Chapter 1: Growing up Sarutobi
A/N- Thanks for the review, and I had to translate it, but Danzo very much was the one who leaked the info about Naruto in canon so that wasn't a change at all, other than Hiruzen prevents that from happening here. Also, a note for this chapter, Asuma gave up smoking twice, once when the 3rd dies, and when he found out he was going to have his daughter. As you know he died shortly after the second time. I have no clue what I am going to do with teams, but I will think of something. Enjoy and have a good day.
Asuma's footsteps echoed softly as he approached his home, a small but comfortable dwelling nestled within the heart of Konoha. His mind was preoccupied with thoughts of the young child he cradled in his arms – Naruto Uzumaki, the boy whose destiny was now inextricably linked with his own. He took a deep breath, his eyes flickering to the pack of cigarettes tucked away in his pocket. With a resigned sigh, he realized that certain habits would have to change now that he was responsible for a child.
As he entered his home, Asuma's gaze was drawn to a familiar figure standing in the living room. Kurenai Yuhi, a fellow shinobi and close friend, was waiting there, a quizzical expression on her face. Asuma's heart skipped a beat – he had completely forgotten about their plans for the night.
"Hey, Kurenai," Asuma greeted, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and sheepishness.
Kurenai arched an eyebrow, her crimson eyes narrowing as she took in the scene before her. "Asuma, why do you have a baby with you?"
Asuma scratched the back of his head, a nervous chuckle escaping his lips. "Yeah, about that… You see, something came up, and well, I'm now responsible for Naruto."
Kurenai's expression shifted from confusion to understanding, and a warm smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Naruto? The Hokage's son? That's quite a responsibility you've taken on, Asuma."
Asuma nodded, a mixture of determination and uncertainty in his eyes. "Yeah, it's a big deal, I know. But Hiruzen thought I was the right person for the job."
Kurenai stepped closer, her gaze gentle as she looked at the sleeping child in Asuma's arms. "Well, I have no doubt you'll do your best, Asuma. It's a big adjustment, but you're not alone in this. We'll figure it out together."
Asuma's tense shoulders relaxed, a grateful smile forming on his lips. "Thanks, Kurenai. I appreciate that."
Kurenai's smile widened, and she gestured toward the door. "So, our plans for the night might need to be put on hold, huh?"
Asuma let out a rueful chuckle. "Yeah, it looks that way. I can't exactly bring a baby on a night out."
Kurenai chuckled as well, her voice carrying a teasing note. "Guess not. Well, we can always reschedule. For now, let's focus on making Naruto feel welcome."
Asuma and Kurenai continued their conversation, their voices low and thoughtful as they discussed the best way to approach Naruto's new identity. Asuma's brows furrowed in concentration as he weighed the options, fully aware of the significance that a name held in their world. Kurenai listened attentively, her own insights contributing to their deliberation.
After a moment of contemplation, Asuma let out a sigh, his expression a mix of resignation and determination. "You know, Kurenai, I've been thinking about Naruto's name. I agree that using the last names Namikaze or Uzumaki would attract too much attention and speculation. We need something that won't immediately tie him back to me or any other known figure."
Kurenai nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I see where you're coming from, Asuma. It's important to protect his identity while giving him a fresh start."
Asuma's gaze shifted to the sleeping infant in his arms, a sense of responsibility settling over him. "I've been considering giving him the last name Sarutobi. It might raise some questions, but people could assume he's my child or yours. It would provide a degree of anonymity while still giving him a connection to the village."
Kurenai's lips curved into a thoughtful smile. "Sarutobi... It's a strong name with a long history in Konoha. I think it could work. And it does give him a sense of belonging."
Asuma nodded, his decision solidifying as he looked down at Naruto's peaceful face. "Yeah, I think Naruto Sarutobi sounds right. It's a way to honor the village and my own family, while also allowing him to forge his own path."
Kurenai's smile grew warmer, her gaze shifting between Asuma and the sleeping child. "I think it's a good choice, Asuma. Naruto Sarutobi... It has a nice ring to it."
Asuma's shoulders relaxed, a sense of relief washing over him. "Thanks, Kurenai. Your support means a lot. Let's keep his identity as private as possible – Naruto deserves a chance to grow up without the weight of his past."
Kurenai reached out, gently placing a hand on Asuma's arm. "We're in this together, Asuma. Naruto is lucky to have you as his guardian, and I'm here to help in any way I can."
**One Year After Naruto's Arrival: Kurenai and Asuma's Wedding**
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the village of Konoha as friends and family gathered in celebration. A year had passed since Naruto had become a part of Asuma's life, and the bonds between them had grown stronger with each passing day. The occasion that day was not only a wedding, but a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged through teamwork and shared responsibility.
Naruto, now a year old, was dressed in a miniature suit that had been specially tailored for the occasion. As he wobbled on his tiny feet, he held onto Asuma's finger for support, his wide blue eyes filled with wonder as he took in the festive atmosphere. Kurenai, radiant in her wedding attire, smiled warmly at the sight of Naruto, her heart swelling with affection for the child who had become a part of their family.
The ceremony was a joyous affair, filled with laughter, tears, and heartfelt vows. Asuma and Kurenai exchanged their promises of love and devotion, sealing their union with a kiss that drew cheers and applause from the gathered crowd. Naruto, too young to fully comprehend the significance of the event, clapped his small hands together in delight, mirroring the happiness that radiated around him.
**Two Years After Naruto's Arrival: The Birth of Mirai**
Time marched forward, and two years after Naruto had entered Asuma's life, a new addition was welcomed into their growing family. Mirai Sarutobi, a beautiful baby girl with a tuft of dark hair, became Naruto's little sister. Asuma and Kurenai marveled at the miracle of new life, their hearts brimming with love as they held their daughter in their arms.
Naruto, though young, displayed an endearing curiosity and protectiveness towards his baby sister. He would often gaze at her with a mix of wonder and fascination, his chubby fingers reaching out to touch her tiny hands. Asuma and Kurenai marveled at the budding bond between the siblings, knowing that their family had grown in more ways than one.
**Four Years After Naruto's Arrival: The Arrival of Konohamaru**
As time continued to flow, the Sarutobi family celebrated another addition to their clan. Naruto's cousin, Konohamaru Sarutobi, was born four years after Naruto's arrival. Asuma and Kurenai watched with affection as the two young children – Naruto and Konohamaru – began to form a close bond, embarking on childhood adventures and mischief together.
Naruto took on the role of the protective older cousin, showing Konohamaru the ropes of their village and introducing him to the wonders it held. Their laughter echoed through the streets of Konoha as they played ninja games and explored every nook and cranny, their youthful spirits lifting the hearts of those around them.
**Seven Years After Naruto's Arrival: The Path to Becoming a Ninja**
With each passing year, Naruto grew in both stature and spirit. As his seventh birthday approached, he found himself on the cusp of a new journey – the path to becoming a ninja. The Konoha Academy awaited him, and Naruto's heart swelled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.
On his first day at the academy, Naruto donned the traditional blue uniform, his determination shining brightly in his eyes. Asuma and Kurenai stood by his side, offering words of encouragement and support as they watched their young charge take his first steps towards fulfilling his dreams.
Naruto's days at the academy were marked by hard work, perseverance, and the forging of new friendships. He threw himself into his studies and training, his passion evident to all who crossed his path. Asuma and Kurenai continued to guide him, instilling in him the values of teamwork, loyalty, and resilience.
Naruto's years at the academy were marked by his unwavering determination and strong sense of responsibility. He threw himself into his studies and training, striving to excel in every aspect of his ninja education. His days were filled with rigorous training sessions, lessons on strategy and tactics, and the honing of his chakra control. Asuma and Kurenai, his pillars of support, were there every step of the way, guiding him with their wisdom and encouragement.
One year after his arrival, Naruto found himself taking on a new role – that of a mentor and protector for his younger sister, Mirai. He would patiently help her with her studies, showing her the same dedication and patience that had been bestowed upon him. Their bond grew stronger as Naruto shared his knowledge and experiences with his little sister, nurturing a connection that would last a lifetime.
Likewise, Naruto took his role as a protector seriously when it came to his cousin, Konohamaru. The two boys were inseparable, embarking on mischievous adventures and pushing each other to new heights. Naruto's guidance and mentorship had a profound impact on Konohamaru, shaping him into a determined and capable individual.
In the academy, Naruto formed both friendships and rivalries. He forged close bonds with his classmates, standing by their side during training and competitions. His camaraderie with his fellow students earned him the respect and admiration of those around him. And while he had his share of rivals – individuals who pushed him to be better – Naruto thrived on the challenges they presented, using them as stepping stones on his path to greatness.
Naruto's journey through the academy was not without its struggles. He faced moments of self-doubt and setbacks, but he met each obstacle with tenacity and resilience. One constant source of support was his teacher, Iruka Umino. Iruka, understanding the challenges Naruto had faced, became a mentor and friend who believed in his potential. Iruka's guidance and encouragement provided Naruto with the strength to push through even the toughest times.
As the years passed, Naruto's hard work and dedication paid off. He successfully passed his classes, demonstrating his mastery of various ninja skills and techniques. The final exams became a testament to his growth and determination, a culmination of the effort he had poured into his training.