DISCLAIMER: I DO NOT OWN NARUTO (NOW WITH 50% - I DO NOT AND 50% OWN NARUTO WHICH IS EQUAL TO NOT OWNING 100% OF IT)
Ch.20 - A New Mission Awaits!
On that rainy day in Konoha, the sky was cast in a dark hue, and the atmosphere carried a somber tone. However, Naruto's cheerful disposition remained unaffected. Dressed in his new clothes, carefully chosen with Ino's help and customized by Ino's talented mother, Noriko, Naruto looked remarkably sharp.
Walking side by side, Naruto and Ino shared an umbrella as they made their way towards the entrance of the Hokage's tower. Normally, they would wait for their sensei at the training grounds, but today's rain forced them to seek shelter.
"Man, I feel like a completely new person in these clothes, dattebayo!" Naruto exclaimed, a wide grin adorning his face.
"I'm glad you like them. I told you that you'd look even better than before," Ino replied with a smile.
"You were right. Plus, these new sandals are so comfortable. My old ones had worn-out soles, and running with them was getting painful, especially when stepping on rocks."
"Well, you won't have to worry about that anymore. I should've brought a jacket, though. I didn't expect the rain today, especially after yesterday's weather."
Naruto promptly removed his jacket and placed it around Ino's shoulders. "Here, this should help," he said, accompanied by a foxy grin. Ino's cheeks flushed, turning a deep shade of red. She quickly averted her gaze, hoping Naruto wouldn't notice her embarrassment. "When did Naruto become such a gentleman? Could he possibly be interested in me? No, I'm probably overthinking it," Ino pondered to herself.
As the two blondes arrived at the entrance, they spotted Shino patiently waiting for them. Ino greeted their teammate with a cheerful "Good morning, Shino, you're here pretty early" while Naruto followed suit, adding a playful punch to Shino's shoulder.
"My bugs woke me up due to the cold weather we're having, which is why I'm up so early," Shino explained.
"So, if your bugs are distressed, you're distressed too?" Ino asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Not necessarily, but I can sense their well-being." Shino answered
"I see. Well, it seems like Asuma-sensei is late again, which doesn't surprise me." Ino replied in return
"It appears so. Naruto, your updated wardrobe suits you," Shino complimented.
"Hehe, thanks, Shino. But I couldn't have done it without Ino," Naruto replied, acknowledging Ino's contribution.
"Seeking Ino's assistance in matters of fashion was a wise decision, Naruto," Shino remarked.
"Agreed, she's a natural when it comes to fashion" Naruto added
"Again, Naruto, that won't earn you a day off," Ino interjected, reminding Naruto of his previous attempt to coax her into granting him time off.
"What?! I'm not trying to coax you into giving me a day off. That was a genuine compliment," Naruto protested.
"Well, if you say so. Thank you for that, Naruto," Ino conceded, appreciating his kind words.
"Don't mention it, hehe," Naruto replied with a grin, glad that Ino acknowledged his sincerity.
As they continued their conversation, Ino spotted Asuma and Kurenai, their senseis, approaching from a distance. She squinted her eyes, trying to discern their presence. Both of them were wearing trench coats and sharing an umbrella, but Kurenai seemed visibly irritated, likely due to Asuma's smoking, as the smoke wafted towards her face.
"You're late again, Asuma-sensei. Don't tell me you were busy helping an old lady," Ino remarked, raising an eyebrow.
A small droplet of sweat trickled down Asuma's temple as he nervously uttered, "Your Kurenai-sensei, umm... invited me for a cup of coffee." He finished his cigarette, feeling the tension rise. Kurenai nudged him, causing him to flinch.
"What? We did have coffee, among other things..." Asuma attempted to retrieve another cigarette from his case, only to be met with a stern glare from Kurenai. Sighing, he handed the case to her. "Why don't you kids go ahead? We'll catch up. I just need to have a word with your Asuma-sensei," she said, a smile gracing her lips.
Ino, Shino, and Naruto ascended the stairs as Kurenai had instructed. While they conversed, Ino overheard Kurenai reprimanding Asuma. "What on earth were you thinking?! Saying those things to kids... You're an idiot, you know that?" she expressed her disappointment.
"I just mentioned that you invited me for coffee, relax... They don't even understand the meaning yet, or at least not yet," Asuma tried to justify himself.
"But that's not the point... My point is..." Ino couldn't hear the rest as they moved out of earshot. The three youngsters found themselves outside the Hokage's office, uncertain whether to wait for their mentors or enter immediately. However, their dilemma was resolved when Hiruzen sensed their presence from within. "You may enter," he called out.
Naruto turned the doorknob, revealing Hiruzen seated behind his desk, pipe in mouth, engrossed in his paperwork. "Good morning, Hokage-sama," greeted Ino. "Thank you for having us, Hokage-sama," added Shino. Naruto, on the other hand, adopted a more casual approach. "Looks like someone's busy, Hokage-jiji," he remarked. Ino sighed at Naruto's lack of formality, but Hiruzen seemed unperturbed and even found it amusing.
"Good morning to all three of you as well. I assume you're here for a mission... But where is your Asuma-sensei?" Hiruzen inquired.
"He's downstairs with Kurenai-sensei, Hokage-jiji. They're discussing something about coffee, I think. I'm not entirely sure, but Kurenai-sensei is pissed," Naruto revealed.
Hiruzen deciphered the true meaning behind Naruto's mention of "coffee" and chuckled, realizing that Asuma had landed himself in trouble. "I see. Let's wait for them to join us, and then we can discuss your mission," Hiruzen said, returning to his paperwork.
Naruto directed his attention to the Hokage, who smoked his pipe while diligently working. "Do you enjoy being the Hokage, Hokage-jiji?" Naruto inquired.
"Pardon me, Naruto-kun? What do you mean by 'enjoying it'?" Hiruzen responded, curious.
"Your role as the Hokage, do you find it enjoyable?"
"Why, of course, Naruto-kun. I admit it's demanding work, but it can be quite fulfilling. What prompted this question?"
"Well... How should I put it... Um..." Naruto stumbled, struggling to find the right words. Ino understood his dilemma and stepped in to explain to Hiruzen what was bothering Naruto.
After hearing Naruto's question, the Hokage understood the underlying reasons behind it. "I apologize for any potential disappointment, Naruto-kun, but Asuma is indeed telling the truth. My daily duties primarily revolve around paperwork and politics, at least for the time being. Unless a crisis arises, which I hope won't happen anytime soon. Many would consider aspiring to be the Hokage a fool's dream, but it's up to you to decide whether pursuing such a dream is foolish or not. To be honest, becoming the Hokage was never part of my initial plan. It was a responsibility bestowed upon me by the Nidaime Hokage (Second Hokage - Tobirama Senju), during a time of crisis."
Naruto asked with curiosity, "Did you regret it?"
"Bearing the title of Hokage entails a mixed bag of experiences, both good and bad. There are moments of great triumph and moments where I wish certain events had never occurred. However, to answer your question, Naruto-kun, I have no regrets," the Hokage responded.
Naruto pondered for a moment before expressing his thoughts, saying, "I see. I've been contemplating my dream of becoming someone like you, Hokage-jiji, someone whom people look up to, you know?"
The Hokage reflected on Naruto's words and offered guidance, saying, "Hmm... Well, remember to always follow your own convictions and make choices that you believe are right, not just for yourself but also for the people you care about. And you don't necessarily have to be the Hokage or hold the position of a Kage to earn the respect and admiration of others. Take your senseis, for example—they are respected shinobi in our village, known and revered by many, even without being the Hokage."
Hiruzen's words resonated with Naruto, causing most of his doubts to dissipate. With a foxy grin, Naruto responded, "You know what, Hokage-jiji? I think I understand now. Thanks for that! I really appreciate it, hehe."
"Anytime, Naruto-kun. I'm glad that this old man can still be of help whenever possible," Hiruzen replied, just as the office door swung open, revealing Asuma rubbing his sore ear and Kurenai smiling as if nothing had happened.
"Greetings, Hokage-sama. Apologies for the delay. Asuma and I had some private matters to discuss, but it's all resolved now, right Asuma?" Kurenai chimed in, flashing a smile that seemed to carry an unspoken warning. Asuma sighed and sheepishly agreed.
"I'm glad to hear that. Shall we proceed with the discussion of your team's mission details? Although I only have a mission prepared for Team 10 at the moment," Hiruzen clarified, addressing Kurenai who stood alongside Asuma.
"Oh, don't worry, Hokage-sama. I'm just here accompanying Asuma. You need not concern yourself with me," Kurenai assured with a smile directed at the Hokage.
"Very well. Let's get down to business. Your mission entails traveling to Mori no Kuni (Land of Forests), to address a gang that has been causing trouble for the locals. Their presence has disrupted the livelihood of many, as they now control the docks and ports in the area," Hiruzen explained.
"I see. Is there anything else we should know?" Asuma inquired.
"That encompasses all the information I have regarding the mission," replied Hiruzen.
"Understood. My team and I will depart this afternoon, weather permitting. We'll leave now, Hokage-sama," Asuma stated.
"Very well, have a safe journey and good luck with your mission," Hiruzen bid farewell to Asuma and his students as they prepared to depart. This left Kurenai alone with the Hokage, and she inquired, "Is there anything else you would like me to do, Hokage-sama?"
Hiruzen hesitated for a moment, knowing his next question would stray from professional matters. "I am aware that what I'm about to ask may be deemed unprofessional, but I have to inquire, has Asuma been treating you well?"
Kurenai's voice faltered as she responded, "I-I... Uhhh... Of course, Hokage-sama. He has been very good to me so far."
Hiruzen nodded, relieved by her answer. "I'm glad to hear that."
Kurenai couldn't help but feel perplexed. "I thought I had asked Asuma to keep our relationship discreet, but apparently he told you."
Hiruzen chuckled softly, shaking his head. "He didn't tell me anything. I simply observed the two of you growing increasingly close lately, and it wasn't hard to put two and two together. Frankly speaking, both of you are not the best at concealing your feelings. I assume that most, if not all, of your colleagues are already aware of your relationship."
Kurenai blushed, feeling a mix of embarrassment and amusement at Hiruzen's astute observation.
- At Naruto's Apartment -
"Should I bring my books with me? If so, which one? I can't possibly bring them all... Unless..." Naruto pondered to himself, reaching for a sealing scroll he had obtained from Ino. Ino's mother, having dabbled in fuinjutsu in the past, had gifted Naruto the remaining materials and scrolls she had, hoping they would be put to good use instead of gathering dust in their home. Naruto received a handful of scrolls, along with brushes and ink for his practice.
Lately, Naruto had been studying fuinjutsu alongside various other subjects, feeling a newfound confidence in his abilities. Today, he felt ready to attempt a basic sealing technique for the very first time.
According to his readings, an effective method of sealing involved infusing chakra into the scroll, with the amount corresponding to its capacity. Put simply, the more chakra he poured in, the more items he could seal. While most people were advised to use the appropriate amount of chakra to avoid wastefulness, Naruto didn't have the same limitations. Nevertheless, mastering the art of precise chakra control would require years of practice.
"How hard could it be?" Naruto mused, addressing no one in particular. He prepared a clean scroll and dipped a brush into a bottle of ink. However, as he poised his hand to begin, a sudden wave of unease washed over him. Naruto didn't want to make a mistake, knowing the potential dangers of fuinjutsu. Tales of seals spontaneously exploding, accidental self-sealing, and worse haunted his thoughts.
Swallowing hard, Naruto offered a silent prayer to Kami, hoping for success. He began by meticulously copying the sealing formula from the book onto the scroll. Once finished, he carefully inscribed the kanji for "book/scroll" in the center. Although his rendition wasn't perfect, it sufficed for a beginner. With a steady hand, Naruto infused the scroll with chakra, intending to seal the items he planned to place inside. Uncertain of the ideal amount, Naruto erred on the side of caution and channeled chakra for approximately five minutes. Now, it was time for the moment of truth.
Placing a cup atop the scroll, Naruto positioned a table in front of him as a safety precaution. "Here goes nothing, Funyu no Jutsu! (Enclosing Technique)," Naruto exclaimed, prompting a puff of smoke to envelop his apartment. As the smoke dispersed, the cup had vanished.
"Alright... The first part is a success. But what about the next step? Time to unseal it this time, Kaifu no Jutsu! (Unsealing Technique)," Naruto declared, conjuring another puff of smoke. Patiently, he waited for the haze to dissipate, his heart filled with anticipation. And there it was—a delight to behold. Resting atop the scroll was the cup he had previously placed, in impeccable condition.
Approaching the scroll cautiously, Naruto took his time to feel entirely safe from any accidental self-sealing. He lifted the cup, ensuring that nothing had changed. True to his expectations, the cup remained unaltered before and after being sealed. Satisfied with his achievement, Naruto prepared to seal the books and scrolls he intended to bring along.
Carefully selecting the scroll about Nebaiken, the book on fuinjutsu, the tome on botany, and the book about flowers Ino had gifted him, Naruto repeated the process flawlessly. Once done, he packed his belongings into his travel bag. Locking the door to his apartment, Naruto set off for the front gate, now alone and under the rain. With Ino absent, he sprinted through the raindrops, managing to avoid getting
- At Konoha's Gate -
Naruto quickly made his way to a nearby waiting shed beside the gate, setting his bag down on the bench as he waited for his teammates. Suddenly, a man approached him. It was Izumo, donning a raincoat.
"What are you doing out here in the rain?" Izumo inquired.
Looking up, Naruto recognized him. "Oh hey there, Kamizuki-san. I'm just waiting for my teammates to arrive. We have a mission," he replied.
"I see... And you can call me Izumo, I don't mind," he said, flashing a smile.
"Alright then, Izumo-san. Where's Hagane-san, though?" Naruto asked.
"Ah, Kotetsu isn't feeling well today, so it's just me on guard duty for now. He must've caught a cold due to the chilly weather," Izumo explained.
"Perhaps so," Naruto nodded.
"So... Where are you guys off to?" Izumo inquired.
"To Mori no Kuni (Land of Forests). We're going to handle a gang that's been causing trouble there," Naruto replied.
"I see, I see. Well, I'm sure you guys will do just fine. I've heard about your first battle from your sensei, as well as the whole carriage incident. Congratulations on gaining some experience and accomplishing missions. How do you feel about that, though?" Izumo asked, curious.
"Well, I'm proud that I can help my team complete missions. But I'm still contemplating how I should feel about the people I've had to... you know, kill," Naruto confessed. "I talked to Hokage-jiji, and he told me not to revel in the deaths of my enemies."
"That's true," Izumo agreed, understanding Naruto's internal struggle. "And I'm guessing he told you that it could lead you down a dark path?"
"Yeah, how did you know?" Naruto wondered.
"I was a Genin in the past as well, and my first kill troubled me deeply. But Hokage-sama helped me realize some things. It's a cold world out there, Naruto. Sometimes, it's just you or them. And most of the time, you should choose yourself," Izumo explained.
"Most of the time?" Naruto questioned.
"Well, there are situations where you can try to reason with someone, but that can be risky. Some people can't be reasoned with, and some are simply irredeemable. In those cases, talking won't get you anywhere. But it's up to you to decide whether to negotiate or fight. Just remember that when shit hits the fan, you have to do everything you can to protect yourself and those you care about," Izumo advised.
"I understand, Izumo-san. I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for the advice," Naruto replied, offering a smile.
"No worries. I'm glad I could help a fellow Konoha shinobi," Izumo said, returning the smile. "Anyway, I'll return to my post now. Good luck with your mission, Naruto." With a wave, he bid farewell and left Naruto alone once more.
As Naruto sat there, another voice broke the solitude. "There you are! What happened to you?" Ino exclaimed, appearing in the shed.
Naruto turned his attention to her. "Oh hey, Ino. This? I didn't have an umbrella, so I had to run in the rain," Naruto explained.
"That was stupid of you! You could've asked me to lend you an extra umbrella. sigh You're just begging to get sick, aren't you?" Ino scolded, clearly concerned.
"Relax, Ino. I'm fine... It's just a little water," Naruto insisted.
"Uh-huh, and I'm not taking any chances. I don't want you to get sick during the mission, you'll just be a liability if you get sick" Ino retorted, digging into her pack and retrieving an extra towel. To Naruto's surprise, instead of handing it to him, she took matters into her own hands and began drying him herself.
"You know, you could've just given me the towel, Ino. I know how to dry myself," Naruto protested.
"Yeah, right. You know how to dry yourself, yet you didn't think about not running in the rain, huh? As I said, I'm not taking any chances. So shut up and sit still while I dry you off," Ino commanded. Naruto obeyed, sitting quietly as Ino diligently dried him off.
Meanwhile, Izumo couldn't help but smile, feeling a tinge of envy for Naruto's situation. "Good for him, but how come not a single kunoichi did these things for me in the past?" he mused to himself, letting out a sigh.
Just then, Asuma and Shino arrived at the waiting shed, accompanied by their sensei who carried extra raincoats. It was a practical move considering the distance they had to cover to reach Mori no Kuni (Land of Forests). Efficiency was key for their journey.
"You guys ready?" Asuma asked his students, who both nodded in response. "Alright then, you guys better keep up!" Asuma exclaimed before taking off in a sprint. His students wasted no time and quickly followed suit, determined not to be left behind.
(A/N: Yo yo yo, a new mission huh? What could be in store for them? haha. Anyway, I hope y'all enjoyed this chapter. Sorry for the late upload, I had some college business to deal with. Anyway, I am going to lessen the fluff stuff for now and focus on the action this time since I think I've provided enough fluff for now to satisfy you guys. There'll be more wholesome moments so don't worry, also! kindly tell me if you like the mechanics I provided for fuinjutsu since it hasn't been explored in canon so not much is known. I don't want to make it super OP cause if it was, then pretty much everyone should be using it, I'll try my best to make the explanation of the usage of seals feasible but for now, tell me if the mechanics are alright. Show me some love and RnR, that's all cheers ^^)