Author Note: First off, I want to thank all of my supporters for the lovely feedback and encouragement. Setsuri has officially reached over 200 followers, and hitting over 7k views! w00t w00t! ^_^
Secondly, I want to regrettably address an issue I've noticed with some recent reviews...
As much as I appreciate feedback, I humbly request that people remember to respect my approach as an author.
If you do not like my writing style, treatment of the characters, or wish I'd done something differently, you're free to write your own story. It's a waste of both your and my time to write a review that is more of a list of demands. I will not adhere to such petulant behavior and am less inclined to consider suggestions when you use this approach.
I am not a puppet, I am not a servant, and I am not an employee. I am writing this story for my own pleasure and sharing it for mutual enjoyment with others within the fandom.
If you're going to leave reviews that include corrections or suggestions for future chapters, I politely advise practicing the art of constructive criticism, critical thinking, and patience. This manner of behavior is supportive, respected, and less toxic. After all, toxicity kills creativity.
Lastly, I've been writing for a very long time. I practice the method of creating advanced plotlines and timelines. I generally try to have at least five chapters ready for Setsuri at a time as a preventative measure against writer's block. For example, today I'm posting Ch 6, currently, I have chapters 7-9 completed and awaiting publishing.
These unsavory reviews are in the minority, but I received more than I cared to after publishing Ch5. To reiterate, I'm open to suggestions, if given in a constructive and respectful manner. I am open to corrections, just make sure I'm actually incorrect. Instead of rushing to tell me, I'm wrong, take the time to tell me what you liked about the story as well. Politeness is free after all!
Lastly, I've fallen a bit behind in production. (Writer's block, Family issues, and getting sick) So, I may or may not take this week and next week off to recuperate.
Sorry for the less-than-fun AN, I truly appreciate and enjoy most of the support I get, so I hope this doesn't discourage continued viewership!
So much going on! This chapter ended up being another super long one! I had a lot of fun writing it! The length may seem daunting, but it's mostly dialogue! I hope you guys enjoy my rendition of this iconic scene! Big divergence incoming!
As Always...
"Disembodied voices of higher beings."
"External Dialogue of Lesser Mortals."
'Structured Thoughts'
Thank you for your continued support!
Setsuri
Chapter Six
"Bonds are secured with mutual trust."
Naruto sat in solitary silence on his swing, his throne of isolation, as he watched his peers being praised by their families for their successful graduation. He was trying his best to remain unobtrusive. The usually energetic exhibitionist wasn't currently in the mood to be the center of everyone's focus.
He just wanted to get a taste of what it might feel like to experience what his classmates might be savoring. After all, Naruto at the moment just felt dead inside. Unfortunately, even though the subdued orphan was being inconspicuous, that still didn't stop people from glaring in his direction, whispering comments loud enough for him to pick up.
"Hey, isn't he that kid?"
Naruto flinched, tightening his grip on the rope support. He hated it when they talked about him like that. Why didn't they ever use his name? It wasn't like people didn't know it. He shouted it at the top of his lungs most days. Even when the shunned preteen wasn't calling attention to himself, his name was usually being yelled at by most of the chūnin or jōnin as they chased him around town, at least once a week.
"Yeah, that's him. The only one who failed!"
"Serves him right…"
Naruto bit his lip pulling his goggles down over his eye. He'd be damned if he let these jerks see his tears. Didn't they understand how much he was hurting? Could they not see that Naruto was being harder on himself than anyone else? He was the dead last, the screw-up, the failure.
"Could you imagine if they made him into a shinobi?! I mean think about it. After all, he's-"
"Shh! We're not supposed to talk about that!"
Naruto couldn't take it anymore. He was quick to escape the cruel joke of the situation. Why did they hate him so much? What did he do to deserve being treated so unfairly?
As Naruto ran out of the courtyard he caught the sad eyes of Hinata. She looked like she wanted to say something to him. The distraught blonde jerked his head away. He couldn't face her right now. He couldn't let her see him like this.
Picking up his pace, Naruto swiftly left the vicinity, never stopping until he was halfway home. Once the forsaken youth was sure he'd completely departed all reminders of his current misery he slowed to a sluggish stride. After taking a few minutes to compose himself, Naruto sighed, leaning against the nearby fence line, pulling up his goggles to rest against his forehead again.
'Why couldn't Iruka-Sensei just cut me a break? I was the only one… Chikushou, why am I always excluded?! ...-ttebayo! I worked so hard! ...It's not fair!'
"Hey, Naruto!"
At the sound of his name being called the languishing whisker-face boy shot the intruder a piercing glare. His stormy blue eyes locking on the assistant instructor, Mizuki. What did he want? Naruto wasn't an idiot. He knew this man was at least partially responsible for his denied success.
The man in question put his hands up disarmingly, "Hey now, I can see you're taking this hard. You're heading back to your apartment, right? I thought maybe you'd like someone to talk to."
Naruto relaxed his gaze, softening into one of incomprehension and appreciation. After a long pause, he gave a brief nod of agreeance. The duo followed in step with one another soon reaching the secluded assurance of the solemn orphan's apartment.
They relaxed in silence on the balcony overlooking the village. Naruto sighed from where he sat, his legs dangling between the spaces of the railing support. The frustrated preteen glanced up at Mizuki, who was himself leaning against the railing. Naruto had been venting his frustrations about the whole situation as Mizuki quietly listened.
"You know, Iruka-Sensei is a really serious guy… His parents died when he was really young, so everything he's accomplished he did by himself with a lot of hard work and discipline," the assistant instructor explained after Naruto had finished unleashing his grievances.
"So, what's that got to do with me?" Naruto retorted glumly.
"So… you remind him of himself. He believes he's helping you to grow strong. Try to give the guy a break. Can't you understand where he's coming from? ...One orphan to another?" Mizuki countered gingerly.
Naruto frowned, more in shame that he'd been targeting Iruka as the source of his misgivings, than toward Mizuki. It was true that his relationship with Iruka didn't start off on the right foot, but Naruto had to admit, over the years Iruka more than made up for their initial turbulence. The instructor was always looking out for the wayward youth. If not for him, Naruto probably would have faced harsher punishments for some of his more risky pranks, or quit school completely.
Iruka had put in the extra time and effort to help Naruto get his sensor abilities under control so that he could properly participate in class. He would also treat the lonely juvenile to ramen, sometimes even letting Naruto eat as many helpings as he wanted. Naruto was feeling very guilty as the memories and realizations flooded his mind.
"But, I really wanted to graduate. I worked so hard…" Naruto mumbled glumly, more to himself than to anyone else.
"Then, I guess I have no choice!" At Mizuki's announcement, Naruto looked up at the assistant instructor, his tanned face full of confusion and hope, "...I'll let you in on a big secret!"
'...Secret?'
As Mizuki explained the alternative path of graduation Naruto kept having a nagging feeling in the back of his mind. He couldn't place it, but the sensation felt strangely familiar. However, he quickly put it out of his mind. If this was Naruto's only way of being able to graduate along with his classmates he'd take it. How the heck was he going to sneak around in the Hokage's residence though?!
It was now the middle of the night and Naruto was snickering to himself about his luck. Unfortunately, while he was infiltrating the dwelling of the Sandaime the young trainee ran into the man himself. Thankfully, Naruto had lucked out, his Oiroke no Jutsu had been super effective against the elderly Hokage. The mischievous boy hoped getting caught didn't count against him in the challenge.
It seemed Naruto's favor with fate was turning around. It was even a full moon tonight so he didn't have to use a light source while studying the scroll! Thanking whichever deity was looking out for him, Naruto unfurled the manuscript to read the first entry.
"Tajū Kage Bunshin no Jutsu?! Aw man… Doppelgängers again?!" Naruto groaned unenthusiastically, before willing himself to read over the jutsu. However, the more he read, the more interested the Uzumaki became.
'This seems so much easier than the regular Bunshin no Jutsu, how come they didn't teach this one in the Academy?!'
Naruto couldn't explain it, but while reading over the technique it felt as if he already knew it and was just refreshing his memory. The sensation of déjà vu made the mesmerized student read over the jutsu thoroughly once more to make sure he wasn't mistaken. The more Naruto studied the technique the more weirded-out he became, but he was also excited.
After Naruto was confident that he completely understood the technique he rolled the scroll back up carefully. After all, he didn't want to get in trouble for damaging it. Then the hopeful trainee decided to put the method to practice. Closing his eyes to concentrate, Naruto focused his chakra before hesitantly releasing the latent energies.
'Please work!'
What happened next was very disorientating. Naruto could feel himself, but not where he was standing. Slowly he opened his eyes, letting out a cheer after which that sounded off a chorus of other jovial voices matching his own. Dancing around excitedly, the elated youth saw reflections of himself in every direction. Some of the doppelgängers were dancing around just like him. Some were laughing, crying, or hugging each other. It was very strange, but Naruto didn't care.
'Yatta! I did it! I finally did it!'
Naruto didn't know why, but the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu was so much easier than any technique he'd ever learned in the academy. Well, second only to the Henge no Jutsu. Sure, the preteen felt a little fatigued from expending more chakra than he was used to, but no more than when he completed his morning training.
The accomplished youth approached one of his clones, inspecting it closely. Earning himself some irritated and strange looks from the doppelgänger. Naruto noted how they seemed to be individualistic, unlike the regular Bunshin. Hesitantly he reached out and poked the other Naruto, only to be poked back.
"Eh?! Awesome!" Naruto exclaimed before hugging his secondary self. The clone laughed and hugged him back. They were solid! They could act on their own!
Experimentally, Naruto decided to try dispersing the summoned doppelgängers and was met with two things. First, the sudden flood of information in his unprepared brain knocked the unsuspecting boy on his ass. Secondly, he became encompassed in a large plume of smoke from the disbursement.
"Okay, that's weird. Cool, but weird. I wonder what else I can do with these guys! I guess I'm going to find out! -ttebayo! Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" With glee, Naruto resummoned his clones, aiming for a less daunting number. He noted that his target was still slightly off, as Naruto had summoned a quarter more than intended.
"Oi! Can you guys dispel yourselves?" The blonde was met with confused looks, followed by a couple of shrugs. Slowly some of the clones nodded, disappearing in a puff of smoke. Naruto began to comprehend that the smaller number of clones he dispersed the less it broke his concentration.
"Alright! I don't know when one of my teachers will show up! So, here's the plan, let's see what you guys can do! You, over there, I want you to try the leaf concentration exercise, you're solid, but can you use chakra? The rest of you, let's work on our taijutsu together! Since I can actually see myself now, maybe I can figure out why I suck so much in spars, -ttebayo." Naruto ordered getting a couple of cocky solutes, grumbling complaints, and a few off-hand snickers. However, the groups divided and went to work obediently.
After about an hour or two Naruto plopped down on the forest floor once more, panting as he tried to regain his breath while lazily strapping the scroll to his back again. That had been an interesting experience. He didn't get it completely, but it appeared that when these shadow doppelgängers dispelled information would be sent back to him. However, the more clones Naruto dispelled at once, the more difficult it was to sort through the information and it would lead to mental fatigue.
The exhausted trainee likewise noticed that once he dispelled them all he became more worn out as if the exercise had been multiplied. Naruto would have to experiment with the possibilities of this new technique and figure out different methods of combining it with his current skill sets. He was already thinking of various ways he could use it for training exercises. That would have to wait however as he heard movement and felt a familiar presence approaching him.
"Na...Ru...To…" Iruka growled out, looking almost as much out of breath as Naruto was. The worn-out preteen chuckled nervously, struggling to his feet. He was confused by all the emotions pouring off the instructor. Iruka seemed happy, relieved, scared, angry, nervous, and the emotions kept whirling from one to the next. It was very disorientating, to say the least for the still inexperienced sensor.
"Eh heh heh… I guess you found me Iruka-Sensei, -ttebayo! It kinda sucks that you found me so fast, though. I was only able to get one technique down, but I promise it's a really awesome one! Once I show you this new jutsu I mastered you'll have to let me graduate, dattebayo!" Naruto hurriedly explained, hoping to dissuade his instructor's imminent tirade. It seemed to do the trick. However, now it seemed like Iruka was shocked, confused, anxious, maybe even worried. It wasn't the reaction Naruto expected, but the orange-clad boy was too tired to care.
"Hey, Naruto what's with that scroll you're carrying?"
"Hn? Oh, this? Mizuki-Sensei told me about it, and this place! Dattebayo! He said that if I could learn one of the techniques from the scroll in time, that you'd let me graduate with everyone else! -ttebayo! That's still true, right? Right?!" Naruto asked with nervous excitement. The anxious ninja cadet hadn't played around with his new jutsu too long and ended up missing the deadline, did he?
Naruto's enthusiasm faded as soon as he saw Iruka's face contort in horror, the instructor's earlier spiraling emotions surging to heightened levels. Naruto felt Iruka's emotions of confusion and nervousness morph into pure fear, anger, and revulsion. None of this was making sense, shouldn't Iruka be happy, or even proud that Naruto had worked so hard?
"Eh? Iruka-Sensei...Wha-"
Naruto's next words were cut off when Iruka sent him flying with a forceful shove. As he tumbled through the grass, the shinobi-in-training could hear the unmistakable sounds of metal embedding itself into wood, a noise Naruto was quite familiar with from hours of practicing shurikenjutsu. The bewildered youth grunted struggling to sit upright, this was currently a chore with the large scroll tied to his back. What was going on?
"I'm impressed you were able to find this place…" A familiar voice sneered from the tree line.
"I see now, so that's how it is…" Iruka mused with a grunt in pain as Naruto finally righted himself into a sitting position, quickly taking in his surroundings. The rattled student was shocked to see his beloved instructor peppered with kunai where Naruto had once been standing.
'N-Nandayo?! What the heck is going on?! -ttebayo!'
"Naruto, hand over the scroll."
At the sound of his name, Naruto turned, looking up to see Mizuki perched in a tree. He was too far away for the nervous boy to sense, and at the moment Naruto was too shocked to move. Why had Mizuki attacked Iruka? Why was he demanding the scroll? Nothing was making sense!
"H-hey! Wait! What's going on here?! I don't get it!" Naruto exclaimed nervously, looking between the two chūnin. It was hard to concentrate with the blood rushing in his ears. The startled preteen couldn't make sense of the situation. There was no reason for Mizuki to attack Iruka. This was just a test wasn't it?
"N-Naruto, whatever you do, do not let him have that scroll! Protect it with your life!" Iruka barked, struggling to remove the throwing knives from his body. At the sharp tone, Naruto's full attention snapped onto the more trusted of the two men. He hadn't heard Iruka use that tone in years, but it was one of complete authority that the boy learned to adhere to. It was the same tone he'd used when rescuing Naruto from those enemy ninja back when he first started in the academy.
"...It's more dangerous than you can imagine! It holds a formidable forbidden jutsu that has been sealed away! Mizuki used you in order to get it for himself!" Iruka snarled his anger spiking as he finished his desperate plea.
Naruto was completely taken aback and incensed with not only Mizuki but himself as well. Why had he been so stupid! He should have known better. Naruto had already learned this lesson before. If something sounds too good to be true it most likely is. Why did he fall for it again?!
"Naruto, Iruka's only afraid of you holding onto that scroll. Even if you read the technique it'd be completely meaningless. I can actually show you what it means."
"Naruto! Don't let him fool you!
"Heh, You ever wonder why you were treated so differently? I'll tell you, the truth is Naruto-"
"Sh-Shut up you fool! Don't do it!" Iruka interjected, causing Naruto to jump slightly as the normally well-balanced man seemed to almost scream in panic, but Mizuki wasn't fazed. The assistant instructor appeared to be taking pleasure in the current turn of events. Naruto still couldn't sense the agitator's intent but was wary with the whole commotion. The frightened boy simply couldn't keep up with the situation, why did things like this always seem to happen to him? He turned to look up at Mizuki listening with resigned interest
"After the incident that occurred twelve years ago, that left the Yondaime dead. A new decree was established. A very strict law, or rule, ordered by the Hokage."
"R-rule? I don't remember hearing anything like that." Naruto interjected hesitantly.
"You wouldn't, part of the decree was that everyone would know except you." Mizuki snickered contemptuously.
"Except me?! Why not me?! What are you talking about?!" Naruto demanded desperately, his full attention on the man who had broken out in a cruel fit of laughter sparked by the boy's desperate and morbid curiosity.
"The law forbids anyone from revealing to you that you're really the bakegitsune!"
Naruto just looked up at Mizuki with wide eyes. He continued to listen but was starting to feel detached from the situation. The boy felt numb trying to reject the hateful man's accusations.
'He's lying! The Yondaime killed the demon fox! That doesn't even make any sense! It can't be...'
"...In other words, you're the Kyūbi no Yōko! You killed Iruka's parents! You're the monster that destroyed our village! You're responsible for it all!"
"Stop it!" Iruka hollered pleadingly, returning Naruto's focus to the injured man. He was radiating with sadness, pain, and rage. Naruto could feel his own body trembling, but wasn't sure quite what he felt at the moment.
'It...it must be true if Iruka-Sensei is…'
"The beloved Yondaime used the last of his strength to trap and seal you in human form. Everyone has been deceiving you ever since! Didn't you ever find it strange that you were despised everywhere you went?! If Iruka were honest, he'd admit that he hates you too!" Mizuki roared mockingly.
Naruto couldn't believe it. It had to be some cruel joke! He couldn't be, but the more the distraught youth thought about it, the more the puzzle pieces fit together. Naruto could feel the hot tears spilling down his striped cheeks, and that was his breaking point.
"Chikushou... Chikushou! Chikushou! Chikushou!" Naruto cried out, feeling his chakra whip around him, overwhelmed by the complex emotions he was struggling to sort out. Naruto felt betrayed, hurt, stupid, angry, confused, sad, scared. Why was this all happening to him?! It wasn't fair!
"No one will ever accept you!" Mizuki taunted ruthlessly, adding more insult to injury for the emotionally turmoiled boy.
"...Now, do us all a favor and die!"
"Eh?" Naruto was brought out of his tantrum just in time to look up as Mizuki threw a straight-edged Fūma Shuriken towards him. The poor distraught boy didn't have time to process everything going on. He fell backward with fright, futilely turning to clumsily scramble for escape from the incoming projectile. Naruto's mind had blanked, all his training went out the window. He was going to die!
"Naruto! Get down!"
Naruto's body moved on reflex to the sharp command. Dropping to the ground, he curled onto himself, attempting to make his body a smaller target. Expecting a painful end to his short life, the boy was instead met with something heavy and a lot softer than the flying blades of death, pushing him further into the ground.
Before Naruto could register what happened the pressure was already lifted. Allowing him to turn around meeting the pained face of Iruka. Blood dripped down onto the dumbstruck Naruto's cheek from his grievously injured instructor.
"...W-why?" Naruto asked, his face contorting with confusion and disbelief. According to Mizuki, Naruto had been responsible for the deaths of Iruka's parents, hadn't he? Why would Iruka save him?!
"...Because you and I are the same. When my parents died, nobody paid attention to me or gave me any support. I wasn't a good student in school. I became the class clown, doing anything to attract attention. I just wanted people to notice me. I couldn't get noticed through success, so I kept doing stupid things. Being known as the class clown was still better than being nobody. It was so hard…"
Naruto was remarkably absorbed in Iruka's words to a degree that it took him a moment to register that the normally stern man was now weeping openly. Naruto wanted to cry himself. He could feel the truth and kinship in Iruka's words. The emotionally moved adolescent could feel Iruka's tears as they splashed onto his face and soaked into his jacket.
"I...I know that I was so hard on you Naruto, always yelling, scolding… It must have hurt. Forgive me, if I'd been a better teacher...a better self... Maybe neither of us would have come to this…" Iruka mused remorsefully, his tears continuing to fall freely.
'No Iruka-Sensei, you've always done so much for me. I'm sorry I doubted you, even for a moment. It's all because of him! -ttebayo, he wants me and the scroll! I need to get him away from Iruka-Sensei!' Naruto thought frantically, shooting the stunned Mizuki a reproachful glare, the scoundrel seemed just as shocked as the young preteen that Iruka protected him.
With his plan of action formulated, Naruto took the opportunity to push off from under the injured shinobi, dashing off deeper into the woods. Iruka called out desperately for him but the determined scroll thief was resolute. This was entirely his fault, he needed to make things right!
'I'm so sorry Iruka-Sensei…'
Naruto wasn't able to run as far as he'd initially hoped. If things had gone according to plan, he'd have been able to lose his tail, returned to the Hokage's office, and summoned some better-equipped shinobi to take care of Mizuki, and possibly rescue Iruka. Unfortunately, Naruto was too exhausted from his previous training and was instead forced to quickly hide behind a tree, sinking to the seat of its roots, catching his breath as he hugged the cursed scroll tightly to his chest.
After what seemed like no time at all, Naruto's breath caught in his throat. He started to sense the presence of two individuals approaching his position. The young ninja cadet's survival training kicked in. Pushing himself closer into the trunk of the tree, Naruto slowed his breathing. Trying to get his adrenaline under control, so that he could listen intently over the pounding of his strumming heartbeat. At first, all Naruto heard was a crash and some muffled voices when the pursuers landed just a stone's throw from his hiding spot, but soon their words became more clear.
"...How did you know I wasn't Iruka?!" snarled Mizuki, being answered by a cocky snicker very akin to Naruto's own, when he was being particularly cheeky.
"Because... I'm Iruka!" Came the familiar confident voice of Naruto's preferred instructor. The hidden boy relaxed minimally at this revelation. It seemed his sensei hadn't been as badly injured as Naruto first presumed, but Iruka was probably still not in good shape with how out of breath he sounded.
"Heh, I see. How noble of you to save your parents' murderer, and for what? What happens if we let him live?"
"Then maybe the scroll is kept safe from a complete scumbag."
"Idiot! Naruto and I are two of a kind." At this Naruto's grip tightened on the scroll, biting his lip to quell his indignation, and to keep from giving away his hiding spot. He was nothing like Mizuki!
"Two of a kind?"
"I can use the scroll to achieve limitless strength! There's no way that bakegitsune won't take advantage of the powers within that scroll!"
"Heh, you're right about that… If he was the bakegitsune, but Naruto the boy is different! He's an excellent student! He works hard, is clumsy, and foolish all at the same time. People have mocked and shunned him, and it's given him empathy. He understands the meaning of suffering. That boy is no longer the demon fox! He is a citizen of Konohagakure!" Iruka proclaimed proudly.
Naruto clenched his teeth to keep silent as his tears fell uncontrollably. He could feel it, Iruka's pride in him. It was different from the warm feeling Naruto was used to experiencing from Hinata. If the shy girl's radiance felt like a warm hug, then Iruka's aura felt like a campfire. It was warm but held a certain power behind it.
However, Naruto stilled when he felt the unmistakable killing intent exuding from Mizuki. He needed to move! Iruka was in danger! The panicking sensor didn't even pay any attention to the vile man's words. He didn't need to be able to understand what was about to happen.
Quickly grabbing the scroll under his arm, Naruto darted from his hiding spot, subconsciously powering chakra into his legs to increase his speed. He could already see Mizuki preparing to release another large shuriken. Growling, Naruto leaped, kneeing Mizuki under the chin with all the power he could muster, sending the unsuspecting traitor flying.
Never taking his sharpened blue eyes off the threat, Naruto slid the scroll out from under him, keeping a hand secured on it. All this trouble had been brought about by this simple nuisance. Naruto would be damned if he allowed it to be stolen from under his nose.
"Kuso... Naruto! Get out of here! Save yourself!" Iruka cried out pleadingly, trying to move, only to grunt in pain. Naruto frowned, he was right. His sensei was in no shape to defend himself anymore. Fortunately, it seemed he on the other hand had obtained his second wind. Naruto could feel adrenaline and chakra coursing through his limbs, he could do this!
"Heh, you really surprised me there, freak…" Mizuki mused, wiping blood from his chin as he got back to his feet.
"If you ever dare to lay a hand on Iruka-Sensei again, I'll kill you!" Naruto snarled, shaking with unbridled fury, leering threateningly at Mizuki.
"Shut up! I can kill a loudmouth brat like you in a single blow!"
'Heh... We'll see about that, you're in for a surprise, ttebayo!'
"Bring it on Temē! Anything you throw at me I'll return a thousand times over!"
"You're welcome to try little fox!"
'Just remember, you asked for it!'
"Tajū Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"
Naruto couldn't help but smirk. If the situation wasn't so serious he'd probably be laughing his ass off right now. In every direction there appeared another Naruto, some were laughing, throwing taunts, or casting out insults. Mizuki for all his earlier bravado was now struck with fear. It permeated the air around him, and for once Naruto was happy to bring forth the emotion in someone.
"What's the matter, tough guy? Come and get me! You're gonna kill me in one blow right?! Well, I'm waiting!" The army of Naruto goaded, some stepping forward, cracking their knuckles or rolling their shoulders, all with merciless foxy smiles brimming their striped faces. Mizuki, being the coward Naruto now saw him be, just fell on the ground, his fighting spirit destroyed.
'Too bad loser, I'm going to pay you back for hurting Iruka-Sensei and making a fool out of me!' Naruto thought darkly, stepping forward, his smile slipping as the night's events flowed through his mind.
"Well then, I guess if you're not going to I'll just have to bring the fight to you!"
Dawn was just starting to break in the distance as a thoroughly tired-out Naruto dispelled his technique. On the ground was a brutally pummeled Mizuki, whose face was barely recognizable under all the blood and bruising. Naruto's fists were numb, but his heart was uplifted.
Turning to meet Iruka's shocked gaze made Naruto feel a bit uncomfortable, rubbing the back of his head he let out a disarming chuckle, "Heh heh… I guess I got a little carried away?"
Iruka relaxed, shaking his head with a smile, "Naruto, come here. I've got a present for you."
"Eh?! Really?!" Naruto asked excitedly, running over to where the injured shinobi rested.
"Yep, but first you need to close your eyes. No peeking!"
Naruto nodded enthusiastically squeezing his eyes shut tight. As he waited, barely registering as Iruka stood up and gently removed his goggles from his head, the upbeat preteen let his mind drift to all the experiences that led him to this point, his struggles and failures at fitting in with his classmates, his unexpected friendship with the shy and reserved Hinata, his convoluted relationship with Iruka-Sensei, which at times seemed like a strange mix of teacher and parent.
Then Naruto's thoughts strayed to the night's revealings. From what he understood, either he was the Kyūbi, or it was at the very least sealed inside of him. Either outcome seemed unpleasant. Would this affect his life more than it already had? Did everyone really know except him? Naruto made a mental note to confront the Sandaime about this once they returned. There were too many unanswered questions. Naruto was pulled from his musings as he felt a gentle pressure surround his head.
"Sensei, how much longer?"
"Almost…" Iruka promised as Naruto felt something unfamiliar being adjusted on his forehead.
"Now Sensei… May I?" Naruto asked tentatively like a small child. He wasn't used to receiving gifts and his patience waned. The tentative boy could hear Iruka chuckled in amusement at his restless inquiries.
"Yes, Naruto. You can open your eyes now."
Naruto slowly opened his eyes, looking up at a smiling Iruka who was holding onto his goggles. It took the boy a second to register that the chūnin was now also missing his hitai-ate, but why soon it all became clear.
"Congratulations, on your graduation!"
Naruto stood awestruck with his mouth agape, he'd graduated? He graduated! The thought just kept echoing in his mind.
"In celebration, we'll have ramen tonight!"
Naruto was frozen, unable to decide between wanting to cry or cheer. His brain slowly catching up to the situation, he opted for both, tackling Iruka in a hug causing the shinobi to fall back against the tree once more.
"Ittai! Ow! Oi! That hurts!" Iruka cried out exasperatedly, though returning Naruto's hug nonetheless.
"Ah! Shimatta! Sorry, Iruka-Sensei! I forgot! Dattebayo!" Naruto gasped, quickly removing himself from the man and looking over him with concern.
"It's okay, Naruto, but that reminds me, we really should start heading back. It's already dawn, and you still need to return that scroll to the Hokage." Iruka explained struggling to stand, directing Naruto's attention back to the forgotten manuscript.
"What about him?" Naruto growled, nodding over to the unconscious Mizuki still crumpled in the grass as he secured the scroll to his back, hopefully for the final time since acquiring it.
Iruka pondered for a moment then pulled something from one of his vest pouches. With a snap, the object started to emit a plume of red smoke, and the shinobi expertly tossed it near the injured man's body. Naruto looked up at him with confusion, and the instructor just shrugged.
"Well, I'm too injured to carry him. You're carrying the scroll, which takes priority. And… I doubt he's going to wake up anytime soon, so the risk of him escaping is low. To put it simply, it's now someone else's problem." Iruka deadpanned, causing Naruto to sweatdrop.
As the duo slowly made their way through the forest Naruto's thoughts drifted back to his earlier concerns. He slowed his pace causing Iruka to turn back and look at him with confusion.
"Iruka-Sensei, I wanted to apologize. Because of me being stupid I got you hurt again…"
"Naruto… that wasn't your fault. Mizuki-"
"No, it was my fault! I should have known better! It's Hibachi-Mē all over again!" Naruto interjected sharply, gripping the strap across his chest as he turned his head away from the perplexed Iruka.
"...When Mizuki told me about the scroll yesterday, I knew something felt off, but I ignored it because I wanted to graduate so badly… If I'd just trusted my instincts I'd probably have known immediately that he was up to no good. I'm sorry Iruka-Sensei, you spent so much time helping me out, and it seems I only ever repay you by causing more problems…"
"Naruto…"
Naruto looked up when Iruka called his name only to get flicked between the eyes. He cried out in shock rubbing his face before catching sight of the bemused expression Iruka was giving him. The boy forced on a smile rubbing his nose as they continued their trek, the village gates becoming visible in the distance.
"Thanks, Sensei… But, I'm well aware that most of the villagers do hate me. Back in the academy, I had such a hard time making friends. In all honesty, I think only Hinata-Chan really gave me a chance, -ttebayo. Shikamaru and Chōji are okay, but it always feels like they keep me at a distance. You know what I mean?" Naruto just kept looking forward. He didn't want to see the look on Iruka's face as he opened up. He could already feel the regret permeating off the man, and needed to voice his concerns before he lost his nerve. It was so much easier reading other people's emotions than expressing his own.
Chuckling bitterly, Naruto continued forcing the words he was afraid of speaking aloud, "...Anyway, now that I've officially graduated, how am I gonna get my teammates to see me as a capable and trusted shinobi? I mean, I want to give them the benefit of the doubt, but look what happened when I tried to do that for Mizuki, and Hibachi. I can't expect someone like you to be there to save me anymore, Sensei. I'm willing to do my duty as a Ninja of the village, but always worrying about being hated, betrayed, and struggling to earn everyone's trust is really hard, ya know?" he admitted stopping to look up at Iruka with a sad smile. The man in turn just stared flabbergasted, before regaining his composure and smiling assuredly towards the troubled youth.
"Naruto, I don't think you'll have to worry about that anymore. Sure, your life is going to be more difficult now that you're a shinobi, no doubt. But, a genin's three-man cell is carefully matched up and planned with the intent of making the teams run smoothly and efficiently. Not only this, but your team captain will be a trusted jōnin sensei to guarantee your team's safety and success on missions. You just keep being yourself. Eventually, others will see the you that I see." Iruka stated encouragingly, ruffling Naruto's hair affectionately. Naruto wasn't completely convinced but felt a little better nonetheless after airing out his concerns.
It was now early morning and the general populace of Konohagakure started to stir. After forcing Naruto to apologize properly to the Hokage, Iruka released the exhausted boy to sleep in for the day. Naruto had, after all, been up all night training, expending more chakra than he was used to, and generally running for his life for the past few hours. On top of finding out he was the vessel of one of the most fearsome creatures to ever come into existence.
The Hokage had been sure to clarify to Naruto exactly what he was. The boy was not the Kyūbi itself, only its jailer. Why had the Yondaime chosen to seal the monster into Naruto? The preteen never got a clear answer. Just that he was perfect for the job, and not a matter of convenience.
No, not everyone in the village knew that the Kyūbi was sealed within him, only the generations that were old enough to remember the attack itself. The edict had been intended to give Naruto as much of a normal childhood as possible. Regrettably, some of the more determined citizens found workarounds to the law, which Hiruzen apologized for.
In short, Naruto was a hero who had been keeping the village safe. He should be proud of this fact, but the elderly Hokage also requested that Naruto keep his status as the nine-tails container a secret, for now, to keep the boy safe from those who might wish him harm, especially since he would be starting missions soon.
Iruka could see that the clarifications had eased the boy somewhat, but knew Naruto would need a few more days to completely process the information. Days the instructor planned to put to good use, given his revelations found that morning. He hadn't realized how affected Naruto was from the mistreatment brought upon by the villagers.
The twenty-two-year-old empathized with the twelve-year-old when it came to being an orphan suffering the devastating effects of isolation, but couldn't relate to Naruto's realistic concerns of future betrayal. It was a miracle that the boy in question had learned to trust anyone. Let alone possess the strength to continue giving people the benefit of the doubt, even when he could actively sense ill-intent from them.
This is what brought about Iruka's drive to stay behind as Naruto left the Hokage's office. The boy was right. Iruka wouldn't always be able to save him if he ran into trouble in the future. However, the instructor did have some sway over at least giving the future Genin some peace of mind.
"Now, what is it you wished to discuss with me Iruka? It's very obvious you're injured, so what can be so important that you'd choose to delay treatment of your wounds?" Hiruzen asked patiently, leaning back in his seat, lighting his pipe, and carefully assessing the young instructor.
"It's about Naruto, Hokage-Sama. Last night brought to light some concerns, so I'd like to request some minor alterations to the current team assignments. Permission to speak freely?" Iruka asked, trying his best to bow in his current condition.
"Hm… very well, please elaborate on your thoughts."
"As you know, this isn't the first time Naruto's been taken advantage of. I'd hoped that he'd have forgotten the previous incident. However, it appears not to be the case. Even though he was initially happy to finally earn his hitai-ate, it seems that Naruto's been greatly affected by being betrayed. This, on top of learning the truth about his condition. I worry that the emotional strain will be too much if he suffers another breach of trust, Hokage-Sama. I believe it would be not only to his benefit but to another graduate if they were put on the same team. They did get along well at the Academy after all."
"And just who is this other graduate?"
"Hyūga Hinata, Hokage-Sama."
"Hm... That might be a problem. You see, both children already had claims put on them in the event that they graduated. Unfortunately, the claims were requested by two separate jōnin. I do see your point, however. At the very least we'll convene a conference before the team assignments are official so that you're able to make your case to them. I'll give you a few days to prepare, so please, go report to the hospital."
"Hai, Hokage-Sama! Thank you, sir!"
Iruka spent the allotted time tending to his injuries and pouring over his documentation preparing for the promised meeting. He knew he shouldn't feel biased, or want special treatment for any of his students, but Naruto deserved a fair chance. Mizuki's betrayal had also shaken Iruka since he'd believed that they'd been friends this whole time. He could only imagine how Naruto felt about the whole ordeal.
On the day of the scheduled meeting, Iruka could be found briskly striding through the halls of the Hokage building. The young instructor was surprised to find Sandaime himself wandering leisurely down the halls instead of in his office. He bowed momentarily to his superior, before slowing down to match pace with the aged shinobi.
"It seems Naruto's ever-energetic spirit has attracted the attention of my grandson, Konohamaru." Hiruzen chuckled offhandedly. Iruka nodded politely in turn, giving the Hokage a sidelong glance.
"To tell you the truth, I'm still not quite sure if I should be worried or relieved. Just today Konohamaru attempted twenty sneak attacks on me, and that was before our young Uzumaki friend came to deliver his registration photo. Of course, I informed Naruto that it would need to be redone." Smiling, the Sandaime showed Iruka the rejected photo, causing the instructor to balk at the flamboyant image, almost tripping due to the distraction.
'Of course, Naruto would try to dress up like a kabuki actor! How long did it even take him to do that by himself?!' Iruka thought with agitation, feeling a vein pulse as he tried to regain his composure. Arriving at the entrance of Hiruzen's private office Iruka was surprised to see a familiar tall, lanky, silver-haired man lazily leaning against the opposite wall, his nose buried deep in a brightly colored novel.
'Ah, Kakashi, right on time. It seems it was a good decision to ask Guy to remind you of today's appointment." The Hokage chuckled. The jōnin's only answer was to pocket his book and gaze curiously over at Iruka before the duo were ushered into the office by their aging leader.
"You might be wondering why I asked you both here earlier than our final associate. It's simple. You two have had the most direct contact with Naruto at different stages of his life, and have his best interests in mind. So, you should be able to brief me on any notable or sensitive incidents, your opinion of his overall mental health, and any concerns that I should be aware of before deciding his fate as a shinobi to this village." Hiruzen explained as the trio got situated in their designated seats.
Iruka cast Kakashi a look of surprise. He wasn't aware of any other adults socializing with the boy aside from himself and the Sandaime. The closest he could recall was when Kakashi rescued both Naruto and himself from those enemy shinobi of Takigakure back when he'd first started teaching at the academy.
"Iruka, we'll start with your observations since you're the one who requested this meeting, to begin with. If you please." Hiruzen motioned.
"Hai, Hokage-Sama! Since I've been assigned as Naruto's instructor he's always worked hard and tried earnestly to gain acceptance and approval from those around him. Normally noble attributes, however, a few have taken advantage of this, almost leading to the boy's demise on at least two occasions, the first being the incident with his fellow student, Hibachi, just before the summer break of his second year in the academy. The second event took place just the other day when he was manipulated by Mizuki. In both incidents, Naruto would have most likely lost his life, if not for the swift intervention of trained shinobi."
Iruka paused pulling some of the documents from his file, passing them to both Hiruzen and Kakashi to look over as he continued, "To add to this, the boy is an accomplished sensor, which means he chose to ignore, through his own admission, the warning signs given him in both situations. I feel a large part of this is because of his difficulties achieving basic human relations in the village. Through my observations and discussions with Naruto, it seems he has issues being honest with other people and himself when it comes to expressing his real emotions, but is very empathetic towards others. At first, I thought this was the beginning development of great inner strength, but after Naruto conveyed his insecurities the other day I have come to believe he is more fragile than most expect."
"Hm… I see... Do you believe these weaknesses will be a detriment to his career as a shinobi serving this village? As you know some missions have unexpected results, and no mission can be completely guaranteed as safe." Hiruzen asked after thoroughly reading over the report.
"No, I think if he understands his friends from his enemies Uzumaki Naruto will become a fine asset for the village, but as you know Hokage-Sama, it can become quite taxing, especially for one so young, to feel the need to sleep with one eye open at all times."
"I see… Well then, Kakashi?"
Putting down the report he'd been meticulously reading, the masked ninja let out a long sigh, "Hay... Hokage-Sama, to add to what Iruka's already said. A few incidents come to mind, the first having to do with Uchiha Sasuke. If you remember, Naruto tried to befriend young Sasuke not long after the clan massacre. I don't know what initially happened, but when I came upon the boys, Sasuke had been beating on Naruto for quite some time, the odd thing was, and Naruto hadn't lifted a finger to defend himself. When I asked him why he'd said he deserved it. Thankfully with prompt intervention, treatment, and his innate healing factor, Naruto escaped any lifelong physical complications." As Kakashi explained, Iruka could've sworn the Jōnin had flashed the Hokage a glare, but quickly brushed it off as a trick of the light.
"Based on Iruka-Sensei's assessment, I'm concerned that he may have some subconscious mental or emotional concerns that'll need to be watched closely. The other issue's details I'm afraid are classified, so the only thing I can say openly is this. If Naruto was in danger of truly losing his life due to the actions of a traitor, he'd defend himself whether he was consciously willing or not. How this would affect his mental health on the other hand, who's to know?"
"What do you mean he'd defend himself whether he was willing to or not?" Iruka asked quizzically, earning an expressionless stare from Kakashi.
"I mean he'd kill them, quite easily in fact. So, as far as I'm concerned, having that kid trained to be a well-rounded individual would benefit not only himself but the whole village. With proper training and guidance, he shouldn't become a threat to himself or others and be a great asset to Konoha. You'll remember the promise I wrote in that particular report Hokage-Sama."
"Yes, unfortunately. I remember that issue quite well… Ah Kurenai! Right on time. Please, sit." The Hokage instructed the newest arrival. A dark-haired woman with bright crimson eyes, she bowed before taking her seat next to the other two young men.
"So what is this meeting about Hokage-Sama? I was not informed of the particulars, just the summons itself."
"I'll let Iruka explain in his own words. Iruka, you may start." Iruka stood and bowed before he passed out the other documents in his folder to the three individuals.
"This meeting is to petition for the official assignment swap of Haruno Sakura and Hyūga Hinata. The reason being a recent issue brought to my attention that has the risk of becoming a team compatibility concern."
Kurenai frowned, looking up from the document to glare at Iruka, who was doing his best not to meet her eyes. The instructor knew he'd be getting some push back to his proposal the moment he requested the meeting, "A-as you can see, both girls' graduation scores put them near the same bracket in class. However, on their practical evaluations, Sakura shows promise in Genjutsu, while Hinata had the best scores in Taijutsu among the Kunoichi."
"Iruka-Sensei, please just get to the root of the issue," Kurenai demanded, rubbing her brow impatiently.
"Ah hem, very well Kurenai-San. Even though the girls are both talented individuals, the issue is their prospective teammates. Haruno Sakura was to be paired with Uchiha Sasuke and Uzumaki Naruto. However, I now believe this would not be a good mix, Sakura has repeatedly shown her distaste for Naruto more times than I can count. Her infatuation for Sasuke has served as nothing but an irritant for the boy and a detriment for the girl. She might have even made Top Kunoichi if she hadn't been so distracted with trying to win Sasuke's unrequited affections." Iruka shook his head remembering with shame how most of the kunoichi trainees behaved around the ever-popular Uchiha.
"On top of this, I witnessed the girl making unbecoming remarks showing she lacked the maturity or tact to be teamed up with individuals of the boys' shared background. Her presence would only add unnecessary stress to the group dynamic. On the other hand, she'd be a great counterbalance for Inuzuka Kiba's rather boisterous personality, and her high level of academic-minded intelligence would help her get along with Aburame Shino."
Flipping to the next page of his analysis Iruka continued, "While on the other hand, Hyūga Hinata benefits from being on a team with Uzumaki Naruto. If you look at her scores and my notes, they were able to improve because of the boy's influence. While Hinata's presence helped Naruto's general performance and academic participation improve. I believe if Hinata was put on Team 7 she'd be able to temper the hostilities between Naruto and Sasuke and keep Naruto focused during missions since he holds her opinion in high regard."
"Hm… You make a persuasive argument, Iruka-Sensei, but I've heard that Naruto himself has been developing into a uniquely talented sensor. Why not just have him switch to my team instead?" Kurenai challenged
"I can answer that question. You see Kurenai, I'm sure you're aware of Naruto's tenant. With Jiraiya-Sama out of the village, I'm the only one uniquely qualified to keep him safe and in check if something were to happen to his seal. Being the only remaining adult possessing a Sharingan, I am also the only exclusively qualified individual to help train Sasuke, if he should be able to awaken his own. Academically, Naruto was, unfortunately, the dead last of his class, while Sasuke was the Rookie of the Year making them balanced in comparison to the other teams." Kakashi explained setting his paper aside to look at the shrewd kunoichi.
"If there is to be a switch it'd have to be between Sakura and Hinata since they're of comparable strength. I think Sakura would benefit from having a strong independent kunoichi like yourself as a good role model. With her scores, she has the potential to become a talented Genjutsu specialist. As for Hinata, I heard she's the young heiress to the Hyūga Clan. Unmarked Byakugan? That'd be a prime target on missions like the Sharingan. I might have my hands full protecting a bunch of infamous clan heirs, but someone has to do it." Kakashi explained with a nonchalant shrug. There was a long pause, and Iruka could swear he saw Kakashi smile underneath his mask when Kurenai let out a defeated sigh.
"Fine… I concede! I'd be a fool to throw away such talent and knowingly damage another team. All I ask is that your squad helps out on specialized missions if I request it, Kakashi."
"Of course, I'm always willing to help out my comrades."
"Then it seems we've met a mutual agreement?" Hiruzen asked, lazily puffing his pipe while carefully assessing the three shinobi in the room. The three adults in question paused before nodding in confirmation.
"Very well, then this meeting is concluded"
"Alright, then I best be on my way. Good day, Hokage-Sama." Kurenai murmured bowing politely to the men before leaving the room.
Iruka let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. He couldn't believe how smoothly that had gone! A movement in the corner of his eye caught his gaze, turning the young instructor saw the Hokage curiously manipulating a crystal ball.
"Well, now that the matter is settled, let's check on what Naruto and Konohamaru have been up to…" the elderly man mused waiting for the image to come into focus.
"Harem no Jutsu!" The Hokage for all his strength just groaned in exacerbation, hiding his blushing face under his ceremonial hat while continuing to watch Naruto comically defeat Ebisu.
'That idiot! Don't tell me he was teaching Hokage's grandson that technique!' Iruka thought, slapping his hand over his eye as he started to have an unabashed nosebleed. Why had he gone out of his way for this fool, again?
"Well… that's a unique combination of the Kage Bunshin and the Henge." Kakashi mused simply.
"...If I'm not mistaken it's actually a combination of his own technique, the Oiroke no Jutsu, and the Tajū Kage Bunshin no Jutsu, more specifically." Hiruzen corrected offhandedly taking another long drag of his tobacco before grinning towards the visibly flustered Iruka.
"Be wary, if I'm not mistaken Konohamaru's supposed to join your new class next month."
'Damn that Naruto...' Iruka internally wept.
Author Note: Whew… What a chapter! With an equally long AN! I'm sorry if any of you were looking forward to Konohamaru's introduction, but I felt having this scene play out on "camera" was vital for the next bit of divergence.
Confused? Interesting facts, when I looked at the posted grades of the rookie 9 Ino's grades were better than Sakura's. Meaning, Ino was actually the Top Kunoichi, not Sakura! *Gasp!*
Hinata also had better grades than Sakura in their core studies, so when I raised her and Naruto's grades based on the divergence the overall score made Hinata and Sakura tie, while still being able to keep Naruto as the dead last.
Curious? Here are their scores. The arrows indicate that the score was raised due to divergence. D's do not exist in their system.
Ninjutsu
Naruto - [ ↑C↑ ]
Hinata - [ B ]
Sakura -[ B ]
Taijutsu
Naruto - [ B ]
Hinata - [ A ]
Sakura -[ C ]
Genjutsu
Naruto - [ F ]
Hinata - [ B ]
Sakura - [ B ]
Cooperation (Teamwork)
Naruto - [ ↑C↑ ]
Hinata - [ A ]
Sakura - [ B ]
Positivity (Assertiveness)
Naruto - [ A ]
Hinata - [ ↑C↑ ]
Sakura - [ B ]
Classroom Attitude
Naruto - [ ↑C↑ ]
Hinata - [ C ]
Sakura - [ A ]
Naruto's scores increased in Ninjutsu, Cooperation, and Classroom Attitude. The reason being, he took supplementary classes with Iruka to improve his chakra control, which improved his Ninjutsu. His cooperation improved because he doesn't need to act up as much for attention this go around, and his Classroom Attitude improved because he chose to sit next to Hinata, isn't afraid to ask for help, and Iruka found out Hinata was a good motivator to get Naruto to behave in class. (Most of the time)
Hinata's increased in Positivity. I debated also increasing her score in Classroom Attitude, but besides helping Naruto out sometimes, I don't believe she'd have been more forthcoming to participate in class.
Keywords:
Tajū Kage Bunshin no Jutsu -Mass Shadow Doppelgänger Technique
Nandayo - What the hell?! Seriously?!
Kyūbi no Yōko - Evil Nine-Tailed Fox (Spirit), Nine-Tailed Demon Fox
Fūma Shuriken - Wind Demon Shuriken
Ittai - Ow!
-Mē - When added as a suffix to someone's name you're pretty much calling them a bastard.