The next morning Koby would head directly to the Hokage's office, he wanted to have a meeting about Naruto Uzumaki. Of course Koby knew the boy's name as he asked when they parted ways. He wanted to know why the boy was left alone, why the boy was being watched by powerful ninja, and why he was so lonely in this world. He hated all of these things, he didn't like seeing someone treated like the boy was being. No five year old should live alone, unloved and without help from others. He would bring up these facts to the hokage.
Koby soon found himself standing before the Hokage, his gaze steady as he addressed the elderly leader. "Sir, or Lord Hokage, I've come to discuss Uzumaki Naruto. I understand there's more to his story. I can sense that you have people monitoring him, just as you have people watching over me at all times. The boy is only five years old, and he lives alone. He's enduring a life that no child should have to bear. No five-year-old should have to live in such circumstances, Lord Hokage," Koby stated, his tone composed but concerned.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, regarded Koby with a solemn expression. He knew that Naruto's situation was far from ideal, and the young boy had faced immense challenges because of his circumstances.
"You're correct, Koby," the Hokage replied with a sigh. "Naruto's life has been difficult, and he faces prejudice from many in the village due to circumstances beyond his control. We do our best to keep an eye on him and ensure his safety, but the situation is far from ideal. What do you propose we do?"
Koby maintained a focused expression as he addressed the Hokage. He was determined not to stand idly by and witness the injustice of Naruto's situation. He couldn't do much given his own circumstances, but he believed he had to take bold action to help the boy. Thoughts of his own mentor, who had taken him in when he had nothing, flooded his mind. He remembered the hard work and dedication Garp had instilled in him, shaping him into the man he had become.
"I may be stuck here for now, and as long as I'm in this village, let me watch over the boy. Your agents are already monitoring my actions, so they'll respond to anything I do. I'll raise Naruto and ensure he has someone looking out for him, at least for a while. I truly believe this boy has the potential for greatness; it's in his eyes," Koby suggested boldly, his usual humility replaced by a determined tone. "I understand you may not fully trust me, and it's a risky proposition. But it's a better alternative for the boy than the current situation. If your special forces can keep an eye on both of us simultaneously, you might even free up resources to assist in other areas."
Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, regarded Koby with a mixture of surprise and consideration. The proposal was certainly unconventional, but he could sense the sincerity and determination in Koby's words. He knew that Naruto's situation was far from ideal and that the boy needed someone who could provide guidance and support.
"You make an audacious offer, Koby," the Hokage acknowledged, his voice measured. "I can't deny that Naruto's life has been difficult, and your intentions seem genuine. However, I must emphasize that this is a highly unusual arrangement. We would need to establish strict guidelines, and there would be continuous monitoring. Naruto's safety is paramount."
Hiruzen paused, his gaze unwavering. "If you're willing to take on this responsibility, and if our agents can ensure both your and Naruto's well-being, then I'm willing to consider it. But understand that this will be a challenging undertaking with significant risks involved."
"I understand, Lord Hokage. I am prepared to adhere to any strict guidelines you set forth, and I will follow them meticulously. I am a man of my word, and I am determined to prove that to you," Koby affirmed, his tone reflecting his sincerity. "I comprehend that this arrangement is far from typical, but I'm accustomed to dealing with challenging situations, and I have a strong belief in upholding justice. Let's work out the details of the safeguards for the boy and make this happen. A five-year-old requires proper guardianship."
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, nodded thoughtfully at Koby's commitment and determination. He could see that the young Marine was genuinely concerned for Naruto's well-being, and that weighed heavily in his favor.
"Very well, Koby," the Hokage said, his voice firm but understanding. "I appreciate your willingness to take on this responsibility. We will establish a set of guidelines and safeguards to ensure Naruto's safety. You will be closely monitored, and any deviation from the agreed-upon terms will have serious consequences. I trust that you will uphold your word."
Hiruzen's gaze shifted to Naruto's picture on his desk, and he sighed softly. "Naruto deserves a chance at a better life. Let us work together to provide him with that opportunity. We will convene to discuss the specifics of this arrangement and ensure that it is in the best interests of the boy."
With that, the Hokage extended his hand to Koby as a gesture of agreement and partnership. Koby accepted the Hokage's handshake, sealing their agreement.
The ensuing meetings with the village's leaders were productive, and the terms of the arrangement were outlined. Koby had made a significant commitment; he would remain in the village until Naruto was old enough to become a ninja, potentially sacrificing his chance to return home for seven years. It was a difficult choice, but one he felt compelled to make for the sake of the young boy who needed his help so desperately.
As he considered his decision, Koby couldn't help but think of what his friend Luffy might do in this situation. He imagined Luffy either staying to protect Naruto or spiritedly taking the boy aboard his own ship as a choir boy. Ultimately, Koby agreed to the stringent terms of the arrangement.
Later that afternoon, Koby sought out Naruto, finding him in the same place as the day before, seemingly expecting that he had been forgotten. Koby approached the boy with a warm smile. "I apologize for the delay, Naruto. I had a lengthy meeting with the Hokage today," he explained. "But how about this, from now on, you stay with me as my student and my responsibility. No more living alone."
Naruto's eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and excitement as he listened to Koby's words. His face lit up with a big grin, and he nodded vigorously.
"Really? You mean it, mister?" Naruto asked with childlike enthusiasm. "I won't have to be alone anymore? That's awesome! I wanna be strong like you, Mr. Koby!"
Naruto's innocent trust and eagerness to have someone to look up to were evident as he eagerly agreed to the new arrangement.
"Yeah, kid, let's go get some ramen, and starting tomorrow, you'll be my student. We'll begin preparing you to become the next Hokage of this village," Koby said gently, his voice filled with warmth. He led Naruto to their new residence, which was slightly larger and had two rooms: one for Koby and one for Naruto. Their belongings were brought over, though there wasn't much to begin with. As they walked, Koby explained the rules and stressed their importance to Naruto, making sure the boy understood the need for regular check-ins and close supervision.
Naruto's eyes sparkled with excitement at the prospect of becoming a student and, eventually, the Hokage. He followed Koby eagerly, nodding along as Koby explained the rules and guidelines.
"Okay, Mr. Koby, I'll be the best student ever! I'll work really hard, and one day, I'll be the Hokage!" Naruto declared with determination, his youthful energy and spirit shining brightly.
Koby allowed Naruto to settle in, taking out the book on the basics of Chakra. He began to read it out loud, catching Naruto's attention. The young boy listened intently, as no one had ever explained these things to him before. He wasn't in the academy yet, and it would be about three more years before he could join, as Koby had been told. Koby realized he needed to learn all of this information himself so he could effectively teach Naruto and help shape him into a great ninja.
"Now, Naruto," Koby began to say, but he noticed the boy had already fallen asleep. He smiled warmly and gently picked Naruto up, placing him in his bed. Koby knew that earning trust, both from the boy and the village, would require actions more than words.
Before he left the small residence, Koby made a mental note to buy supplies for Naruto. He wanted to ensure the boy had more than just ramen to eat as he grew up. Koby then left a report in a special drop box, which was part of his agreement with the Hokage.
Returning with the supplies, he put them away, thinking about how much his life had changed in the last month. It was vastly different from his life as a Marine, now filled with responsibilities he had never anticipated. As he looked at his Marine coat, he realized that he wouldn't be needing it for a long while. Nevertheless, he was determined to grow stronger and return one day with an incredible story to tell his fellow Marines.
A/N- Yep. This one a turn, that I think some will really hate. Sorry if you dislike it, but I thought about it and I really enjoyed writing this. I hope you enjoyed this chapter too.