Chapter 02- Training Commences!

## 1 Year Later - Konohagakure ##

Since Jiraiya took Naruto under his wing two years ago, Naruto's training has been progressing excellently. His skills have now reached the level of a Chunin, and he is only 8 years old. This feat is truly remarkable.

Naruto's physical appearance also transformed as Jiraiya instructed him to grow his hair out to the same length as him. This transformation contributed to Naruto's growth and maturity as he became a young boy on the path to becoming a true ninja warrior under Jiraya's guidance.

Naruto had physically grown into a blonde boy with long spiky hair, measuring 146 centimetres (4'9) in height, and with piercing ocean-blue eyes. He now wore a stylish outfit consisting of red and green layers, mirroring his mentor Jiraiya's trademark look. With his newfound confidence and powerful jutsu techniques, Naruto had become a force to be reckoned with in the ninja world, and his rapid rise in power was truly remarkable.

Jiraiya concentrated on teaching Naruto Fuinjutsu, which is the art of sealing techniques in the ninja world. Hiraishin no Jutsu, which is one of Naruto's signature techniques, requires him to use his own chakra to create seals. This art required a lot of focus and practice, but it helped Naruto become a master in chakra control and a Fuinjutsu master.

## Flashback - 1 year earlier ##

"Hey ero-sennin, can you teach me more jutsu?" naruto asked

"Would you mind not calling me that? - demanded Jiraya as his face would grow into a frown to which Naruto replied "Ero-sennin, can we focus on the matter at hand? Train me in some elemental Jutsu"

"How could I forget?" Jiraya said, before proceeding to frantically search for a Chakra paper. "Ah ha, here it is," he exclaimed as he finally found what he was looking for. "This is a Chakra Paper. Depending on your Chakra Affinity, different events will occur in the paper. Katon (Fire), the Paper will catch on fire and burn into ashes. Futon (Wind) will result in the Paper splitting in half. Raiton (Lightning) will cause the Paper to wrinkle. Finally, Doton (Earth) will turn the Paper into dirt that crumbles away. Suiton (Water) the paper will turn damp" He said, explaining the various effects that the Chakra Papers may experience when subjected to different chakra natures.

Naruto asked Jiraiya, "So basically, you're saying I have to run my chakra through this paper?"

He took the paper out of Jiraya's hand. Before he had a chance to figure out what was happening, the paper vanished. Naruto looked up, noticing that Jiraiya's face turned pale as a ghost as he seemed startled and alarmed by what had just transpired.

"Naruto is truly a prodigy, he has an affinity for a Chakra Natures. But I have to make sure" Jiraya would think to himself before saying "Uh, think that may be a mistake. Try again" Jiraya would watch as the paper vanishes from Naruto's hand

"What does this mean ero-sennin, why is it vanishing"

"Naruto, I have some amazing news for you. You have an affinity for every chakra nature, which means any jutsu you set your mind to, you can master. In other words, the possibilities are endless, and you have the potential to become a powerhouse in the ninja world."

Naruto jumped up with excitement. "This is amazing!" he exclaimed. "I'm going to graduate at the top of my class! I can't wait to show everyone what I can do." His enthusiasm was palpable and his mentor, Jiraiya, couldn't help but feel proud of his student's dedication to becoming the best he could be.

## End Flashback ##

One of the masked Anbu guards approached Naruto and Jiraiya during their training and announced, "Jiraiya-sama, Sandieme-sama would like to see you and Naruto in his office."

Naruto couldn't help but roll his eyes and mutter, "Old man wants to interrupt my training with ero-sennin."

Jiraiya, clearly feeling uneasy, nodded and said, "Yes, let's go then. I hope this isn't something bad."

As the two of them made their way to the Hokage's office, Naruto couldn't help but let out a small laugh. "Why do they call this pervert, Lord? They must not know the true ways of ero-sennin."

Jiraiya just shook his head and said, "Come, Naruto. Let's not keep the Hokage waiting."

## Hokage's Office ##

"Two years of training and now it's time to see how far Naruto has come," declared the elderly Hokage. "With graduation soon approaching, I want to see the fruits of your training, Jiraiya."

Jiraiya raised his eyebrows in surprise. "How exactly would you like me to show you his progress?"

"Well, Naruto's classmate, Sasuke Uchiha, has been training under his clan's leaders. Itachi, Shisui, and even his own father, Uchiha Fugaku." The Hokage continued, "Given the talent and dedication of these clansmen, they should be on equal footing by now."

Sandiame nodded to the Anbu guards, signalling that the Uchiha's should enter. "Please come in," ordered the elderly Hokage.

"Well, well, Jiraiya, the gallant," Fugaku teased with a sly smile. Before he could continue, Jiraiya spoke up, "Don't be so foolish, Fugaku-sama. Underestimating your opponent is a dangerous mistake, especially when facing a skilled ninja like yourself." His words carried a tone of respect and caution, indicating that Naruto understood the gravity of the situation and the need to approach the competition with utmost seriousness. The Hokage, realizing the tension in the air, stepped in to mediate, "Gentlemen, let's save our strength for the arena. The match will begin shortly."

Naruto's smirk indicated that he was well aware of how dangerous an opponent Sasuke could be, and he wasn't about to let his clan's leader get away with such arrogant language.

The Hokage stepped in to mediate the situation and said, "Be at the arena in ten minutes. I expect a fair fight." He said the last part with a slight smile, knowing that this would be an enjoyable and exciting fight for all present.

Jiraiya and Naruto made their way to the arena, their hearts pounding with anticipation. Naruto had been training hard for the past two years, and he was eager to show off his newfound skills.

As they entered the arena, they saw Sasuke and his father waiting for them. Sasuke looked confident and determined, while Fugaku wore a smug expression on his face.

The two boys faced each other, their eyes locked in a fierce gaze. They circled each other warily, each waiting for the other to make a move.

Finally, Sasuke made the first move. He charged towards Naruto with lightning-fast speed, his Sharingan blazing in his eyes.

## Arena - Outskirts of the Village##

Sasuke prepared to use his Fireball jutsu, silently going through the hand seals to conjure the flames. However, before he could land the attack, Naruto jumped up and performed the Water Wave Technique, counteracting the fire with a powerful wave of water.

"SUITON: MIZURAPPA," Naruto declared as he released the water onto Sasuke, putting out the flames.

Sasuke would then circle Naruto, performing the Shuriken Kage Bunshin no Jutsu. Naruto knew he wasn't going to be able to dodge. "Damn you Uchiha, I never tested this one in battle but I guess I will have to use it," thought Naruto

"Hari Jizō!" - yells Naruto as his long luscious blonde hair would wrap around his body. This was the Needle Jizo technique used only by Jiraya as a means of a shield

As Sasuke's shuriken flew towards him, Naruto's hair transformed into a mass of deadly needles, each one pointing outwards and ready to strike. The shuriken bounced harmlessly off Naruto's hair, unable to penetrate the thick mass of needles.

Sasuke was surprised by Naruto's technique, but he wasn't deterred. He charged towards Naruto, his eyes blazing with determination.

Naruto stood his ground, his hair needles poised to strike. As Sasuke approached, Naruto launched his hair needles at him, sending them flying toward Sasuke like a deadly rain of spikes.

Sasuke dodged and weaved, narrowly avoiding the deadly needles. But Naruto didn't give up. He continued to launch his hair needles at Sasuke, determined to take him down.

Sasuke realized that he needed to change his tactics. He paused for a moment, then launched himself toward Naruto with a powerful kick.

Naruto was caught off guard, and Sasuke's kick sent him flying backwards. But Naruto quickly regained his footing and launched a counterattack.

He summoned a massive ball of chakra, shaping it into a Rasengan. Sasuke watched in awe as Naruto charged towards him, the Rasengan spinning wildly in his hand.

Sasuke prepared to defend himself, but Naruto was too fast. He slammed the Rasengan into Sasuke's chest, sending him flying backwards and knocking him unconscious.

Breathing heavily, Naruto collapsed to the ground, exhausted from the intense battle. Sasuke lay nearby, his body battered and bruised.

As the dust settled, Naruto looked over at Sasuke's unconscious form. He knew that he had won the battle, but he also knew that Sasuke would come back stronger and more determined to defeat him. And Naruto was ready for that challenge.

As the spar between Naruto and Sasuke came to an end, the young ninja took a deep breath and tried to regain his composure. The match had been intense, with both fighters giving it their all. But when it was over, Naruto found himself standing victorious over his foe, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph.

"Did I just win a fight against the mighty Uchiha Sasuke?" he thought to himself, a slight chuckle escaping his lips. It was a moment of pride for Naruto, whose progression as a shinobi had been steady and measured. Despite Sasuke's reputation as one of the most skilled and respected prodigies in the village, he had held his own in the sparring match, proving to himself and everyone else that he was more than capable of standing toe to toe with the best.

Of course, Naruto knew that Sasuke had held back, testing his abilities rather than going all out, but still, the fact that he had emerged victorious had boosted his confidence and faith in his own abilities. It was a small victory, but one that he would never forget, for it had shown him that he was capable of great things, both as a shinobi and as a person.

## Bleachers ##

Hiruzen, the Third Hokage of Konohagakure, watched Naruto and Sasuke from a distance as they sparred in the kunai range. He was amazed at the progress both young men had made in such a short time. Naruto, once a troublemaker and the village outcast, had transformed into a skilled ninja under Jiraiya's tutelage. Sasuke, on the other hand, was born with the talent of the Uchiha clan, but his training with his Father had pushed him to new heights.

Hiruzen turned to Jiraiya, the Toad Sage and Naruto's sensei, and asked, "Jiraiya, did you teach Naruto Hari Jizo?"

Jiraiya nodded with a smile. "Yes, I taught him plenty of jutsus over the past three years. Including some of my own, he was able to perfect these in 2 years. I am excited to see what happens after he graduates!"

Hiruzen chuckled. "I can only imagine. Naruto has come a long way since he first arrived in the village. He's grown so much, not just in skill, but in character as well. I'm proud of him."

Jiraiya nodded in agreement. "He's got a good heart. And with Sasuke by his side, I have no doubt they'll both become great shinobi."

Hiruzen smiled, feeling a sense of pride and hope for the future of Konohagakure. He knew that with young men like Naruto and Sasuke, the village was in good hands.

"How could Sasuke have been defeated by a mere nine-tailed brat?! This is unacceptable," Fugaku grumbled as he curled his fists in rage. He could not bear the thought of his son being bested by such an opponent. As the leader of a powerful clan, his son's defeat by a lesser opponent threatened his status, his position, and even the reputation of his clan.

Hiruzen sensing Fugaku's anger said "Fagaku, Sasuke is really strong. His ninjutsu capabilities exceed most kids his age"

"Fugaku, please understand. Your son, Sasuke, is an incredibly skilled young shinobi," Hiruzen spoke up, sensing Fugaku's anger. "His ninjutsu abilities are truly remarkable and far surpass those of many shinobi twice his age. I understand your disappointment, but please try to look past your frustration and see the potential in your son's achievements."

"You're right, after all, Naruto has also had the benefit of being trained by Jiraya-sama, one of the Legendary Sannin. It was short-sighted of me to underestimate his abilities and potential, especially after such extensive training with such a renowned ninja. I apologize for my earlier comment and the disrespect it may have shown," Fugaku said sheepishly, hoping that the Hokage would understand his change in attitude and recognize that he was truly remorseful for his earlier behaviour.

As the Hokage and his Anbu disappeared, he spoke up, "That's it, gentlemen. The sparring match is over. You may be dismissed, but don't forget this moment for even a moment." And so, with his words echoing in their minds, the shinobi began to disperse, carrying with them the memory of this pivotal moment in their growth as ninjas.

Fugaku slightly bowed to Jiraya showing his appreciation and respect before he and his clansmen disappear.

Fugaku and his clansmen vanished into the background, leaving Naruto and Jiraiya alone on the training grounds. The two sat in silence for a moment, contemplating the outcome of the match between Sasuke and Naruto.

"Man, Sasuke gave me a run for my money!" Naruto exclaimed, clutching his side where Sasuke had landed several blows.

"Yes, he did," Jiraiya agreed, his eyes fixed on the boy before him. "But you held your own, Naruto. You're a real fighter, and you're only going to get stronger."

"I know, but I feel like I'm still falling behind Sasuke. It's like he's always one step ahead of me, even in a sparring match!"

Jiraiya smiled softly. "Naruto, you shouldn't compare yourself to others. You're growing and improving every day, and that's what matters. Besides, you have your own strengths that Sasuke doesn't have. You need to focus on those, and not worry so much about what he can do. Plus you won... The kid was knocked out cold"

"I guess you're right, ero-sennin," Naruto said, sighing. "It's just hard not to feel like I'm lagging behind."

"I understand, Naruto. But remember, being a shinobi isn't just about fighting and winning. It's about learning and growing, both as a fighter and as a person. You're doing just that, and I'm proud of you. So don't sell yourself short."

Naruto smiled at his sensei, feeling a sense of reassurance. "Thanks, ero-sennin," he said. "I guess I just need to keep working hard and believing in myself."

"That's the spirit, Naruto!" Jiraiya said with a smile. "I have complete faith in you, my student. And I know that you'll grow to be an even greater shinobi than you already are."

With that, the two stood up and began to make their way back to the village, leaving behind the remnants of their intense sparring match and the sense that there was still much to learn and to grow. But as they walked, there was also a sense of excitement and anticipation for what the future held.

Jiraya watched Naruto grow up from a young boy who struggled to make friends to a powerful shinobi who fought for the sake of his village. He felt a sense of pride and accomplished that his teachings moulded Naruto into the strong young boy he has become. He couldn't help but reminisce on the moment he first met the young orphan and the hope he saw in the boy's eyes that made him want to help Naruto reach his full potential.

"I still remember that day when he first arrived. I could sense the sadness and loneliness in his eyes. But he had a spark, an unrelenting determination to become strong and make a difference. He's come a long way since then, and I can't be prouder." He let out a soft chuckle. "I wonder what kind of shinobi he'll be when he's finally ready. He has so much potential and a kind heart. I just hope that he won't lose sight of that."

## Flashback ##

Naruto, the young and adventurous ninja, introduced himself to each of the Konoha 11 in their own unique way. Sasuke Uchiha, the skilled and proud ninja, met Naruto during their ninja academy entrance exams, and while their initial clash led to resentful respect, they soon became close friends.

Naruto's persistence and determination won the heart of Sakura Haruno, the brilliant and studious ninja, during their ninja academy orientation, but she was initially dismissive of Naruto's feelings. However, through their interactions, Naruto's kindness slowly melted Sakura's icy exterior, and she grew to care deeply for him.

Shikamaru Nara and Naruto first met during a game of shogi, where Naruto's unorthodox playing style impressed Shikamaru. They quickly bonded over their mutual love of strategy and problem-solving.

Choji Akimichi, the food-loving and kindhearted ninja, became close friends with Naruto during a lunch break at the academy. Choji was impressed by Naruto's ability to eat massive amounts of food, and the two often enjoyed eating together.

Kiba Inuzuka, the passionate and loyal ninja, and his dog Akamaru, first met Naruto during a training exercise in the forest. While Akamaru attacked Naruto at first, Naruto's quick thinking and bravery impressed Kiba.

Hinata Hyuga, the shy but determined ninja, first met Naruto during a sparring session at the academy. Naruto's encouragement and support helped Hinata to believe in herself and become more confident in her abilities.

Neji Hyuga, the idealistic and harsh ninja, first met Naruto during a heated argument about destiny and hard work. Although Neji was dismissive of Naruto's beliefs, Naruto's determination to prove him wrong impressed Neji.

Rock Lee, the energetic and determined ninja, and Naruto became friends during a taijutsu training session. Lee was inspired by Naruto's never-give-up attitude, and the two quickly bonded over their passion for martial arts.

Tenten, the skilled and versatile ninja, and Naruto first met during a weapons training session. Naruto's unique style of fighting with kunai knives impressed Tenten, and the two quickly became friends.

Ino Yamanaka, the caring and perceptive ninja, and Naruto first met during an accident in the street. Naruto, accompanied by Jiraiya, accidentally knocked over Ino's flowers while passing her, and Jiraiya paid Ino's family for the damage. However, what Naruto didn't know was that Ino was secretly in love with him.

## Flashback End - The next Morning##

As Naruto woke up to the incessant honking of his alarm clock, he quickly jumped out of bed and slammed his fist down on the culprit. With a satisfying crack, the plastic alarm clock shattered into pieces. A satisfied grin spread across Naruto's face, and he let out a small chuckle before collapsing back onto his bed.

But his peace was short-lived as he heard the sound of a grumpy old man entering his room. It was Jiraiya, his sensei, who had come to wake him up personally.

"Naruto," he glared, picking up the destroyed alarm clock. "What have I told you about destroying things in a fit of anger?"

"Uh–" he stammered "I seriously got to start behaving or ero-sennin is going to beat me to a pulp"

Jiraiya stood before Naruto with a stern expression on his face. His eyes narrowed as he spoke.

"Listen up, Naruto," he said, his voice low and menacing. "Today, you have to go to school. When you come home, I won't be here. Make sure you don't break anything, or else I'll break you." He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing, "I've had enough of your reckless behaviour. You need to focus on your training, not on causing destruction." He sighed, his annoyance evident on his face. "Understood?"

Naruto groaned inwardly as Jiraiya's words sank in. He knew he had made a mistake in smashing the alarm clock, but the fact that his sensei was threatening to physically harm him if he did something like that again was a bit much.

"I'll be good, sensei," Naruto said, his voice laced with a tinge of fear. He wished Jiraiya would understand how difficult it was for him to control his emotions sometimes, but he knew that his sensei had a reputation to uphold. Still, he would have to be on his best behaviour for the rest of the day, and he prayed that nothing would happen to test his patience. As Jiraiya left the room, Naruto let out a long sigh, wondering if he would ever be able to live up to his sensei's expectations.

In a bid to avoid being late for the Academy, Naruto hastily consumed a wholesome breakfast before dashing out the door.

"Sakura-chan" he started "Why are you over here? Don't you live closer to the Academy?"

"Quit your yapping," she shouted, "and focus on your own problems, you idiot."

"C-calm down" stuttered Naruto "I seriously don't know who this Sasuke lover is talking to, one day I should put her in her place" Thought Naruto

"While you're upset, which I still don't know why. I am going to the Academy good luck" Naruto said as he disappeared in an Orange Flash

"How did- How did he do that" asked Sakura "Did he just teleport away?"

## Academy ##

Naruto arrived seconds after his encounter with Sakura

With a wide smile on his face, Naruto greeted Iruka by shouting, 'Good morning, Iruka-sensei!'

Iruka greeted Naruto with a warm, "Good morning!" and gestured for him to take a seat.

Naruto smiled when he noticed two available seats: one beside Sasuke and one beside Hyuga Hinata. It was a perfect opportunity to strike up a conversation.

"Naruto-kun is finally here, I hope he comes sits beside me" thought Hinata

"Heyy Hinato-chan, how are you? Y'know you look very pretty today"

"Me? Pretty? Naruto-kun called me pretty? Hinata's face would grow red "You look very handsome yourself, Naruto-kun" exclaimed Hinata

Naruto would then sit beside Hinata and begin listening to the lesson.

"Today, we are going to be learning about Uzushiogakure. Any Question before we begin?" Iruka would look along before continuing "Uzushiogakure also known as the Village Hidden by the Whirling Tides. The Village was made up with mostly Uzumaki" explained Iruka

Shikamaru would interrupt by saying "Uzumaki? I don't believe it, there isn't even one other Uzumaki in this village!"

"Key word is was, you idiot" said Sasuke

"Boys stop interuptting my lesson" ordered iruka before continuing "Uzumaki were strong individuals capable of controlling the Nine-Tailed Fox. These individuals would be sent by Uzushiogakure to be the vessel for the kyubi, allowing Konohagakure to maintain control over the powerful beast. They were allied with Konohagakure, represented in the Chunin's vests by their symbol. Anyone attempting to control the Kyubi alone was considered foolish, as there were very few individuals who could withstand that kind of power."

"So Iruka-sensei.. What happened to Uzushiogakure?" asked Ino

"Well, the Uzumaki hence Uzushiogakure was skilled in Fuinjutsu. Having the ability to seal giant beast, and even the ability to seal away Humans without killing them. Every village except Konohagakure decided to destory the village because they feared the Uzumaki's techniques" explained Iruka

Naruto's eyes narrowed as he regarded his teacher, confusion and frustration clear in his voice. "Why didn't they help, sensei? How could a village full of powerful ninja just sit back and let an enemy destroy it?" The question was tinged with bitterness, and his brow furrowed as if he were struggling to understand. "It doesn't make sense. They were the strongest ninja in the world, and they just let this happen." The frustration in his words was palpable, a mixture of despair and anger at the injustice of it all.

"Who, Naruto?"

"Why didn't Konoha help Uzushiogakure?" asked Naruto "Werent they allies?"

"The History book here says by the time the village figured out about the attack it was took late before Konohagakure could react" said Iruka

Naruto would tilt his head in confusion "Oh, that's interesting"

"But we cannot always go by what the history books say" - said Mizuki with a sinister look

Naruto would look at Mizuki with a confused look as he thought to himself "What does Mizuki-sensei mean?"

"That's enough Mizuki, now I will continue with my lesson" - instructed Iruka

"Alright ladies and gentlemen, as you know you will be graduating in another year! Keep up your hard work. There will be an exam on this lesson make sure to study" - explained Iruka before dismissing the class

Naruto and his classmates walked through the towering hallways of the Academy, the thrumming energy of the school filling the air. With so many students bustling about, it was easy to get lost in the chaos, and there were countless rooms and corridors to navigate. Hinata's heart went out to her friend and classmate Naruto, who had faced so much loss and hardship even at such a young age. She couldn't imagine how devastating it must have been to hear that not only had his clan been destroyed, but his village had also met the same fate. The pain must have been overwhelming, but still, he carried on, his determination and spirit unshaken. She respected him so much for that, and she knew that he would make a great shinobi one day, despite all he had been through. She knew that she and her classmates would be there to support him, as they had always been, and she felt grateful to be a part of his journey.

Hinata would activate her Byugkan in order to search for Naruto, spotting him sitting on the swings outside the Academy. She would run to him, hurrying so she wouldn't miss the opportunity to meet with him.

"Naruto-kun, I don't know how you feel but I would feel sad if I learned that my clan had this big village and it was destroyed by Shinobi we fight everyday"

"Hina, thank you for your concern. I am doing alright though, I am not sad or mad because Jiraiya-sama told me about this multiple times since we began training..

"Oh thats interesting?"

Shikamaru and Choji would join Hinata sharing their condolences.

"Are you guys excited for your graduation?!" asked Naruto as he tried to lighten the mood

They would all nod in agreement, not wanting to say anything much considering the sour topic of the conversation they were talking about

"I wonder how Naruto is so emotionally strong, I know I would be a trainwreck if I found out that much." thought Choji "Oh well, all I hope is that there is lots of food at the graduation!"

They would all chuckle at Choji's remarks, before Naruto said

"Welp, I think I should be getting home now. And fill Jiraiya-sama in on some stuff"

"Alright, Naruto-kun have fun" - said Hinata

"See ya" - said Choji
"What a bother" said Shikamaru

Naruto would disappear in an orange flash

Next chapter will be Chapter 3: Student no More! Believe it!

This will be a chapter with Naruto stealing the scroll of seals, Graduation. Naruto begins his journey to restore his Village you will be excited for Chapter 3 & 4!

This is also the longest chapter by far! So Yay!