Chapter One
Three years had passed since Iwa's humiliating defeat in the Third Great Shinobi War. The citizens of Iwa truly lived up to their reputations. Iwa's stony will was still ever present among the people. On such being a young boy, Masahiro Sekita, only five years old. He had been orphaned at the end of the war like so many others
So, when presented with an opportunity to fight Iwa's enemies as a shinobi he immediately took it. So, now the boy moved through the large crowd of people gathered around the entrance of the academy.
Reaching the entrance, he was met by an imposing man. His face was marred with burns and scratches which were only accented by his emotionless face.
The man spoke in a gruff voice, "Name and Age" the line was well practiced he likely had been doing this for years.
"Masahiro Sekita, five" he answered back with resoluteness.
"Class 1D first right second class you see"
Sekita gave a brief nod before heading to his class he looked at numerous rooms of the academy all filled with students. Finally reaching his class he entered. Taking a seat on the front edge of the class. There was only one other boy in the class, he was a bit early, sitting on the other side of the room. They each speared each other a passing glance before turning away.
It was another five minutes until the rest of his class began to file in and another five until there sensei acknowledge them. The tall man stood up slowly and pushed up his glasses with two fingers. With short methodic strokes he wrote his name on the board "Shiba Takahiro".
He picked up a clipboard and his eyes flickered across the room then they found their way back to the board. With "I will call your names and you will respond with Present understood"
He was met with a curt "Hai" from everyone. Shiba began rattling off names and when he was finished, he places the clip board down and picked up another. "Follow me outside where we will begin your first assessment.
As expected, the class was a bit rattled from an assessment on the first day, but like an old dog the quietly began to obey. One by one they all got up and moved in a line to the training ground
Sekita POVWhen we arrived outside, we met Shiba-sensei standing with a few other sensei's along with their classes, all first years. From what I could assume they'd be pitting us against each other in some sort of competition. My thoughts were confirmed when they started handing out each student a pair of kunai. Finally, after what seemed for hours the reached me and handed a pai of kunai all blunted. They would fight each other
Shiba spoke up, "Alright, your first test as shinobi will allow us to see your initial combat ability. There is no failing but if you win your fights one of your kunai will be sharpen win another, you'll have two brand new kunai courtesy of the Iwagakure Shinobi Academy"
It was no secret that most of us were either dirt poor or orphaned if you had money or were skilled enough you went to Meimon, children from clans and the children of powerful shinobi attended that school. Most of us couldn't afford kunai wining would be a big boost to our starting points
I knew the basics of Kunai combat which was a lot more than most. I thought it foolish not to come here with some knowledge. My peers where nervous many of them never held kunai, neither had I. The best I had was practicing with some kunai length sticks.
It was not very long until my name was called to battle "The next fight Will be against Sekita Vs Ishikawa" one of the sensei's shouted strongly. Both of us moved towards the training ground and we locked eyes as we waited for the Sensei to signal us to fight.
He held his kunai Firmly with confidence he clearly had some practice with the real thing, but he was shorter than me his arms were not long either the plan was to stay in that pocket where I can hit him, and he can't hit me.
When then sensei called for the fight to begin, he darted towards me with surprising speed trying to close the distance. I went for a low kick by his knee which kept him back and slowed his advance. Cautiously we both circled each other. It seemed we both released that we were not to be underestimated. The Sensei's released this as well as they were now watching us keenly.
Then he lunged towards be and his blades clanged against mine rhythmically, but he was in control and was pushing me on the defense, so I Locked blades with him and used my stronger frame to push him back and take the offensive. By strategy of staying in the pocket was working.
The pressure I was putting on him accompanied by the Low kicks I'd been doing from the start of the fight began to weaken his stance. Deciding to take advantage of this I Went for another low kick it looked the same as the others, but I placed a lot more power bring him to his knees.
Locking blades for the second time in the match I pushed him back and then place by foot on his chest as he leaned back. He winced in pain as his back was being placed in an uncomfortable position. And when he winced, I swiftly moved my kunai to his throat. The fight was one in my favour.
Were most of the kids upon loosing were saddened he smiled and stuck his hand out, "Names Ishikawa. Were the hell did you learn to fight like that". I took his hand and pulled him up
"I could say the same to you" I said with a smug smirk.
Our conversation was abruptly ended by the sensei's calling of another fight. We split ways I went to get my kunai sharpened. In second fight I was unable to use one of my kunai because it was deadly weapon only one student was able to beat a student with only one kunai "
Throughout the rest of our classes went through the basics of chakra and how to use the basic shinobi equipment: shuriken, kunai, and ninja wire. So, after the first day in the academy, I was surprisingly met with Ishikawa calling to me.
"Hey man It will only benefit the both of us if we train together. I know a good spot no one goes there any more since the war ended but it's in good condition" he said exacerbated.
I answered with I nod and followed him to the place. I wondered why people stopped using it after the war, but the only way I would find out was by going there.
When we arrived at the training ground it was very apparent why no one went here anymore this was one of the P.O.W camps that were operation during the war there was a bloody history on this ground. Even in the soil they stood on there was probably thousands of Konoha Shinobi buried beneath them.
Even still, Ishikawa was right about it being in good condition the targets were freshly painted and wooden posts were not marred by the various scratches and dents of one from a usual shinobi training ground.
I was brought out of my musing by the soft sound of a zipper. Coincidently Ishikawa pulled out what looked to be some good conditions kunai and shuriken from his bag, they were used but still in good condition.
Prompted by my incredulous look of awe at the equipment Ishikawa felt that he had to explain "My grandfather was a shinobi he doesn't need them anymore, so he gave them to me".
I was even more surprised when he gave me a set of equipment again, he explained "When he grew up Iwa was prosperous and bountiful, he has plenty more".
I felt as though I'd just been given such a massive gift for almost no reason, "I can't take this. What did I even do to warrant this." I tried to hand them back
"Keep them. All I ask is that you help me with my goal. Bring Iwa back to a time of Abundance. I will lead Iwa to great things. That's why I must become the Tsuchikage" he said placing them back in my hand.
With a look of understand my Hand tightened around the set. I resolved myself to the same goal. A prosperous Iwa needed strong shinobi The people of Iwa were starving while Konoha sat well fed. He resolved himself to becoming strong enough to Lead Iwa to greatness as the Tsuchikage. I resolved my self to do so on the battlefield. Both would be necessary if change would happen
The only way that our Goals could be reached would be through our strength. We trained that day until midnight, the next day we woke up early before the academy and trained taijutsu Kunai and Shuriken throwing and we spared, and this continued for six months.
Our Progress was evident we were both tied for second behind Yuta Watanabe the student who left with two kunai sharpened. He was nothing short of a prodigy. He had shinobi parents two Tokubetsu Jounin It was evidencing the training he received had given him a head start Ishikawa's grandfather was only a genin when his career was ended in the first war. Still, we were gaining on him, and we even stole a couple of wins against him in spars.
Today was an important day in the academy they'd be learning from the basic the shinobi jutsu Bunshin, Henge, and Kawarimi. They'd been practicing chakra control and now the classes level of competency was where it was supposed to be for them to begin teaching the jutsu.
Clearly Ishikawa was exited the big grin on his face hid now emotion, Watanabe was also exited judging by the smirk on his face. The general energy of the class was exited and if the six months of Sensei had taught him one thing it was that He would turn this into ten-minute lecture on how a shinobi should not show emotion.
Fifteen minutes later and a lecture on how shinobi should not show emotion the class finally settled. Sensei quickly revised the hand signs for all three which we all mirrored. After that He spoke up "The henge, bunshin, kawarimi are all similar in that you first cover your self in a thin layer of charka all over you body. With the henge Your simple change the appearance of said chakra. With the bunshin you us the chakra as a mold and form a copy of your self-using said mold. The kawarimi requires you to essentially rubber band yourself with an object which is why its easier to do it with objects of medium size".
The explanation was helpful we started with the henge we covered our hand in chakra and then changed the coloured. Then we did this with a forearm then our torso then entire boy. The next day we did different patterns and by the end of the week we had the henge down. Unsurprisingly Watanabe already new ho to do all three and now that ninjutsu was allowed in spars he started using them in conjunction with minor elemental jutsu. Once again, the gap had widened between them, and it made me, and Ishikawa do the only thing we could I three weeks we had somehow got down all the big three jutsu in record time.
Still the big difference between Me and Ishikawa, and Watanabe was the fact that he had a style, a style that incorporated ninjutsu and most importantly he had a teacher two of them in fact. He was bigger stronger and faster than us due to him being better fed. He ate like lived in the capital and it showed even at six he was defined, and muscles were starting to grow.
It was no secret that a border city like the one they lived in was poorer than the capital were the clans lived that was the motivation that pushed many to want to become strong shinobi. In a way it was his he wanted to escape poverty, only he wanted everyone else to as well.
After a good training session with Ishikawa the only places open that sold food were taken out as a treat for finally getting down the Justus I decided to splurge. Splurge was used lightly this didn't cost more than four Ryo but still it put a dent in my pocket it, doing odd jobs around the city could only get you so much was only some pork and rice.
Still, I was happy, the porridge that the orphanage gave out was repetitive, meat was a rarity only on rare occasions. Anticipation was killing him this was probably the best he was going to eat in a while so he would savor his moment. The food smelled delicious
Of course, the happiness felt a shove in is back he fell, but more importantly the takeout box fell and opened. The food spilled out and immediately My heart sank I picked up the box and looked inside there was almost nothing left in there. I sat there for second before childishly banging on the ground repeatedly. Tears began to fill my eyes by now I let out sobs
I couldn't let my money go to waste so I vanquished what little pride I had and began picking up the individual grains of rice form the floor and eating them then I quicky scooped up the pieces of pork and ate them before e any ants could get them. I crunched them down along with the dirt that was son them.
It appeared that someone had heard my sobs The man was tall, and his skin was darkened from his work I would assume. The Headband on his forehead signified him as a shinobi. "Hey kid I think it was me who bumped into you I can't fix you meal, but I can offer you a home cooked meal". He offered and outstretched hand to me which I took.
I muttered a soft, "thankyou"
"It's the right thing to do. I need no thanks" He replied solemnly, "so Kid I'm Noya Ryota. what's you name" this time with a happier tone
"Masahiro Sekita" I answered
It wasn't long until they reached Ryota's house. I was immediately met with a delicious aroma coming from the house, the house was a medium sized house and very traditional, to me it looked like a mansion.
Entering the house, I was greeted by who I would assume was the man's wife and his daughter who was 2 years younger than me and in a little over a year would be starting the academy. This was the first time I has ever been in such an environment so, I was a bit on edge.
"Sekita, you don't have to be so tense, you are here as a guest" Ryota's wife, Setsuko, replied
I attempted to ease up and let out a deep breath finally relaxing. "Thanks for having me over".
"So, you're in the academy right what's it like" Yuki, the daughter, asked.
"It is intense… yet rewarding at the same time." I paused "I mean I've met my best friend at the academy and became so much closer to my goal, but it required me to put forth everything I had".
The answer was clearly more than what she expected her parent were also in shock at my words. Setsuko had prepared a very delicious Meal consisting of rice and beef. Nothing fancy but it tasted good and was hardy could last you days if needed.
So, when dinner had ended, I was met with a proposal from Ryota "you know I wouldn't be opposed to training you and your friend. Its hard for orphans like me and you to get far without some extra help"
I was shocked at the act of kindness exhibited by the man. He took me into his own house fed me and was now offering me training. If He wanted to get far in his goal this would be just the thing, he needs to achieve it. "Please train me" I said bowing.
"This won't be easy I didn't make it to the rank of jounin for no reason." He said slightly bragging
I stared in astonishment a shinobi with no clan backing making it to jounin was next to unheard of and he was an orphan. To some degree it was comforting knowing that his goal seemed that much more achievable.
So, for 2 years he taught me and Ishikawa to the best of his ability we learned taijutsu styles that complemented us, and we had even gotten down basic nature transformation. Having a jounin that was willing to teach you was beneficial. Jus trading blows with him made us improve.
Now at the start of the new school year Me and Ishikawa could apply to the Prestigious academies in the capital maybe even make it into Meimon if we impressed them enough at the coming tournaments. Yuki would be enrolling this year.
The tournament grouping was by year level a three-man team. Already most of my classmates suspected the me Ishikawa, and Watanabe would represent this academy. The first tournament they'd have to go through would this city's tournament then the district and if they won that they would represent the district in the capital.
Watanabe seemed to rely on that in the coming months we'd probably be fighting together in the coming tournaments. So, surprisingly him and Ishikawa approached me when I entered our class.
"Sekita I already explained to Watanabe our skill sets and he told me his. To summarize his abilities, he's good at genjutsu and taijutsu, he also has some lightning jutsu, but his chakra levels don't allow him to use them often" Ishikawa began
Watanabe spoke his voice low and deep "So just how good are you with combing earth jutsu with your taijutsu. When we fought last year, you were only just touching the surface. Someone with your hellish training habits must have made some big leaps with all the free time".
"You'll see in the first day spars ". The first day spar were a regular and this year after the results they'd be told who would represent there year level this year.
Taking a seat Shiba sensei told the class to follow him in a matter that was all to similar to their first years, now third years they were going to start living at the academy they'd also sign their first contracts as shinobi they'd be getting pai for the next five years on an academy rate if they hadn't passed the exams by then they'd be cut from the academy when they made genin they'd sign another contract but now their income would come from mission the rest of their careers.
When they came outside the once massive lines of students had been cut down to fifteen to twenty for all the three lines. I was evident that those who were not meant to be shinobi had been weeded out.
That was the purpose of the first two years the grueling training and lack of affirmation meant students who lacked the physical ore mental fortitude simply quit. In their first year alone there, class had been cut in half by the end of the year.
There was more time for the instructor to focus on the individual student and Iwa had no problem gaining manpower in massive drone when needed. After the loss to Konoha Iwa realized that having shinobi that could take on armies by themselves was more efficient but also created a symbol for them to rally behind.
He was broken out of his musing by the sensei calling for "Sekita vs Tetsu" Tetsu was ranked fourth but still there was a noticeable gap between the top three and number four. Even still, his greatest mistake would be underestimating this enemy so when they both stepped into the ring, they both locked eyes and analyzed each other.
When the sensei signaled the start of the fight I crouched and infused my chakra into the ground just in case I need to use quick jutsu. Then I blitzed towards him, the same blunt kunai from my first day in hand and kicked him in the stomach he fell flat on his back, and I went to stab him with the kunai, but then he performed a seal-less kawarimi. He appeared behind me quickly he sunk a punch into my back, but I didn't budge. Suddenly I was revealed to be a mud clone his arm was no stuck.
Breaking through the ground I place my kunai on his jugular before e dissolving the clone. I glanced to Watanabe to see if he was satiated by my display of two jutsu.
"How didn't I notice the switch" Tetsu questioned
"I did it when I sped towards you, I substitute with the clone that I made underground" I replied trying to act cool. In my mind I was brimming with shouts of 'awesome' and 'what a brilliant move'.
Ishikawa the whispered "showoff" as he walked past me and went to his fight.
Sitting down with Watanabe he began to ask questions "Is that all the earth Justus you can do, Mud Clone and the Headhunter technique".
I shook my head in the negative "I can also use Mud Wall and I'm getting down Mud Bullets"
He seemed impressed at my casual use of elemental ninjutsu most chunin would be happy with a repertoire like that. Instead, I had some past his prime jounin telling me what he could do at my age. I chuckled at the thought of Ryota he'd be out on a mission for at least the next few months scouting Konoha border along with a team of three other jounin.
It was dangerous business the snuck into kusa and then made it to the border. So I sat back and relax for what would be the last time in a while If and when we were selected to represent we'd be put on strict physical training countless hours of scenario teambuilding exercise and maximizing what we would have by the summer when the first tournament would begin and if we made it to the capital we'd be fighting in a tournament and the getting one week of rest for the entire summer.
Still, this was what they wanted a chance to be a part of Iwa's best this was the quickest way to get there. So, I would put aside what was comfortable and fun so that he I inch by inch get closer to the goal bringing Iwa back to the Prosperous Power it once was.
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