Nations. But it also helped the creation of the village as three clans that helped Senju's, accepted invitation to join eventually. But before that, Madara was needed to be dealt with.
- For that reason, I can safely assume that the clan was completely eradicated during the attack and following campaigns with no survivors. I took their scrolls, records and letters for further investigation.
- The most disturbing documents this clan possessed, was the idea and wish to have the ability to revive the dead. While no actual technique to do so has been found in their compound. Theories and ideas to actually create it are there, and very close to accomplishing it. But I have to give credit where it's due. Had they actually created it, they would possibly be unstoppable. Still, it doesn't mean I won't try and finish it. If Madara does decide to go rogue on the village eventually, it seems Izuna will have to beat it out of him. (4)
- Hunter-nins will be needed once the village is formed. Hunting the remaining Hagoromo's made sure of that. It is almost certain that there will be rouges in the new system. But I will prevent the rise of renegades like Hagoromo's were. Fighting with this clan solidified my belief that shinobi need to set aside their emotions within their profession and to control them outside of it.
Naruto closed the book and looked at the dark ceiling of the secret library. He knew that times of Warring States was brutal, but he never thought his family was capable of exterminating another clan like they did to Hagoromo's. But he didn't feel any shame, instead it was satisfaction and pride.
Standing up, taking the lamp with him, he walked over to the jutsu sections of the room. By his estimates and with the help of shadow clones, he would master all five steps of elemental manipulation for both his primary elements by the time he graduated from the Academy, in two years. After that, he would focus more on fūinjutsu and space-time ninjutsu. He would continue improving his bukijutsu skills. He could be considered far better than average in those skills than your average ninja, but he should never stop training, same with taijutsu, although he would need to constantly train, all three things: mind – body – technique.
Genjutsu, he would probably never be able to master to its full potential which would include lower-ranked ones. Kyūbi's chakra constantly expanded his already large reserves. For him to use genjutsu normally like everyone else, he would need to find the way to either completely synchronize his chakra with that of the Kyūbi or to separate it which would include reinforcing the seal. Well, the second option is out of the question, while the first one could cause potential damage to his mind with the influence of the Kyūbi.
Jiraiya told him that jinchūriki could accomplish good chakra control even with the amount they had thanks to their bijū. But for some reason it was different in his case. It was either due to the seal that he had been draining the Kyūbi's chakra and expanding his chakra coils. Or the sly fox was just being an asshole and wanted to mess with him.
In the long run, this wasn't as bad as it seemed at first. While he couldn't use every genjutsu that he got his hands on – only B-rank and higher for him. Well, he could already use some of those as they weren't hard to master once you got the theory right. Bringer-of-Darkness Technique and Temple of Nirvana Technique he mastered. Those were probably the strongest genjutsus outside of the Uchiha and Kurama clan's. Those under B-rank were not important, but it was a slight punch on his pride that he couldn't use them.
Fūinjutsu was an interesting topic for many reasons. After the creation of the village, Tobirama Senju created a seal he marked on his heart, which would in turn with conjunction with his own chakra, protect his entire body with a layer of chakra that would prevent the Sharingan user from seeing the way chakra was molded in the user's body, thus being unable to copy the technique. While the Byakugan user couldn't see chakra points. Later only remained a theory. As a proud clan, Hyūga's would never admit deficiency of their eyes. Especially during the early days of the village. (5)
Ability to revive the dead. Naruto remembered that section from the book. If Hagoromo's had manuscripts to create that jutsu, or at least its prototype, no doubt Tobirama finished it, just as he said he would. If his jab at reviving deceased brother of Madara Uchiha was any indication.
Even if he didn't know every jutsu or information from this room, Naruto did inspect all the bookcases in detail. But aside from few mentions here and there – there was nothing about this Edo Tensei. The Nidaime, either hid it well. Or never actually created it, aside from one jab at Madara.
Maybe it was better that way.
Author's note:
(1) Suijin's Fury is a made-up name by me. I used Water Release: Hard Whirlpool Water Blade from the games, I think that's the name of the technique, for inspiration. Anyhow, that's what I'll call Tobirama's taijutsu style from now on in this story. So: Tobirama's usual taijutsu style + Water elemental manipulation in his hand in the shape of a whirlpool when giving a strike. Although it's not necessary to use Suiton during the fight. I know, genius!
(2) Yes. Name of Senju and Uzumaki's progenitor is known to the Senju's. But not that of Ashura's brother and their father. Uchiha's do know about it, but are not keen on divulging that information to Senju's or anyone else. There will be more exploration of these two later on, but for now, I'll keep it as mysterious (for characters in the story) as I can.
(3) Butsuma Senju, Tobirama's father said to his children in Chapter #622 that the Hagoromo clan is opposed to Senju like Uchiha's. While it wasn't directly mentioned that two of them were allied, I'm going with that here. They were "particularly merciless", playing their part in the death of Kawarama Senju who was 7 at the time. I love the way Butsuma Senju was portrayed. Stern, yet I could see him as a caring father when he warned Hashirama that Madara was Uchiha. Also hiding that fact from the rest of the clan to protect Hashirama. Kawarama's and Itama's deaths, just like Nawaki's was used as a slight reference for Senju's dying young and crippling the clan.
(4) I never understood why Tobirama actually created Edo Tensei. It doesn't seem like something leader of a village that was founded on the principle of brotherhood and unity would do even for the sake of the village. It requires sacrifices to do it. And I don't believe a guy like Tobirama would be so careless to either leave scrolls for Edo Tensei or manuscripts of it out for some renegade rouge, like Orochimaru to "master" it. If I'm not mistaken, during part one, Orochimaru at one occasion said that he was the one to develop that technique, particularly when he tried to bribe Tsunade to heal his arms. Not to jump from the current point. But here Orochimaru will develop his own Edo Tensei being inspired by Nidaime's, just like in the anime, Naruto Shippuden Episode #316. In any case, reason on why Tobirama created it here was to wage psychological warfare on Madara if he ever went rogue. Granted, he never had the chance, but the idea is there.
(5) Sharingan can still see the hand seals required to perform the techniques, but not the way chakra is molded. I got this idea while I was writing Naruto's entrance to the library and protective layers on the house and hallway to the library.
Added Note: I know that Kishimoto said somewhere that if a Hyūga and the Uchiha had a child - that child would have both Byakugan and Sharingan in one of their eyes, respectively. While I don't remember when he actually said this, or if it was a simple joke, but I'm going to deal with bloodline/powerful clans mixing this way, the way I did in this chapter regarding Hagoromo/Kaguya clans.
General Q&A:
Q: Will Naruto have Mokuton or some other bloodline?
A: Not Mokuton, but he will have some other bloodline.
Q: Will Naruto be placed with Team 10, or just not with Sasuke and Sakura?
A: You will find out in the next chapter. I hope I'll have a good reason for the placement I'm having.
Q: Pairings?
A: To be honest. I have no idea how to write romance or anything. I'm still a noob writer, so anything I write "romantic" will look probably lame. Although, for the few girls that were suggested, I can tell that I have some interesting plans. Particularly, Karin and Tayuya.
I was never the most avid fan of harems. Like polygamy? I won't have that here, as much as the concept itself in real life is appealing. But, as I said previously, occasional flirt might/probably will happen. Naruto in the end will have a busty woman to make dozens of children with and revive his clan.
I'm tempted to go with Samui, age-gap aspect and village relations included, but I'm not sure how to make it happen. In any case I'll introduce her early on as to make sure I have a backup if I decide to go with her as a pairing option. Another girl I would like to try to have a partner is Shizuka. I have a soft spot for fillers.
Q: Will Naruto get OP?
A: If I recall correctly. In the manga it was mentioned few times that Sasuke is chūnin level at 12, all while still being a genin. As Naruto will have vastly better training here, he will of course be better than some of his senior's colleagues. But not yet at the par with Kakashi. Who graduated at the age of 5 and became chūnin at 6. And Jōnin at 12. So yeah, while I doubt Kakashi was as strong as other Jounins at the time like Minato, Jiraiya or Fugaku, he was strong enough to become one. A similar thing will happen to Naruto. He will be far better than his peers and will advance quickly in his career, but won't be suddenly like Jiraiya or Kakashi in this case, even if he'll have a vast repertoire of techniques.
While I aim for him to have a knowledge of powerful techniques when he graduates, he will still need experience in the field to utilize existing knowledge. Further maturing is important here, as I have something different in plan for everyone's favorite Arc that will influence him.
Shadow Clone training will help him, but I personally believe that hundreds of shadow clones training can do more harm than good. You have to sort out all the memories. It is also not sure that every clone will learn everything correctly. That is when it comes to practical training. Naruto will use 10 shadow clones for that stuff to have easier sorting out of memories and better mastery of his techniques. That is not to say it won't be used for theoretical parts as those are different from muscle and chakra manipulation memory.
Q: Hiraishin Naruto?
A: Of course! But it'll take a while. :)
To Time Parad0x
First, thank you for your comment. Regarding Kosuke, he came to my mind as a caretaker after rewatching fillers and it pleased me to see how he regarded Naruto, as well as his overall persona. While I didn't show much of his training with Naruto now, I hope that I will in the next chapter and future 'flashbacks' for different situations. He will also be present after Naruto graduates, but that is for the latter.
Regarding Danzō. He knows not to push his luck with Hiruzen, so he won't touch Naruto, but in the mind of Sarutobi he is a threat to Naruto's development. As Kosuke is Genin officially, while having skills of Jōnin, he is respected by Konoha's forces as we could see from Hayama. No one will try to play the rank on him, even if there is such a possibility. While I didn't plan for anything such as that to happen in this story. I'll go with "special orders from Hokage-sama." type of answer with order written in the scroll as proof. I don't think anyone will try to pull the chain of command to their favor that will contradict the orders from Hokage himself.
As for the Uzumaki's, I saw that concept few times. It is a good reason, but still connects Naruto to Minato and Kushina. No doubt outside villages knew of their relationship.
12.000 words for this chapter. Maybe my plan for 8.000 is just that? A plan. Anyhow, I have the next chapter almost written. All I need to do is: correct grammar mistakes, improve some dialogue and upload it. I guess? It will be ready in 5-6 days at most.
Next time there will be a scene between other tagged characters and Naruto together. I hope to have some familial moment with training as camping outside before graduation that will also come in the next chapter.
~HyperboreanRealist