I'm back with another chapter and I appreciate the feedback from the prologue. There are a couple things I wish to explain.
The reason I only have 3 options for a possible new bloodline is because I don't want it to be completely random like Explosion Release or Shikotsumyaku(Dead Bone Pulse). Mokuton is believable because of the distant relationship that Uzumakis have with the Senju and only intensifies with the chakra of the Rikudō Sennin.
You could argue that with the sage's chakra that any bloodline is possible, but I don't want to spread the options too thin.
At the time of writing this, the vote is even between the 3 bloodline choices. In the case of an even vote, I will decide for myself. I also take reviews into consideration.
I haven't gotten a review about this and the story image kind of speaks for itself, but Naruto will eventually get the Mangekyō Sharingan and I have designed it myself. It's my first attempt at creating a Mangekyō from scratch, so it probably doesn't look great compared to others that I have seen, but I've never been talented in graphic design.
There's a possibility that I'll create a poll to decide Naruto's Mangekyō's abilities, but then again I might not. Perhaps he'll have Kamui or Kotoamatsukami, obviously not both since that will be incredibly overpowered. Usually everyone comes with a unique Mangekyō ability. Itachi had Tsukuyomi, Shisui had Kotoamatsukami, and Obito had Kamui. Amaterasu is a little strange since both Itachi and Sasuke have it.
I'm still deciding so nothing is set in stone in terms of specific abilities.
Also, the money values in this fiction will be Ryo and the conversion I use is USD. It'd be awkward to use something else and since I'm from the U.S. it makes sense.
1000ryo = 1 dollar
10,000ryo = 10 dollars
100,000ryo - 100 dollars
...and so on.
Big news! I got a DeviantArt account that I will be uploading my (horrific) artwork and I will upload things that are relevant to the fic.
Such as the apartment that Naruto stays in since I felt that I explained it poorly.
www deviantart com / rocketcreeps
(add dots and remove spaces. There will also be a link on my profile)
That is all since I don't want this to be a recurring theme of long author notes, I hope you enjoy this next chapter.
The voting is still going on and this is the last chance to get your votes in.
Chapter 2
Meeting the Uchiha Duo
I looked around the room before getting out of bed and I fell face first on the floor with a loud thud.
"Oww.." I mutter.
Picking myself up, I finally start to feel the effects of my new body. The mindscape did me no favors since I wasn't actually in a physical body, only a physical representation of said body.
The weight is actually feeling fine and just about as what you'd expect from a 4 year old. A mirror lays against the corner wall in between the door to the bathroom and living room. I take a look and can see that I'm incredibly small but that's to be expected.
I head into the bathroom to get ready for the day and threw my shirt off into the bin.
'Wait'. I thought looking back to the bin that sat in the corner of the bathroom. 'That wasn't there before. Is this what Kurama meant in terms of dropping off a few items? The mirror was there before but not this'. I shake myself from my thoughts as I close the door behind me heading for the sink on the opposite wall, which there are more things that weren't here from my memories.
Toothpaste and a toothbrush along with some hand towels and larger ones on a rack next to the sink.
I look over to the shower that already has curtains and soap with a large bottle which I can guess is shampoo.
'This is a little more than a few items…' I sigh before brushing my teeth looking forward only to realize that I'm too short to actually look at myself completely in the mirror planted on the wall. I can see my forehead and eyebrows so it's not too practical. It seems the old man forgot to get a stool. Almost dropping my head in sorrow, I brush my teeth regardless and take a quick shower after throwing the rest of clothes in the bin.
Once I have dried myself off with a towel around my waist, I walk up to my dresser across my bed as I quickly picked out whatever was there.
I head back to the mirror and I'm currently wearing a white shirt with an orange Uzumaki swirl on it with black anbu pants. There are no shoes anywhere in the room which I can assume are near the door. From what I can remember, they were black sandals instead of blue ones that Naruto was known to wear in the first part of the series.
Opening the door to the living room, I am greatly surprised to see a couple of bookshelves and a couch but that's about it. The bookshelves are empty which greatly disappoints me. I can't exactly blame the old man since Naruto hated reading. It was only there if I ever needed it I assume.
Heading into the kitchen I can see that it's relatively the same, except for some small details like a bottle of salt and pepper, but there's also bread and a toaster on the counter. The refrigerator is there from my memories and I open it to see something I'm not too shocked in. A carton of milk, a few gallons of water, and butter. I sigh deeply at Naruto's poor eating habits. Checking a few drawers that I can reach which were all located on the ground I see a few of them to be filled with cup ramen.
'Great…' I thought deadpanned at the thought of eating nothing but bread and ramen. Looking around I spot a stool which actually makes a lot of sense to be in here, so I can always use it for both rooms. Grabbing a piece of bread, I toss it into the toaster and I use the stool to find a cup that I will use to heat up some water on the stove. I think that's how It's done. It took a few minutes and I added the hot water into a freshly opened cup of ramen. I'm not sure if I did that right but it's good enough.
About 5 minutes goes by and my breakfast is ready with ramen, milk, and buttered toast. Fantastic.
I walk up to the dining room table only to see a note with the label, "Naruto", and an envelope next to it.
'Seems to be from the hokage.' I thought opening the note.
Naruto,
I hope you have settled in well to your new apartment and I apologize that I couldn't be there to see it with you. You can come by today and tell me what you think.
I'm sure you have noticed that I had some ANBU add a few things that I didn't get a chance to before.
Please be responsible now that you are living on your own and I will be sure to check on you every now and then.
I have also given you a stipend as you are responsible to use it for paying for electricity and water. The rest is up to you to use it as you wish.
Hiruzen Sarutobi. Hokage.
P.s Do not eat all the ramen. It's supposed to last you about a month.
Smiling at the man's generosity I take the envelope and I remember from the memories that they have already gone over how much the bills will cost, so I will have about 50,000ryo left over.
'I'd be pretty screwed if I didn't have Naruto's memories, but then again I can just ask again since Naruto seems to be forgetful in such matters'. I laugh quickly finishing my breakfast and throwing the empty cup of milk in the sink and the paper cup of ramen in the trash.
There's an analog clock sitting to the right of the doorway leading back into the living room. It's still pretty early. 8:07am (08:07).
It's time to pay the Hokage a visit as I near the front door to see black shinobi sandals. Slipping them on, I run out the door locking it behind me. The Hokage's office is at the base of the mountain so it's not difficult to find.
I first notice that it's quite easy to run down the steps and make my way to the tower. The people in this world have to be more advanced, physically speaking, and it makes sense because of chakra. I wasn't the most active person around, but this 4 year old body is already much better than my own. Should I be ashamed or impressed? I'm not really sure. Kurama has to have some sort of influence.
The villagers are about as much as I expect. I'm met with glares from the people and it seems that hasn't changed at least. I can see how Naruto can come to hate such a look, but for me…
I smirk.
Their ignorance makes me want to laugh audibly. Why should I care what they think of me when they are nothing but sheep? Unable to think for themselves and draw their own conclusions? Instead they follow the masses.
The answer is, I shouldn't, and that's what I plan to do, but there is only one problem.
Will I be allowed in stores? Or would I just be kicked out?
I need to learn the henge first and foremost.
Naruto never used it and I can't, for the life of me, figure out why. They are civilians and it's unlikely for them to detect the henge jutsu especially since Naruto uses a massive amount of chakra to do it because of his lack of control, so he can keep the jutsu active for longer periods of time.
It would make my life easier and perhaps Naruto just never thought of using it since it would defeat his purpose of being acknowledged, but I have no need to be recognized by sheep. If they can only see the Kyūbi then I frankly don't give a shit.
My only goal is to be the strongest and to achieve world peace. This goal is practically identical to Itachi's, so hopefully my plan will work.
I arrive at the tower and make my way up to the receptionist, Akane, if I remember correctly, likes me and doesn't see the fox. I thank my lucky stars that at least a few more people can stray away from the pack of sheep.
Akane is sitting there rummaging through some paperwork as I open the door to the room and she recognizes me. She smiles.
"Hey, Naru-chan, Hokage-sama has been expecting you today. You can go on in. He is free to talk". Akane motions to the door and I almost outwardly groan at the nickname.
'Naru-chan...really?' I dismissed the thought quickly as I almost forgot she called me that, and I wish I did.
"Thank you, Akane-san". As soon as those words were uttered, I made my way to the door as she raises an eyebrow to that response.
'He's probably just tired". She thought not thinking much of it. Kids are usually grumpy when they're awake this early.
I open the door leading into the office and I see the hokage sitting behind his desk with piles of paperwork seemingly unfinished, but I'm surprised to see that we're not alone. Two ANBU shinobi are present. One with a fox mask and another with a cat mask.
'Kitsune and Neko. It's widely known that Yūgao Uzuki is the one behind the neko mask while Kakashi Hatake is behind the kitsune mask. That last one surprised me since many of the fics I have read always had Inu as Kakashi, but when I read Itachi's Shinden a couple of months before I woke up as Naruto, Kakashi was portrayed to have a fox mask rather than a dog mask'. I thought mentally grinning.
I loved the story and if I didn't already love Itachi's character then I definitely did after reading the first book. It was less than 200 pages and it wasn't a manga either, but I finished it in a few days. Reading that story made me further love his character, his goals and the hardships he had to endure at such a young age made me sympathize with him. A child should never have to shoulder a burden that large.
I must have been zoning out as the hokage was waving at me trying to get my attention, blinking I look up at him and he smiles.
"It seems that you're done spacing off now, Naruto-kun. How are you settling in? I assume you got my letter?" He asks while motioning me to sit down in one of the seats in front of his desk.
"Yes. I like it a lot, and I did. Thank you for that". I thanked him while looking around the room seeing a few bookshelves here and there filled with books and scrolls.
Hiruzen's eyebrows raise at such a monotone response and this thought is shared by the two ANBU shinobi in the room as well.
"You're welcome, Naruto-kun. I believed it was time for you to get your own place and the responsibility will help you for when you go to the academy". He explains and it makes sense. This is perfect as I can lead into what I wanted to speak to him about without it coming out of the blue.
"Can't I join the academy early?" I ask attempting to imitate a 'Naruto-like question'. Impatient and always wanting to do things immediately. Although my tone doesn't reflect him in the slightest even as a 4 year old child. I simply cannot fake excitement without it seeming incredibly fake.
Hiruzen actually laughs.
"I'm afraid not. You have to be 6 years old to join the academy". He informed me and I expected this answer which leads into my next question.
"Then can I learn stuff early?" I ask having to dumb down my vocabulary.
His expression changes to an amused look.
"Oh? And what do you have in mind?" He asks assuming that I'll probably ask for cool jutsu which I can't fault him for. Naruto is sort of an idiot when it comes to such things.
"Like math, history, chakra control… stuff like that". I ask which greatly shocks the 3 adults in the room. Now they are legitimately concerned.
"Hmm. That's incredibly mature of you. I assumed you would have asked for high level jutsu and cool moves". He explained hoping to gain an answer to his concerns.
"Learning high level jutsu would be a waste of time since I don't have control to do it, I believe you told me that once when I asked before. I have to have a strong foundation before branching off into the more advanced shinobi arts". I explain as more of my vocabulary bleeds through unconsciously. The statement is mostly true, but I can't go out and say I'm aware of the fox's benefits.
If they weren't concerned before, they definitely are now.
'He did ask that before, but he never really listened to my explanation back then. What could have brought such change?' He dismisses his thoughts.
"I believe I can make that happen although I am still surprised," he stood up and made his way to one of the bookshelves before picking a few items, "here are the standardized books that are taught to the academy students. You'll start with math, history, and chakra theory. These books were made to be used for the entire curriculum which is why they are so large.
"You will notice that they have sections for what will be taught for each year. In your case, you will be learning at the Year 1 section. I am placing a lot of trust in you, Naruto-kun. Are you sure you will read them?" He asks and I can see why since these are entire curriculum textbooks. One would normally be overwhelmed; However, I am not normal.
"I promise, jii-chan. You won't regret it". I promise the older man sending a small smile his way.
He nods in acceptance and before he could hand off the books to Kitsune, I notice a book that catches my interest.
"Could I get that one too?" I ask pointing towards a book.
Clan Warring Era
~Hashirama Senju
He quirked an eyebrow.
"I can understand wanting to learn from a book written by the Shodaime, but it is another history book". He explained and I nodded.
"I have to learn from my predecessors as the future hokage". I smile a bit and he just laughs grabbing the book off the shelf handing it to Kitsune who disappears.
He probably went to drop off the books to my apartment.
"Well. Back to the matter at hand. Neko and Kitsune will be assigned to watch you every once in a while since you're out on your own now. I will also be testing you to make sure you are learning and that will only be on math and history, but if you do make advancements on chakra control, I would like to know. Any questions?" He asks with a no nonsense tone.
"When will I be tested?" I ask wondering how much he expects of me.
"In a month, and you will be tested on the first 5 chapters of the math and history textbooks. I have also given you some notebooks and pencils in the nightstand near your bed if you haven't already noticed". He explains which I make no outward reaction, but on the inside I am quite amused that he expects me to mess around quite a bit since 5 chapters in a month is pathetic, at least to me it does.
Maybe the academy has a slow pace since they are children after all.
"Also, please do not get ahead of yourself and skip through chapters. They will come in time. Be patient". He warns understandably concerned. It seems like something Naruto would do.
I nod.
"I understand. What if I finish early?" I ask and at this time Kitsune returns.
"Well you are free to come to me when you are finished with the first 5 chapters of each book. However I do advise you to pace yourself". He answers which to that I nod.
"Okay. I'm gonna get started then, so I will see you later, jii-chan". I bid my farewell and walked out of the room while the hokage waved.
The journey back to my apartment was a matter of retracing my steps and I eventually made it back.
Unlocking my door, I step inside taking off my sandals and see the 4 books laid across my coffee table in the living room.
Mathematics
History of Konoha
Chakra Theory and Application
Clan Warring Era
I let out a deep sigh and make my way into my bedroom to grab the notebook and pencils from my nightstand. Having grabbed the necessary supplies, I sat down on the couch and grabbed the math book.
The first page was the year 1 table of contents which mainly went over addition, subtraction, and money which is the most interesting of the 3. It seems pretty lackluster, but then again there are other subjects in the academy so math probably isn't really focused much. It is a Shinobi academy after all.
I open the first page of the chapter and begin.
Chapter 1: What are numbers?
"...Fun". I mutter.
Hokage Office
A few minutes after I left Hiruzen is left to contemplate what has just happened.
"That was rather odd". Kitsune chimed in.
"I agree. He is not a fan of reading and especially not history and math. It was already a pain teaching him how to read and write". Neko adds.
"Yes. His behavior is quite different as well. More serious and mature. I wonder what brought on such a change". The hokage puffs out smoke from his pipe.
"Could it be the Kyūbi?" Kitsune asks.
"I thought that as well initially, but there was no trace of its chakra and the seal is still locked tight, so it hasn't loosened". Hiruzen shot down the thought.
"I still find it strange that his personality shifted so quickly". Neko voices her concerns.
"I agree. Keep a close eye on him. It's likely that he is just taking his promise of becoming hokage more seriously, but just to be safe I want you both to check on him every once in a while so that he isn't overdoing it". He orders and they both nod.
"Yes, Hokage-sama". They both answered in unison.
Naruto's Apartment
This is laughably easy.
What comes after 1?
"Hmm. I don't know...maybe it's 2? Yeah, probably". I chuckle audibly while writing down my answer as 2.
It seems that there is also a chapter before addition which are basic numbers and counting. Not surprising and it does a good job especially if the children never got taught these sort of things. The clan kids definitely have an advantage in the academy for obvious reasons.
About an hour later I have finished 10 chapters since a lot of them are problems with a few lessons, but a good portion of chapters are just problems to work out. That seems to be a good chunk of the work, and the best part is that there is no homework when you're at the academy. A dream come true to most kids in elementary school. A lot of this I actually forgot growing up.
Going back to these kinds of subjects is a nice dose of nostalgia, which I gladly take in.
I move onto the next book.
History of Konoha
The same format as before as I open the book to the year 1 table of contents.
Chapters such as the formation of the village, popular ninja, the hokages, clans, and other related topics. It seems history is much more focused than math which is understandable.
There is something I want to try and I activate my Sharingan showing a single tomoe in each eye. I obviously can't copy jutsu or anything at this stage, but I can try to memorize this text into my long term memory with the dōjutsu. This will also give me an idea of how much chakra I have.
I read through the first chapter. It was stuff I knew already with Hashirama Senju forming an alliance with the Uchiha clan later creating the village of Konoha and Madara's betrayal at the announcement of Hashirama becoming the hokage.
There were also questions at the end to make sure you have actually understood what you read.
This stuff is pretty boring and I mainly want to look at the 3rd and 4th books.
Chakra Theory and Application
Clan Warring Era
Both of those are intriguing and the first two books are merely essential for me learning more and for the hokage to trust me with more advanced books.
I pick up the 3rd book and begin reading. Unlike the first 2 books, this one isn't separated by years and more as an overview of how chakra works and how to use it.
Opening the first chapter, I begin reading.
Chapter 1: What is Chakra?
Chakra manipulation is what separates shinobi from the civilians, but what is common between the two is that we all have chakra. It is necessary to live. Chakra is needed to perform even the most basic jutsu that a shinobi can use. Hand seals are used to manipulate chakra for shinobi to be able to do extraordinary feats. Hand seals will be talked about in chapter 2.
Chakra can be used and manipulated to do what normally would be impossible such as walking on water, exhaling fire, or even creating illusions. Chakra is usually referred to as life energy or life force because without chakra we would not exist and perish. This energy cannot be seen unaided unless it's highly concentrated or brought out in massive amounts which can only be done by exceptional shinobi.
Training at a young age is essential, shinobi must strengthen what we call chakra coils. These coils are extended throughout your entire body and connect with each other in pathways. This is usually called the Chakra Pathway System. There are also points throughout the pathway called Tenketsu Points which will be explained in a later chapter.
I read through the chapter and 2 more after that. This is quite fascinating and it goes into detail about how chakra is generated and manipulated. I feel as if I'm memorizing everything I read and I still haven't felt the effects of exhaustion. The hand seals are also memorized which I thought wasn't possible. It's likely because it's just a diagram and not used in sequence with a jutsu.
I'm sure there is a difference between pictures of hand seals and them actually being used in real time like jutsus and such. I still need to train the Sharingan which is risky to do out in the open.
The next book I grab is the Shodaime's perspective of the clan warring era.
I read through it and he goes on about his early life training to protect his clan and family. He lost his 2 little brothers because of the conflict with the Uchihas. The man also explained his relationship with Madara and how they met when they were children.
Hours go by and I realize that I've been reading all day. I finish the book and I can't help but smile at the Shodaime's dedication and faith in the Uchiha.
If only he can see them now, I can't help but feel he'd be angry at what they are now except for a special few.
Shisui and Itachi. Perhaps even Izumi. Itachi's girlfriend, or at least as close as the girl can get. I'm still not sure if it was actually official.
I stretch my legs and head into the kitchen to check the time. 3:11pm(15:11). Thinking back to my reading session, I go back to the chakra theory book and open it.
Leaf Concentration Exercise
Looking at the book, I go through the pages and I find the 3 academy jutsu.
Henge, kawarimi, and bunshin.
The bunshin is most likely a lost cause so I will not waste my efforts.
I look through the descriptions of both.
Henge no jutsu(Transformation Technique)
Dog → Boar → Ram
Kawarimi no jutsu(Body Replacement Technique)
Tiger → Boar → Ox → Dog → Snake
These are the hand seals for both jutsus and I still need to practice them. I still haven't even attempted to mold chakra yet so I'll need to do that first.
Deactivating the Sharingan, I head out of the apartment after slipping on my sandals to the south into the forest. Physical training is something I can't slack on so I make sure to run the entire way. It took about 10 minutes to get to the forest and I didn't need to take a break from running.
'These benefits are awesome'. I smile and I'm standing in front of a tree.
Thankfully there are leaves on the ground so I didn't need to start the tree walking exercise early.
I sit down in a cross-legged position and place it on my forehead channeling chakra at that point.
It fell five seconds after. I try and concentrate more while thinking about nothing but the exercise at hand.
About 30 seconds later, it fell and I felt great that I can actually do it but that's only because I'm thinking about the task and nothing else.
This will take a while.
About an hour goes by and I'm only able do it for about a minute until the leaf falls from my forehead which is great progress for one day, but the time only increased by 30 seconds. Perhaps the longer I channel chakra, the more difficult it is to keep it controlled. I'm not sure since the Kyūbi's chakra is slowly increasing my own reserves, so who knows.
I believe that is enough of that.
The textbook does say that there needs to be a balance between spiritual energy and physical energy to form chakra, so I need to train my body.
I start with pushups and to my surprise I can do 20 in a row then having to stop to rest my arms. Sit ups are next and I can do about 35 before having to rest. It seems that my core muscles are a bit more developed than my arms and chest are. Squats are next and I can do about 50 before stopping which makes more sense. Legs are typically stronger than arms.
For the rest of the day, I dedicate that time for physical training. It wasn't until sunset that I realized that I should head home.
I felt quite winded and went home to practice the henge.
That Night
It's about 10:00pm(22:00) and the day has been quite eventful. I learnt about money, some history and the subject I love most of all, chakra.
The difference is night and day from simply watching and doing.
It feels powerful. An experience I haven't felt before and I'm incredibly motivated to keep pushing further.
I spent the rest of the day practicing with the leaf I took home and the Henge no Jutsu(Transformation Technique).
There's no success but I am able to generate a small amount of smoke from what I can see in the mirror.
I ate dinner a few hours ago… more ramen.
My to-do list has been updated to needing an actual desk in the living room, so my posture doesn't suffer, but I suppose I can just use the kitchen table for now.
The next notebook will be dedicated to future events that I will write exclusively in english. It will be a blank notebook cover. I have already labeled two of my notebooks as Math and History
I will need to meet up with Itachi and Shisui once I'm more skilled in a few areas. Physical training won't be much of a problem, but chakra is a whole new field that I have to constantly work on. The only jutsu I know by heart is the Kage Bunshin(Shadow Clone) and I don't even know if it's safe to use yet since I'm a third of the age I'm supposed to do it at, but I guess I could still try.
Itachi used a shadow clone to go to school for him so I'll probably ask him to teach me the jutsu.
Taking a quick shower to cleanse my sweat and dirt, I brush my teeth afterwards and I go to bed without a shirt since this is how I usually sleep anyways.
I was never a fan of pajamas.
For the next month, I won't be working on math and dedicating most of my time to history and chakra control along with the henge.
The Shodaime's book is already placed on my bookshelf since I have finished it and remember it to the finest detail.
'The Sharingan is fucking incredible'. I grinned thinking about how the Sharingan has many uses.
Most Uchiha are arrogant to think that the Sharingan is what makes them and while it is true that when you think of an Uchiha, you think about their eyes, but smart Uchiha would only use their eyes as a tool.
It's too bad not many of them think that way. They would be much more dangerous if most of them don't rely on the Sharingan.
Itachi is a good example, although he didn't activate it at the time, he was incredibly skilled without it. Passing the exam just a few months after attending, he still had to go even after passing which sucks, but he had to get placed with the other graduates. Even if they were older.
Setting my alarm for 7:30am(07:30), I close my eyes anticipating the next day.
I have a feeling I'm going to be a trainaholic.
Two Weeks Later
The weeks flew by and the hokage hasn't checked up on me yet, but Kitsune came by. He asked me how things were going and I had to lie a bit and said that math sucks and history was a little cooler when reading about the hokage's.
Telling a half-truth, is much easier than lying, at least from what I have experienced.
I have also visited Kurama and told him of my progress. He said that I will likely never feel soreness after getting a full night of rest which is a major benefit since I always hated it after exercising.
He also doesn't know where I stand against other shinobi like chūnin or jōnin. He has felt other chakra reserves when he was free during the attack, but he did give me vital information that my chakra is similar to the higher reserves from the shinobi in the village.
Chūnin are about average while jōnin is the elite of the village, so I can deduce that my chakra reserves are at least low jōnin which makes sense.
Having the strongest bijū's chakra slowly seep into my own for about 4 years will drastically increase my reserves, but still...that's crazy to think about.
No wonder Naruto has shitty control at age 12. Already having the reserves nearing a kage is outrageous, I can't imagine starting control at that age and trying to achieve something above mediocre. He'd be fucked without shadow clones.
It also makes sense how I didn't really feel tired after the leaf exercise, physical training, and working on the two academy jutsu.
Speaking about one of the academy jutsu, I finally did a passable transformation just after a week of learning.
It felt surreal having Itachi looking back at me in the mirror with the Akatsuki cloak on while his red eyes stare back at me.
For the next week, I worked on maintaining the transformation which was a little difficult to hold while walking and talking aloud to myself, but lots of chakra helped and there was a lot of failing involved.
The substitution also took quite a while to get down and I've only successfully performed it last night. I switched places with my cup of ramen.
I'm incredibly proud of myself being able to transform and substitute. It's an awesome feeling. Achieving something you worked hard at is almost an indescribable feeling, especially if it's something like using shinobi techniques.
When I first was able to leave the apartment with the henge active a few days ago, I walked into a store and bought a tape measure and a body weight scale. I still have 37,500ryo left.
It turns out that I'm 3'2" which is pretty average and I weigh about 35 pounds which is lower than average but I am quite skinny. I still haven't seen much definition from the physical training, but I know that I'm at least not gaining any fat either.
I tried out the bunshin for fun and lo and behold it's dead on the ground even if I use the most miniscule amount of chakra.
Yeah...a lost cause.
Chakra control is going okay so far. I was able to keep the leaf on my forehead for 10 minutes the first week before moving onto more intensive control. I began putting the leaves on my fingertips to keep them in place and I am finally able to hold 5 of them for about a minute. My left hand. I thought about doing tree walking but I am somewhat of a perfectionist. It doesn't feel right not doing something to completion. (A/N: Ironic isn't it?).
I've always been like that.
That reminds me. When I was first writing I didn't know whether to use my left or right hand since Naruto is right-handed and I'm personally left-handed, so now I just switch to whatever I feel like.
Being ambidextrous is cool, I always hated bumping into my classmates hand as I wrote, so now that won't be an issue.
'Why do I think about such trivial matters? I'm not sure'. I thought before realizing what I have to do today.
I got out of bed already having turned off the alarm and went to make myself some breakfast.
The morning showers are quickly abandoned since the first time I did when I woke up as Naruto Uzumaki. I've always been a person to take a shower at night. I never really liked going to bed dirty and I don't want to waste money taking 2 showers in a single day.
I'm going to be somewhat cheap when it comes to bills.
I still need that desk.
After having breakfast, I slip on my sandals and head out for the day. I simply do not care about the glares and it still amuses me.
The run to the hokage's tower is second nature at this point having memorized the route.
I enter the receptionist area and this time I am shocked to see a few familiar faces.
Kurenai, Asuma, and Gai.
I went relatively unnoticed until Akane spoke up.
"Ah, Naru-chan, are you here to see Hokage-sama?" She didn't wait for my answer and began to check his schedule.
"Yes, thank you Akane-san". I respond still miffed at the nickname. She is still a bit put off by my personality since I haven't been back here since the first time two weeks ago. This response also interests Asuma as he had regular contact with the boy.
"Oh? Well aren't you a mature young man already. If it's not too much to ask, how come you haven't visited the last few weeks?" She asks a bit concerned as I usually come by more often when I was younger. At that time I was being cared for by the ANBU. I look back and it seems the three are also awaiting a response for some reason as they find this situation amusing.
"The last time I visited I informed Hokage-sama about wanting to start the academy early, but of course he refused, so I asked for a head start and he agreed to the condition that I'd be tested, so I've been training". I answer which shocks the 4 of them. After reading about the Shodaime's life I have gained more understanding and respect for the hokage position and especially since the Sandaime has been through 3 wars.
It would be a disrespect to refer to him as anything else at least in front of others while not in his presence.
They are more shocked at the fact that I've been training rather than the formality of addressing the hokage, at least Akane and Asuma since Kurenai and Gai doesn't know Naruto too well.
"Training? Why would you be doing that instead of having fun and playing? You can always train when you join the academy". Akane asks as they all await a response.
"Hmm. Well training is fun for me and it makes me better prepared for the future so I'd rather not waste my time at the playground or something similar; However, I'm here to be tested so I can get more advanced material". I respond giving her a small smile. The adults don't know whether to be impressed by my maturity in dedicating myself to training or to be concerned that I'm not living a normal childhood. Maybe a little of both.
There are cases where children have to grow up fast and train, but that's during war times.
Gai speaks up clearly thinking more about my dedication to training.
"YOSH! YOUR FLAMES OF YOUTH MAY BE YOUNG, BUT THEY ARE BURNING BRIGHTLY AND HAVE INSPIRED ME TO SOAR EVEN FURTHER BEYOND! I MUST ASK THAT WE ATTEND WITH YOU FOR THIS TEST TO SEE YOUR YOUTHFUL FLAMES IN ACTION!" Gai shouts speaking for the group and I can't help but laugh. I have always enjoyed Gai's character.
Some may think he is a weird character and obnoxious, but I don't think that way especially seeing more of his early life to what he has grown into today.
Plus he would be a great sensei if I can get him to train me early since he created a monster like Lee. Activating 5 of the 8 gates at genin? He really is a genius of hard work, and I'd be damned if I wasn't one as well.
Before the other two adults could protest, I spoke up with rare emotion.
"Of course you all can! You are correct, Gai-san, my flames of youth are indeed young, but my flames are burning brightly! I will overcome all adversity and pass this test with the power of youth! If I cannot pass this test I will do 100 push-ups, if I cannot do that I will do 150 sit-ups, if I cannot do that–" I get cut off from my youthful speech by Asuma.
"Okay, okay! Akane-san is tou-san available?" Asuma asks getting tired of my Gai-like speech.
Gai was speechless and you can practically see the fire in his eyes ready to respond to such youthful dedication until Akane interrupted his youthful thoughts.
"Y-yes, he is. You all can go on in". Akane is quite speechless as well and is at least happy that he is more...normal than before. She has first-hand experience with Gai and doesn't know whether Naruto responding in kind is good or not.
Asuma felt like taking a drag of a cigarette, but couldn't as Kurenai is present.
'That was scary. I don't think the village can handle another Gai'. Asuma thought along with Kurenai.
"Weren't we supposed to be waiting for Kakashi?" Kurenai whispers to Asuma while Gai is still revved up and ready to take on the world as my words ignited an unending fire.
"It'll be fine. I'm quite interested in what tou-san assigned him anyways". Asuma responds
'I can't believe I said all that. It just came to me and it was fun to let loose a little. Perhaps I'm not as apathetic as I thought. What is this world doing to me?' I laugh inwardly as I walk through the door along with the 3 adults.
'Training with Gai would be painful, but the results would show. Will I also get the green spandex of youth? If I ever get one, then I will purposefully wear it to spite Kakashi'. I thought before looking at Hiruzen.
The hokage is present alongside Kitsune, aka Kakashi, and they are both surprised to see the three shinobi accompanied by me.
"Hello, Naruto-kun. It's good to see you again. How has your training been going?" He asks still wondering about the presence of the other 3.
"It's been good jii-chan. I'm ready for the test now and they wanted to watch". I responded knowing that he'd ask about their presence, although, it's more like Gai decided for them.
Gai especially looks fired up that scares Kitsune and Hiruzen.
'Jii-chan?' Kurenai thought with a confused look as she just heard the boy refer to him formally just moments before. She can't help but think that his behavior before was just a facade. She can't understand why though.
This greatly confuses Kitsune and Hiruzen.
"A test already? I gave you a whole month and you're done in half the time? I'm a little skeptical to say the least". He asks which the other adults widen their eyes a bit at the timeframe he was given. Perhaps he was a little too lax on the boy's training?
"Yes. I am ready to give my report". I state as the 3 adults stand behind me confused.
"Report?" The Sandaime asks.
"Isn't that what people do when they are given a mission by the hokage? It was a month to work on 5 chapters of math, history, and whatever advancements I made in chakra control. It was kinda like a mission". I explain which shocks the 3 adults of what I had to do.
'Just 2 weeks and he says he's done?' Kurenai thought in disbelief.
Hiruzen laughs and takes a puff of his pipe.
"Sure, Naruto-kun, give your report of your mission I assigned two weeks ago". Hiruzen decides to humor the boy.
"After the mission was assigned, I went home and began reading the first book which was Math. I found the supplies you gave me in the drawer and started working. In about an hour I finished 10 chapters". I state gaining impressed looks from the adults bordering on disbelief.
"10? In just an hour? Did you do any more during the two weeks?" Hiruzen asks trying to keep the emotion off his face. For a kid to finish that much in just an hour is practically unbelievable unless they had a clan upbringing and Naruto wasn't even taught in anything besides reading and writing.
"That is correct, Hokage-sama," Hiruzen almost snorts from the formality of who he views as a surrogate grandson, "I decided to go beyond what was required in the math department and I started working on the history book after which I finished the 5 chapters in a week since I was focusing more on chakra control". I inform them and Hiruzen doesn't know what to expect anymore from my previous statement.
The 3 adults decided to stay quiet for this mock report on what's practically just schoolwork.
"I see. I know I didn't actually specify the requirements of Hashirama-sensei's book, but how far did you get into reading?" He asks curiously as the 3 other adults have heard about the Shodaime's book on that era.
"I finished it. The first day". Now that was completely unexpected especially how I stated previously how I practically blew off the other history book.
"F-finished it? In one day?" Kurenai asks breaking the silence.
Hiruzen is growing a little worried as he basically finished the assignment in a week. This should be overwhelming for a child my age. 'Could he be running himself into the ground?' He thought before speaking again.
"Hmm. Well I suppose we'll see in the assessment. Continue". Hiruzen sighs taking a puff of his pipe.
"After I finished the Shodaime's book it was around mid afternoon and I decided to do physical training and chakra control exercises in the southern woods. I read the chakra theory book before the Shodaime's book, so I decided to do the leaf concentration exercise I read. I was able to hold the leaf there for a minute about an hour after I started". I explain thinking back to those times.
"Impressive. Students usually have a hard time trying to focus their chakra at a single point". Hiruzen praises.
'Especially since the Kyūbi would make chakra control incredibly difficult'. Hiruzen added mentally.
The adults had similar thoughts and can't help but be amazed.
"I eventually went into physical exercise. It was quite intensive with push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and running until sundown. I still had energy to try and attempt the 3 academy jutsu". I added.
'This could be another Gai in the works. Perhaps he has already set his sights on him'. Hiruzen looks over to said man as he currently has a look of a proud father.
'He definitely has'. The older man sighs.
"I thought I told you not to attempt getting ahead, but then again, you are progressing faster than I expected so I'll let it slide this time. Did you make any advancements on the jutsu?" Hiruzen asks not expecting much after just two weeks of training. This thought is shared by the other adults in the room.
"Yes, I am able to do the henge and kawarimi". I confirm which the others gape at.
Hiruzen is the first to break the silence.
"Mind if you demonstrate, Naruto-kun?" The Sandaime asks and I nod.
I do the hand seals and transform into Kakashi Hatake which gains wide eyes from everyone present. I even got the icha icha paradise book down along with the height difference.
"Wow. That's quite spot on". Gai doesn't shout this time around.
Seeing a golden opportunity, I look back at him.
"Huh? Did you say something?" I ask in a neutral tone which causes the other adults to laugh at the sight even the real Kakashi who is actually incredibly impressed with the accuracy.
"He even got down his cool hip attitude". Gai clenches his fist as I let go of the transformation.
"That was quite good, but how do you know of Kakashi?" Asuma asks curiously.
"Oh, I see that weird guy walking around with that book talking with Gai. Something about eternal rival, I think". I answer which Kakashi gains a tic mark on his forehead behind the mask.
Hiruzen chuckles at the display.
"And the Kawarimi?" He asks.
I perform the hand seals and switch places with Kurenai which greatly shocks everyone present.
Switching once again, I am back in my original spot.
"Very good, Naruto-kun". Hiruzen tries to keep the shock off his face at the fact that you can only switch places with another person if you have more chakra than said person you're switching with. This thought is shared with all of them.
A 4 year old having more chakra as a Jōnin. Even if she is a low Jōnin, it's still impressive and even frightening as he grows older.
"Thank you. We can start on the other tests as well". I suggest and he nods.
"What about the bunshin?" Hiruzen asks in surprise.
"It's a lost cause. The amount of chakra needed is so low that I don't think I'll ever be able to use it". I explain to the room which Hiruzen can understand.
"In that case, we can start the other tests". Hiruzen states as I look on with a smirk.
I am tested on the assigned subjects and even asked about the Shodaime's book as well. Passing with flying colors, the adults are astounded at the progress I have made in just two weeks.
"Well, I am incredibly impressed, Naruto-kun, so I believe I should give you a reward of some kind". Hiruzen states opening a drawer with a notepad and writes something down.
"Take this note to the Konoha library and speak with the woman who works there. She is an old friend of mine and she will get you setup with a library card and you can continue your education". He hands me which I gratefully accept.
"Thanks, Jii-chan. I'm gonna go train". I state waving goodbye to the adults.
The adults left present in the room felt that a prodigy was just born.
"That's quite the progress in just two weeks". Asuma states really wanting a cigarette after that demonstration.
"I agree, but I hope he doesn't overdo it". Kitsune states.
"YOSH! I MUST ALSO STRIVE FOR GREATNESS AS NARUTO-KUN! MY FLAMES OF YOUTH ARE A RAGING INFERNO AFTER SUCH A YOUTHFUL PERFORMANCE! I MUST GO BASK IN THE SPRINGTIME OF YOUTH! PERHAPS ONE DAY I WILL TEACH HIM MY YOUTHFUL REGIME". Gai rushes out of the building for a monstrous training routine.
"I really hope there isn't going to be another one". Asuma dreads at the thought of 2 green beasts of Konoha.
"We...we were supposed to go out today". Kurenai tries to comprehend what just happened.
"You all know how Gai can get. I'm sure you can make plans with him another day. Kakashi you are dismissed". Hiruzen orders as Kakashi nods and takes off his mask since everyone knows his identity.
"Well, where are we going?" Kakashi asks lazily as he already forgot.
Asuma sighs along with Kurenai.
'Only you, Kakashi'. They both thought exiting with Kakashi
Hiruzen stands up and looks out the window behind him.
'You both would've been proud, Minato, Kushina,'.Hiruzen takes a puff of his pipe, "but you may kill me when it's my time to join you if Gai gets ahold of him'.
Naka River
I have started training here for the past 2 weeks hoping to spot either Shisui or Itachi since I know that this is the place where Shisui jumps off in the canon timeline.
Meeting them is my next step in training, and I can't have this opportunity pass me by.
I went to the library before coming and the lady was nice. The library card will be finished tomorrow morning so I just have to wait until then.
So far I haven't had any luck with encountering the two Uchihas, and I can't exactly approach them directly without looking suspicious
I go into my normal routine and practice with the leaf exercise trying to extend the time to 10 minutes before adding more than 5 leaves. This went on for about an hour before I stopped.
My jutsus could use more refinement and before I can start, I hear a voice behind me.
"Hey!" I turn around to see who seemingly addressed me and my heart beat increases seeing a pair of familiar faces.
Two young Uchihas. Itachi and Shisui.
'My luck is really phenomenal'. I thought with glee before answering.
"Hey who are you two?" I ask obliviously.
The older boy smiled.
"I'm Shisui Uchiha and this is Itachi Uchiha. We come here sometimes to train. What are you doing here?" He asks more curious than anything while Itachi doesn't really have an opinion on the matter.
"Just about to train my henge and kawarimi. I'm Naruto Uzumaki". I respond gaining a look of disbelief from both of them.
"Henge and kawarimi, already? You don't look any older than 4 or you're just short". Itachi answers this time.
"Everyone starts out small and I am 4. You both don't look too much older than me". I respond pouting slightly gaining a laugh from the older Uchiha.
"I suppose that's true. Itachi's 8 and I'm 11. Can I see your henge and kawarimi?" Shisui asks.
I nod and do the hand seals transforming into Shisui which impressed both of them.
"That's quite good and the Kawarimi?" He asks fascinated.
I nod and switch places with him as I stand next to Itachi.
"But how? That would mean you have more chakra than Shisui-san". Itachi states in disbelief.
"That's exactly what it means. It seems like Naruto-kun has more chakra than me". Shisui asks amazed and also curious as to how I have more.
"Wow". Awe clearly present in Itachi's eyes.
"Yeah, it's still not perfect or fast enough but it's a work in progress". I smile at my accomplishment.
"How long did it take you to get to that point?" Shisui asks.
"2 Weeks". I respond as they both are even more impressed.
"It seems like you are a little prodigy. Do you want to become a shinobi?" He asks with a small laugh.
"Yes". I nod at him.
"Why?" He asks and Itachi is also wondering the same question since he has experienced first-hand the horrors of war along with Shisui.
I somewhat prepared for this as it's pretty similar to the answer I gave to the Rikudō Sennin.
"I want to stop all wars. We may not be in one currently, but there's no guarantee there won't be another one in the future. I want to be the strongest shinobi to single handedly stop all the conflict brewing in the Elemental Nations. Some may laugh at my dream or say it's impossible, but their opinions don't matter to me. I have to be the strongest, or I would rather die". I state with clear conviction which shocks them both greatly.
Itachi felt truly impacted by the boy's goal seeing me in a new light than just some kid who wants to be a shinobi. This is someone who truly understands even if he hadn't experienced war himself.
This thought is shared with Shisui and he smiles.
"That's a great dream to have. Never let anyone talk down to you for it. If you work hard enough for it, then you can achieve it. My goal is relatively the same wanting to protect the village to the best of my ability". Shisui reassures me explaining a little of his own goal.
"I also have a dream of restoring the Uchiha clan to its former glory as it seems that they are looked down and blamed for the Kyūbi attack". I explain and gain two confused looks.
"How come you want to do that? It's not even a clan you're from". Shisui asks.
I may not be born as an Uchiha but with the sage's chakra I have the Uchiha's power and dōjutsu. My name may be Naruto Uzumaki but that clan doesn't feel like my own. It feels far away and unreachable while the Uchiha feels within my grasp and it calls out to me. The darkness of the Uchiha clan, their attitude, and their hunger for strength are all qualities I relate with.
I flash them both my single tomoe Sharingan.
"I'm not sure how I have the Sharingan, but I can only assume that my parents died in the Kyūbi attack. I wish to get stronger as Naruto Uchiha. I hope you can keep this a secret". I smile at the two as they both are gaping at the sight.
"Y-you have the Sharingan. I have never seen you around the compound. Why would you want it to be kept a secret?" Itachi asks in shock as he just awakened his Sharingan from the death of Tenma, but this kid is half his age and already has it.
These thoughts were shared with Shisui.
'The only explanation is that the hokage's interference has led him to live outside the compound, but for what reason for that?' Shisui thought.
"I wish to save the clan in my own way and I don't believe I can do it from within that's where you guys come in". I grin at the two Uchihas.
"I see. Do you wish to get stronger and achieve our shared dream of peace?" Shisui asks with a large smile.
"Yes. I do". I smile back at him and Itachi grins lightly accepting a third person for their ambition.
"Then yes, Naruto Uchiha, you can train with us". Shisui pats me on the back.
"What are we going to do?" I ask excitedly.
"I will teach you all that I have learned from the Uchiha so that you will also have knowledge of our clan. That includes the history, taijutsu style, and various fire jutsu". Shisui explains pulling out a piece of paper.
"This is chakra paper and it'll test your affinity. You just pour your chakra into it". Shisui gave it to me hoping it's not water as that will make things difficult.
I nod and channel chakra into the paper. What happens next is extraordinary.
The piece of paper splits in half.
The top left corner is soaked.
The bottom left crumbles to dust.
The top right burns to ash.
The bottom right crinkles.
Shisui and Itachi are speechless and I'm also shocked. I knew the Rinnegan gave the ability to use all 5 elements but it seems like the sage's chakra is also enough for the same effect.
"A-A-All 5?!" Shisui exclaims in disbelief and Itachi is gaping.
"Wow". I state as they both calm down.
"It truly seems that being the strongest is possible". Shisui smiles widely in my direction and Itachi gains fire in his eyes not to be outdone which is quite unlike him. I mentally laugh at the display.
"So when do we start?" I ask the older Uchiha.
"Now".
At that moment the world just got a little brighter as the start of a great friendship is formed between the 3 of them. A friendship to last a lifetime.
However
There are no guarantees in life. Always cherish the time around your family and friends. You never know when that can suddenly end.
In the blink of an eye.
Despair hiding around the corner. Will the 3 be able to overcome adversity? Or will darkness consume them.
Sometimes…
fate cannot be changed
Naruto Uchiha: The Nidaime Rikudō Sennin
begins his climb to the top.
Thank you all for reading this chapter and I know it's been almost 2 weeks since my last update but I've been quite busy.
Binge watching One Piece again after starting a fic is never a good idea along with rereading my Naruto manga collection.
I finally ordered part 1 of the manga. Volumes 1-27. I already had the entire shippuden collection (28-72), but I finally was able to get the first series.
As the vote stands, Sharrinnegan is in the lead followed closely by Mokuton with Chakra chains being last.
This is likely the last chance since I will decide the bloodline next chapter. Get your votes in!
I also greatly appreciate all feedback and I would like to know what everyone thinks.
There aren't any scrapped ideas in this chapter but I did divert a little from my outline. Only in dialogue that wouldn't have changed much.
The only thing that's huge is the audience of Gai, Kurenai, and Asuma.
Will Gai try to seek Naruto out later in life to train together and pass on his teachings of youth? Small changes can have drastic outcomes.
Next up is Chapter 3: When an Uchiha goes beyond limitations
February 16, 2020