…. Early Morning Hokage's Office ….
Sarutobi sat at his desk reading the final report pertaining to the Sacred Scroll Theft Incident. Officially all matters were settled and Naruto was fully exonerated, however, despite everything they put the boy through to determine the truth quickly, many stubborn people still believed he was working with Mizuki; and that one idiot shop owner was still spewing the garbage that the Jinchuriki acted alone and the Chunin died trying to stop him. It was almost enough to sway Sarutobi to ram a kunai down the throat of the next person that accused Naruto of treason.
The Hokage received word today that his surrogate grandson would finally be leaving the hospital. His arm had fully mended and everything was in working order. It had been five days since the incident occurred which was longer than what had been predicted. Genin wouldn't be sorted into teams until this afternoon so both Naruto and Hinata could attend. The young Hyuga Heiress had her cast removed last night.
Standing, Sarutobi lit his pipe and left to go visit his favorite little knucklehead. Chuckling the old man remembered back on several complaints logged by Dr. Kawamoto that revolved around Naruto and Genjutsu. Apparently the blonde Genin had picked up on the doctor's dislike and had begun making him see things with the False Visual. The images ranged from zombies and ghosts to necked nurses and patients. Luckily for everyone sanity, Nurse Hiromi moved the troublemaker to the children's ward so he could entertain the younger kids and leave the doctor in piece.
The walk through the village was quite and uneventful. Approaching the hospital and making his way through the main entrance, Sarutobi approached the Visitor's Desk. Smiling kindly at the middle-aged plum woman the Hokage said. "Good morning ma'am. I'm here to see Uzumaki Naruto."
"Oh, the cute blonde that all the children love." The happy woman gushed. It was obvious to Sarutobi that at some point in her life the lady moved to Konoha from somewhere else, so therefore had never heard of Naruto. "I don't know why that mean old Doctor Kawamoto finds that little boy so annoying. He's been using illusions to make all the sick kids from Konco Village feel better."
Hiruzen was forced to repress his angry as the kind woman unknowingly reminded him of the pore people recently subjected to a cowardly attack. Some piece of garbage tried to poison the whole village just to steal what little they had unimpeded. Luckily for the residents of Konco a passing Leaf Chunin had noticed the signs of poisoning in the very young and elderly. Immediately notifying Leaf and requesting medical aid, the soon to be Jounin Kunoichi tracked down the bandit, identified the poison with 'questionable interrogation techniques', managed to get an antidote the man carried in case he accidentally poisoned himself, and handed it over to the First Division Medical Unit the moment they arrived so as to begin duplication to treat the villagers.
What little remained of the bastard bandit was entertaining Ibiki Morino at the moment, and it was doubtful he would ever again see the light of day. The younger children and elderly had been brought to Konoha for further treatment. They were no longer being poisoned but were still in danger of dying because of complications. Unfortunately, most of the elderly hadn't survived the trip and even more had passed away in the hospital.
Thanking the kind nurse, the Hokage made his way to the children's ward. Walking in he saw eight beds lined up on either side of the room holding young ones, three boys and five girls, and Naruto sitting in a chair, wearing blue scrubs with his right arm still in a sling as a precaution awaiting doctor's orders, making a large spider tap dance across the floor. All the young children watched on happily at the tap dancing spider with white shoes and a top hat.
"Well I see you've found a way to train while staying in the hospital Naruto." Sarutobi said smiling amused.
The ever exuberant blonde looked up quick at Hiruzen's voice. "Hey old man, what brings you here!?"
Several children looked up curiously at the Hokage, some looked afraid of the stranger. Hiruzen tried to come off as lovingly as possible in hopes of placating their fear. "I just came to inform you that as of today your arm is completely fine, it was actually healed several days ago but the hospital kept you longer just to be sure. Nurse Hiromi was worried about repercussions on your Chakra Network because of how badly you overused the Divine Embodiment Technique. You can change back into your normal clothes and leave."
"Yahoo!" The Jinchuriki exclaimed excitedly while jumping skyward. "No more hospital food, no more check ups, no more Kawamoto, I'm free."
"Does that mean you won't play with us anymore Naruto." A sad little voice asked from the corner. It belonged to a small girl around the age of four with big green eyes and striking black hair done up in pigtails.
"Of course it doesn't Ryo." The blonde said quickly reassuring the small girl. "I'll come see you guys as often as I can. I can even send a Shadow Clone everyday as well."
Explaining that Naruto quickly formed one solid copy to demonstrate. The small children had big smiles on their faces at the sight of two older blonde kids. The Jinchuriki said goodbye to everyone and left with the Hokage to retrieve his stuff from his room. The old man turned to close the door and watched as the kids happily clapped at the colorful butterflies dancing across the room.
Not much longer the Hokage fallowed his favorite knucklehead out into the street. Sarutobi noticed that Naruto, now dressed in his usual orange jumpsuit, had a thoughtful look on his face; such an expression was very unusual for the blonde. Curious, Hiruzen asked. "Is there something wrong Naruto? Usually you're not this quiet, you haven't asked me to take you for Ramen once."
The boy didn't speak up right away. He took his time working out the words in his head before trying to start. "Jiji…"
Warning sirens began blaring in the Third Hokage's head. The fact his surrogate grandson was staring this conversation with 'Jiji', and having a hard time finding the words, just meant dangerously confusing and deep. He began looking for a way out quick. It wasn't that he didn't love the boy and want to help, Hiruzen just worked better as a Sensei and teacher more so than a parent; just ask his own kids.
The blonde seemed like he had his question right in his head. "Jiji, what do you know about…."
"Oh, Naruto I'm sorry." Hiruzen quickly said laughing nervously. "I just remembered some important paperwork back in the office that needs my immediate attention."
Naruto sighed a little dejected but brightened up immediately. Giving the Hokage a big smile while scratching the back of his head Naruto exclaimed. "Oh, well ok old man! I'll go get some Ramen at Ichiraku's then go train. There's still a jutsu I'm working on."
Feeling a little bad about blowing Naruto of, Hiruzen said jovially. "Tell you what Naruto, just have your meal placed on my tab. I don't mind."
"Really!" The blonde said excitedly. "Yeah, now I can eat all the bowls I want! I'm going to have Miso, Pork, Chicken, maybe all three combined in one bowl, hell I might even try vegetable! … On second thought who would want vegetable, yuck."
Sarutobi watched Naruto walk off excitedly reciting all the Ramen he planned to eat. The Kage felt his money pouch lighten with each word the young boy spoke. 'Completely worth it. It would seem Hiashi's fears have come to pass; Naruto remembers Hinata's Battlefield Confession. He was probably going to ask awkward questions regarding girls and relationships. More than likely the dreaded sex talk was also approaching. Hopefully, he will feel comfortable talking things over with Ichiraku, but I better send for Iruka just in case.'
…. River Bank ….
Iruka Umino walked through the old wood path heading for Naruto's usual training area. The Hokage had sent word that the boy was working on a jutsu and would possibly need help. Never one to turn down a request from Sarutobi or a chance to help his 'little brother', the Chunin had hurried through the last of his paperwork finalizing teams and headed out to find the young Jinchuriki.
Teams this year would be done differently. The new Genin wouldn't arrive at the Academy until this afternoon. They would be told their teams and immediately head out with their new Jounin Instructors. This was because of Naruto and Hinata mainly. They had been forced to postpone the team placement by several days so both kids could heal up and be present. If not than their classmates could have taken the True Genin Exam and tipped of one of Team 8 to what happened. This would seriously undermine Sakura, Hinata, and Naruto's test result; was there actual true teamwork and unity or just clever kids passing?
The fact such precautions were needed still filled the Chunin with anger towards Mizuki, though he hated himself most of all. No matter how many people told him it wasn't his fault, no matter how many people explained they worked with the white haired bastard as well, no matter how many flat out said he fooled them just as much as Iruka himself, they couldn't deny the fact that traitor worked closer with the brown haired Chunin than anyone. The scarred faced man failed to see that bastard for who he truly was, and it almost got two of his students killed.
Coming to the edge of the woods Iruka saw Naruto reading something of a small piece of paper. Walking up the eagle eyes of the man read a list of hand signs. Curious he asked. "What you got their Naruto."
Startled the young boy turned quickly to see his favorite teacher walking up. "You scared me Sensei!"
Iruka looked down at the boy expectantly with a kind smile. However, the expression left his face and was replaced by shock when Naruto folded the paper placing it back in his pocket saying. "It's not that important right now Sensei."
'Not important, since when was a jutsu not important to Naruto? Was there actually something else on his mind more important than jutsu?' A bewildered Iruka pondered.
"Sensei, what do you know about girls?" The young boy asked awkwardly.
'Dame you Hiruzen Sarutobi!' The horrified Chunin thought in his head now realizing just what the Hokage actually wanted. 'I was so close dammit! He was getting a new Sensei today and now this conversation comes up!'
Out load the man calmly asked uncertain. "What do you want to know exactly Naruto? Is this … a physical question … or personal?"
Blushing, the Jinchuriki admitted. "I already had the 'birds and the bees talk' Sensei. Old man Ichiraku gave me that when I first broke into the Adult Book Store. Looking at the pictures were confusing, so I ask him to explain what I was seeing. It caused a commotion when a seven year old flashed that kind of magazine in a crowded restaurant."
'Thank you Teuchi Ichiraku, Higher Powers, and the Porn industry!' Iruka thought relieved. Looking closer at Naruto he took an educated guess. "I'm figuring you remember more about the end of your battle with that traitor Mizuki now that your arms all better? The rumor mill has been churning all over the village, apparently Honorable Elder Koharu told everyone after Hinata explained what happened to the Hokage."
The blonde blushed even deeper while thinking. 'Battlefield Confession; I never realized they could be so awkward. The first time I heard the term I pictured Sakura-chan giving me one right after defeating some powerful enemy; oddly enough he looked a lot like Sasuke in my head. Now Hinata-chan gives me one, while I'm suffering from a broken arm and not triumphantly standing over a defeated jerk, and I don't know what to do.'
Out loud the orange clad boy asked. "How do I know when I like-like a girl? I think I like-like Sakura but Hinata said she loves me, so should I like-like Hinata instead? Also, when does like-like become love?"
Iruka was trying to break the boy's question down into actual coherent thought. 'Little tough guy doesn't want to say he might love someone, or he's just honestly confused by his feelings. Hinata loves Naruto and Naruto might love Sakura or Hinata; Kurenai is going to have such a headache with this team. The only thing that could make it worse would be if Sakura had feelings for Hinata…. Bad Iruka, bad Iruka, don't go there, bad thought, bad thought. Focus back on Naruto. Little brother needs brotherly advice.'
"Look Naruto, I can't really tell you when your emotions change from like to love." The Chunin tried explaining. "That's something only you in your heart will know. However, just because Hinata confessed her love to you doesn't mean you're obligated to love her back. Try just being her friend first and see what develops. Get to know both girls, don't just go by looks. You and Hinata might find you really aren't compatible as a couple and just stay good friends, or you could develop true feelings for one another. That's really all you can do."
Naruto didn't like the answer but figured it was as good as he was going to get. "Thanks Sensei, I'll try getting to know Hinata better first and then decide."
Iruka looked at the blonde apologetically, he truly wished he could tell him exactly what to do but this was a situation Naruto had to figure out on his own. It was just one of many trials life gave you growing up. Trying to take the boy's mind off his troubles the Chunin asked. "So, what jutsu were you working on when I walked up?"
The orange clad boy seemed to come out of his deep thoughts to speak. He answered in an offhanded manner. "Oh, I learned it from the Sacred Scroll; Exploding Shadow Clone Jutsu."
"What?" Iruka asked in a worried voice.
"Yeah, I memorized the hand signs and wrote them down the moment I was able." The boy explained unaware of Iruka's growing fear. "I didn't have a chance to learn it at the cabin why I was waiting for Mizuki; would have been nice to have for the fight."
Looking up at his Sensei happily Naruto asked. "Do you want to see me use it!? I haven't tried to do it yet!"
Iruka was still petrified with fear so failed to stop the boy from making hand signs. The young Genin happily called out. "Exploding Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
A perfect replica of the Jinchuriki appeared and happily ran about fifty yards away. It turned back to his creator and Iruka before smiling, waving goodbye, and detonating. The Chunin had begun hand signs the moment Naruto created the living bomb. Just as the clone exploded the Academy Teacher erected a wall of rock with a cry. "Earth Release: Stone Wall Jutsu!"
The explosion and force were both immense. The ground shook as nearby trees were knocked over by the shockwave. Behind the wall of stone Iruka hunkered down with his student as the danger past. Finally, when the Chunin felt the last trimmer stop the wall crumbled and he and Naruto looked out at the destruction. The scarred face man looked out in shock at a 10 yard wide by 10 yard deep crater. The outer wall closest to the river gave way and water began feeling up the new pond.
"That was awesome!" Naruto exclaimed happily. "I could literally create an army of smart bombs!"
The brown haired Chunin looked down at the boy still in shock. 'Never before has a statement been so true and terrifying. The village is completely screwed. I need to warn people immediately.'
The blonde happily turned to his teacher to ask what he thought but saw that Iruka had disappeared in a hurry. 'Probably went to tell Jiji just how awesome I am.' Looking back at the new pond he just created and the blown over trees, Naruto had another thought. 'It would probably be a good idea to find somewhere else to experiment with this jutsu; I don't want to destroy the woods.'
…. Academy Entrance ….
Hinata walked through the large gates headed for class. She was excited about finally getting on a team and seeing Naruto-kun again. For the last few days the shy girl had been on bed rest, Hiashi had never shown her so much attention and the indigo haired girl was grateful to finally get some breathing room from an overbearing father.
As Hinata approached the building two people came up on either side of the girl and through an arm around her shoulders. Startled, the young Kunoichi looked left and right to see both Sakura Haruno and Ino Yamanaka grinning like cats that just trapped a canary; she also felt like the canary.
The young Hyuga Heiress had always admired both girls for their lovely long hair and confidence. She herself kept her hair short so it wouldn't get in the way when she fought, though she allowed two bangs in front to grow down her face. Looking left Hinata asked the pinkette Sakura shyly. "Can I help you with something?"
"We heard very interesting rumor recently." Ino said mischievously forcing the trapped girl to look right. "Honorable Elder Koharu had tea with my Grandmother and told her something fascinating."
The Hyuga blushed a deep read realizing what the two gossipers wanted. However, seeing the shy girl turn an alarming shade of red told Sakura and Ino all they needed to know. Both smiled brightly as the truth was fully confirmed.
"So, what are you going to do?" Sakura asked. "Apparently right after talking with you, the Hokage talked with Naruto to compare stories. According to Elder Homura, the Knucklehead doesn't remember much after Mizuki broke his arm."
"What!?" Hinata asked startled. "No one told me that!"
"Yeah, we know it's a tragedy." Ino said sympathetically. "You give the blonde dope a Battlefield Confession and he forgets, though that does sound like something Naruto would do. Hey though, you never know, now that Naruto's all healed up he just might remember, or someone could walk up to him and asks questions that jogs his memory."
Walking into class all three girls separated and took their seats; Hinata in the back while Sakura and Ino sat up front. The blonde and pinkette continued to talk about the possibly new young couple, while the indigo haired girl fantasized about holding hands on long walks with her Naruto-kun.
It wasn't much longer that other kids began to arrive. One was a little light brown haired hateful boy in a grey sock cap that wore his headband around his neck named Hibachi. This rude little runt hated Naruto because his parents told him the blonde was a no good troublemaker and demon. Angrily the boy marched up to the Hyuga Heiress and demanded with a shout. "Why did you lie to save that traitor?"
The young Kunoichi came out of her daydream in confusion as the class got quiet. Looking at the angry boy Hinata spoke nervously. "Traitor, do you mean Mizuki? I didn't lie about anything he did, Hibachi-san."
"You know damned well what I mean!" The boy accused outraged. "You lied about Mizuki Sensei being the traitor and Naruto being the hero; it was the other way around! Naruto kidnapped you and stole the scroll, Mizuki Sensei died stopping him!"
"What?" Hinata asked shocked. She wasn't the only one either. The room wasn't even half fool yet, but every child present was giving Hibachi looks of disbelief. Several looked like they were trying not to laugh at his stupidity.
There came a sigh from the upper right corner fallowed by a mumbled 'Troublesome'. The angry boy looked accusingly up at another young man that appeared to have been asleep in the right side corner, his light brown hair poking out the back of his grey sock cap dancing through the wind from the speed of his head turn, and accusingly asked. "You got something to say Shikamaru?"
The Genin, a boy with a wild ponytail of black hair that stood almost straight up resembling a pineapple, was Shikamaru Nara; easily one of the smartest kids of his generation even if the grades didn't show it. He was the type that kept everyone's expectations of himself low, so he didn't have to try so hard. Even so everyone in the academy knew of his formidable intelligence as it was apparent when he actually participated in class, so his laziness greatly angered his mom and various Sensei.
Looking at Hibachi the lazy genius asked. "Your dad's a Chunin and owner of that corner store a few blocks from Memorial Park right?"
The angry brat glared up at Shikamaru and said. "Yeah, what of it?"
Looking to the confused Hyuga Heiress, Shikamaru explained. "The morning you, Naruto, and Mizuki were found along with the Sacred Scroll, several stories began circulating about what happened; Lord Hokage placed a Gag Order on the investigation but someone talked anyway. The two big theories were Naruto himself was working with Mizuki to still the scroll and turned on Sensei when he saw him kidnapping you as well, or Mizuki forced Naruto to get it for him by using you as a hostage. That was why the Hokage and Village Elders were so quick to question you and Naruto about what happened. After the two of you confirmed the same story the matter of Naruto's guilt or innocences should have been put to rest but some people won't let it go apparently."
Hinata looked at Shikamaru like he had turned pink, how could anyone think Naruto was a traitor. Towards the front of the class Sakura began laughing at the absurdity of both Hibachi's accusations and the indigo haired girl's face. This action caused Hibachi to turn on her. "What do you find so funny Sakura?"
At the boy's mean tone Sakura sobered up. Glaring at the fool the pinkette said harshly. "I find it funny that someone as stupid as you would be given a headband. You honestly think Naruto Uzumaki, the most annoying person to ever attend the academy, the guy that does nothing else but go on and on about being Hokage, the guy that stuck it out trying to pass the final exam three times and finally succeed on his third attempt, decided to turn traitor the day after becoming Genin?"
"It makes sense." Hibachi said not wanting to concede the argument. His parents were hoping if enough people petitioned the Hokage about Naruto's guilty, the boy would at least be exiled. They had encouraged anyone that would listen to continue pressing the claim and the foolish bully was determined to convince some of his fellow classmates. "Think about it; Naruto probably thought when he became a Genin people would treat him differently. However, nothing changed or got better, so he decided to still the scroll and kidnap Lady Hinata."
Ino, and everyone else, had looks of complete disbelief. The Yamanaka shook her head bewildered and said. "I'm really glad you're not blonde because we get a bad enough rep already. I wish I had a full length mirror to hold up and show you just how stupid you look. Every brunette in this village should stone you into submission or until you grew something resembling a brain. Honestly, on behalf of me and my fellow blondes, Naruto included, thanks."
Hibachi looked at Ino red faced and furious. Calling him stupid was the same as calling his parents stupid. Opening his mouth to continue the argument, everyone heard another student interject coldly. "Shut up already."
The foolish boy looked to his left and saw two boys setting at another table. One wore sunglasses, a baggy beige coat with a high collar, and a bushy hair style of dark brown hair. The second boy wore a light grey coat with a dark grey furry collar, had two red markings like fangs on his cheeks, and a slightly lighter shade of wild brown hair than his friend. A small white puppy was sleeping on the desk in front of him.
"What did you say to me Kiba!?" Hibachi yelled. "Just because you're from some big clan like the Inuzuka doesn't mean I'm afraid of you!"
"You should be." The boy's companion spoke up as Kiba bared his dog-like teeth with a growl. "Your speaking nonsense regarding someone that put his life on the line to protect our village and classmate. I, Shino Aburame, will gladly help Kiba in taking corrective action; not that he would need any help."
The room became filled with tension as everyone wondered what would happen next. Either the idiot Hibachi would back down or Kiba was going to beat the hell out of him. Such a fight wouldn't even be called fair, not even if the dog loving Inuzuka tied both hands behind his back. It was quite possible the loud mouthed idiot wearing the stupid sock cap was going to the hospital in multiple broken pieces.
However, before any blood could be drawn the tension was broken by the very Ramen loving idiot the class had been discussing. Naruto came in whistling as he happily thought of a prank he could pull on Sasuke and the Kunoichi of his class. His happy toon came to a stop when every head turned his was though. Even someone as oblivious as he could sense the dissipating tension.
"High guys, what's up." He asked with an uncertain smile. His eyes traveled the room before landing on Hinata. The moment his baby blues zeroed in on the pale eyed heiress the blonde blushed lightly while shuffling his feet. Every girl present in the room squealed in their minds. 'He remembers, ya!'
Hinata own face took on a scarlet color as she to realized what the other Kunoichi were mentally cheering about. However, before the blonde haired hero could make his way up to the young girl and fumble his way through a love story scene, the newly dubbed 'biggest fool in the academy' Hibachi marched down to the former 'biggest fool in the academy' Naruto and got in his whiskered face. "What are you doing here traitor!? How dare you show your face in this class!"
"What?" A bewildered Naruto asked. Here he was still trying to wrap his mind around possible like-like feelings for both Sakura and Hinata, wondering which one he like-liked more, and Hibachi was talking nonsense.
"You heard me traitor!" The rude fool screamed in his face. "How dare you show your face here in Mizuki Sensei's classroom after you murdered him!"
Naruto just blinked rapidly trying to catch his mind up with what he was hearing. "First of all, Hibach-ass, this is Iruka Sensei's classroom and Mizuki was the assistant Sensei, not a full Sensei. Second, Mizuki was the traitor not me. So, what are you talking about?"
Kiba explained still growling in anger. "This fool's father has been spreading a rumor that you were behind everything and Mizuki died stopping you. After which Lord Hokage and the Village Elders covered it up to protect you. Also, Hiashi Hyuga made Hinata lie to protect you or something like that; honestly he never got around to explaining why he thinks Hinata's lying."
"It's obvious!" Hibachi said exasperatedly as if everyone should already know. "She's been in love with this traitor from day one. Probably thought being abducted by him was romantic or something. Mizuki ruined her fantasy so that's why she lied."
"Do you even hear yourself right now!" Sakura said in complete shock. "Just when we think you can't possibly get any dumber you surprise everyone by finding new depths to your own stupidity! What girl in their right mind would find being kidnapped romantic!"
Ino was in complete agreement with her rival and friend. In the back the blonde thought she heard a cough that sounded like 'Sasuke'. Turning quickly though the Yamanaka Kunoichi couldn't identify the culprit. Angrily the blonde thought. 'There's a big difference between a surprise romantic getaway and forceful abduction jackass.'
Pore Hinata was cherry tomato red as she was in fact guilty of fantasizing about Naruto stilling her away for a romantic picnic one or twice, but to have the rude boy put it in such a scandalous way was so embarrassing. Shikamaru looked from the embarrassed girl to the angry Naruto and realized this was about to get violent. Trying to defuse the situation before Hinata's blue eyed sweetheart pummeled the idiot standing in his face, the young Nara explained an obvious truth. "Hibachi, you realize your pissing off the only Genin in this class that has actually fought and killed an accomplished Chunin. As Sakura said you just keep finding greater depths to your own stupidity, and if you keep going Naruto's going to help you find the bottom in a very painful fashion; also none of us are going to stop him. Unlike you we aren't to keen on putting our lives on the line to discover Naruto's true ability."
The idiot ignored Shikamaru and turned back to Naruto, only to be met with very cold blue eyes. It took all of Hibachi's self control to not gulp. Trying to shake off his sudden fear the boy rudely scoffed. "Hump, you're not worth the time and effort traitor; I know the truth and that's all that matters."
Naruto watched the idiot walk off without comment; sadly, he was used to people hating him for no reason. Shrugging while rolling his eyes the blonde made his way up to the indigo haired girl. "Can I sit here Hinata-chan?"
'Chan, he called me chan!' Hinata thought excitedly. 'Don't faint, don't faint, don't faint.'
All the pore girl could do was nod her head yes. The young hero happily sat down next to her right side. Looking at Hinata's forearm he asked concerned. "Is your arm ok?"
Hinata, who noticed every Kunoichi was starring in her direction, said in a calm as manner as possible. "Oh yes, I had the cast removed last night. I've regained the full bone density."
"Bone density, you mean how strong your bone is right?" The confused boy asked for clarification. At Hinata's shy nod he continued with a babble. "They weren't worried about my bone strength; just my Chakra Network or something. Apparently overusing the jutsu Lord Hokage taught me combined with a shattered collar bone had several Medic Ninja worried. I don't really know why though; I was still fine using jutsu to torment that mean Doctor Kawamoto by bringing my left hand up to my right; you know because of the cast. Oh, that reminds me."
Hinata felt the boy's chakra reacting so discreetly activated her Byakugan. She watched as Naruto's Yumegan became ignited by the dawn colored flame while spinning this way and that to look at every girl in class. By now almost everyone had arrived except for a few boys. The blonde snickered to himself and silently formed hand signs under the table. With a whisper he said. "Genjutsu Art: False Visual."
Hinata watched through her special eyes as the young Jinchuriki's chakra pulsed out fallowed closely by a purple pulse from his third eye. Everyone in class felt the chakra pulse, one that was much smaller and controlled compared to the hasty ones she witnessed battling Mizuki, but no one seemed to figure out were it came from. Most probably didn't know what they were feeling anyways.
Hinata noticed two things in her field of vision. The first was two girls on the far left side talking to one another discussing why Naruto hadn't kissed her already, apparently several Kunoichi were hoping for a story book love scene. The other was Sasuke Uchiha walking down the hallway. The Hyuga was a little confused by what she was seeing, until she realized exactly what her 'not so secret anymore' crush was doing.
Thinking to herself about the reaction this would cause, the Hyuga Kunoichi just thought sadly. 'Oh Naruto-kun.'
Sasuke Uchiha strutted down the hallway heading for class. Thanks to all those annoying 'fan girls' the boy was forced to arrive exactly at the bell. Otherwise the Kunoichi, a term he used sarcastically, tried to sit next to him and talk; or in many cases beg for a date. None of them realized that the boy couldn't give them what they wanted until he avenged his fallen clan. He was an Avenger first and a potentially Uchiha Clan Head and father second.
Walking through the door the boy prepared himself for the squeals of 'Sasuke-kun' as he headed for his usual seat. However, hearing instead the sounds of 'girl talk' go eerily quiet the Uchiha paused in his walk to look at his fellow classmates. What he saw in the faces of every girl except Hinata Hyuga filled him with an uneasiness. Every Kunoichi was red faced and a few had blood leaking from their noses. The young boy felt like a rabbit being starred at by hungry wolves.
Up in his desk Naruto couldn't take it anymore and hit the ground laughing his ass off. Pore Hinata didn't know who to be more ashamed of really; her crush or the Kunoichi that feel for such an obvious Genjutsu. Shyly the Hyuga Heiress explained to the class. "Um, every Kunoichi, Sasuke isn't really necked, Naruto-kun just placed you all under a Genjutsu to see him that way."
The boys around the classroom began looking to the laughing Naruto on the ground, the red faced hungry looking Kunoichi still staring at Sasuke, and the angry embarrassed Uchiha standing in the front. Everyone either not effected by the Genjutsu, or those who snapped out of it at Hinata's words, began helping those still effected.
Finally having enough of Naruto's laughing, Sasuke marched up the stairs and demanded. "What the hell is wrong with you idiot!?"
"The look … hahaha … on your face, priceless!" Naruto gasped out between laughing. "The girls looked so excited! Hahahahahaha."
Growling at the fact the blonde wasn't intimidated by him in the slightest, Sasuke demanded. "Where the hell did you learn Genjutsu anyways!?"
It took the Jinchuriki a moment to calm down enough to choke out. "Iruka Sensei. Hahahahahahah."
However, Naruto's laughing came to a crashing halt when he felt a large amount of Killing Intent. Quickly jumping up at the feel of danger the boy saw every Kunoichi glaring daggers at him, Sakura in the lead.
"Naruto." The pinkette said menacingly while cracking her knuckles. "Your so dead."
"Can't we talk about this?" The blonde asked fearfully.
…. Hokage's Office ….
Hiruzen stood around a small crystal ball with those Jounin chosen to be Sensei this year. Within the orb everyone present could see what was going on inside Iruka's classroom. The Hokage had already made a note to call in Hibachi's 'soon to be demoted back to Genin' father and berate him for blatant stupidity. He along with everyone else had seen Naruto use Genjutsu against the Kunoichi of his class. The Shinobi present were appalled by just how easy the young girls of this year fell for such an obvious illusion; well most were anyway.
"Hahahahahaha! Did you see their faces?" Anko Mitarashi said while laughing in a corner. "I thought they would eat him. I also thought Sasuke was about to jump out a window. Hahahahaha!"
"It's not funny Anko." Kurenai said with an angry frown. "You do realize those girls represent you, me, and every other woman that has ever worn a headband. I have half a mind to go down there, demand they all return their headbands, and go home."
"That would be an extreme reaction don't you think?" Asuma Sarutobi, the oldest son of Hiruzen, asked his not so secret girlfriend. The angry red eyes of Kurenai told him all he needed to know. Wisely, he backed down without another word.
The Third Hokage felt a headache coming on. Where in the name of Konoha was Iruka anyways? The only reason any of them were still hear was because the Chunin had failed to show and hand in his final report on Genin Teams. He still had to go down and tell the students exactly which team they were on.
A knock came from the door as the Chunin finally showed up. Everyone noticed that a fine lair of dust and sweat clung to his usual pristine clothing. "Sorry I'm late Lord Hokage, everyone, but I was refortifying my apartment."
The assembled Jounin were confused by this statement; you only refortified living dwellings win attack was a strong possibility. The Hokage asked curiously. "Is their something wrong Iruka? Last time I checked there wasn't an army heading for Hidden Leaf."
Iruka gave a humorless laugh and said. "War would be preferable to the horror I just witnessed. Turns out Naruto didn't just learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu from the Forbidden Scroll. Oh no, he happily told me about the second one then demonstrated the Exploding Shadow Clone Jutsu. There's a new pond where the training field by East River used to be."
The Hokage, along with everyone else, stood in horrified shocked silence. Hiruzen was concerned about the paperwork this would possibly involve. This was potentially a worse disaster than the time a bunch of faulty paperbombs got sent through the mail as a joke. No one was hurt but hardly anyone had eyebrows for weeks, and the horrifying amounts of paperwork. It was one of Kushina's greatest pranks ever. The old man calmed down when he remembered the cherished knowledge Minato had left him with regarding Shadow Clones and Notice Me Not Genjutsu.
"I can see why such a thing would be concerning Iruka." The Hokage said kindly. "However, I doubt Naruto would use such a dangerous technique within the village itself."
"I and Naruto would both be dead right now if I didn't know the Earth Release: Stone Wall Jutsu." The Chunin growled back defiantly.
Hiruzen thought it over and said. "Well yes, I'm sure Kurenai can fully stress the importance of jutsu safety."
The horrified Genjutsu Mistress was wondering if it was to late to switch the teams back to their original order. Kakashi was happily thanking whatever higher power had gifted Naruto with Yumegan. (1)
…. Iruka's Classroom ….
The Academy Sensei walked in to see his former pupils setting quietly, the Kunoichi and Uchiha still fuming. Naruto sat in the back by Hinata, the girl was placing an ointment on a large black eye. Every young girl except the Hyuga Heiress looked to Iruka expectantly. It was Ami, one of the new Genin Kunoichi and former class bully, that spoke up before anyone.
"Sensei!" She cried. "That idiot Naruto attacked all the girls with a Genjutsu!"
The scarred faced man had already been informed about the incident from Hiruzen. He Looked at the young brightly purple colored haired girl and stated with amused authority. "Those accusations are quite serious Genin Ami. Tell me exactly what this technique did please."
Embarrassed, the girl explained what she and every Kunoichi saw. Iruka shook his head at the girl's statement and clarified. "All the girls saw Sasuke Uchiha walk in completely nude, … and not one of you snapped to the fact it was Genjutsu?"
Sheepishly the Kunoichi all around the room blushed embarrassed. Iruka looked at each one studying their young faces to make sure they understood just how pathetically simple that technique was; also, how pathetic they themselves had been for falling for it. Wanting to make sure the lesson sunk in he explained. "Had Naruto been an enemy trying to distract you to quietly slit your throats, he would have succeeded. Let's hope our enemies don't learn the collective weakness of every Kunoichi in your generation."
"You're being a little hard aren't you Iruka Sensei." Naruto said coming to the defense of the girls. "It was a harmless prank."
"That's the problem Naruto; you literally beat every Kunoichi, minus Hinata, without even really trying." Iruka explained. "Do you remember the various pranks you've pulled over the years? Do you remember the punishments you received for the different ones? If not I can help you out without looking over your record. Any prank that was simply property damage, like painting the Hokage Mountain, got you detention while any prank that taught a lesson got you a firm talking about respecting your classmates."
"Sakura!" Iruka barked. The young girl jumped in her seat giving the man her full attention. "Do you remember the first prank Naruto pulled on the entire class?"
The pinkette thought about it and said unsure. "Was it the paint bombs in the lockers?"
"Yes, it was." The Chunin answered. "That little prank ruined a lot of your clothes because Naruto didn't use washable paint. Many of your parents, those of students that fell for the prank anyway, came to Lord Hokage to demand restitution for the ruined clothing. Do any of you have any idea what words Lord Hokage spoke to your angry parents to make them drop their claims without payment?"
The stunned students said nothing as they were mesmerized by their Sensei's lecture. Seeing no one had an answer to his question Iruka continued. "He asked your parents what was more important, your children's clothes or their lives. During times of war enemy nations can and well attack the children in hopes of removing the adults' well to fight. Had that been an actual enemy attack those paint bombs would have done far worse than embarrass you and cost your parents some money. They could have been paperbombs, poison release pellets, or shrapnel bombs. Your classmate taught you all a valuable lesson about enemy traps and you all failed to learn from it. Your Genin now, not snot nosed academy students, act like it."
Iruka allowed the kids a few moments of silence, giving time for his words to sink in, before continuing. "I will now assign you to your teams. Your new Jounin Sensei will come and get you during the remainder of class. You will sit and wait for them here. Some of you won't like the people on your team, I assure you that no one cares; live with it. If not you can hand over your headbands and leave."
When no one volunteered their headbands Iruka began calling teams. After the first five teams he came to the last four. "Team Six will be Hibachi Adachi, Ami Seta, and Toru Fuse." Both school bullies looked over at a kid with ankle long black hair and a samurai sword at his hip. He gave no reaction to the team at all except to straight his brown battle kimono.
"Team Seven." Iruka continued. "Sasuke Uchiha, Kiba Inuzuka, and Shino Aburame under Jounin Instructor Kakashi Hatake."
Ino and Sakura had looks of disappointment on their faces at not getting on Team Seven. However, Shikamaru had a thoughtful look on his face thinking. 'There's still three girls and three boys remaining. That means one team is going to have two girls possibly; or a team of three girls. Please don't let me be on a two girl team. I know the possibility is small but please not me.'
Iruka looked down at his list and read. "Team Eight. Naruto Uzumaki, Sakura Haruno, and Hinata Hyuga under Jounin Instructor Kurenai Yuri."
'Thank you higher powers.' The Nara thought relieved. 'A team with two girls and a woman, oh the horror. Pore Naruto's going to have three of them demons nagging him daily.'
"Team Nine is still in circulation. So, Team Ten will be Shikamaru Nara, Choji Akimichi, and Ino Yamanaka under Jounin Instructor Asuma Sarutobi." The Chunin Sensei finished. "That is all, good luck everyone."
The teams began to group together and talk. Sakura wished Ino luck and moved up to Naruto and Hinata. "High guys."
"Hello again Sakura." Hinata said with a timid smile. "I've known Kurenai Sensei for a few years. I'm sure you will both like her. She's an expert on illusions; Hidden Leaf's Genjutsu Mistress."
"So, she's going to teach us Genjutsu?" Sakura pondered. "That's cool I suppose; several of the Academy Teachers have told me it would be one of the best fields to try and master with my current abilities."
As Hinata and Sakura talked, Naruto sat quietly thinking. 'Of all the rotten luck, I don't mind being on a team with either girl, but I was kind of hoping for some distance to get my feelings straight. Now both will be with me daily, how can I possibly figure out what my feelings are with both girls I possibly like-like hanging around me all the time. Oh well, at least I'm not on a team with that jerk Sasuke.'
As Naruto set contemplating his current girl troubles, a beautiful raven haired woman with striking red eyes and a shirt made of wraps came in. She looked up at Team Eight and waited for Hinata to recognize her. The young Heiress noticed her mentor almost right away and brought both her new teammates down to meet their new Sensei.
"Hello everyone, I'm Kurenai Yuhi." The Jounin introduced herself. "Meet me at Training Ground 3 as quickly as possible."
With that she puffed away in a cloud of smoke. All three Genin said goodbye to their old class and Iruka Sensei. Leaving the building Naruto asked out loud. "Do you guys know were Training Ground 3 is located?"
"Yeah I do." Sakura said angrily annoyed. "I read about it when I did my book report on the Third Great Ninja War. It was created to simulate battlefields located in the Land Of Earth. It's a giant rocky terrain located out by the West Gate. There's not much over there really, practically deserted except for a few small farm huts and military outposts."
"I wonder why our training field is so far away." Hinata pondered. "It's like they don't want our training to destroy anything important. I don't see how Genjutsu training could be so destructive though. You would think Team Seven would need a place such as that to train, not us."
The orange loving blonde wisely kept his mouth shut as an image of a new pond surfaced to the front of his mind. 'I guess Iruka Sensei told Jiji just how badass I am.'
Author's Note:
(1)-Your welcome Kakashi. LOL!
Also- Before anyone asks I always planned on giving Naruto the Exploding Shadow Clone Jutsu. The Yumegan will play a role in Naruto developing Shadow Replication Techniques further in future chapters. He won't learn any more Ninjutsu for a while, but I plan on introducing a new Genjutsu soon, maybe two, not sure yet. Really I gave Naruto the jutsu I did, minus the Divine Embodiment Jutsu, because I always felt he should have had them in the show. Shadow Clone was the first real technique he learned and not once did he improve upon it really other than learning to use it faster. Naruto learning one or two of his 'Jiji's' techniques would have been nostalgic.
Also before anyone asks Naruto didn't picture Sasuke necked and then place the image in every Kunoichi's mind. He just tricked them into seeing Sasuke as they would expect him to look without clothes on. Example: let's say Sasuke had a birth mark on his shoulder that Sakura knew about because she saw it accidentally one time. Naruto himself didn't know it was there at all. If Naruto tried to generate shirtless Sasuke with a False Visual Illusion instead of False Visual Command, the birth mark wouldn't be present on the illusion. If Naruto used Command on Sakura to make her see shirtless Sasuke instead, her own mind and memories will supply the birth mark for Naruto to trick her with.