A New Nindo

Disclaimer: If I owned Naruto I would be rich, I don't. If I did own it I wouldn't be counting my pennies like the pauper I am. I have begun to borrow jutsus from another author, specifically Tokehgecko who has given me their permission. I will point out which jutsus I borrowed in the author's notes at the end of chapter. For more information on the jutsus I borrowed from the author visit TokehGecko's There Where When is Now, Book series. This story does not reflect the ability of any authors I borrowed from. In other words if my story sucks it's not their fault, it's mine. This version of the Naruto story belongs to me; most of the characters belong to Masashi Kishimoto.

Summary: What if you died? What if it was a mistake? What if you were given a chance to step out of your normal everyday life and become hero? I'd grab the chance. This is my story.

I will use techniques from Shadow Skill, Street Fighter, and Shura no Toki/Mon. Even though it may seem like Naruto has a lot of techniques it doesn't mean he's godlike, Sharingan Kakashi is suppose to have copied over a 1,000 jutsus and he isn't stronger than a sannin, he's only a top jounin. He's also below Itachi and Orochimaru. So I think that Naruto's large arsenal provides versatility not necessarily power.

Story is in 1st person but is meant to include other character's thoughts and views, a hybrid mix of 1st and 3rd person view. It may be confusing I apologize this is just the way I want to write the story. I started out writing it this way and it kinda stuck with me. Thank you for your understanding.

Will repeat important statements at the end of chapter.

Author's Notes:

1) Italics include my thoughts as well as other characters' thoughts. Bold is for the Kyuubi's thoughts.

2) Haku is a girl!

3) No Yaoi

4) Secret Jutsu list is on my Author's Profile

5) All character bio info is taken from Naurtofan(dot)com.

6) For pairings please vote for Itachi/Tsume/Kurenai/Anko and Kakashi/Kurenai/OC

Tsume is a name I made up for Kiba's sister.

7) Neji and Hinata are close friends and act as siblings. Not romantic for now. Can change depending on people's reviews/votes.

Reviews

Bryr: Maybe, I'm might make Itachi have a love triangle, not a threeway.

Zhuyou: Thanks for keeping an open mind

ShadowWolf255: I totally agree. That's probably what will happen. I have notes about threeway at the end of chapter.

PersonaJXT: Thanks for taking an interest in my story. I'm sorry that the switching of views is confusing. People wanted me to put other peoples thoughts in and give other characters more time so this is my compromise. I'm sorry if it's confusing this is just the way I've become comfortable with writing the story.

DorkLotus: I had a good laugh. Imagine Kira and Athrun's Freedom and Justice from Gundam Seed showing up. Aliens man, I'd rather see the predators go at Orochimaru. Their cloaking and shoulder cannons. Oh my god. As for Scryed I can't really. I was thinking about armors but since I can't give other people them it wouldn't be fair if Naruto could fly or take materials from his surroundings and form huge weapons if no one else could. Plus at the end of Scryed the only real competition is between Ryuhou and Kazuma. Alters also seem to damage the body, at least for those two.

Meheeners: Naruto certainly has competition because Haku's a babe. Do you remember Naruto thinking Haku was cuter than Sakura. That's saying a lot since Naruto is a Sakura fan boy in the anime. I didn't read the manga, saw anime first, don't remember Tobio. As for Naruto's competition, just because he has competition doesn't mean he'll lose. Haku's spent most of her life devoted to him. She isn't just gonna dump him in the blink of an eye. But he will have competition.

Kaba-chan: Yes, I wanted to indicate that in the last chapter, Tenten is a distinct possibility. See author's notes on the top or end of chapter for my views on outside Naruto anime techniques.

Crazy-antman: It will be explained. Sharingan compliments. If you read Kakashi's Gaiden you would know he learnt it before Sharingan.

Rhythmic: I can't tell you how touched I am that people like you (meheeners, wolvesmon, Tombadgerlock, Dragon Man 180) continue to read and review constantly. It means a lot to me. Seriously. Naruto will continue to kick ass but he'll face terrifying and real opponents in the future.

Dsecret: I'll see what I can do. I don't remember much from Hunter X Hunter besides Hisoka's bungie gun, Killua's electricity, Gon's reinforcement, and that guy with the materialization chains (I so forgot his name).

Samurai Demon-God Sekikage: Thanks for all your reviews, that is the direction I'm leaning in.

Zero: I'm trying to refrain from Dragon BallZ because Goku, Vegeta, and the gang are in a whole different league. They can fly, blow up islands, etc. Their powers just seem too cheap for Naruto. As for Yuyu Hakusho, I can't think of any good techniques. The ones you pointed out were good but just don't seem to fit. My other problem is I don't remember them too well except for Yusuke. Thanks for your effort it is greatly appreciated. Sniper's abilitiy was cool but who could I give that to? Maybe Tenten.

Soul Ice: Darkstalkers is awesome, it'll be hard to work their techniques in but I'll try.

Virgil: Nice ideas, thanks for keeping an open mind about pairings. I love Naruto/Hinata as well but I wanted something different for my story. I want to make my story as original as possible. The techniques from Tough? Sound familiar. I'll try and look it up. Tenjou Tenge is pretty awesome, but I'll have to do research on their techniques. I'll try and make Hinata happy.

Bunch-o-nuts: I never forgot them I just wanted to surprise people.

Ninfan: it could very well be

Aikuchi Shikaku: Yes I know but I don't really want to pull Vy Low (Scarface) or Elle Ragu/Gau Ban or anyone else over just so I can learn Shadow Skill. I'll work it in though. For Getbackers some my techniques are modeled after theirs.

Blazer-6: I'll try but Naruto's the star. I mean the frickin anime's named after him. Hanabi, Hanamori, and Suiren will play more active parts later.

Daniel Lynx: Thanks a lot for all your ideas. I may need to email you for info on the other games like Guilty Gear and King of Fighters. I don't know how I'd work Xenosaga powers in. Xenogears just seemed like long combos.

Bam Dasher: Maybe Kenshin but probably not Rave.

Imageisnothing: I will consider Sub Zero but do his techniques really have names?

Tombadgerlock: Sakura will be stronger but only later. As for Hellsing I don't know how I feel about cutting myself open regularly or letting myself get messed up like him. I mean he let himself get gunned down by a hundred rounds in the first episode?

Edengrave: I can't tell you what Neji learned, but let's just say he's adapted the Jyuken. I respect your decision to keep techniques to yourself. Thanks for your suggestions though. I also would like to thank you for being the first (in reviews) to support techniques outside of Naruto. I was thinking about it but didn't know how people would feel.

Dragon Man 180: Thanks for your support. Rin was the OC I was talking about. She's kinda OC because we don't know her too well other than she was in Kakashi's old team and may have liked him.

Elbereth in April: You'll find out the answer to Team assignments. As for pairings they're still up in the air.

Cobra-100: I don't know about FMA but I love your suggestions about the third girl.

Lilbunnyfufu: I'll try but as for form, that probably won't change. I'm sorry but it's what I'm currently comfortable with. Hakkai and Yusuke seems like their skills are a little cheap. I'll try though.

YHabiki: Thanks for your suggestions I'll try and incorporate some of them.

Night-Owl123: Thanks, for being open minded. I will have outside techs.

NarutoandHinata: Hanamori will become more important later.

Wolvesmon: Sorry but it will definitely be at least Naruhaku.

Chapter 10: Graduation: The First Step and the Final Exam

I woke up in a hospital bed, Haku's weight pressed down on my chest. She was lying asleep.

"Geez this is becoming a routine for me," I said.

Still I was proud of myself. My wound had been serious but not fatal and I had taken down a Jounin with the Raijin no Ken. However I also knew that my victory largely had to do with my Shinku Raikiri and surprising Aoi with my Kyuubi eyes and chakra. Now that I think of it my Shinku Raikiri looks more like a flame than lightning, maybe I should think up a new name?

Nah too troublesome.

I had subconsciously begun stroking Haku's hair while she was asleep. I had only realized what I was doing when I heard a moan.

Damn, that sounded really sexy.

Haku lifted her face and rubbed her eyes with her fists.

Ah she looks so cute too.

"Haku-chan…"

"Naruto-kun?"

"Yep!"

Slap!

"Owww," I said as I rubbed my cheek.

"DON'T EVER RUN OFF LIKE THAT AGAIN?" she said with demonic aura in the background.

My only response was to sit up in bed and bow down.

"Hai hai, Hime-sama," I said, partly in fear.

Girls are definitely scarier in this world.

I felt familiar arms reach around me and a familiar scent reached my nose.

"I don't want to lose you Naruto-kun," she whispered.

Now I could tell she was crying and that made me feel a lot worse.

"Hey, hey. It's okay. It wasn't a fatal wound and besides I have Kyuubi to help me out," I said as I wiped tears from her eyes. "You wanna hear something?"

She nodded.

"I feel really worried when you go out on missions. Even if they're only D or C class because you never know what will happen. Sometimes missions change and it can get dangerous. In the future, you'll probably have A and B class missions, but I have faith in you…"

"Faith?"

"Yes, I believe in your power, and that no matter what you'll be okay."

"Naruto…"

I kissed her last tear away on her cheek.

"I'll make you a promise. No matter what happens, no matter how tired or battered my body gets I promise I'll come back to you. So please have faith in me too, believe in my strength, Haku-chan."

"Naruto, I… I'll try… and believe in you."

With our conversation over we closed the distance and kissed for the first time. It was amazing. Completely different from any kiss I had in college. I felt like I was drowning in a sea of emotions. I mean it was probably like those magical moments in those romance flicks, although I couldn't compare it since I didn't watch any.

"Cough cough"

I broke our kiss and we turned towards the door and saw the… HOKAGE? Haku scrambled off the bed and straightened her kimono.

"I'm sorry for interrupting but I wanted to congratulate you," said the Hokage as he walked in.

"Not bad at all kid," said Ibiki as he came in behind the elderly man.

"Hokage-sama who was that man I fought in the forest?" I asked even though I already knew.

The Hokage sat down in a chair and Ibiki stood against the wall. From the bandages on Ibiki's body I could tell that most of his wounds weren't dire but they were probably painful.

Haku was sitting on the bed, partly because she didn't want to leave and the other half was because my hand wouldn't let go of her's.

"That was Rokushu Aoi, he was a promising Chuunin with all the capabilities of a Jounin although his mentality and lack of leadership skills prevented him from becoming one."

"I see."

"He was trying to steal the Scroll of Forbidden Seals," piped up Ibiki.

"Really? What happened to it?" I asked frantically.

"Rest assured Naruto-kun," soothed the old man. "We have recovered it and it is safely in my vault once more."

"That's good," I said as I relaxed.

"I wanted to ask you about that technique you used against him Naruto-kun," said the Hokage as he took a few puffs from his pipe.

"That was Raikiri."

"I thought as much."

"Raikiri?" said an astounded Ibiki.

This brat can use Raikiri? And so effectively at such a young age?

"Hai, I understand that Kakashi-sensei can use it more effectively because he has the Sharingan along with his experience that's why I had to wait till Aoi was too close to escape, even while endangering myself."

"Hmmm, a very wise strategy Naruto-kun," said the Hokage.

"The Raikiri is a simple thrust that incorporates extreme speed. However because of the speed involved the user is unable to counter an enemy's attacks which could cause the technique to fail. That is where the Sharingan comes in. It can help avoid the enemies' counters as well as help guide the thrust," I explained.

"Ohh," said the Hokage with a proud smile. "You know the weakness of the jutsu well. By the way Naruto-kun how is your Rasengan coming?"

"WHAT?" shouted Ibiki.

Rasengan is an A-Class technique developed by the Yondaime, Kazuma Arashi. How can this brat even know it?

"Oh, I almost forgot you were here Ibiki," said the Hokage. "Naruto-kun was studying under Jiraiya a few years ago."

"A few years ago?" asked a bewildered Ibiki.

Then how young was he when he learned it?

"I have mastered it as you know Hokage-sama but I still find it awkward to use," I told him.

"Yes, Rasengan is truly a difficult jutsu to use. Even after being able to conjure it up you must learn through experience to use it effectively against an enemy. Then and only then will you have truly mastered it," were his words of wisdom.

"Yeah."

"Well I'll leave you two alone now," said the Hokage with a smile.

It wasn't a mischievous smile but nonetheless it was that kind of gentle sneakiness that old people have. It didn't work on me but Haku blushed as she looked down at the sheets.

"Oh yes, here Naruto-kun," said the Hokage as he tossed me something.

I caught it in my hands and it took me a few moments to analyze the object before I realized what it was.

"Hokage-sama this is the Raijin no Ken?" I asked wide-eyed.

"Yes Naruto-kun," he said by the door. "It would be a shame to let this blade gather dust, as it was forged to protect the people of Konoha. The Nidaime has no living relatives or descendants, but I have a feeling you may be able to carry on his will. Use it well, Naruto-kun."

"Arigato, Hokage-sama," I said as I bowed even from my bed.

The Hokage chuckled at my gratitude and left while Ibiki closed the door on his way out. Ibiki spared one final glance at me.

Uzumaki Naruto? What an interesting kid, a boy without any bloodlines but a genius in his own right. It'll be interesting to watch him grow.

"Ibiki-san," called Shizune.

"Shit," muttered Ibiki.

"You need to stay in your room," she said.

"I'm feeling fine, I've been through a lot worse doctor," he replied.

"Get in bed now!" said a demonic Shizune.

Morino Ibiki had encountered many forms of torture and many frightful things but his experience as a man told him women were not to be messed with. Especially women associated with Tsunade.

"Yes," cowered a chibi Ibiki.

Shizune smiled and dragged away a chibi Ibiki by his collar.

"Now," I said as I tilted Haku's chin towards me. "Where were we?"

She smiled.

Two years later…

Most of the Genin team are twelve now, Gai's team is thirteen, Haku is fifteen, and Itachi is seventeen. Sasuke and I became more comfortable as friends but I still wasn't as close to him as I was to say Neji and Itachi. Speaking of the Hyuuga, Hinata and Neji's skills were close in Jyuken. Overall though, I would have to say Neji was definitely stronger. He had perfected the Jyuken moves he had already learned and began to completely evolve the Hyuuga style into something different (Author's Note: You'll have to wait till Chuunin Exam to find out how).

Haku and I continued to work on our teamwork. When we fought we acted as one now. Our attacks were coordinated and we covered up any weaknesses that the other had. Despite Haku's speed her taijutsu was average. This left her to prefer middle-to-long range fighting. I myself preferred to get up close and personal, most of my attacks also had a short range. I could fight at long range but preferred not to, because my arsenal became limited at long range.

I had learned some sword techniques and basic forms from Gekou Hayate. I discovered he was very talented Chuunin. Like Aoi he had Jounin level skills. I assume it was his age and inexperience that kept him from being a Jounin. His cough wasn't a severe sickness. I also met his ANBU girlfriend on several occasions. Nakano Izumi, she was quite friendly and the two were very much in love. That was apparent to someone like me who was pretty dull or thick headed most of the time.

As for the Morinos I became good friends with Ibiki. Surprisingly the guy was a natural born sadist. He liked to work out and when there was an enemy, he liked to pick them apart. He taught me a lot about ANBU and tactics.

Idate was more familiar with Haku because they were in the same graduating class. If he kept looking at Haku that way and trying to hold her hand I could almost guarantee that Ibiki would become an only child.

I didn't keep up on my friend's jutsu lists though. Kiba was still very brash and quick tempered. Shino would answer when we called and only I knew that his bug collection had increased. It was actually quite interesting that there weren't many names for some of his jutsus, most of the time he merely summoned different bugs and coordinated them to attack. His bugs had a wide range of functions and he used them wisely. I was not being condescending to Sasuke when I say they were on equal levels.

The Ino-Shika-Chou trio were somewhat disappointing. They hadn't really changed much at all. I had gotten Shikamaru to learn more jutsus from his father but he was so lazy that he only learned one. Although it was a very impressive technique. Chouji was still eating as much as always but he had been training to handle the Akimichi clan's pills better. Ino was the same as Sakura, disappointing. Any attempts to get either girl to train were futile. They were only concerned with looking pretty for "Sasuke-kun." I suppose the only comfort was that they would change after Sasuke left, although I hoped it wouldn't come to that.

Today was graduation day and I was sitting in my chair next to Sasuke. I wasn't sitting there because I wanted to fend off his fan girls, it was because it was my second favorite seat in the class. Sasuke-teme took my favorite seat in the middle row next to the window. He simply capitalized on the fact that my second favorite seat was in the chair next to the one he was in. He knew that and made it a point of arriving before me. Sometimes I thought he got up at the crack of dawn to get here or maybe he slept over. He knew I would serve as the ultimate buffer between him and his fan girls. Reason being if you knew me you would know I had strange quirks one of them was I liked doing things out of habit. I always took a shower when I came home and when I woke up. I always brushed my teeth, flossed, and then used mouth wash, in that order. I always ate the things I liked the least first on my dish and saved my favorites for last. I always got my chair, but since I didn't want to maim Sasuke I settled for my second favorite. Now that it had become my regular seat, Orochimaru himself couldn't convince me to move.

I hear running in the distance that reminded me of a stampede of bulls.

"Out of my way forehead girl," shouted a familiar voice.

"No way Ino-Pig," said another familiar voice.

"Hmph," muttered Sasuke.

"Oi Sasuke," I said, waiting for me to give me his undivided attention. "Are you gonna increase your vocabulary?"

"Not with them around," he muttered before turning back to the front.

Before I knew it they were next to me.

"Neh Naruto-kun can you switch places with me?" they both asked at the same time.

I turned to face Ino and Sakura they were shooting glares at each other and I could see the sparks between them.

"Only if one of you can convince Sasuke to switch seats with me, he's in my favorite chair," I replied.

"Sasuke-kun wouldn't you like to sit next to me?" asked Sakura.

"Forget forehead girl, wouldn't you like it better if I were next to you?" asked Ino.

They were greeted by silence. I was surprised at their resilience. They didn't seem very crushed at all. They chose to sit in front and behind of Sasuke. Iruka-Sensei walked in and next to him was a familiar face.

"Good morning class," said Iruka.

"Today's the final exam," said Mizuki.

While people lined up for the bunshin test I secretly thought of how I would kick Mizuki's ass later.

Please steal the scroll, please be a dumbass, just this once please!

When my turn came I was still stuck in my thoughts so I activated bunshin no jutsu without seals. Iruka numbly handed me my forehead protector while everyone else watched me with wide-eyes as I returned to my seat.

"I'd also like to announce the title of rookie of the year," said Iruka. "Congratulations Naruto."

A lot of claps went up and smiled and I thanked everyone. I may not have a devoted fan-club as big as Sasuke's but I did have one. I was just glad that none of my fan girls were as bad as Ino or Sakura. Surprisingly those two congratulated me as well. Even outside of my fan club I was pretty well liked throughout the class. I guess it was because I wasn't as snobbish as Sasuke. That's one thing I wish he would change, Itachi was much more humble.

"Hmph, a title like that doesn't mean much," muttered Sasuke.

I poked him a couple of times in the side, "You're just jealous because you didn't get it."

"Hmph."

Sasuke was much more relaxed than in the anime. He was still the silent type but he had neglected his studies in favor of training. That was a key difference between us. I had studied vigorously and had been surprised that Sakura didn't study very much. I found out that she had seen Sasuke send glares at people who did better than him so she only performed averagely. I was very disappointed in her. She couldn't even realize that Sasuke noticed people he viewed as a threat as rivals. Well not like he would have noticed her much in the anime anyway.

"I'll assign you're Genin teams tomorrow. Class Dismissed."

The door slid open and a raven haired beauty graced us with her presence.

"Let's go home, Naruto-kun," said Haku.

"Okay," I said, trying to ignore the looks the guys were giving my girlfriend.

If you think about it it's only logical because Haku was amazingly beautiful and kind. She didn't have that psychotic side like Ino or Sakura. I mean in the anime Naruto thought she was cuter than Sakura, and that's saying a lot for a guy who was blindly in love with a girl who obviously didn't like him. It was like having Sakura notice someone else like Lee over Sasuke.

As we walked outside we held hands. I liked being close to her like this, it was soothing. Her hands were so soft, almost as soft as her lips. When we stopped by the grocery store a couple of my fan girls came up to me.

Geez, you'd think they know I have a girlfriend.

They do kit, they don't care. I'm very impressed with your popularity, ever consider having a harem?

NO!

That was a quick reply, do I sense guilt? Defensiveness?

Stupid fox.

Haku's POV

"Naruto-kun?" I asked before I saw his fan girls.

I sighed. I wish Naruto wasn't so popular but they were attracted to the same qualities that I was. The only difference is that I knew everything about him. I'd seen the real Naruto and I wasn't going to give him up anytime soon. Seeing them reminded me of something that happened yesterday.

Flashback…

"Haku-sempai," said a voice.

I turned around and was greeted by a pair of girls I knew from the hospital.

"Yes?"

They were very kind girls so I wanted to see how I could help them.

"Do you know what Naruto-kun likes?" asked the first.

WHAT?

"Valentines day is coming up soon and we were wondering what we should get him," said the second.

It's two months away you shameless hussy.

"I wonder what I can do to get Naruto-kun to like me enough to ask me out," said the first.

Hello, his girlfriend is standing in front of you!

"I won't get mad as long as he chooses one of us," said the second.

Bitch!

"Don't worry we can share," said the first.

Slut!

"I don't really know let me think about it," I said as I began walking away, hastily.

I didn't know Naruto was so popular. I knew he had a few admirers but… His cake has to be extra special this year for fending them off!

Unfortunately I didn't get far because they grabbed my arms after I made a few steps.

"You have to know Haku-sempai."

"Yeah, you're good friends with Naruto-kun aren't you?"

I'm his girlfriend, I live with him, and I would just love to crush your hopes by answering with that.

"I suppose."

After a half an hour of pestering they finally left me in peace. While I was walking home that day I didn't know it but I was releasing a huge wave of killing intent. Not to mention every source of water nearby exploded. By source of water I mean everything from a bottle of water to a fire hydrant.

I wonder why? (Author's note: Cough Bloodline Limit Cough)

End Flashback…

Now there are still more fan girls. Is he more popular than Sasuke? I wonder what girls see in Sasuke, he's a very dark broody type without an ounce of kindness in him. I suppose it's to be expected after such a traumatic experience.

I wonder what Naruto-kun will do about them?

It turns out I didn't have to wait long.

"Yeah, um sorry but I'm kinda busy with my girlfriend right now," Naruto said as he stressed the girlfriend part for them.

Score!

"That's okay Naruto-kun, maybe some other time," they said.

How dense are they, but never mind that. He flat out denied them. Yay!

"Naruto-kun?" I asked as I wrapped my arms around his waist from behind.

"Haku-chan?" he asked.

I could tell he was shocked, I wasn't usually this forward in public but I felt he deserved a little reward. So I gave him a chaste kiss.

"I love you," I said as I buried my face in his shoulder.

"Um, I love you too," he said genuinely. "Are you okay?"

"Perfect."

End Haku's POV

Naruto's POV

Okay that was weird. Oh well, I'll take whatever I can get.

As we walked down the street we were greeted by Neji and his teammates, Lee and Tenten.

Speaking of Lee I was very impressed with his taijutsu growth. It had come a very long way from when we were younger.

Tenten had also come a long way too. I remember in the anime her admiring Tsunade so introduced her to my Kaasan. Tenten was so grateful to me it was embarrassing. After a while we soon discovered that Tenten wanted to become a powerful kunoichi like her idol but she didn't necessarily want to follow the medical path. Instead she learned to incorporate Tsunade's unique use of chakra to her weapons. Her swords were sharper through her chakra and her kunais had explosive notes enhanced by her. She also seemed to be practicing Tsunade's taijutsu and trying to mix it with her kenjutsu. We also got along pretty well too.

"Yosh, good evening Naruto-kun, Haku," said a jovial Lee.

That's one thing I like about Lee. He knew Haku was a lot more than Sakura but his gentlemanly nature cut her out because she was my girlfriend. Now she was just another friend to him like Tenten.

"What are you guys doing?" asked Tenten.

For as long as I've know her, Tenten's had a nice voice. Her Chinese designed outfits fit her very well too, in body and personality. She still had her hair up in two buns.

"We were just shopping for groceries," smiled Haku, who was still clinging to my arm happily.

Why is she so happy?

Immediately Neji sharply turned to look at me, I could only smile in return.

"You're not invited for dinner tonight," I mouthed.

"Bastard," he mouthed back. "Doesn't matter I've got Hinata-sama's cooking."

Speaking of Hinata I remember that when Neji graduated from the academy she gave him a kiss on the cheek when she congratulated him. As far as I knew they weren't going out but they were very close and affectionate. Although those feeling were in a sibling nature so far, not romantic. Hinata was still very naïve to as how her actions may be interpreted. I knew this all for a fact because as Neji's best friend he couldn't hide shit from me.

After dinner I told Haku and Shizune that I would be training in the sacred groves before I returned later tonight. Kaasan was on the hospital's late night shift again. I could tell because she was home during the day today because the pillows on the sofa were all over the place. The living room was probably Tsunade's favorite place because she was in front of the television and close to the kitchen. That and the sofa was comfy to sleep in.

Somewhere in the middle of the forest

"Come out come out where ever you are," I chanted to the wind.

He's here kit, someone's wounded.

Shit! Did Iruka-sensei already encounter him?

As I dashed through the forest I wasn't particularly worried. Mizuki may have been a Chuunin but he seemed pretty pathetic in the anime. I stopped when Kyuubi told me the wounded was nearby.

"Why did you take the scroll?" breathed a wounded Iruka.

"Are you stupid? With this scroll I can get anything I want," answered Mizuki.

Their conversation was broken by the sound of a thousand birds chirping. Iruka and Mizuki turned towards the source, expecting to see Kakashi when out popped me. Instead of blue lightning I had sparks of red lightning dwarfed by flame-like chakra on my arm.

Mizuki threw a large shuriken at me and I thrust my Shinku Raikiri forward, the huge piece of metal was like paper to my Raikiri and I tore through it. Mizuki was needless to say shocked, along with Iruka. He threw another one at my head and I narrowly ducked under it.

Afraid of his imminent death he turned tail and ran. Not like that would help him. Two of my Kage Bunshin jumped out of their hiding places and delivered roundhouse kicks to his body, specifically the gut and the side of the head. He fell like a sack of potatoes.

"Pathetic," I said as me and my clones stood over his unconscious body.

I used my chakra scalpel to disable some of his muscles and picked up the Scroll of Forbidden Seals. I walked over to Iruka-sensei and took care of his wounds with my ijutsu (medicine, medical arts).

"Sorry I was late Iruka-sensei," I said with a smile.

Iruka let out a soft laugh, "I think I can let it slide this time Naruto."

The Next Day…

I entered the class room and noticed I was first, Sasuke wasn't there.

"My chair my beloved seat, how I've missed you," as I made a mad dash for it.

As I sat down I felt it, the relaxing sensation of getting what you finally wanted.

"Ahh so happy, so very happy," I said to no one.

A few minutes later Sasuke came in.

"Hmph," he muttered.

"Sasuke your fan girls aren't here, it won't ruin your image if you speak now," I said.

"Whatever," he replied.

Kit there is no hope for him.

Tell me about it.

Sasuke was a brooding freak. I can't understand how anyone could tolerate his arrogance, then again I am still friends with him. Maybe I should be the one seeing a psychiatrist. That's right after two years he was still seeing a psychiatrist. I can only assume how many problems Sasuke suffered because of his ego.

I felt satisfied when I shot him a smug look as he sat next to me.

"I got my seat," I said.

"Good for you," he said bitterly.

"Aw you're just mad because I don't have to protect you from your fan girls today."

That only made my revenge sweeter. Sakura and Ino had their own little rivalry but Sakura was the one who got to sit next to Sasuke. One fan girl seemed to be enough as I sensed Sasuke's killing intent seep out. By now most of the Genin teams were here so Iruka began his announcement.

"Now I'll assign your Genin teams," said Iruka-sensei.

I wonder who I'll be paired up with?

Maybe that Hyuuga and Aburame, they seem to be the best in the class after Uchiha.

I wouldn't mind being on Sasuke's team if he wasn't such an ass. Although you are right, Hinata's Byakugan would be vital to any team and Shino is a powerful and smart ally. Since he lacks a punch in his jutsus he relies on being sneaky and overwhelming his enemy with his summoned bugs. Hinata's just bad ass this time around (Author's Note: I am referring to this new timeline).

It was probably because I didn't have Naruto's inferiority complex that I didn't care about Sasuke. I knew that being rookie of the year didn't mean much in the real world but it did mean I was better than Sasuke right now and that was enough for me.

"Team 7 Uchiha Sasuke…"

"Hmph…"

"Haruno Sakura…"

"Yeah!"

"and Uzumaki Naruto."

"What!"

"Team 8 Yamanaka Ino, Nara Shikamaru, and Akimichi Chouji."

I wasn't listening I was still shocked. Why the hell was it turning out this way. I don't want that asshole Sasuke. Hanging out with him was nice, spending the entire day with him… I don't think so. Sakura? She may turn out better later but she's an annoying fan girl right now. I don't care what anyone says. She's useless right now. She didn't even take her studies seriously.

"Team 9 Hyuuga Hinata, Aburame Shino, and Inuzuka Kiba. That is all."

Wait a sec could that be it? Because Sasuke's test grades and tactical strategy were lacking and Sakura didn't want to be disliked by Sasuke because she did better than him, is that why they were on my team? It kinda made sense but something was fishy.

Who should I ask? Iruka-sensei?

"Alright Iruka-sensei spill it," I said as I cornered him after school.

"What's wrong Naruto?" he asked innocently.

I could tell it was fake.

"Why are Sasuke and Sakura on my team?"

"I can answer that," came a familiar voice.

"Hokage-sama?" I asked as I turned around.

I also saw Itachi with him, to say I was surprised was an understatement.

"Okay what the fuck's going on here?"

"Naruto we want you to look after Sasuke," said Itachi rather calmly.

"Excuse me?" I asked, slightly perplexed.

"I can only watch Sasuke when he's in the village," said Itachi. "His psychology reports show that he hasn't been making any progress at all over the years."

"Okay, but what do you mean by watch over him?"

"Help him out, and teach him some jutsus," Itachi said.

"If he's not mentally stable why should I help him out? Giving him power may be dangerous! Besides learning from me would probably put Sasuke down in his own mind. He has to learn from someone of higher rank like a sensei," I explained.

"I suppose that's true, but just watch out for him," said Itachi before he turned into begging. "For me? Pretty please?"

"That so doesn't suit you," I mumbled although Itachi could tell it was working.

"Well there you have it Naruto-kun," said the Hokage.

"What about Sakura?"

"Haruno Sakura is from an average family, although her parents are ninjas they have no family jutsus for her to learn unlike the rest of your classmates. I felt that she would grow better when she sees the gap among the three of you."

"Obviously you haven't spent more than five minutes with her."

He quirked an eyebrow.

"She's obsessed with Sasuke."

The wind blew through our silence as the Hokage contemplated his mistake.

"Oh well there's nothing we can do about it now."

Iruka, Itachi, and I fell anime style.

Is that all you can say? Are you really the Hokage?

"My life sucks. Wait who's our Jounin instructor?"

Three hours later…

I could have waited in the class room or gone to look for Kakashi but I didn't feel like it. So I was watching the clouds on the roof with Shikamaru while Chouji ate. They had already met and completed their task with Asuma.

"Hey that looks like a frog doesn't it?" asked Shikamaru.

When Shikamaru found things interesting or wanted to speak on his own he didn't find it troublesome.

"The one next to it looks like a hamburger," muttered Chouji in between bites.

"Haha," I chuckled softly.

Shikamaru merely smirked at Chouji's comment, while Chouji himself had a huge grin.

"Is it just me or does that look like a fox?" I said.

"Kinda," mumbled Shikamaru.

"Does it have more than one tail?" asked Chouji.

Thinking about foxes reminded me of an enlightening experience I had over the last two years.

Flashback…

I was training in the middle of the day when all of a sudden the air felt heavy, not with tension but some kind of mystical feeling.

Is it just me or does something seem wrong?

I sense a high level spiritual being trying to open a gate to this realm.

Oh, if it's a spiritual being I shouldn't be worried, should I?

Not unless this being is here to punish me for my past transgressions.

You mean when you tried to raze Konoha?

All of a sudden the air in front of me seemed to buckle before turning into a spiraling hole filled with blue chakra. A flash of light came before a figure stood there calmly.

Holy shit it's a babe!

Oh my god!

It was a babe in the truest sense of the word. She was tall with silky hair that was a sterling silver shade. With every gentle sway her hair seemed to reflect the sunlight like the ocean waves. Her lithe frame supported her admirable bust. She looked very proportionate not like those women you see who have plastic surgery with their breasts bigger than their heads. Her long legs and small hands captivated me. There was an unearthly beauty to her. I wasn't being cliché when I thought she looked like a heavenly angel.

Is she a tennyo?

Close, she's a divine messenger of Inari-sama. One of the more famous and respected ones, Tamano Mae. Get down on your knees and greet her with your forehead in the grass. I shit you not when I say she deserves your respect.

I had never heard Kyuubi so deadly serious so I immediately did as I was told. It was very hard to not look back up at this heavenly beauty.

"Arise otouto," she said.

Hearing her voice was like listening to divine music.

Otouto?

She's referring to me, we're not blood related or anything. Spiritually beings are mostly born from nature or necessity of the gods. It's hard for them to have children.

Why?

In order for spiritual beings to have children they need to be deeply in love, as in soul mates. It's a lot deeper than what you humans typically have, few humans actually ever attain such a high level of devotion compared to the love I'm talking about.

I stood up and raised my eyes to meet her, only to be disarmed by her smile. I was completely enchanted by her golden, feral eyes. I couldn't help but let my jaw open. I didn't know what to do so I stuck out my hand to shake hers. I know it was stupid but like I said I didn't know how to greet a heavenly being and Kyuubi was shaking in his cage too afraid to answer me.

"Greetings, Tamano-sama," I numbly said.

I was surprised by her next actions.

She took my hand between both of hers and raised it up to her face, "Greetings otouto, Uzumaki Naruto. I didn't know you were so cute when I accepted this assignment."

Then she proceeded to suck on my fore finger.

What the hell?

But that expression wasn't from shock it was from what I was feeling.

Oh damn she's good, what the hell it's just a goddamn finger.

My legs were shaking and my knees threatened to buckle. When she was finished I collapse on my knees.

Oh god, I feel like I've cheated on Haku-chan somehow.

I almost felt like crying.

Sorry that was my fault Kit…

Wait a sec you mean you weren't shaking because you were afraid, you were excited?

Hey, I told she was famous. Tamano is famous for her beauty as well as her seductive nature. She's respected for the awesome power she commands among the fox spirits. It also has to do with the fact that she's the right hand and chief messenger of Inari-sama.

It was at this time that I seemed to only first notice she had fox ears and nine fox tails.

She earned her tails, I gained mine when I gave in to my rage and dark desires. In other words she's in leagues above me.

Wait if she's Inari's right hand and chief messenger than does that mean she's as powerful as a god?

I suppose she could compare with a lower god but make no mistake spiritual and heavenly beings are less than gods.

"Don't worry otouto, I'm not here to punish you," she said, cutting through my thoughts. "I may be powerful but I'm no god, although compared to you I may be."

"You can read our thoughts?" I asked astounded.

"I can feel your emotions and its through experience that I can guess what you're thinking, although I do have a special skill to read your mind," she said as she licked her fingertips.

I also noted how her nails weren't claw-like but long nonetheless.

"I actually wanted to congratulate you," she said.

"Congratulate me?" I asked.

"Inari-sama has taken a deep interest in the both of you," she elaborated. "He was very disappointed in you Kyuubi when he saw that you gave into your more base or savage emotions. However he has long since forgiven you. He's impressed the work you have done by working through this human. He's also impressed with the hearts of people that you have touched. Changing the lives of humans for the better is a much greater feat than minding a forest, even if it is a sacred land."

I could hear Kyuubi jumping for joy in my mind and I couldn't help but be happy for my friend.

"When you pass on a place will be waiting for you as one of Inari-sama's messengers."

Oh yeah! Thank her!

"Thank you Tamano-sama, Kyuubi sends his grateful thanks," I said.

I was trying very careful to be polite and mindful of my manners. After all if she was stronger than Kyuubi she could probably level Konoha if I pissed her off.

"Please, please, enough with the pleasantries," she said as her voice lowered and she touched my face. "I notice that you were practicing an ancient style before I came down here."

"Uh yeah, you know I'm not from this world right?"

"Yes, gods and the 'God' are two different things. It would be too complicated for me to go into it, but we have an understanding."

"Yeah I was practicing this fighting style I saw in an anime, it was called Eigi (Shadow Skill)."

"Yes, it looks like a crude form of the style the Seiji (sage) Vy Low practices."

"Wait isn't Vy Low the great Kuruda hero and Sevaar, nicknamed 'Scarface?' "

"Yes, a thousand years ago he was a mortal who was accepted into the ranks of the Sages, along with some of his fellow marital artists. Such as Elle Ragu, the Shadow Skill, named for her famed expertise of the style, and also her lover Gau Ban, the Black Howling."

"Wait a sec lover?"

"Yes she adopted him at a young age but such feelings change over time."

"That's right she kissed him in the last few episodes when she was telling him about what it means to be a Sevaar."

"I'm afraid you as a mortal are not allowed into the Heavenly Realm and as such cannot meet them."

"That's okay I understand," slightly disappointed that I couldn't meet such great and powerful legends.

"I can arrange for you to get the manuals for the styles," she said and she ran her fingers up my arm.

"Really!" I shouted, completely giddy and forgetting I was in the presence of a powerful and holy being.

"Really," she whispered seductively.

I saw her face getting closer to mine and blurted out something in defense.

"Uh um… I have… a girlfriend," I stuttered, completely red.

She smiled and turned to kiss me on the cheek. When she stood up I realized she was almost a good foot taller than me.

"Such admirable devotion," she said. "I'm impressed."

So am I, if I was still in college I would have jumped a girl like her any day of the week.

"I'll bring the manuals on my next visit, but you already seem to have the basics down very well," she said.

She turned to leave and I shouted out, "Can I see the Hyougi (Surface Skill) and Ying style manuals as well?"

She looked over her shoulder and smiled at me, "Of course."

And that's how my training began.

End Flashback…

I met Tamano Mae several times afterwards. I would meditate in the groves while she and Kyuubi conversed or so they say. They somehow shifted planes of existence and met in between. The manuals she gave me showed me the correct postures and stances of the styles I wanted to learn. Prior to these books I had only used what I had learned from my senseis and tried to mix that with what I saw in the animes. Now I knew exactly what to do. My strength and form greatly grew. But I had been reminiscing for too long.

I sat up and stretched, these days I wore a black Shihakushyou. It was a black Shinigami uniform, it looked like the one in the Bleach anime. For those who didn't see it, it looked like a black gi that martial artists wore mixed with a kimono. It's hard for me to describe. Somedays I wore the white version. I guess it could be described as light draw-string pants and a loose karate gi top. I also wore sandals.

"I'd better go back to class Kakashi-sensei should be there now."

"See ya."

"Bye Naruto."

On my way to class I met Kakashi-sensei.

"Yo," he said with a smile beneath his mask.

"Hey Kakashi-sensei," I replied. "You're late."

"Ah but you knew that already," he said.

I had long gotten him to stop supplying bullshit excuses in return for threatening not to continue editing the Icha Icha Paradise. That just meant that the books would come out slower. That was something Kakashi could not deal with. He was now used to the faster pace of books coming out. Thanks to my editing Jiraiya's books usually came out in half the time it normally took.

We went inside the classroom only to be greeted by a scowling Sasuke and an irate Sakura. Neither of us was affected by them.

"Okay you guys let's meet on the rooftop," he said before vanishing in a puff of smoke.

"Dammit I should have remembered, I didn't need to walk down here," I grumbled under my breath.

When my team made it topside we began the usual introductions.

"Why don't we start with introducing one another, your name, hobbies, likes, dislikes, and dreams for the future?"

"Why don't you introduce yourself Sensei?" asked Sakura.

"I'm Hatake Kakashi, I have plenty of likes and dislikes. I don't feel like sharing my hobbies. Dreams for the future? Hmmm."

"Marry Rin?" I mumbled loud enough for only Kakashi to hear me.

Sasuke and Sakura looked at me, they didn't quite hear me but they saw Kakashi's response and wondered what I had said. Then he looked at me in a gesture to go next and I boringly answered.

"I'm Uzumaki Naruto, my only hobbies are training, cooking, and movies, I guess."

No one made fun of my cooking statement, while I wasn't as good as Haku or Hinata it was a well known fact all persons present knew my cooking was good first hand.

"I like my family, friends, my girlfriend Haku-chan."

I didn't notice the various looks I got when I mentioned Haku was my girlfriend.

Kakashi thought it was interesting.

Hmm… I thought as much.

Sakura thought it was sweet.

Aw, that's so sweet, Naruto and Haku-sempai together, they definitely go well together.

Sasuke had unreadable feelings about it, but a slight twinge of jealousy was visible.

Hmph, they've known each other so long. Naruto's lucky, Haku a lot prettier and stronger than Sakura, plus she's already a Chuunin.

"I guess my dream is to become a Sannin-level ninja."

Kakashi silently nodded.

"You with the pink hair."

I didn't even have to listen to know all of Sakura's answers, she would shoot glances at Sasuke followed by blushes.

"Your dislikes?"

"Ino-pig."

I thought sarcastically to myself.

I'm sure Ino would be heartbroken to hear you say that.

"Your turn."

Sasuke folded his hands like Mr. Burns and answered, "My only hobby is training, I don't like many things, except my family, few friends, Naruto… I dislike plenty of things. I don't like to use the word dream but I do have an ambition…"

What the hell? Aren't you supposed to be different? Granted your whole clan wasn't saved most of your immediate family was. Dammit Sasuke.

"to revive my clan…"

Sakura perked up at this with hearts in her eyes.

"and to kill a certain man," he finished.

Kakashi noticed this.

"He might be dead already," I said casually.

Sasuke shot me a glare as if saying, "Only I can kill him."

I shot him a look and said, "Leave it to your brother."

He didn't say anything after that but I could tell he wouldn't let it go.

I'll have to talk to Itachi later.

"Well prepare for survival training tomorrow at 7 in the morning."

"We did plenty of that at the academy sensei," said Sakura.

I zoned out at this point while Kakashi proceeded to scare them with his speech about the 66 failure rate and how the exam only selected possible Genin candidates. He left and we went our separate ways but not before I passed a message to Kakashi.

"If you're ever late in the future I'll tell Rin about your books."

He looked at me challengingly, "You don't know where they are."

I flashed him my Kyuubi eyes and said, "Southwest corner."

Panic flashed through his eyes from my threat and not Kyuubi. Kakashi already knew about Kyuubi, I had told him years ago when he began training me.

When I got home I was greeted by my three favorite women, Kaasan, Neechan, and Haku-chan. Over dinner we discussed various things until Tsunade-kaasan asked me what I was going to do about Kakashi's test.

I smiled at her and said, "I'm gonna kick his ass."

I had breakfast that morning and left for the training grounds. I saw Sakura and Sasuke but no Kakashi. I was ready to run to Rin and tattle on Kakashi when he appeared, fifteen minutes late.

"Sorry everyone," he said. "I couldn't find my mask."

I believed him but I could tell Sakura and Sasuke had different thoughts.

What's under that mask?

I smirked at Kakashi as I thought all about my planning from last night. I was totally abusing my knowledge of the anime here.

"You have until noon to get a bell from me otherwise I'll tie you against the post and eat in front of you."

I heard Sakura and Sasuke groan aloud.

"But sensei there are only two bells?" asked Sakura.

"Yes, that means one of you will definitely fail," he answered. "Ready? Set? GO!"

We all vanished.

Kakashi gave us a few minutes to ourselves before he hunted us.

Kakashi's POV

Hmm… Everyone's doing well. Sakura in the bushes, Sasuke in the tree, and Naurto is… where is he? This is bad, Naruto's probably the greatest threat but that alone won't let you pass Naruto.

I chuckled to myself as I let a bell drop to the floor. Everyone heard it and noticed it immediately. I wondered who would go first. I was surprised to see it was Naruto. I could see he was going at his top speed because he looked like a black blur from his black shihakushyou. I noticed he wasn't using Hirameku. It was during one of our trainings that I pointed out its flaw.

Flashback…

"Naruto, the Hirameku is a flawed technique, well at least against an experienced Jounin such as myself."

Naruto was laying on the grassy ground, out of breath.

"What do you mean Kakashi-sensei?"

"Hirameku is a technique that fools the opponent's sense of sight and hearing. However Jounin level ninjas will be able to track you using their chakra sense. Hirameku expends a lot of noticeable chakra. Your father, the Yondaime, didn't use this very often after he became a Jounin himself."

"I see."

"Also, people with special dojutsu like the Uchiha and Hyuuga can see you clearly with their eyes. However the Sharingan cannot predict your steps."

"It's the same thing if I use Kyuubi's chakra right Kakashi-sensei?"

"Yes Naruto."

I saw Naruto was being thoughtful and wondered what he was thinking.

That's right, Sasuke's Sharingan couldn't predict Kyuubi's chakra and Neji saw the Kyuubi's chakra cover up Naruto's tenketsu in their fight.

End Flashback…

I saw Naruto throw a kunai and disable my trap. As expected of Naruto, he's a very intelligent child. However…

I chose this moment to drop down on him.

"Not so fast Naruto…"

End Kakashi's POV

Naruto's POV

I saw Kakashi drop down in front of me, I didn't expect it to be so easy anyway.

"I'll have to redo the basics with you Naruto," he said as I jumped away. "Let's start off with taijutsu."

I guess I should be thankful that he didn't pull out that perverted book of his, but at least he was acknowledging me as a threat. I decided to engage him in taijutsu.

"Kuruda Ryu Kousapou: Blade!"

My leg lashed out at an incredible speed, but Kakashi blocked it anyway.

Blade was meant to be a quick attack, not known for its strength but its speed.

"Not enough Naruto," he said.

Although that was an impressive speed, anyone else would have fallen prey to it, hell I almost did. That wasn't normal Taijutsu, but he didn't even need hand seals.

"Wrong!" I said.

He looked confused until I performed Blade again with my other leg which he blocked again. This time it was right next to his head so he felt a little dazed. The resounding blow caused him to let go of me.

I saw Kakashi flex his arm to wear off the numbness.

Damn, Naruto's kick packs a punch, I've never seen that technique before. I might need to use my Sharingan.

I saw Kakashi reach for his forehead protector.

"I won't give you the chance!" I yelled as I performed hand seals.

"Katon: Housenka no Jutsu!" as I spewed a dozen fireballs at him.

He dodged a few until one of them hit him, then he paused in an effort to put out the fire but got hit by the rest.

"Kakashi-sensei!" yelled Sakura.

I could tell it was a Kawarimi.

Where are you? Behind?

I was about to turn when I heard a familiar phrase.

"Ancient Taijutsu Supreme Technique: A Thousand Years of Pain!" he cried as he rammed his index and middle finger up my ass.

Which promptly went… BOOM? I could tell from the shock on his face that he was surprised. He hadn't seen me use that technique either. Even though Kakashi knew it he didn't expect me to. It threw Kakashi against a nearby tree.

"Bakuhatsu Kage Bunshin," I said from a tree above Kakashi's form.

"Naruto!" he grumbled.

"Don't worry, I'm a Kage Bunshin too," I said. "Aren't you going to test the others?"

"Ohh, you don't seem to care about them very much do you?"

"I do care I only said that because the real me is answering the real question of this exam."

I then went poof.

Kakashi sat there surprised again.

Has Naruto already grasped the meaning of this exercise?

Somewhere else nearby…

"Hey Sakura do you want to team up together?" I asked her.

"Sorry Naruto but I'm going to pass with Sasuke-kun," she said before disappearing.

"I was going to tell you how we could all pass," I grumbled.

I was very disappointed and annoyed at Sakura. I could only hope she'd get better. I had tried to convince her to be a medic-nin before but she was too engrossed in Sasuke to take up my offer.

I decided I'd check on my plan that I had set up last night. I heard Sakura scream in the distance but couldn't feel any pity for her.

If only she had listened.

A few minutes later I heard an explosion from what I assumed to be Sasuke.

Damn, I missed watching Sasuke get his ass kicked.

Don't get me wrong I loved seeing anyone get their ass kicked among my guy friends as long as it wasn't me. I found Sasuke neck deep in the dirt and an unconscious Sakura nearby.

"Having fun?" I asked.

"Just get me out of here," he groaned.

"I don't know maybe I should leave you with Sakura?" I said with a mischievous glint in my eye.

Sasuke shuddered.

"Naruto, you're my friend," he said.

I could tell it was paining him to say this because of the way he said it, it was almost begging.

"Yes, unfortunately," I said as I pulled him out of the ground. "I've got a plan…"

But he was already gone.

"Why doesn't anyone listen to me!" I shouted.

A few birds flew overhead and I'm sure Kakashi heard me. I decided I was on my own. But this meant I could activate my plan.

Sasuke engaged Kakashi in the clearing. I could see that Sasuke's taijutsu was impressive, not nearly as impressive as Lee's but noteworthy anyway.

"Dammit!" muttered Sasuke as he broke off his attack.

He was glaring at Kakashi who was reading his book again.

How am I ever going to catch up to my brother at this rate?

I saw Sasuke thinking to himself and chose this time to let loose my traps since he was out of the way now.

Kakashi's POV…

Sakura was disappointing and Sasuke has potential but where is Naruto. I'm kind of worried. He seemed to know what was going on. He also tried to get his teammates to work together but… I'm willing to pass them on that alone but… where is he? What is he doing?

I was answered when I saw Kunai flying towards me. I stepped back only to be tripped by a wire.

What the hell?

I tried to soften my fall but I fell through the ground.

A pit?

I grabbed the walls of the pit and pushed myself against it.

Naruto!

I couldn't help but be amused and impressed. To find time to set up a trap, but wait a sec… I thought about what Naruto said earlier:

"Don't worry, I'm a Kage Bunshin too," I said. "Aren't you going to test the others?"

I see he used Sasuke and Sakura to divert my attention while he prepared traps for me. This is a form of teamwork, I'll give him that. Now I'm certain that Naruto knows the objective of this test.

I looked up when I heard a buzzing sound to see Naruto hold a beehive.

I could be wrong, he could just be sadistic.

I used Kawarimi and appeared behind Naruto ready to give him a good lesson when he blew up again!

Damn…I was getting careless and I knew it. I tried to anger him earlier with my little Taijutsu stunt but it ended up working against me, and just now he used my anger against me to get me to attack him directly.

I hit another tree and looked around for Naruto. Only to see about twenty shuriken flying at me. As I dove to the left I saw several projectiles coming at me from multiple directions.

Kage Bunshin or are these traps? Dammit I don't have time to think.

End Kakashi POV…

Naruto's POV…

When I said I was abusing my knowledge of the Naruto anime you have no idea. Since I knew about this test I had set up nearly a hundred traps around the clearing. There was no way I was letting Kakashi out. One of my clones rescued Sasuke and brought him to me. I could tell Sasuke was surprised but why? Was it because I was sitting around in the bushes with several of my Kage Bunshin and having a picnic? Maybe. I had been using my Kage Bunshin to go out and set off my traps while some of them stayed with me to consume the picnic Haku had made.

"Sandwich, Sasuke?" I asked.

He looked at me incredulously before shrugging it off. He sat down and accepted a sandwich and joined me and my clones in breakfast. Even though I said I had breakfast, Kyuubi's manipulation of my metabolism allowed me to enjoy more of Haku's cooking.

Sasuke pulled out my version of a Klondike.

"This is good," he said.

"I made that one," I answered.

"No way," he said.

"You don't have to have anymore," I said as I began to close the picnic basket and my clones formed a defensive perimeter.

"No, I mean please," he said.

My clones snickered to each other and we let it slide. A few explosions and cries later from Kakashi, Sakura stumbled upon us.

"What's going on?" she asked.

Sasuke and I merely held out a sandwich each.

"Who made that?" she asked.

Please let it be Naruto! I love you Sasuke-kun but please let it be Naruto!

My clones and Sasuke pointed at me and that shut her up as she sat down to join us.

Meanwhile with Kakashi in the Forest of Death… I mean the clearing…

Kakashi's POV…

Where are you Naruto, I'm gonna kill you. This will be the first time I've wanted to kill a student. I'm gonna use Chidori while I'm at it.

How many traps did Naruto have? His clones were effectively flanking me from all directions. I tried to leave the clearing but every direction I turned I was faced with traps. Every escape route turned into a death trap.

I was breathing heavily and lying against a tree. All my composure had left me half an hour ago. Naruto seemed to have let up on his attack and I took this time to reach into my pouch for my book only to come up… EMPTY?

I noticed at this time that my bells were missing!

"NARUTO!" I yelled.

End Kakashi's POV

With Naruto and gang…

Naruto's POV

"Kakashi-sensei seemed angry," stated Sakura as she shivered.

Sasuke looked at her for stating the obvious.

"You think," he said annoyed before turning to me with a rare, friendly smile. "I think he's going to kick your ass."

Sasuke stopped laughing when he felt the intense killer intent behind him. He turned to be met face to face with a twitching eye, Kakashi's eye.

"AHHH!" the three of us screamed.

Half an hour later…

The three of us stood tied against the wooden poles while Kakashi rummaged through the picnic basket. It took him nearly twenty five minutes to find us and five minutes to detain and capture us.

"Well I'm glad to say you don't have to return to the academy," he said.

I notice Kakashi winced as he sat down. His clothes were torn and burned as he took a hungry bite out of a sandwich.

"You two are better off dead," he said.

Sasuke shot glares at him while Sakura looked scared.

"The point of this exercise was teamwork," said Kakashi as he rubbed his arms.

"Teamwork?" asked Sakura. "But sensei there are only two bells, no matter what someone will fail. That promotes rivalry within a group."

Kakashi cracked his back and some of the joints in his arm. Finally he snapped his nose back in place.

Son of bitch that hurts!

Kakashi shot me a look before answering Sakura. Despite the pain he was in he seemed like he wanted to laugh at the situation. Probably because he underestimated me.

"That's correct Sakura I was trying to see who would look beyond the greater good for the team. In many missions you'll be forced to make decisions that cause you to look at the greater good. Something you don't seem to be good at!"

Sakura looked down in shame.

"Naruto was right next to you and asked you for help, but all you could see was Sasuke. As far as I'm concerned you need to clean up your act. This isn't the academy anymore this isn't time for you to show off or chase after some romantic dream."

Sasuke smirked.

I hope that get's her off my back.

I could only wince in pain as I felt bad for Sakura.

Geez, the truth hurts, Kakashi could have laid it a little more gently.

"And you Sasuke, you thought your teammates would hold you back. With that kind of thinking you'll never kill him!"

Sasuke was brought out of his amusement by that comment. I could feel the hate dripping from his venomous gaze that he set on Kakashi.

"If you think you're getting strong on your own then you're wrong. Where did those jutsus you learned come from? Who gave you that bloodline? Nothing you've done has been on your own."

Sasuke looked down in shame as well because he knew Kakashi was right.

Everything I've learned has been from Aniki or father, none of this is my own strength.

"However, no one is exempt from this. That's why teamwork is so important so that we can help each other grow."

Kakashi sighed and winced as he rubbed a burn on his neck.

"And finally Naruto. You had a good plan you even grasped the answer to this exercise. I don't know what provoked you to have a picnic but you got cocky. However I'll willing to pass you alone if you don't feed anyone else."

Kakashi then cut me loose.

"Don't feed anyone else."

Then he vanished, probably to go lick his wounds. I obviously wasn't going to listen to him.

"Here Sakura, I'm no Sasuke but I'm willing to bet you're the hungriest of us three," I said.

Sakura blushed and accepted my food, "Thank you Naruto."

"I'll feed you second Sasuke because the idea of feeding a guy is utterly repulsive and I've got to gather courage first."

Sasuke raised his eyebrows at this but softened as if to say, "Ditto."

After feeding Sakura I went to feed Sasuke and it just so happened there was a storm overhead.

"I thought I told you not to feed them."

"We're a team!" said Sasuke, although there was an unmistakable trace of fear in his voice.

"That's right Kakashi-sensei," Sakura was visibly flinching.

"You…" boomed Kakashi's voice.

I pretended to act scared.

"You three…"

Sasuke and Sakura stood up bravely but it was just an act.

"Pass!" he said with a lazy smile.

Suddenly it was all sunny and like that the tension was gone.

"What!" yelled Sakura.

"You three are now officially a team," he said.

"Hmph," snorted Sasuke, but you could tell he was happy.

"Are we done Kakashi-sensei?" I asked, feigning relief.

"Not yet. I want you guys to come over here for a second."

He led us to the memorial tablet.

"This stone tablet contains the name of Konoha's heroes who died bravely in battle."

Our silence was our reverence for the dead.

"My best friend is here. I want you three to know this. 'Those who break the rules are trash but those who betray their friends and worse than trash.' "

Kakashi-sensei let us go but I stayed behind for few moments.

"Uchiha Obito didn't entrust you with mourning his passing. He wanted you to live for Konoha, for Rin. He wanted you to protect the people precious to you. That's what the Sharingan in your left eye is for."

Kakashi looked at me.

"My dad's diary."

"Ahh, Arashi-sensei. Do you miss him?"

"Not really. I can't really feel for someone I had never met. Strangely enough I do have mixed emotions about him. I love him for bringing me into this world. I admire him for the person he is. I also hate him for what he did to me and Kyuubi but I understand his first mission was to protect the village."

"What about your mother?"

"My only mother is Tsunade-kaasan. I don't need anyone else."

I left Kakashi with those parting words. Kakashi looked up at the sky instead of at the memorial for once in the past decade.

He's strong like you Arashi-sensei. He also has your wisdom and strength. That strategy he came up with was superb. Truly ANBU material. He had nearly a hundred traps set up so dozens of them could be set up by one person. I suppose that way he minimized his chakra usage with a small amount of Kage Bunshin.

The positioning of the traps were all designed to work together. When I dodged the initial attack it was merely a feint to set me up for an even bigger trap. Naruto used that several times. One of them led me to a pit. He used Bakuhatsu Kage Bunshin to goad me and knock me off balance. He truly is your son.

"Hey Naruto where's my book!"

Tsuzuku…

Author's Notes: My longest chapter yet. Next time on A New Nindo I go to Wave Country and Haku comes with us. She wants to pay her respects to her parents. With her along I don't think we'll have any trouble at all. How wrong I am. Who is the Hunter-nin and who is Zabuza's tool? I find two fearsome enemies along side Zabuza. Things are even worse this time around, what will I do? Find out on A New Nindo, Chapter 11: Memories of the Bloody Mist.

Borrowed Jutsus from TokehGecko

Bakuhatsu Kage Bunshin: I'm not sure but I think this is the jutsu that Itachi uses against Kakashi in episodes 81-82?

For Important Notes:

Vote for Itachi's pairing Tsume/Anko/Kurenai

Tsume is Kiba's sister. I want him to have a girlfriend so he'll be more normal, he deserves one.

Should it be Shikamaru/Temari or Shikamaru/Ino, cast your votes.

I feed off of your reviews. The more reviews the more likely I am to continue writing quickly. I will finish this story arc, I won't leave people hanging. It will finish after the Chuunin exams. The teasers for the next three arcs can be found at the bottom of my author's profile. If you have any comments I'd appreciate them.

If there is a threesome it will be Naruto/Haku/Tenten, Temari, or OC (who will appear at the end of this arc). If they're older I may consider Hanabi or Hanamori instead.

Neji and Hinata are close but not romantically involved yet. Can change in the future depending on votes and a close friend of mine's opinion (and whining).

Also I was asking for who will be the other girl for threesome but how many actually want a threesome?

I will use techniques from Shadow Skill, Street Fighter, and Shura no Toki/Mon. Even though it may seem like Naruto has a lot of techniques it doesn't mean he's godlike, Sharingan Kakashi is suppose to have copied over a 1,000 jutsus and he isn't stronger than a sannin, he's only a top jounin. He's also below Itachi and Orochimaru. So I think that Naruto's large arsenal provides versatility not necessarily power.

Story is in 1st person but is meant to include other character's thoughts and views, a hybrid mix of 1st and 3rd person view. It may be confusing I apologize this is just the way I want to write the story. I started out writing it this way and it kinda stuck with me. Thank you for your understanding.