To HPSlashAddict: I'm glad you've been enjoying this story so far and continue to do so. You have couple of questions and I'll try my best to answer them. Your first question was, "Who is going to be in the Genin teams? Will Raiden be with Naruto and someone else? Or on separate teams?" I've decided to keep all of the Genin teams the same as the canon, to make my life easier. It would be a hassle to move all of them around and rearrange them into different teams. And yes, Raiden will be in Naruto's team with Sasuke and Sakura. I was trying to replace Sakura with Raiden, but I don't think it'll be wise, Sakura is needed in that group for her to develop into what she's Kunoichi she's become in the future. However, Raiden isn't a permanent member of team seven, He'll stay with Team Seven until there's a permanent team for him and I know exactly who's going to be in that team. (Hint: the team cap and one of Genin are not be from Konoha and one of them is a wanted nin.)
Oh yes, I've noticed as soon as I finished the chapter on just how much I overused "Potter brat" and I thought I delete a couple of "Potter brats" but it seemed I didn't, my bad. I'll see if I can find change them to something else. And it would extremely helpful if you call out any mistakes!
To Kikuriki: Thank you for catching that, will be changing it as we speak!
Jutsus used in this chapter:
1.) Mokuton: Moku no Yoroi - Wood Release: Wooden Armor - Creates a hard wooden shell around the user's body which protects it's user from harm until it's broken
2.) Mokuton: Mokudōmo - Wood Release: Wooden Dome - Creates a large wooden dome made from wood as strong as steel that surrounds a large area from harm until it's shatter. Can withstand heat, but will be weaken over time.
3.) Kage Bunshin (no Jutsu) - Shadow Clone Technique
4.) Henge (no Jutsu)- Transformation Technique
5.) Souton: Rīfusutōmu - (* Borrowed from Pokemon) - Plant Release: Leaf Tornado - Creates a maelstrom of sharpen, knife-like leaves which surrounds it's target(s).
6.) Fuuton: Kaze Awa - Wind Release: Wind Bubble - By taking a deep breathe, the user takes air in and stores it within his/her lungs, charging the air with their chakra until they unleashes a small bullet of concentrated air at it's target(s)
7.) Oiroke no Jutsu - Sexy Technique
8.) Kuchiyose no Jutsu - Summoning Technique
9.) Shihohapoo Shuriken - Shuriken Everywhere.
Chapter Nine: Traitor amongst the Leaves
January 29th 1992, 5:00 a.m.
Training Field 17, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
"Again," Raiden said, slightly huffing as he switched into his defensive stance.
"Hai," Naruto nodded stiffly, panting lightly as he prepared himself to charge at Raiden again holding onto his Bō Staff.
The duo have been going at it for the past two hours, trying to land punches and kicks unto each other and deflecting each other's attacks. Every thirty minutes they would switch positions, one being the attacker and the other being the defender.
Right now, Naruto was trying to take down Raiden with his Bō Staff, but Raiden wasn't going to be taken down easily. Raiden harden his wooden armor he wore to withstand the blows of the massive staff Naruto wielded.
He watched as Naruto steadied himself before he ran towards him at full speed. Raiden narrowed his eyes, watching Naruto carefully anticipating the blonde's attack. Naruto was approaching fast to land his strike but suddenly, the blonde changed direction within a blink of an eye. completely taking Raiden by surprise.
Raiden's eyes widen as he senses Naruto right behind him and barely dodges Naruto's Bō Staff, just an inch from striking him against his back. He jumped out of way with a somersault landing gracefully couple feet away from Naruto.
Naruto smirked coyly as he vanished within white smoke from a smoke bomb he threw down. Raiden cursed loudly, trying to scout out Naruto but it was too late the blonde manage to hide his chakra from him. Unable to see, hear, nor sense the blonde; he couldn't dodge Naruto's staff in time, sending him flying out of the smoke plume.
Raiden chuckled to himself as he got up sluggishly. He groaned silently, shaking off the pain from Naruto's blunt attack. Even though his wooden armor took the impact from Naruto's staff he felt the impact, dampened only by his wooden armor.
Slowly, the wood comes apart from his body falling onto the ground reverting back into its original form. Raiden shakes the off the other pieces and makes himself a new armor. "Mokuton: Moku no Yoroi," Raiden sighed as he feels the new armor meld onto himself, snug and tight.
"Nice one, I didn't even sense you that time." He praised the blonde, "however, you're not going to get me again." He smirked.
"Oh yeah," the blonde taunted before he created three shadow clones. He sent his shadow clones to keep their eyes on Raiden while the real Naruto made his escape, searching for location to assess and come up with a battle plan.
Raiden noticed what Naruto was planning to do from the get-go and wasn't going to fall for it. He felt the real Naruto leave his clones behind. He quickly weaved a couple of hand signs together, before he slapped his hands on the ground.
"Mokuton: Mokudōmo!" A wooden wall erupted in front of Raiden, quickly encircling him, creating a large wooden dome around him with the sturdy tree roots.
Inside the wooden dome, Raiden closed his eyes in order to focus onto Naruto's chakra signature. He dismissed Naruto's shadow clones, three to be exact, who were busy trying to break his barrier. He expanded his chakra channel in order to expand his senses and found the real Naruto hiding by the treetops directly in front of him.
"Kage Bushin no Jutsu!" He called out before three shadow clones appeared next to Raiden. He wasted no time in telling them his plan.
"Okay, Raito" He faced the first clone he ever made making him the second in command and Raiden right hand clone. "I want you to pretend to be me while Raidou and I will Henge ourselves as wooden shuriken which you'll throw directly onto the tree in front of me."
He turned towards his third shadow clone. "Ritsuki, I want you to create a leaf storm as soon as the dome breaks and create a diversion. Once Raidou and I are on the tree, you'll help Raito taking out the shadow clones." Ritsuki nodded sharply, understanding Raiden's plan.
Raiden turn towards Raidou, "once we're on the tree you'll travel towards Naruto and flush him out. He'll mostly likely create couple more clone and you'll take care of them while I take care of the real one. Got it, guys?"
"Yosh, we understand, Boss!" The three clones exclaimed loudly, saluting Raiden.
They got into their position as soon as they heard the crackling sound from the wooden barrier. Raidou and Raiden nodded at each other and Henge themselves as wooden shurikens. Raito reached into his weapon pouch and grab a couple more wooden shurikens to hide Raidou and Raiden amidst the real ones.
Ritsuki started to weave the necessary hand signs to unless the maelstrom of leaves, a new jutsu they've developed two years ago on their own. Waiting for the dome to break at any moment.
Outside, the three shadow clones looked at each other before they raised their Bō Staff and hit the pesky wooden dome scattered it completely after hitting it consecutively for the past ten minutes. However, what they weren't expecting as the wooden dome broke away was a fury of leaves pelting them as they obscured their eyesight.
"Souton: Rīfusutōmu!(*)" All they heard Raiden's voice yell out a strange jutsu and the next thing they knew, they were blinded by leaves. They all quickly shield their eyes with their arms and waited until the leaves to slow down and quite down.
They never heard the swooshing barrage of wooden shurikens which Raito send flying towards the tree Naruto was sitting on. Not even Naruto saw through Raiden's diversion. He was too busy looking at the maelstrom of leaves which completely obscure the battlefield.
Standing just meters away from the battlefield, within the dense forest and far away from prying eyes, four people wearing animals masks watched as their students faced off each other. Kuma whistled appreciative as he saw the sudden storm of leaves erupt as soon as Raiden's wooden dome collapsed from Naruto's heavy blows.
"Whoa, I've never seen Raiden use that jutsu before." Okami commented quietly, scratching the back of his head as he watched the fury of leaves.
Okami and Neko knew of Raiden's Kekkei Genkai, after the raven haired boy revealed it to them one day. The pair was a bit shocked at first, but as time went on they got used to it. They were both impressed by Raiden's control over his Mokuton and Souton on many occasions.
Kuma hummed lightly, "that's because he created that jutsu himself." He stated nonchalantly, ignoring the incredulous looks Okami and Neko had underneath their masks.
"So he finally perfected it. I was wondering how much longer it was going to take him." Inu stated plainly, resting against a tree trunk where he sat looking down that the battle.
"You knew?" Neko asked the sliver haired man.
Inu nodded. "Yeah, he came up with the idea while I was training him on his chakra control using his chakra to attach leaves onto his body. It took him a while to get the hang of it. He kept on using his Souton unconsciously instead of his neutral chakra to attach the leaves to himself" He chuckled inwardly, at the memory of a frustrated nine year old Raiden. He was certainly going to use it as blackmail someday. He never knew how many curses Raiden knew.
"However, midway through the lesson a strong breeze blew a pile of leave into the air and it surrounded us completely for a few second before the breeze died and the leaves fell onto the ground. Raiden didn't waste time and wrote down couple of notes into his journal he carries on him. When I asked what he wrote down he told me of his idea he got watching the leaves encircled us." He finished off and Kuma continued.
The Mokuton user remembered when Raiden asked him for help on his jutsu he was creating. Raiden explained to him his theory of his jutsu and application and wondered if Yamato could coach him through it. Even though, Yamato wasn't a Souton user, he was a Mokuton user and pieced things together for Raiden.
"Once Raiden figured it out what he wanted to do he came to me to help make it work. It was hard at first since I'm not a Souton user; however, Souton is the next level to Mokuton and we worked through it with trial and errors fixing things as we worked through it."
"It took Raiden a year to make it work and a half year to master it. He named it, 'Souton: Rīfusutōmu(*)' and it has two functions. The first function is to daze and blind his opponent by the sudden storm of leaves, which would make a perfect distraction for Raiden to escape from his opponent and come up with a counter attack. The second function would be for the leaves to sharpen and cut anything in their path, killing anyone who's unlucky to stand in their path. Depending on the leaves or petal he uses: he can paralyze or poison if he wishes to. Overall, it's a highly versatile jutsu; not to mention deadly if needed."
"I see Raiden didn't sharpen the leaves." Neko commented.
"Nope, Raiden just wanted to distract Naruto and his shadow clones while he Henge himself as a wooden shuriken. Naruto didn't see nor hear when Raiden's clone threw the shurikens onto the tree his on." Kuma beamed proudly of his student.
Okami shook his head in disbelief, "That boy is a genius." He stated bluntly, "I can't believe he came up with something like that, he's not even a Genin, yet he's more thoughtful and resourceful than most Chuunin. He'll make an excellent addition into the ANBU Corps." Okami said proudly of his student.
Inu, Kuma, and Neko couldn't agree more, they've seen just how cunning and well thought out Raiden's attacks are. If the Hokage were to see Raiden in battle mode, there's no question Raiden would be invited into the ANBU Corps after he graduates from the Academy.
However, he'll have to show his Kekkei Genkai and the Elders would demand to use Raiden as a broodmare to impregnate multiple women in order for his children to inherent his rare Kekkei Genkai into the village, as well as to restore the Senju clan. He was after all one of the last Senju apart of Tsunade.
The Elders have already started planning possible brides for Raiden and Sasuke, to restore their respective clans under the Last Clan Act; which would force each of them to have a harem or have three children by the age of twenty-five. Unfortunately, there was nothing either boy could do about it.
The quartet remained quite as they watched the mock battle unfold before their eyes.
Raiden smirked roguishly. His plan is working out just he planned and Naruto didn't notice a thing.
Currently, Raito was using his Kusari-gama to take down one of Naruto's shadow clones while Ritsuki fought the other two using his katana. The pair seemed to be in perfectly synchronized with each other as they fight the other three shadow clones. With a lucky strike from Raito's kusari-gama, he managed to dislodge the clone's Bō staff from his hands, sending it flying across the field.
"Kuso," the clone cursed as he's been disarmed. He quickly slides down his tessen from his sleeves into his hands and opened them quickly. "You'll pay for that," the clone warned Raito he generates a small gust of wind with the help of his tessen, pushing Raito away.
Raito switched gear, he stored away his kusari-gama. He reached into his weapon pouch on his right thigh and took some smoke tags quickly attaching them to five kunai before he threw them at the ground by the clone, creating a large plume of smoke engulfing the entire field and everyone within it.
The dark grey smoke began to fill up the clone's lungs makings him go into a coughing fit. The bitter smoke burned his eyes making them water a bit, he covered his nose with his right arm trying to blocks any more smoke from entering his lungs. With his left hand, being the only arm he could use freely, he used his tessen to fan the smoke away.
Just as the smoke was going to clear out, he yelped loudly as he felt something sharp pierce his left side and right side. He's eyes widen as he watched the smirking face of Raiden holding onto two katanas. "Nice battle, but I'm afraid it's time for you to return to your boss." He told the clone who chuckled as he disappeard into a plume of white smoke.
Meanwhile, Ritsuki used the smoke Raito created to back away from the other two clones that were beginning to overpower him. He ran towards Raito's side. "Shall we end this?" He asked Raito who nods back, "Yeah. Raidou and the boss are in position waiting for us to take down the clones. Better not disappoint them, ya?"
"Alright. I'll take the one on the left and you take the one on the right, deal?"
"Deal," Raito said with a sharp smile on his face, he ran towards his target leaving Ritsuki behind.
Ritsuki shook his head fondly at his fellow clone. Raito has always enjoyed fighting or sparing much more than Raidou or himself. The shadow clone has always been a bit bloodthirsty and loved to fight. Shaking his thoughts away, Ritsuki tightens his fists, dashing towards his target.
The smoke has finally dissipated from the field making it easier for Naruto's clone to breathe in cleanly without choking on the bitter smoke. They look at each other and noticesd they couldn't spot Raiden or his clone. The last thing the heard was their fellow clone's yelp of pain before he disappeared into white smoke.
"Kuso, where are they!?" one of the clones yelled agitated, not liking the bad feeling in his gut. He tighten his hold on his Bō staff looking for either one of them.
The other clone gulped loudly, tightening his fists. He was busy fighting hand-to-hand with Raiden's clone just before the smoke engulfed the whole field. "I don't know," the weaponless clone said calmly, trying not to panic.
Just then, he heard a twig snap just few inches away from them and noticed; who he thought was the real Raiden, charging straight towards the other clone. He tried to push him away but just before he could say anything; Raiden's clone appeared in front of him stopping him on his tracks. He cursed loudly, realizing the foolish mistake he committed.
Doing the only thing he thought of, he warned his fellow clone. "He's right behind you!" He yelled at the armed clone. He sighed in relief as the clone turned just in time to block the incoming slash with his Bō staff.
He turned around to fight with Ritsuki, both weaponless just as they were fighting before the smoke. They both held their arms up into a defensive stance, waiting for the other to attack first. It wasn't until he saw Ritsuki change his stance and dash towards him that he readied himself expecting strong blows from Raiden's clone.
Reaching into his weapon pouch, he grabs a handful of senbon needles and threw them towards the charging Ritsuki. Ritsuki raised his left arm in front of him and a wooden shield erupted from his arm, catching all of the needles thrown at him.
Naruto's clone cursed loudly. He remembered projectile weapons wouldn't work on Raiden or his clones while they wore their wooden armor. Switching gears, he charged at the clone, blocking every attack thrown at him.
If there's something he could overpower Raiden in, it's in Taijutsu. He deflects all of Raito's attacks with ease, not a single one landing on him. He waits for the clone to tire out before he could attack or find the smallest gap for him to counterattack, and thankful he finds one. Just as Ritsuki was going to deliver a punch to his head, Ritsuki miscalculated and completely missed the blow heading towards the clone's head. Ritsuki saw how the clone noticed his mistake and it was too late for him to escape, he was already in the epicenter of the clone's whirlpool.
Jab after jab, the clone strike all of the pressure points he could and the pain became intolerable. With one last punch towards his solar plexus drop to the ground like a log unable to move from the excruciating pain he was in. The last thing he remember watching was Raito deliver a death blow onto the other clone before he return to Raiden. Raito saw Ritsuki disappear out of the corner of his eye and wasted no time charging at the last remaining clone.
With his katana in hand, he jumped into the air and slashed downward at Naruto's clone who dodged it just on time. Naruto's clone kept backing away from Raito's slashes until his back collided with the tree's trunk. He quickly weaved some hand signs and opened his mouth to let out a small air bullet right at Raito. "Fuuton: Kaze Awa!" The small air bullet hits Raito's chest sending him flying backwards across the field.
Raito landed roughly on the ground panting heavily. He's reaching his limit and needs to finish this before time runs out. He tightens his grip around the hilt of his katana, pushing his lighting chakra into the blade. Lighting dances across the blade, shooting blue jolts of electricity into the air. The electrified katana crackles in his hands before he runs full speeds towards the clone.
Just as he was about to slash at the clone, Raito changes directions within the blink of an eye, surprising everyone how fast he moved and gets behind the clone. His katana pierces through his back and feels the lighting rush through his body.
Naruto's last clone disappear from the battle field just mere moment Raito's times were out and vanishes as well. The real Naruto exclaimed from the tree branch he was sitting on as he watched Raito's body disappear into white smoke. He thought that was Raiden, not another shadow clone. He jumped to his feet quickly, searching for the real Raiden; but sadly, he couldn't find Raiden's chakra signature. Raiden must've masked it, Naruto thought grimly.
Inside the tree, Raiden closed his eyes as he absorbs Raito's memories and experience. He stores it away for a later time and signals Raidou to do his part.
Raidou moved towards where Naruto is standing and comes out of the tree quietly with a kunai in his hand. He grabbed onto Naruto with one arm before he stabs the blonde with his kunai. As soon as the kunai stabs Naruto, a white cloud erupts, revealing Raidou's kunai embedded into a tree log.
The real Naruto jumped out of his hiding spot and makes another shadow clone while he goes out to find the real Raiden. Naruto didn't have to wait as the real Raiden jumped out of the tree to chase after him, gaining speed with each jump to catch up with the blonde.
Realizing Raiden was just few inches away from him. He stops abruptly and turns around, a mischievous smirk grows on his face and Raiden knows Naruto is up to something. He knew that smirk fairly well. This wasn't going to end well. Before Raiden could say anything Naruto raises his arms and yells out his most useful jutsu in his arsenal.
"Oiroke no Jutsu!" a white cloud engulfs Naruto's body. As the white smoke clears out to reveal a tall, beautiful teenager with long blonde hair styled into two ponytails reaching her mid-thigh. She had large, doe-like eyes and a coy smile on her face looking shyly at Raiden. Her skin was the same shade as Naruto's olive complexion; she even had the same whisker scars on her cheeks. Her arms were covering her large, voluptuous breasts while her long hair covered her private parts.
Raiden felt his cheeks heat up and his face turned extremely red as he left his eyes wonder through Naruto, or Naruko's naked body. While in his female form, Naruto became Naruko.
Naruko felt her cheeks warm up as she felt Raiden's heated gaze on her body. She didn't know why it made her stomach flutter weirdly or how great she felt having Raiden's gaze on her like that.
She giggled meekly, batting her eyes at Raiden. "Oh Raiden-kun" she purred out, making Raiden shiver with desire as he listen to Naruko's sweet voice.
Raiden's eyes harden with lust, but he shook his head. Ignoring all of the heated thoughts and different situation he imagined with the blonde. He never noticed the tiny stream of blood running down his nose. He stood frozen as Naruko walked towards him, her breasts bouncing in her arms and hips sway side to side as she approach him, like a lioness approach her prey.
Raiden gulped heavily as Naruko's lithe body pressed against his. He felt her breast press against his chest as she draped herself on him. "Raiden-senpai, why do you ignore me, ne?" She purred into his ear, rubbing her breasts onto his chest. "Am I not pretty, Raiden-senpai? Do you not like me?" She asked softly, sounding like a wounded animal that needed attention.
Raiden unconsciously gripped her tiny waist with his hands making her gasp loudly, surprised by Raiden's rough hands around her slim waist. Naruko suddenly felt light headed. She couldn't help but think how perfect Raiden's hands felt around her hips, all possessive and rough against her silky skin. Her cheeks blushed hotly and whimpered quietly.
"Naruko?" Raiden's hoarse voice drawled out softly, tightening his hands around her waist.
Naruko let out a tiny moan, "Yes, Raiden-kun?" She whispered into his neck, inhaling Raiden's sweaty aroma. Oddly, she found it quite appealing.
Raiden suppress a groan as Naruko rolled her hips into his groin unknowingly. He wrapped one arm around her waist while his other hand cupped her chin tenderly, like a lover would. Naruko's breath hitched as she felt Raiden's hand tilting her head slightly up, meeting each other's lust filled gaze. Raiden caresses his cheek, leaning closer Naruko's face; inches away from her delectable, plump ruby lips. He licks his lips lightly, "Naruko," he repeats slowly purring her name out with his husky tone.
Naruko closed her eyes. She becomes pliant in Raiden's arms, feeling all sorts of emotions rushing through her. She waits for Raiden's lips to meets her lips, but they never touch. Instead, she felt her head throbbing painful and falls onto the ground. She yelped in pain as her form dissolves to reveal a slightly dazed Naruto. "What was that for!?" The pouting blonde rubs his throbbing head gently.
Raiden wipes away the trail of blood from his nose before the blonde could notice and hides his harden member underneath his wooden armor. He glared at the blonde, "doesn't matter." He grumbled, slightly annoyed by his current situation. He needed to find a bathroom quick and get rid of pulsing member in his tight pants as soon as possible.
"Anyways, we should get ready before we're late." He stated loudly. He doesn't wait for Naruto before he heads off running into the forest. Naruto stared at the spot where Raiden stood and looks confused as to way Raiden just left so suddenly. He shrugs nonchalantly, following after Raiden.
"Uhh, what just happen?" A gaping Okami asks his companions, trying to make sense of what he just witnessed.
Behind her mask, Neko looked stunned. She didn't know what just happened. One second, Naruto and Raiden were fighting each other and the other they're practically eye-fucking each other with Naruto's female form rubbing unashamedly against Raiden.
Inu was glad he had a mask on to hide his devilish smile. 'Oh, my pup has finally reached that special age. . . Perhaps, I'll get him his own Icha Icha Paradise copy.' He giggled quietly to himself.
Kuma, on the other hand was mortified by the little scene. His face was flaming red and his throat was extremely dry. "That was interesting, to say at least." He drawled out, his mind blown.
Okami rubbed the back of his head. "You can say that, again. . . But at least they're ready for the exam." He chuckled weakly as he takes off his mask.
Neko nods taking her off her mask as well. "More than ready, there's no chance either of them would fail."
"You're both right. Gekko, Yugato. They're more than ready." Yamato said.
He turned to Kakashi who has his mask off and asks hesitantly, "Do you think it's time to have 'The Talk' with the boys?" Kakashi grimaced. Oh yes, they need to have the dreaded talk about the birds and the bees. Both boys have started going through puberty and eventually they'll have urges.
Kakashi sighed, running a hand though his silver hair, "You owe me big time. Ya hear, Yamato."
Yamato sighed out of relief, nodding rapidly, "Of course Kakashi!"
'Ugh! What if I just give then an Icha Icha novel...they'll figure it out, right?'
An hour and a half later, and after a long cold shower for Raiden, Naruto and Raiden were ready to take their exams. The duo couldn't wait to take their exams, both boys felt confident in their skills, knowing they couldn't possibly fail. They've worked so hard for the past four years to get at their current level for their chance to receive their office hite-ate and start their careers.
Naruto was one step closer to his dream, one step closer into become the next Hokage. He felt downright giddy.
Whereas; Raiden was just happy to join the ride, sure, he had his own inspirations and own reasons for becoming a Shinobi. Foremost, he wanted to protect Konohagakure no Sato. The hidden village has become a home for the young Mokuton user, despite some of the idiotic villagers and the old bags of bones. Konoha has become his home and he'll protect it with his life even though he's not from the Elemental Nation.
Earth may be his birth dimension, but all he knew was pain, betrayal, and greed while he lived there. He wanted nothing to do with it, and if he had his way, he'll turn his back on them, but doing so it'll be an insult to his parent's death that died saving him.
He'll return to his dimension eventually, once he has he's proper training under wraps; preferably after he becomes an ANBU. He'll like to follow under his surrogate brother's footsteps. While he might've been trained by couple of ANBU operatives, he still needed real experience to hone in his skills and perfect them.
He still needed to work on his magic and be taught how to use it properly. He has learned to control his magic better over the years and has manage to make things happen with just a thought, however it takes a lot of time if it's something complicated and it drains him quickly. He also discovered he could control, to a certain extent, how to change his hair color or style by just focusing how he wants it to look, and could change his eye color at will: something which will help him tremendously; if he becomes an ANBU operative someday.
He knew he'll need to defeat Voldemort for good, once he's resurrected. He knew Voldemort was far from dead thanks to the horcruxes made prior to his temporary defeat. Matsu explained what's a horcrux were and Raiden was horrified by the atrocity Voldemort committed just to acquire immortality. He had to destroy the last six horcruxes before he could vanquish Voldemort for good; the problem was he nor Matsu know how to destroy them exactly. Matsu has never come across anything as vile as horcruxes in lifetime, and he was luckly enough to destroy the one which resided on Raiden's scar.
They'll have their work cut out for them. It won't be easy, but with the two of them working together they'll find a way.
January 29th, 1992 7: 30 a.m.
Iruka's Lecture Room, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
Standing in the middle of the classroom, Iruka couldn't help but beam at his students. He was quite worried when the Hokage assigned him to teach this particular class, he didn't think he could do it but he learned it wasn't so hard. He enjoyed teaching and interacting with the children, watching them grow in front of him a glimpse of the shinobi they'll become someday.
He certainly enjoyed teaching children far more than being an ANBU operative. It wasn't that he couldn't handle being an ANBU; it was just that he was too kindhearted to be one. The Hokage noticed and gave him another alternative, becoming a teacher.
It was a stressful job at times, especially whenever Naruto was extremely bored and played couple pranks on him but Raiden seemed to always reel the blonde boy in if Naruto was being too disruptive. Something he was thankful for.
Another thing which surprised him was Naruto. The small blonde boy wasn't anything liked he imagined nor heard from his previous teacher, all who sneered and belittled Naruto whenever he asked them about the boy. Naruto wasn't an angel by any means, but he wasn't a demon like the villagers went on about. He was just a child like any other who starved for attention; wanted to be noticed by someone. Which was the reason he love to prank people, but once Raiden came into Naruto's life, he came the light in Naruto's bleak darkness.
Also, the pranks intensified in number and become more intricate than Naruto's old pranks, makings it harder for anyone to put the blame on Naruto or Raiden. They left no clues, nor evidence behind, making it impossible for anyone to blame them for the pranks and he had to admit they were ingenious.
Iruka clapped his hands and smile wide. "Today is the day you've all be working so hard for the past three years, it's the day that'll determine whether you'll be starting you're shinobi career or not. I've taught you all the essential techniques, skill and knowledge you'll need to become a great shinobi and it's up to you to improve your skills and protect our home, our village from outside threats."
He scanned the room looking at each of his students, his eyes somber. "I won't lie and say it'll be easy journey, because it's not. The shinobi life is dangerous, and you'll have to do things you never thought you'll have to do, but remember, everything you're going to be asked to do will be to keep our home safe, to keep the prosperity thriving whether it's a small or big task. You're going to be representing our village each time you're sent to another village, town, or country for missions and you're expected to act accordingly and show them what Konoha is made out of." He finished off his small speech fiercely.
"Now that's over, I want to tell how proud I am of every single one of you. It's been an honor to teach you all and expect great things from all of you. Good luck." He finished his heartfelt speech and blushed brightly from standing ovation he received. He rubbed the back of his head meekly and thanked them. His chest puffed up in pride as he walked into the testing room.
"Senju-Potter Raiden," The proctor called out loudly, waking up Raiden from the small catnap.
Naruto grinned widely at his best friend, "Good luck Rai!" The blonde said brightly.
Raiden smirked, "I'll be waiting at our usual spot. Wake me up once you got your hitai-ate, will ya?"
"Will do," The blonde replied sweetly.
Raiden nodded stiffly as walked away. He ignored Sasuke sneer when he passed by him. How he wished to beat the crap out of the Uchiha heir. As he walked into the room, he saw Gamayu Tsuchi, the newly appointed headmaster of the Academy who replaced Akyou Toshiro.
Gamayu Tsuchi has proven himself to be a great addition to the Academy and treats everyone, whether student or teacher with respect and hears to what they have to say. He has made countless improvements throughout the Academy and fired teachers who weren't doing their job correctly or weren't qualified to teach. With him controlling the Academy, graduation rates and test scores have gone through the roof.
Sitting next to Gamayu Tsuchi, was Mizuki, the man Raiden didn't trust. He knew Mizuki is up to something, Raiden doesn't know what he's up to but his gut his telling him otherwise. He hoped his gut was wrong, but his gut has never disappointed him before.
Sitting on the other side of Mizuki was his teacher, Iruka. The man he personally respected for his commitment to teach them without showing any favoritism whatsoever to anyone.
Raiden bowed politely, showing his respect at his superiors and Iruka beamed. All of his students have shown their respect to them unlike the other students from the other teachers. He saw Tsuchi smile softly at Raiden before he asked Raiden to step forwards.
"This year, you'll be tested in three essential skills every Shinobi should know: Kawarimi no Jutsu, Henge no Jutsu, and Bunshin no Jutsu. Whenever you're ready, you may begin." Mizuki informed.
Raiden nodded stiffly at the man. He quickly Henge himself as Iruka creating a perfect replica of his teacher, including the same scar and the clipboard he was holding onto. All three proctors nodded approvingly by his perfect transformation and asked him to perform the next jutsu. With a puff of smoke, Raiden disappeared from where he was standing and a potted plant took his place. "Great! Now just make a perfect Bunshin and you pass." Tsuchi informed him.
"Kage Bunshin no Jutsu," Raiden exclaimed bringing out Raito out, choosing to bring out just one shadow clone; instead of three, or more. Raito saluted his boss with a broad smile, "Reporting for duty, boss!" Raito echoed with great intensity, itching for a fight. {"At ease, soldier."} Raiden told him in English, pointing at the three gaping proctors in front of them.
Tsuchi, Mizuki, and Iruka starred incredulously at the living shadow clone in front of them. It was unheard of for a child to make living shadow clone, not even more adults could achieve to create one without endangering themselves in the process. It was the reason the Kage Bunshin no Jutsu was labeled as a Kinjutsu, a forbidden jutsu which has claim many ways lives.
"Umm. . . Raiden-kun... where did you learned that Jutsu?" Iruka broke the silence, asking the question they all had.
"From my family's personal library, I couldn't manage to create a normal Bunshin because of my abnormal chakra reserves. Each time I tried to create one they looked ghostly pale, practically dead. It wasn't until I found my grandfather's notebook that I found this jutsu, and before you ask, I've informed Lord Hokage about my situation. You may confirm with him, if you please."
Tsuchi cleared his throat, "as long as Hokage been informed all if fair. The task was to create a perfect clone, and you've manage to create an actual living clone. Something not many shinobi can accomplish." He stated matter-of-factly.
Iruka nodded. "While it was unexpected surprise, you've shown great mastery on the three task asked of you and proven your skill. Behalf the three of us, we bestow upon you your own hitai-ate. Wear your headband with pride, and report to class on Monday morning to see which squad you've been placed on." Iruka beamed at the raven haired boy who wrapped his headband tightly around his right shoulder.
Raiden dismissed his clone and bowed politely before. "Thank you. I'll wear my headband with pride." He told them candidly before he jumped out of the window and took off, leaving the three men sweat-dropping behind.
"It's scary how alike he's to Kakashi. If only he had silver hair and wore a mask, they would certainly pass off as brothers." Tsuchi commented lightly.
Iruka scoffed, "at least Raiden wouldn't be reading that filthy novel publicly. And he's not as nearly as late as Kakashi either."
Mizuki shook his head, "be as it may, Raiden has been one of the best students we've had since Itachi. He's dominated almost everyone in all practical portions of the exams. If only he did his homework he would've been the Rookie of the year."
Tsuchi chuckled, "Raiden is just as lazy as the typical Nara male; it's no wonder Shikamaru and Raiden get along so well."
Iruka huffed, "don't I know it." Tsuchi and Mizuki chortled loudly as their companion looked lightly annoying.
"Who's next?" Iruka asked, trying to change the subject.
"Uh Sutori Mariko," Mizuki told the brunette as he read the next name off the list.
"I'm sorry, but you've failed Naruto." Iruka said grimly as he delivered the devastating news to the disheartened blonde who looked totally broken. It hurt Iruka to watch as Naruto's dreams fall apart in front of him after how much work he's put into this year.
Naruto didn't give him time to say how sorry he was before the blonde bolted out the door with tears running down his cheeks. He couldn't believe he couldn't perform a single shadow clone after he's been using them almost daily, it just didn't make sense!
His aspirations and dreams have gone down the drain! He couldn't become the Hokage if he wasn't a ninja! How is he goings to face Raiden without a hitai-ite? He couldn't tell Raiden, so instead he ran away, deep into the forest and away from Raiden's compound and their usual spot where he promised to meet with him. He needed to escape from everything and cry his heart out in peace.
Seconds turned to minutes and minutes turned to hours, and Naruto fell asleep against the base of a tree. He was waked up by a tenor voice calling out his name. He rubbed away his drowsiness away, letting out a jaw breaking yawn. He stood up and walked towards the voice calling his name.
To his surprise and shock; it was Mizuki calling his name. Mizuki looked glad to see him and he ran towards Naruto. "Oh Naruto," he said relieved. "Thank goodness I found you! I was worried I couldn't get a hold of you!?" He fretted slightly, making Naruto slightly uncomfortable.
"Err, what's the matter Mizuki-san?" He asked the man.
Mizuki blushed lightly, acting as he actually cared for the brat; inwardly, he suppressed urge to kill the demon brat where he stood. Unfortunately, he couldn't kill the demon brat just yet, he still needed the scroll. "I know how much you want to become a ninja, and know how much you've struggled become one and I don't believe it was fair for you to fail you." He smiled sadly.
Naruto swallow harshly, licking his chapped lips. He nodded curtly.
Mizuki faked his smile, "so I've talked to the headmaster and Iruka to give you a second chance!" He clapped his hands together, smirking maliciously as he just reeled in Naruto into his trap. Naruto's face brightens at the realization his dreams aren't over, just yet. He still had a shot to get his headband. "What do I have to do, Mizuki-san!?" He exclaimed loudly.
Mizuki's jaw tightens forcefully as he grinds his teeth together, trying to control his voice. "Well, all you have to do is to sneaked into the Hokage Tower, and retrieve this scroll while not being seen. Once you have the scroll all you have to do is bring the scroll to me, and you'll received your headband!"
Naruto narrowed his eyes, looking a bit skeptical; but before he could ask why he needed to retrieved the scroll. Mizuki bated him the only way he could. "I'm sure Raiden wouldn't have a problem retrieving the scroll. I bet he wouldn't even need any help to do it." He states blandly, "You know, many people think that the only reason you got this far was because of Raiden. They think if it wasn't for Raiden you wouldn't have come this far. This is your chance to prove them wrong, that you don't need Raiden babying you every single step of the way, or do you?" He smirked deviously as he saw the blonde's face contort with rage.
Naruto's eyes glimmered with bright determination on his task on hand. He'll show everyone he doesn't need Raiden! "Will do, Mizuki-san, where would I find you after I have the scroll?" He asked with determination burning through his veins.
Mizuki grinned in victory. "Here will do just as fine. Remember, you mustn't be caught nor receive any outside help."
"Yosh! I won't disappoint you, Mizuki-san!" The blonde saluted as he left eagerly to retrieve the scroll.
Once Naruto was far away, Mizuki crackled wickedly. He couldn't believe the demon brat actually believed him! Not only will he have the village forbidden scroll in his hands, but he'll be able to pin the blame on Naruto while he switches the scrolls and runs away with the real one!
There's no way they'll believe the demon brat, and he'll be far, far away before they realize the fake one. He was glad he placed the chakra suppressors on the brat to suppress 80% of his chakra before he took his exam and placed a Genjutsu keyed to him as well. Everything was working perfectly. He'll soon learn some of the most powerful jutsus ever created.
January 29th, 1992 6:00 p.m.
Training Field 5, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
After taking his exam, Raiden sat against the cherry blossom tree Naruto and him claimed as theirs and took a small nap thinking Naruto should be out soon. One hour later and there was no sign of Naruto anywhere. He watched as children came out holding their headbands looking proud as their parents were dotting them with proud smiles and hugs; unconsciously, he clutched his chest looking as the children ran into the open arms of their parents, something he'll never get to experience.
He felt a strong pair of arms wrap around him ghostly, he smiled fondly as Matsu tried his best to cheer him up.
'Thank you,' he whispered in his mind enticing a purr, a real manly purr out of Matsu.
["I'm always there for you, cub. Don't you forget it!"] Matsu threatened him playfully earning a soft smile from Raiden.
'I know,' he responded back knowing that even though he lost his parents, he had people who cared about him: like Kakashi, Yamato, the Hokage, and Naruto. He might not have his parents physically with him, but he knew they loved him.
Matsu tightened his arms around Raiden one last time before he left go. ["Remember the promise I made you two years ago?"] He asked. Raiden nodded his head slowly. ["Well, as you've proven yourself to be a very capable ninja, you've proven you'll make an exceptional Okami Sage. I hereby gift to you the Okami summoning contract."] Matsu stated.
A dark mass of shadows appear in front of Raiden; slowly taking form of a scroll. Matsu encouraged Raiden to grab it and a golden light erupted from the scroll heating his hand with warmth. Raiden stared in awe as the bright golden light dimmed down. He opened the scroll slowly and read its contexts of the previous holders of the Okami contract.
["Great, the contract accepts you and deems you worthy. Now just place your palm in the center of the circle and it draw some blood, as soon as you start bleeding, push your chakra into the scroll and you're done!"] Matsu cheered.
Raiden followed Matsu's instructions, and felt something sharp slice his palm. He immediately pushed his chakra causing the scroll to tremble and blow red before it settled down. As the light faded, his Raiden was written in golden ink alongside the names of the previous holder.
He felt a sudden sharp pain on his left bicep, as if some was being seared into his skin. Quickly he checked on his left bicep and saw a tribal tattoo decorating his tan skin depicting a wolf howling.
Inside of his head, Matsu smiled warmly as his mark was placed on his vessel. He should've expected, [' the wolves had no choice but help Raiden now, without proving himself to them. But knowing Raiden, he'll still go on with the test. '] He thought to himself
"Whoa, this looks so cool!" The raven haired boy exclaimed, marveling at his new tattoo. He had always wanted to get one: Naruto is going to be so jealous when he finds out.
Matsu rolled his eyes, ["try summoning a wolf. I want to see who you'll bring out for the first time."]
"Okay," Raiden grinned, placing his palm against the ground. He pushed his chakra towards his palm, and exclaimed, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu!"
A tiny wolf cub appeared out of the white smoke looking frantically around his new environment with wide stunned eyes. One second he was playing with his brother and sister, and the next thing he knows he was transported away from his home. He lowered his body and growling threatening as his father taught him. He stared intently at the human in front of him, watching his every move, never taking his eyes off the human.
"Don't you dare move or I'll attack!" He threatened the human, snarling showing of his fangs.
Raiden eyes widen as he heard the tiny black wolf talk. He's never heard another animal talk with the exception of Pakkun, Kakashi's Ninken.
He held his hands in front of him trying not to provoke the wolf pup in any way. He tried hard not to laughing at the sheer cuteness of the tiny black pup showed as he was trying to look threatening when it's so small and fluffy. Raiden didn't dare to comment on it. He was sure the wolf pup wouldn't feel the same way.
"I mean no harm. . . I'm sorry if I whisked you away from your family so unexpectedly." He replied, speaking slowly with a neutral voice. Raiden's emerald gaze never wavered from the pup's slivery gaze, neither of them dared to back down as they fought for dominance.
Couple of minutes passed until the wolf pup backed down lowering his gaze, earnings a tiny smirk from the raven haired boy. The wolf pup growled, "You got lucky human. Don't expect be to back down the next time." The wolf pup warned.
Raiden rolled his eyes with amusement, but said nothing. Instead he sat down waited for the wolf pup to approach him once he's ready; he wasn't going to force him.
Raiden watched intently as the wolf pup encircled him slowly, occasionally sniffing him to gauge his emotion and take in his scent. Once he seemed satisfied, the wolf pup approached him slowly until he climbed onto Raiden's lap.
The wolf pup sensed the human wasn't afraid of him! He was a terrifying predator who could easily tear the human boy apart . . . once he's fully grown, that is but he's a terrifying bloodthirsty wolf!
It bummed him out the human boy wasn't afraid of him, but he did noticed the boy was powerful and a real alpha, despite his young age, that sole fact made him feel slightly better about himself. So he decided to jump on the human's lap and relax a bit. He was slightly tried from playing with his siblings, and he knew the human was alright.
He sighed contently, as the human petted him. He even went as far as to reaching towards the human's touch. "What's your name human?" He asked with one eye open.
"Senju-Potter Raiden," The human boy named Raiden responded, scratching behind his ears earning a low comforting growl from the wolf. "And yours, oh terrifying wolf." Raiden asked the wolf, who puffed up his chest letting out a terrifying, yet adorable growl.
"Izumo, you may call me Izumo, human." The wolf pup drawled.
Raiden smiled, "only if you call me Raiden, wolf."
Izumo gave him a sharp nod, "fine, but only because I like you. Now if you're done, can you send be back? I must tell my parents I'm fine before they freak out and tell them there's a new Okami summoner." Raiden gave him one last scratched behind his ears before Izumo jumped off his lap and quickly sent him back to his family. He had things to do as well, such as looking for a certain blonde. Wasting no time, he jumped to his feet walking towards the Academy to check with Iruka if he's seen Naruto.
When he arrived inside Iruka's room, he saw the kind hearted brunette rubbing his temples trying to force away the incoming headache. He couldn't blame the man. It must've taken lot of patience to endure sitting through exam after exam, consecutively without a break in-between.
Raiden cleared his throat alerting Iruka of his presence before he walked through the doorway.
Immediately, Iruka turned around to see Raiden walking towards him. He couldn't help but look confused as to why Raiden came to him. "Is there something I can help you with, Raiden?" The brunette man asked.
Raiden nodded, "I was wondering if you've seen where Naruto headed off to, Iruka-sensei. He promised to meet up with me after he took his exam, but I fell asleep and haven't seen him since."
Iruka raised an eyebrow; not impressed by Raiden's lack of sleep. "Still not getting enough sleep, Raiden-kun?" The teacher chided weakly.
Raiden laughed sheepishly, scratching the back of his head. "Err, can't a guy take a catnap once in a while?" He replied.
Iruka scoffed, "it's totally fine taking a catnap once in a while, but you take it to a whole different level." He replied with mock disappointment. Iruka's dark brown eyes shined with amusement, "I swear you could probably sleep through an entire earthquake without waking up, but yet you still manage to wake up whenever I'm about to ask you a question and answer it correctly. It's even more frightening when you actually catch whatever I throw at you."
"How do you do it?" Iruka asked wanting to know badly.
Raiden only smiled sweetly at Iruka, "it's a secret, Iruka-sensei." He told the man who pouted.
Iruka grumbled for a bit before he sobered up, remembering Raiden question. He didn't want to be the one to tell Raiden, Naruto failed. He felt the sudden urge to massage away the headache and heartache. Taking a deep breath in, he motioned Raiden to take a seat while he prepared himself to be the bearer of bad news. "Geez, there's no easy way to put this, Raiden-kun." Raiden tensed as he heard Iruka's somber tone. Immediately, his fear began to grow.
Iruka noticed the immediate change on Raiden demeanor. One second he was playful, bickering and the other he was deadly serious, showing an emotionless mask as if he's ready to kill someone at any second.
Iruka gulped heavily; he looks into Raiden's poisonous gaze and continues. "Well, umm. . . Naruto failed his exam. H-he couldn't create a single clone after w-we gave him three chances." He couldn't help but feel incredibly small under Raiden's stony gaze. The young Senju heir had an overwhelming presence which, if he was honest, scared the crap out of him.
Raiden inhaled deeply trying his best to hold in his anger and not explode at Iruka. The poor man smelled scared, worried, and sympathetic. He knew Iruka cared about Naruto, and for that sole reason he didn't blow up at him. "So," he said monotonically, "Naruto failed creating a clone three times, yet I've personally seen him create shadow clones with ease, alongside the Hokage. Did he act out of the ordinary during the exam; perhaps a bit sluggish or drowsy; as if he wasn't acting himself?"
Iruka frowned at Raiden's odd question. Reviewing Naruto's exam in his head; trying to look for any clues, he oddly remembers the blonde hesitating to enter the room before Mizuki gave him permission to enter after he tried to call Naruto in. He remembers Naruto looking uncomfortable almost as if he wanted to leave the room; but he couldn't. He does remember Naruto's eyes were a bit dazed until the end when they informed him he failed. It was the only time Naruto acted like himself, almost as if a spell was lifted. . . Iruka eyes widen in realization, "Genjutsu." He mumbles under his breath.
It was as if Naruto was under a Genjutsu throughout the exam and someone lifted after Naruto failed his exam. But how could've casted it and when? There was only one way to find out. He must check the exam room for any remains of someone chakra if he's correct.
He dashed out the room heading towards the exam room with Raiden following him. He stopped at the doorway tracing his fingers over the wood and his breath hitches. He could feel small chakra remains of a Genjutsu casted on the doorway with Naruto's chakra mixed in. There was no question what happened, someone tried to sabotage Naruto with a Genjutsu locked into Naruto.
"Oh Kami-sama, we must alert the Hokage. Someone sabotaged Naruto's exam!?" He turned towards Raiden, "you have to find Naruto and bring him back here. I'll inform the Hokage." Raiden nodded sharply before he jumped out the windows and disappeared.
Iruka wasted no time and headed towards the Hokage's office. Once he arrived, everything was hectic. Everyone was panicking, running around like headless chickens. He spotted an ANBU operative leaning against the wall with his arms crossed against his chest as he watched the chaos. He walked towards the ANBU, "why is everyone panicking?" He asked the Inu masked ANBU.
"It appears as if Naruto stole the forbidden scroll and everyone believes the Kyuubi had finally taken over him and is planning to destroy the village." Inu scoffed.
Iruka raised an eyebrow. "And you believe otherwise?" He asked the ANBU.
Inu nodded. "Naruto wouldn't have stolen the forbidden scroll without a good reason. The brat may be devious, but he won't commit treason." He replied truthfully.
Iruka noticed the slight affection in the ANBU's voice as he referred to Naruto as a brat. He was glad another person saw Naruto for who he really was and not for the demon many make him out to be.
Suddenly, the wooden doors slide open with a loud, defying boom which caused everyone to freeze as the Hokage walked into the room. "Now, if you all could stop acting like children for a second and act like the shinobi you're supposed to be." He chided, making everyone feel ashamed.
"That's much better. Now, I'm sure you've all heard about the incident which happened twenty minutes ago." He stopped as he received couple of nods. "For those who don't know, just ten minutes ago Naruto broke into my office and stole the forbidden scroll."
Several people screamed in outrage demanding Naruto's blood. Iruka stiffen up as he heard the malicious screams for Naruto's death. He jumped as he felt a hand on his shoulder, he turn around to see Inu trying to calm him down. "Thank you," he whispered at the ANBU who nodded back.
"SILENCE!" Sarutobi screamed over everyone as he summoned his Bō staff, banging it against the floor. "Now, before you start raving on about Naruto, I've summoned Inu to lead a group of ANBU to retrieve the scroll and bring back Naruto UNHARMED, we will question Naruto as to why he stole the scroll. All of you will not touch, say, nor harm Naruto in anyway until we heard his story. If a catch any of you harm Naruto in anyway there will be severe consequences. Understand."
"Hai, Hokage-sama!" they all respond back going back to their jobs, trying not to anger the Hokage anymore.
Sarutobi turned around to greet Inu, but when he saw Iruka standing there too he raised an eyebrow, especially as Inu still had his hand on Iruka's shoulder.
Iruka noticed and quickly pushed Inu's hand away blushing slightly. He cleared his throat, "err it's not what it looks like!" He stammered. Sarutobi chuckled at the man he considered as another son, but said nothing. Iruka was glad Sarutobi didn't press on the subject; instead he delivered his finding. Hoping he'll be able to shine some light. "Hokage-sama, I have reasons to believe someone within the Academy sabotaged Naruto's exam. I've found some chakra remains of a Genjutsu placed on a door keyed directly to Naruto's chakra."
Sarutobi eyes harden, "explain," he demanded. Iruka took his time explaining what he found and Sarutobi felt more unease by what Iruka said.
"The only people allowed today were: Tsuchi, Mizuki, and myself. We were the only ones who could've placed a Genjutsu on the door-" He paused midway as Sarutobi cut him off, catching on to his theory. "Which meant either Tsuchi or Mizuki could've placed the Genjutsu. We all know you wouldn't harm Naruto, and Tsuchi did swear to his office: preventing him from interfering from any school matters without my permission" Sarutobi said thoughtful.
"Which means Mizuki must've casted the Genjutsu in order for Naruto to fail and he'll then approach Naruto to convince him to steal the forbidden scroll. . ." Inu stopped for a second remembering Raiden concerns about Mizuki. Raiden didn't trust Mizuki one bit and told him he believe Mizuki was up to something.
Raiden went as far as acquiring Mizuki's banking statements. He doesn't know how he got them, and quite frankly he's afraid to ask how he got them. Only there was a huge amount of money deposited into his account by an unknown source and Mizuki has been removing almost all of his money from his bank account and has placed his letter of resignation . . . which meant he was fleeing the village tonight. . . "Kuso," he cursed loudly. "We must find Mizuki as soon as possible and bring him into to T&I department before he flees the village with the scroll!" He exclaimed.
Sarutobi eyes widen, taken aback by Kakashi's outburst. "Are you telling you believe Mizuki convinced Naruto to steal the scroll and plans to flee the village with the scroll?"
"Yes, we have a traitor within our hands. We must act now before it's too late." Inu said grimly.
Sarutobi closed his eyes, "bring Mizuki back alive." He demanded.
Inu nodded sharply. "Will do, Hokage-sama," He said shortly before he disappeared.
"May I go find Naruto as well, Hokage-sama?" Iruka asked tersely, hoping Raiden manage to find Naruto before it was too late.
Sarutobi smiled at him "go and keep Naruto safe."
"I will," he promised before he disappears.
January 29th, 1992 7:00 p.m.
Training Field 27, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
'Ugh! I knew Mizuki was up to something! That bastard sabotaged Naruto's last chance to become a shinobi!'
["Oi, calm down, Raiden our first priority is to find Naruto and bring him back to Iruka. We can deal with Mizuki later. Naruto is our priority."]
Raiden growled loudly, ' fine, but Mizuki won't be getting away with it so easily. He's up to something and it something big.'
Raiden stopped on top of a tree branch to collect himself. He couldn't let his anger take over him at a time like this. He closed his eyes expanding his chakra senses to find a general area as to where Naruto might be heading to.
'There, Southwest from my current location.' He pinpointed Naruto's chakra signature. It wasn't hard to distinguish Naruto's chakra signature from someone else, Naruto's chakra had a red tint and felt demonic thanks to Kyuubi no Kitsune.
He jumped from tree branch to tree branch until he saw Naruto's blonde hair just few meters away from him. He increased his speed to catch up with Naruto who had a huge scroll on his back. "Oi, Naruto. Wait up!" He yelled at the blonde who seemed to ignore him and increased his speed. Raiden frowned. It seemed as if the blonde was trying to get away from him for some reason. He yelled again for the blonde to stop, but Naruto had other intentions.
He growled as he speeds up pushing his legs to their limit and jumped in front of the blonde making Naruto stop. He noticed Naruto wasn't very happy he stopped him. In fact, Naruto looked extremely angry at him for some strange reason.
"Move," Naruto growled fiercely surprising Raiden by the anger behind Naruto's voice.
Raiden shook his head. "Nope, not gonna happen. Why were you avoiding me?" He countered back.
Naruto scoffed, completely ignoring Raiden question and asked Raiden to move again, more forcefully. "I said move, Raiden!" He demanded again.
"Why? Why, should I move?" Raiden replied.
Naruto growled, "I don't have time for this Raiden! Move or I'll make you." He snarled, trying to intimidate him.
Raiden raised an eyebrow, "ha-ha, really funny Naru. Jokes over, I need to bring you back to Iruka and what's up with that scroll." He pointed at the huge scroll on Naruto's back.
Naruto sneered nastily, "It's none of your business. And I won't certainly go back with you. I need you to move or else I'm going to attack you." He threaten again making Raiden eyes widen. He has never seen this part of Naruto come out to play.
"I'm serious. Stop playing and come with me." Raiden pushed but Naruto didn't waste time grabbing his senbon needles and threw them at Raiden before he grabbed a smoke bomb and threw it on the ground before he left Raiden behind, bleeding and stunned where he stood.
Raiden felt as if time stopped completely as he saw Naruto attack him. He felt as the needles embedded themselves on his chest and saw Naruto run away from him as the smoke bomb exploded. He jumped out of the way of the smoke bomb before it exploded. Yanking out the needles sticking out of his chest, he winced slightly before he chased after Naruto.
He spotted Naruto just a few feet away from him. He readied himself to pounces on Naruto and landed on his back causing both boys to hit the ground. Naruto struggled to free himself from Raiden's hold, but Raiden was on top of Naruto using his heavier body to make Naruto lay still. He held Naruto down with ease, straddling Naruto waist as he pinned the blonde down.
"What's the matter with you?" Raiden yelled, "Why the fuck you would you attack me!?" Raiden screamed, feeling slightly betrayed by Naruto. Sure, both of them liked to spar with each other and they didn't exactly hold back, but it friendly fights. Neither of them actually tried to injure the other and it was clear to him that Naruto intended to hurt him.
Naruto sneered, "Let me go! I'm tired of you doing everything for me! You never let me do anything for myself!" He yelled, trying to buck Raiden off but it wasn't working. "You always interfere with everything as if you're my father or brother; but you aren't!" He screamed at Raiden's face, panting as he continued with his rant.
"You aren't my father and you're definitely not my brother! You can't tell me what to do! I'm tired of following you like lost puppy that can't do anything for himself and feels sorry for myself! I don't want your pity! I don't need your help and I don't need you! So just leave me the fuck alone!?" Naruto screamed on top of his lungs, each word piercing into Raiden's heart, cutting him open.
Raiden released Naruto's hands and got off him quietly. He turned his back to Naruto, looking at the ground as he clenched his fists trying to keep his temper to himself; even though he want to scream back at Naruto. "I've never tried to be your father nor brother. I tried to be your friend who was there when you needed someone to talk to, someone to help you when you needed help." He said weakly, pausing for a second to breathe in.
"I'm sorry you feel as if I tried to tell you what do to, and I'm sorry I cared enough to help you achieve what you didn't think you were capable of. If that's how you feel and think so little of me then, go. I won't stop you. I was just trying to help you where others haven't because I know how it feels to be you. I thought I was doing the right thing, but apparently I wasn't." He felt his eyes water a bit, but refuses to allow a single tear to fall. He wasn't going to give Naruto the satisfaction; instead he laughed harshly making Naruto cringe by how deprecating it sounded. "Oh by the way, Iruka send me to tell you someone sabotaged your exam by placing a Genjutsu on you. But hey, continue doing what you're doing. I wouldn't want you to thinking I'm forcing to follow me." With that, Raiden left Naruto to do whatever he wants as he jumps away.
[" Oh cub, I'm sorry. . ."] Matsu said quietly, doing his best to comfort Raiden's aching heart. Raiden's lips trembles slightly. He stops and punches the nearest tree over and over again, releasing all of his anger, pain, and feelings as he demolishes the tree. His knuckles were bruised and raw. They were bleeding and filled with splinters.
He falls down to the ground with an anguished scream, hugging his knees into his chest. He didn't expect Naruto to completely flay him open like that. He goes over Naruto's words trying to make sense of them.
'Have I really held him back? Have I tried to baby him? Have I done everything for him?' He asked himself.
[" No, you haven't done everyone for him, per say, but you've totally changed him world upside down and sideways. I guess I could see where he's coming from."] Matsu implored slightly.
Raiden narrowed his brow, 'explain?'
Matsu sighed. ["You know how he was practically alone all those years before you met him and you know how they treated him. Then you come along and changed his entire world by helping him, whether it was a small thing or not. You helped him in many ways he has never received help in and you keep on helping him, without him asking for help. He must be overwhelmed and believes you think he can't do anything without you helping him first, and everyone looks at him and think that the only reason he hasn't flunk out was because of you."]
["I think you should leave him alone for a while so he can reassess himself without you butting in. You do tend to be a possessive little alpha when you're around him."] Matsu snickered lightly, trying to lift the heavy atmosphere.
Raiden slumps slightly, 'so I should just let him walk away and say nothing, hope he'll come back to me?' He asked quietly.
["Yup, although you should tell him you both need a break from each other; before either one of you does something you'll regret. It might be for the best; plus you still have to go to England to learn you're magic."]
Raiden sighed forlornly, not liking Matsu's suggestion but knows it for the best. He perhaps could spend some time with Kiba or Hinata for a while.
'Okay,' he agreed hesitantly.
Raiden looks down at his hands, watching how Matsu healing them slowly, leaving couple of bruises behinds. He was about to go home when Matsu gets a bad feeling in his stomach.
["Cub, Find Naruto, now! He may be in danger."]
January 29th,1992 7:30 p.m.
Training Field 30, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
Just as he watched Raiden left him behind, Naruto can't help but feel conflicted by his feelings. He wanted to chase after Raiden and beg for forgiveness, but at the same time he needed to prove to himself he could do something by himself without Raiden's aid. He heard someone clapping behind him and watched as Mizuki gave him a nasty smirk, just like the ones the villagers gave him when he wasn't looking.
Mizuki jumped off the tree branch he was perched on, landing gracefully on the ground. "Good job, Naruto! You did it, now just hand over the scroll and you pass." Mizuki encouraged him, but Naruto backs away from him.
There was something off by Mizuki, his eyes were too harsh and his smile was too bloodthirsty for his liking, it made him nervous. "W-why do you want this scroll." Naruto asked hesitantly, clutching to the scroll on his back.
Mizuki smirked, "because that scroll you have on your back isn't just any ordinary scroll, Naruto. Now hand it over."
Naruto shook his head. "N-no. . ."
Mizuki's smile sharpen. He walked towards Naruto slowly and Naruto backs away. He's starting to lose his patience, plus he's running out of time. He needs the scroll now and leave the village before they realize the scroll is gone. "Give me the scroll, Naruto." He repeats slowly.
Naruto shook his head again, "N-no!"
Mizuki's face harden, giving Naruto a nasty sneer. "If you don't give me the scroll right now, I'm going to kill you. You've just sent away the only person who cares about your sorry ass. Who's going to come to your aid now, demon?" He told the youth as he unleashes his killings intent making Naruto tremble.
Just before Mizuki can move towards him, a familiar voice calls out his name. "Don't, Naruto! Don't give him the scroll!" Iruka yelled as he appears in front of Naruto, blocking him from Mizuki's view. Naruto couldn't help but feel slightly better having Iruka by his side. He didn't like the looks Mizuki was giving him.
Mizuki's face contort in anger as Iruka appeared in front of Naruto, as if he's trying to protect the demon brat. It was almost laughable. He sneers at his fellow friend as grabs couple of shurikens from his weapon pouch and throws them at the pair in front of him before jumping away.
Iruka deflects all of Mizuki's shurikens with a kunai while he pushes Naruto behind him. He turned to Naruto, "where's Raiden?" He asked the blonde who flinches slightly with a guilty and painful look appears on his face. Iruka chooses not to comment right now as they have a pressing issue right now. "Never mind, I need you to listen Naruto. I'll keep Mizuki distracted and I want you to find the nearest ANBU and directed them here while you return the scroll to the Hokage and only the Hokage. Do you think you could do that," Iruka asked the blonde.
Naruto nods rapidly, "Hai, Iruka-sensei!"
Iruka smiled warnly at the blonde before he ruffles his hair. "Now, when I give you the sign you run and don't look back-"
"Aww, look at that. You're lowering yourself to talk to the demon brat like he's even a human, Iruka. Tsk tsk, I thought you knew better than to sympathize with a demon." Mizuki sneers. Iruka feels his anger growing as Mizuki continues to talk. "What would your parents thinks, oh wait, that's right, they were kill by it, weren't they." Mizuki laughed maniacally as Iruka takes the bait and runs towards him at full speed.
"You bastard stop talking!" Iruka lands a punch on Mizuki's face sending him backwards. Mizuki gets up, wiping off the trail of blood on his lip. He laughed, throwing couple of shurikens at Iruka. He attaches couple of explosive tags on his kunai before he threw them at Iruka.
Iruka noticed the kunai and jumped out of the way as they're thrown at him. He dodges every single one of them until he lefts something pierce his left thigh. He never notice the trap he fell into before it was too late. He lets out a pained cry as multiplied shurikens and kunai strike his back as he falls onto the ground, panting and in pain. Mizuki laughed as Iruka falls on the ground. "Oh boy, Iruka still haven't learned to control your feelings. Such a pity and now you'll both die here."
"Stop" Iruka yelled, "kill me if you have to, but spare Naruto. He hasn't done anything, please!" He begs.
Mizuki scoffed harshly, "you're absolutely worthless, you know that Iruka. You're willing to die to spare this, this demon! The same demon, which killed hundreds of people including your parents, Iruka! "He turned around to sneer at Naruto." You don't know do you?" He asked the blonde.
Naruto gulped heavily, watching the whole scene play out in front of him. "W-what do you mean?" He asked feebly.
Mizuki laughed evilly, "have you ever wondered as to why you receive all of those nasty looks and sneers when you walk on the streets. Don't you wonder as to why the villagers hate you and torment you constantly?" He asks the blonde.
A panic look crosses Iruka's face. "No, don't tell him! You're violating the Hokage decree!"
Mizuki sneered, "The Hokage is pathetic. He doesn't deserve the title of a Kage." He turned to Naruto, "On the day you were born, the Kyuubi no Kitsune attacked the village killing and destroying everything that was in his path. Many great Shinobi died that day including Iruka's parents as they tried to protect the village from the demon. It wasn't until the Yondaime sacrificed himself to seal the demon within the body of an orphan child, that orphan child was you. You're the jailer of the demon who destroyed this village once and someday it'll finish the job through you. You're nothing but a demon spawn that needs to be terminated to keep this village safe! Now die!"
Naruto was too stunned to move as his head wrapped around by what Mizuki told him. He never saw the two giant shurikens heading his way until it was too late. He closed his eyes waiting for the shuriken to strike him. The last thing he heard was Iruka yell at him to move. He waited for shurikens to hit him, but it never came. As he opened his eyes, he saw Raiden smiling at him sadly as blood fell from his lip, coughing up some blood.
"Don't . . . b-believe a word he said. You m-may have a demon sealed within y-you, but y-you're still my little kit." Raiden gritted out as fell on top on Naruto with a huge shuriken stuck to his back. Naruto's eyes widen in disbelief as he watches Raiden bleed out, his face getting paler by the second. He drops to the ground clutching onto Raiden.
"No, please d-don't leave m-me. You're all I-I have. Who's g-going to eat ramen with me and keep up with me!? Who's going to help me!? Who's going to be there w-when I'm all a-alone!?" Naruto begged. "Y-you can leave me Rai!? You can't!? I-I'm sorry I said all those bad things to you!? I don't mean them! Please d-don't leave me Rai!? Please!?" He cried, clutching onto Raiden limp body. He can't help but feel extremely guilty for everything he said to him. It's just he didn't want everyone to think Raiden did everything for him, that he too could do things by himself.
He never wanted to hurt his first friend as he's done, and after all he said, Raiden came back and sacrificed himself to save him. Something nobody else has done with the exception of Iruka-sensei. He felt something within himself break. He felt a rush of power fill his veins as his killing intent increased drastically. A violet aura surrounded him as his golden locks moved freely in the air, as if they're alive. His mother's chakra chains appeared before him levitating in the air with the same violet aura that surrounded him.
Raiden felt Naruto's killings intent and couldn't allow him to kill Mizuki as much as he wanted to. They still needed to take him to the Hokage. "Promise. . . Promise me you won't kill Mizu. . . kit, you have to take him t-to the Hokage and have h-him deal with h-him." He coughed up some more blood, trying to fight through the pain.
Naruto frowned at Raiden, "why?" He asked gently.
Raiden hissed, "because. . . We find o-out who e-else was involved in this."
Naruto grumbled, not liking it. He wanted to kill Mizuki for hurting Iruka, Raiden, and trying to kill him.
Raiden laughed weakly, "y-you c-can… beat him up as much a-as y-you can, but d-don't kill him . . ."
"Okay, but don't you dare die on me!" Naruto warned him before he set Raiden on the floor, being mindful of the giant Shuriken on his back. He noticed another giant shuriken cut cleanly and deeply into his left shoulder. He knew he couldn't heal Raiden. Raiden needed a medic-nin to heal him fully.
"He-he-he, I'll try n-not to." Raiden said before he lost conscience.
Mizuki stood frozen as he watched Naruto radiate power in waves, and the killing intent the demon brat gave out was greater than his. He shook his head, he's not going to allow the demon brat to intimate him; he was much stronger and older than the brat. There was no way the demon could win. He unseals another giant shuriken from his scroll and attaches couple of chakra threads.
"Try and dodge this!" He yelled, he threw the giant shuriken at full speed. He twists his hands controlling the path of his shuriken heading directly into Naruto's side. However, Naruto jumped out of the way, retaliating by using his chakra chains. He deflects the shuriken sending it back to Mizuki at full force, cutting the chakra threads on Mizuki's shuriken.
Mizuki cursed, he jumped off the tree branch to escape his own shuriken. "Shihohappo Shuriken!" He growls out, scattering a storm of shurikens into the air, forcing them towards Naruto.
"Ha, that's the best you got Mizuki! I've handled stronger Shinobi than you!" He spins his chakra chains around himself effectively deflecting all of the shurikens. Naruto yawns languidly, "are you done?" He mocks the older man making Mizuki growl furiously.
"Why, you little brat! Just wait until I get my hands on you!"
"Yeah, yeah whatever you say, but I'm afraid it's my time." Naruto smiled viciously, he grabs his chakra chain infused his chakra into them.
Naruto runs straight towards Mizuki with his chains in hands, he grips the chains tightly as he whips them towards Mizuki, wrapping snuggly around Mizuki's arms. With Mizuki's arms incapacitated, Naruto pulls the chains down dragging the older man to the ground before he sends his chakra into the chains, heating the metal chains extremely fast. Mizuki screamed in pain as the blazing metal chains starts burning his arms. "Argh! You fucking brat, let go!" He yells loudly, trying to feel his arms but it's useless. Naruto removes the chains rapidly before switching to his Bō Staff. He takes out his staff landing hit after hit on Mizuki's body, breaking bone after bone.
The morbid crunch of each broken bone being broken is heard through the forest followed up by yowls of pain breaking the silence surrounding them. Mizuki begged for Naruto to stop, but the blonde is far from over. He raised his staff landing a hard blow over Mizuki's knees, busting each knee cap with his staff.
"You don't deserve my mercy!" Naruto spat out, his Uzumaki rage taking over. "You've lied to me, you've hurt Iruka-sensei, and you almost killed my best friend!" His voice turning ice cold, just as his eyes darken, freezing Mizuki in place. "You're nothing but scum who deserves nothing but death. If it weren't for Raiden, I wouldn't killed you painfully slow." Mizuki shivers as Naruto's killing intent intensify, especially with the bloodthirsty grin the small blonde boy had. Naruto was about to knock him out when a strong hand wraps around his arm. He turns around to see Raiden stopping him.
"Don't. Let me knock some sense to his fucker! I've send a clone to alert Inu and the Hokage, they should be arriving in ten minutes, enough to make this traitor remember the reason nobody messes with my friends." Raiden laughed coldly as his own killing intent drowning Naruto's. Taken aback by Raiden's killing intent, Naruto nods back. He looks over Raiden limp left arm incased in a wooden sling. "Why don't you go help Iruka, he passed out couple minutes ago."
"Okay, but don't harm yourself." Naruto warned him gently before he walked toward the unconscious man.
Once Naruto walked away, Raiden narrowed his eyes at the weeping man in front of him. He sneered disgusted with Mizuki. He knew he was up to something, but he never thought he was planning on betraying the village. "Naruto might've broken you're bones and left you a bloody crying mess, but I could break you mentally. I could destroy your mind, leaving you a drooling mess. You remember those prisoners' couple years back don't you," he smiled viciously showing off his sharp canines as Mizuki's eyes widen in realization.
Raiden laughed, "Ahh yes, of course you do. Well, let's just say they were my victims, I mean experiments. Would you like to join them?" He asked the man who fervently shook his head.
"No p-please! I-I'm sorry! I-I'll do anything!" Mizuki begged.
Raiden sneered, "Have some pride! You're supposed to be a shinobi of Konohagakure, yet you tried to betray your village for what? Power. . . Greed?" Raiden shook his head, "you're an utter disgrace. I can't believe you're a shinobi of the Konoha." Raiden raised his foot to deliver a heavy kick to Mizuki stomach managing to break another rib with a loud snap.
Raiden took out his katana from his sheath. He admired how the moonlight stuck his blade making it glow slightly. He quickly gathered his magic, wishing to paralyze Mizuki for a moment. He watched as Mizuki's body stiffens as a bored, panicking as the older man couldn't move a muscle. Raiden smiled with a bloodthirsty grin.
Carefully, he craved the character for 'Traitor' onto Mizuki's forehead with tip of his katana. He watched as his blade carved to Mizuki's flesh with ease. As he finished, he dragged his blade into Mizuki's shoulder repaying the same wound he received. He released Mizuki from his spell and the man howled in pain, before the pain was too much and he passed out.
Just as Mizuki passed out, Inu appeared with Neko, Kuma, and Jackal. Raiden explained exactly what happened to the ANBU operatives before he faint, shortly after, his body couldn't handle any more stress. Inu caught him before he hit the ground, letting out a sigh of relief when he hears Raiden's light breathing.
Kuma looks worried under his mask, especially when he sees the deep gash on his left shoulder and the amount of dried blood he's covered in. "Kuso, we need to take him to the hospital. That wound needs to be taken care of and cleaned before it gets worse, not mention it's a rather deep wound. He'll be lucky if he doesn't lose his arm." Kuma said grimly, as he assessed the wound. He was glad Raiden made a sling for himself; it might've saved his whole arm from worsening.
"I'll take him to the hospital. Neko, I want you take the traitor to the T&I department and get everything you can from him. Understand?"
Neko nodded, "Hai!" She picked up Mizuki draping his limp arm around his neck before she wrapped her arm around his waist and vanished.
"Jackal, you're in charge of taking the scroll back to the Hokage and inform him of the situation. Take Naruto with you." Jackal saluted him before he grabbed the scroll and asked Naruto to accompany him. The blonde didn't put up a fight after Jackal assured Iruka was going to be taken care of.
"You're coming with me. Go grab Iruka-san so we can leave." Kuma walked over the unconscious man picking him up bridal position. He nodded towards Inu and they both disappeared, each taking someone to the Hospital.
January 29th, 1992 8:30 p.m
Hokage's Office, Konohagakure, Hi no Kuni
"Iruka and Raiden are going to be fine. Iruka suffered a broken leg and his body has been cleared from the poison from one of Mizuki's traps."
"Raiden on the other hand, suffered a large puncture wound to his side barely missing his spine by couple of inches. If the Shuriken would've hit his spine it would've severed it and he would've been paralyzed from his waist down." Kakashi informed gravely, each one of them paled knowing how seriously lucky Raiden was. It would've ended his shinobi career before it even began.
Naruto flinched as he heard Kakashi's diagnosis, but it wasn't over yet, Kakashi continued.
"His left shoulder suffered the most trauma. His muscles and tendons were cut cleanly, barely grazing the bone, but other than that, it'll heal in time. It'll have to be a cast for couple of months and absolutely no training until it's completely healed." Naruto lets out a deep sigh of relief. Raiden was going to be okay. He was going to live without any complications, or until his arm heals. He would need to apologize as soon as possible; he hoped Raiden would forgive him for all of the harsh things he said to Raiden.
"That's great news." Sarutobi smiled weakly, he didn't liked the fact Iruka and Raiden got injured in the first place, but at least nobody died.
"Neko, what has Ibiki discovered as to why Mizuki betrayed the village? And where any other people involved?" He asked solemnly, taking in a puff out of his pipe. He couldn't believe he had a traitor among his amidst and he never noticed, he would have never suspected Mizuki to be a traitor. The man seemed loyal to the village, and a well-respected by Shinobi and villagers alike. He didn't know what pushed Mizuki to commit such a disgraceful betrayal.
"Well," Neko began. "Ibiki and Inoichi discovered Mizuki had intended to escape with the forbidden scroll, learn it's jutsu before handing it over to Orochimaru for 50,000 Ryo. Inside the village, Homura, Koharu, and Danzo approached him to sabotage Naruto's exam to prevent him from graduating. They paid him a total of 10,000 Ryo each and walked away. However, they didn't know about Mizuki's plans to betray the village." Sarutobi blanched, he felt his blood run cold as his anger rose to incredible levels he has never felt before.
Even though, Homura, Koharu, and Danzo didn't know Mizuki was loose cannon, this could've ended much worse if Naruto and Raiden didn't stop Mizuki before he fled the village with the forbidden scroll. He wasn't going to let the meddlesome trio off too easy, no not this time; they're going to pay heavily. They've done enough damage as it is with the Uchiha massacre they've planned behind his back. He cannot believe they still go behind his back, they were once friends but apparently that means nothing to them.
"Okay, have Inoichi seal Mizuki's mind until further notice. Assign Jackal and Hebi to keep watch over him and make sure nobody gets near him."
"Hai, Hokage-sama" Neko saluted before she left the office with Jackal.
Inu, Kuma, and Naruto stayed behind sitting in silence until Sarutobi turned towards Naruto.
"Naruto, I know you're the victim in this whole ordeal but it doesn't excuse you from almost committing treason. The scroll you stole from my office is an extremely dangerous scroll; it contains forbidden jutsus created by the past Hokages which could deal enormous amount of damage in the wrong hands. If that scroll lands on the hands of our enemies, they could use it against us." He chided seriously, making Naruto squirm in his seat.
Sarutobi sighed, "But you did stop Mizuki from leaving with the scroll and I hope you didn't peek inside of it." He raised an eyebrow, waiting for an answer.
Naruto shook his head, "no, I didn't." He assured the elder man.
Sarutobi nodded. "Okay, this is your first warning, Naruto. You cannot afford to give the civilian nor the elder council any reasons to make them believe you're a danger to the village. I maybe the Hokage, but there's a limit as to how much I can protect you."
"I know Mizuki told you about Kyuubi no Kitsune and how you're his jailer, and that doesn't make you evil nor a demon as the villagers they call you. You have to understand that the Kyuubi no Kitsune almost destroyed this village and caused many death, the survivors are bitter and take out their anger, sorrow, and grief at you because you're it's jailer. They shouldn't treat you as they do and I've tried my best to protect you in the past from them, but I haven't done enough and I'm sorry, Naruto for the pain you've suffered." He told the blonde teen sadly, feeling like a complete failure for leaving the boy to fend for himself at such a young age. He wished he could've done more to help Naruto, but he had his hands tied to his back and could do so much to help Naruto when he could.
Naruto felt conflicted. He doesn't know how to react with the knowledge he has the Kyuubi no Kitsune inside of him. Would he become evil someday and have the Kyuubi influence him? It's possible, but his will was stronger than the demon's, he was going to do everything within his power to prove to everyone he's much more than a jailer to a monster.
"I'll be honest, I-I don't know how to feel right now. I just discovered I have a demon sealed inside of me and everyone knew except for me, but I guess I understand why you didn't tell me when I was younger." Naruto laughed weakly. His younger self would've overacted and possibly broke down.
"It does explain why everyone hates me, but I'm not going to allow them to think I'm the devil incarnate. I may have the Kyuubi sealed within me, but it's me who's in charge of my own body and I'll prove to them how wrong they are by becoming the next Hokage! Dattebayo!" He promised fiercely, his determination increasing to prove his worth to others.
Sarutobi chuckled joyously; thankful Naruto saw his condition as a challenge rather than a curse. "Well, you're going to need this if you want to become the Hokage." He tosses a hitai-ate over to Naruto who catches it clumsily.
A huge grin appeared on Naruto's face, his crystalline sapphire eyes glimmer brightly as he runs his thumb over the metal plate of his hitai-ate. "Are you sure?" He asked hesitantly.
Sarutobi nods, "I've seen you create perfect shadow before and know you're qualified to become a shinobi. When we discovered Mizuki sabotage your exam, you're qualified to retake. Just create a perfect clone and the hitai-ate is yours."
Naruto grinned widely, his eyes shining with mirth. "You got it, old man! . . . Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!" A shadow clone appears beside Naruto looking around the room wondering what's he's doing inside the Hokage's office.
"Err, need something boss?" The shadow clone asked, to which Naruto shook his head. "Nah, you can go back." The shadow clone nods before disappearing into a cloud of smoke.
"Congratulations, Naruto. Please report to class on Monday to discover which cell you got. You're dismissed."
Naruto fist pumps the air before he ran towards Sarutobi and hugs him tightly. "Thanks you, Jijii." He whispered into Sarutobi's ear before he ran out the room. Once Naruto was out of the building, Sarutobi closed his eyes. "This is such a mess," He murmured to himself.
"As soon as Raiden is awake, ask him for Mizuki's banking statements. They'll come in handy once I confront our lovely Elders." "Oh and Kakashi, you'll better get here early tomorrow if you wish to snag Raiden for your cell tomorrow. Others have shown their interest on him, "he stated blandly, knowing Kakashi would think otherwise.
He's known Kakashi, Yamato, Yugato, and Gekko have been training Naruto and Raiden for the past couple of years, but said nothing because he knew it was for the best. Some may consider it cheating, but neither boy had someone to teach them at home, unlike the other clan children. The civilian children were also at a disadvantage; buy not many showed as much dedication as Naruto and Raiden showed.
He knows Raiden would make an exceptional Shinobi in the future; he wouldn't be surprised if he joins the ANBU Corps in a year or two. Naruto will be an exceptional Shinobi in the future as well, but he still needs to grow to reach his true potential. He knows the blonde ball of sunshine will someday become the next Hokage someday, and he hoped he'll be able to inducted Naruto when the day arrives.