Chapter 1: Prologue: A change of sensei

Chapter Text

Naruto took a deep breath as he gazed down at his hands, a sense of frustration welling up within him. He felt like he couldn't do anything right, and this self-doubt weighed heavily on his mind. His attention shifted as he realized he was assigned to train with Ebisu, his teacher's choice. He sighed and looked ahead, hoping he'd be working with Kakashi, his own team's instructor, during the upcoming month. Unfortunately, it seemed Kakashi had other priorities, which left Naruto feeling somewhat neglected. He wanted to prove himself by defeating Sasuke and show that he was worth teaching.

Deep down, Naruto knew Kakashi cared about his growth, but it irked him that his teacher hadn't found a way to train them both simultaneously. Instead, Naruto was assigned to Ebisu, who had previously trained Konohamaru, leaving Naruto unimpressed. He contemplated finding another mentor or even training on his own, determined to show Kakashi that he didn't require assistance and could succeed independently. With this resolve in mind, he headed to the training grounds to begin his month of training.

That morning, Naruto worked tirelessly, throwing punches at training dummies to correct his flawed technique. Kakashi had mentioned that his poor form was the reason for training with Ebisu, and Naruto knew he'd need more than Ebisu's guidance to overcome Neji and advance in the exams. He couldn't help but feel that Kakashi favored Sasuke, given the special treatment Sasuke received. After all, they were both facing formidable opponents. Naruto vented his frustration by hitting the target hard, frustrated by his placement with Ebisu.

While Naruto continued his training, another figure entered the training area, not Ebisu or Jiraiya, but none other than Might Guy, who was seeking a way to channel his own pent-up energy. Having lost his prized student, Guy found himself with a void to fill. Neji was focusing on training with his own family, honing his skills in the Gentle Fist technique. Guy understood the reasoning behind this decision, as their fighting styles were markedly different, and Neji needed specialized preparation for his upcoming match against Naruto. Still, Guy couldn't help but feel a sense of annoyance as he entered the training ground. He had preached that hard work could defeat genius, but that philosophy had been challenged.

Guy observed Naruto as he trained, recognizing him as Minato's son. He wondered why Kakashi wasn't personally training Naruto, especially considering the upcoming match against Neji. Naruto would need substantial assistance to prepare for such a skilled opponent. Guy believed that having two students train together could benefit both, as they could push each other to their limits, much like Neji and Lee did on their team.

"Naruto, who is responsible for your training for the exams?" Guy inquired, fixing his gaze on the young ninja. He acknowledged Naruto's hard work, determination, and youthful energy, despite being the host of the Nine-Tails.

"No one, Bushy Brow-sensei," Naruto replied, looking back at Guy. "I'm supposed to train with Ebisu-sensei, but honestly, I'd rather find my own teacher or train on my own."

"I see," Guy responded, considering Naruto's potential as a Leaf ninja. He knew that Naruto would face Neji in the exams and that the boy needed rigorous training. Guy felt compelled to offer his guidance, not only because Naruto was Minato's son but also because he saw the spark of hard work and determination within him. "Naruto, how about we strike a deal, my youthful friend?" Guy proposed, his eyes unwavering. "I'll take you under my wing and teach you the power of youth, preparing you to face my youthful student Neji. If you're up for it, we'll unleash the unstoppable force of youthful energy together."

Naruto blinked, realizing Guy's strength and reputation as Kakashi's rival. He also recognized Guy's intensity and work ethic, qualities he admired. Naruto nodded with determination. "Okay, I'll join you, Bushy Brow-sensei," he agreed. "You tell me what to do, and I'll do it. I want to get stronger, prove myself, and become a Chunin. I'm going all out."

A smile spread across Guy's face as he heard Naruto's resolve. "Excellent! Your youthful power will shine brightly, and together, we'll ensure that," he declared confidently. "Now, let's get to work. I want you to return tomorrow and throw a thousand punches with both arms. Watch me and focus on your form, infuse it with youthful passion," Guy instructed, demonstrating the correct way to throw a punch. He intended to teach Naruto the art of Taijutsu, pushing him to his limits over the next month. It was a challenge worthy of the Blue Beast of Konoha.

Hours passed, and Naruto and Guy continued their rigorous training in the same spirit. Guy sent Naruto home an hour early, knowing that the boy had an impressive stamina. Naruto promised to return at sunrise, eager to learn more. Guy believed that Naruto's hard work and stamina could lead to significant progress in just one month of training. He intended to delve into the intricacies of shadow clones, recognizing that they could potentially accelerate Naruto's learning.

Guy headed home, not noticing Kakashi, who had taken Sasuke for private training. He realized he wouldn't have an opportunity to question Kakashi's choice until the exam finals. However, he looked forward to witnessing Naruto's growth and transformation into a formidable fighter. The prospect excited Guy, and he spent the night researching the advantages and disadvantages of shadow clones, determined to make the most of Naruto's potential.

Guy knew that Lee would always be his pride and joy, but he believed he could simultaneously support Lee and guide Naruto. He was ready to help both of his students become the best versions of themselves. He felt a surge of excitement, confident that Naruto's hard work would prove the value of effort and determination, even against natural talent like Neji's.

Exhausted, Naruto headed home, picking up a bowl of ramen along the way. He ate while walking, feeling the fatigue in every muscle of his body. It was a good kind of tired, a reminder of the hard work he had put in that day. His body served as a testament to the challenges he faced. Naruto had faith that Guy would prepare him to face anything in the coming month. He was confident in his ability to win and show everyone that he was a force to be reckoned with on his journey to becoming Hokage.