Chapter 2: The Veiled potential
I do not own Naruto and Jujutsu Kaisen, Masashi Kishimoto and Gege Akutami do. If I did however, Ikemoto wouldn't have been drawing Boruto.
One Year Later
The distant sound of metal clashing against wood echoed through the ancient training ground, an ancient training ground nestled deep within Konoha's expansive forest. The Senju Groove, a haven of untamed beauty deep within Konoha's ancient forests, cradled secrets within its enigmatic embrace. Naruto found himself amidst towering trees with roots that seemed to intertwine like the threads of fate. Luminescent flora bathed the grove in an ethereal glow, creating an ambiance that echoed with whispers of legendary training sessions.
In this mystical setting, Naruto practiced his shurikenjutsu with an intensity that matched the ancient energy coursing through the air. The training ground responded to his every movement, the very essence of nature enhancing the precision of his throws. With each practiced motion, Naruto felt a subtle connection, a harmonious dance between his chakra and the grove itself.
As the shurikens cut through the air, Naruto's thoughts drifted to the moment when Mai, guided by an inexplicable feeling, led him into the depths of Konoha's Forest. A vivid flashback played in his mind, the dense foliage closing in around them as they followed Mai's instinctual pull. It was her strange, unexplainable connection to the forest that had brought them to this hidden training ground.
Naruto and Mai, standing at the entrance to this different area within the forest, they exchanged astonished glances, it was differentiated from the rest of the forest by a trees that carried a powerful aura. The air within seemed to shimmer with ancient wisdom, and the trees whispered tales of those who had trained within their shadows. The forest itself seemed to acknowledge their presence, creating an illusionary barrier that concealed the grove from those uninitiated.
"This place is incredible," Naruto marveled, his gaze wandering across the majestic scenery. "How did you even find it, Mai?"
Mai, her emerald eyes reflecting the luminescent hues of the flora, shrugged. "I don't know. It's like the forest itself led me here. I just felt this... pull."
Their curiosity led them deeper into the forest, discovering hidden waterfalls that cascaded into crystal-clear pools. The soft murmurs of water harmonized with the rustling leaves, creating a serene atmosphere for meditation. Elevated platforms nestled among the trees hinted at a mastery of aerial techniques, while the earth beneath, soft and welcoming, begged for taijutsu practice. One of the trees near the ground had a symbol.
As Naruto got closer to it he called out to Mai,"Hey Mai, Isn't this the crest on the back of your shirt."
Curious Mai also approached, examining the symbol etched onto the tree. Indeed, it mirrored the crest on the back of her shirt — an intricate design that seemed to resonate with the history of the Senju clan.
Mai's eyes widened with realization. "You're right, Naruto. It's the Senju clan crest. How did it end up here?"
Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of destiny in the air, a connection between him, Mai, and the forest itself. As they explored the facilities seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape, Naruto envisioned the possibilities that this hidden sanctuary held.
Naruto scratched his head, pondering. "Maybe this place was really important to the Senju. I mean, it's got their crest and all."
Mai nodded, a sense of connection to her heritage intensifying. "It's like this place is a part of me, and I'm a part of it. The Senju connection runs deep."
As they ventured further, the grove unfolded its secrets. Hidden platforms among the treetops hinted at advanced aerial techniques. Naruto, his eyes gleaming with excitement, couldn't resist climbing one. "Mai, look at this! It's perfect for practicing high-flying moves."
Mai laughed, watching Naruto's antics. "You're like a monkey, Naruto. But yeah, it does seem perfect for aerial training."
The grove, wrapped in an aura of ancient wisdom, became their haven. Waterfalls whispered tales of the past, and the rustling leaves seemed to applaud their presence. They discovered a secluded spot, a natural arena of sorts, where the earth begged for their taijutsu prowess.
Naruto, ever the enthusiast, struck a pose. "This is where we'll become taijutsu masters, Mai. No one will be able to match us!"
Mai chuckled, appreciating Naruto's playful interpretation. "Masters or not, let's make the most of it. Our training just got even more special."
The duo, inspired by the mystique of the Senju ground, decided to make this their secret training ground. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the ancient trees.
The sun dipped below the horizon as Naruto and Mai emerged from the training ground, their bodies saturated with the mystical energy that permeated the training ground. Naruto, with the mischievous glint in his eyes, began plotting his next grand prank—a pursuit that had earned him the notorious title of the village prankster. Unbeknownst to them, the tranquility of the Senju ground would soon be shattered.
As they traversed the familiar path back to the village, the whispers of the ground seemed to linger in the air. The towering trees stood sentinel, casting elongated shadows that played tricks on the forest floor. Little did Naruto and Mai know that these shadows would soon manifest in a more sinister form.
Their journey home took an unexpected turn as a group of bullies surrounded them. It was a confrontation that had become all too familiar for Naruto, the village's social outcast. However, this time, the bullies targeted Mai, who had also become an outcast due to her association with Naruto.
The leader of the bullies, a burly figure with a twisted sense of superiority, sneered at Mai. "Still hanging out with the freak, Senju?" he taunted, the venom in his words echoing through the dimming forest.
Naruto, sensing the tension, tightened his fists. "Leave her alone. You've got a problem, take it up with me."
The bullies, sensing an opportunity, turned their aggression towards Naruto. A few shoves and insults were exchanged, the echoes of laughter seeping through the dense forest. As the situation escalated, Naruto felt the weight of their prejudice, a familiar burden he had carried since childhood.
Mai, her emerald eyes reflecting both defiance and gratitude, whispered to Naruto, "We can handle this, Naruto. We always do."
But this time was different. The bullies, emboldened by their numbers, took it further, physically attacking Naruto. It was an assault on both his body and his spirit, the manifestation of the village's rejection reaching a new low.
Amidst the chaos, one of the bullies, reveling in the confrontation, picked up a shuriken from Naruto's pocket. The metallic gleam in his eyes sent a chill down Naruto's spine. In a desperate attempt to protect himself, Naruto, fueled by fear and instinct, inadvertently tapped into a latent power.
The shuriken was forgotten as Naruto's abilities manifested. The air crackled with an unseen force, and the bully's arm was crushed in an instant. A horrified silence engulfed the forest, broken only by the guttural cry of pain that escaped the bully's lips.
Naruto, wide-eyed and trembling, realized the unintended consequence of his actions. Mai, equally shocked, whispered, "Naruto, what... what did you do?"
Naruto could only stare in horror as as the bullies scattered, leaving their fallen comrade behind, Naruto and Mai were left to grapple with the harsh reality of Naruto's mysterious power.
The soft creaking of the Hokage's office door heralded the arrival of the venerable Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi. In the dimly lit room, Naruto and Mai sat in silence, their eyes haunted by the recent ordeal in the Senju ground. As the Hokage settled into a chair, he sensed the weight of their trauma and urged Mai to share her account of the confrontation with the bullies.
With a voice steadied by a mix of fear and determination, Mai recounted the aggression of the bullies and Naruto's accidental use of an unexplainable power. The Hokage listened attentively, his aged eyes scrutinizing Naruto's features. As Mai described the incident, Hiruzen felt an unusual chakra emanating from Naruto, a peculiar energy that seemed to swirl around his eyes.
"Tell me, Mai," Hiruzen inquired, "did you notice anything specific about Naruto's eyes during the confrontation?"
Mai furrowed her brows in contemplation. "His eyes... they were different, like they were glowing with a strange intensity. I've never seen anything like it."
The Hokage's mind worked swiftly, drawing connections between Naruto's eyes and the latent power that had manifested. With a thoughtful expression, he theorized, "Naruto, it seems you possess an unknown Doujutsu—a unique ocular ability."
Naruto's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and confusion. "A what now?"
Hiruzen, the wrinkles on his forehead deepening, clarified, "A special eye technique. They're rare, and each one comes with its own set of abilities. Yours seems to be dormant, revealing itself in moments of heightened emotion."
As the Hokage assured them that the incident was an accident, Naruto couldn't shake the guilt that lingered within him. "But I hurt him, old-man. What if I can't control this... this power?"
Hiruzen laid a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "We will find a way to help you understand and control it, Naruto. You're not alone in this."
The air within the Hokage's office hung heavy with tension as Hiruzen Sarutobi, the venerable Third Hokage, shifted his focus to address the malicious claims circulating through the village. False accusations against Naruto had become an insidious undercurrent, whispers of him being a harbinger of misfortune and a societal threat.
Hiruzen felt a surge of anger and disappointment as he recalled the reports of the civilians who had blamed Naruto for the recent incidents. He knew that Naruto was innocent, that he had nothing to do with the mysterious attacks that had plagued the village.
Hiruzen shifted his focus to a trusted chunin standing nearby. "Deliver the news to those who falsely accused Naruto, that the charges have been dismissed" he instructed, his voice carrying a weight that brooked no opposition.
The chunin nodded, his eyes reflecting the loyalty and obedience of a soldier. He left the office, heading to the civilian sector where the accusers resided. He knew that his task was not an easy one, that he would face hostility and resistance from the villagers. He also knew that his task was a necessary one, that he would enforce justice and order from the Hokage. He was prepared to face the consequences, whatever they might be.
Hiruzen's attention turned to the safety of Naruto and Mai. The orphanage, once a refuge, now could potentially become a danger, and the Hokage recognized the imminent danger they faced.. He had seen the bruises, and the cuts that had been inflicted on Naruto. He had felt the fear, the anger, and the despair that had consumed them.
He had arranged for two apartments—one for Naruto and one for Mai. These would shield them from the harsh judgments of the villagers, providing a home where they could rebuild their shattered sense of security.
He had also arranged for some furniture, some clothes, and some food to be delivered to the apartments. He wanted to make them comfortable, to make them feel welcome, and to make them feel loved. He had also arranged for some security measures, some seals, and some guards to be placed around the apartments. He wanted to make them safe, to make them feel protected, and to make them feel secure.
Instructions were swiftly issued to his assistant, setting in motion the preparations for the apartments. The assistant nodded, his eyes reflecting the efficiency and competence of a professional. He left the office, heading to the administrative sector where the paperwork and the logistics were handled. He knew that his task was not a simple one, that he would face bureaucracy and red tape from the officials. He also knew that his task was an important one, that he would fulfill the wishes and the orders of the Hokage.
From a sealed scroll, Hiruzen extracted a small vial of blood from a potent seal on the inside of his left-drawer. Putting some drops of blood on his hand he went through five hand-seals, "Kuchiyose no Jutsu".
A large toad materialized in the office, its imposing presence contrasting with the confined space. The creature croaked in acknowledgment. As Hiruzen issued his urgent message to Jiraiya, the toad stood as a sentinel, bridging the gap between the mystical and the pragmatic.
"Deliver a message to Jiraiya," Hiruzen commanded. "Tell him that he is to end his mission and return to the village immediately. It's an emergency involving his godson."
The toad nodded solemnly, absorbing the gravity of the situation. With a resounding croak, it vanished in a puff of smoke, leaving behind a room pregnant with the acknowledgment of impending challenges.
Hiruzen sighed, his gaze lingering on the spot where the toad had stood.
Somewhere in Tsuchi no Kuni
Jiraiya, the renowned Sannin, pursued his mission to track down his former team-mate Orochimary. The same toad that had left Hiruzen's office appeared before him, interrupting Sannin's solitary contemplation.
Jiraiya was sitting on a rock, overlooking a valley where a hidden village was located. He had been tracking down a lead on an organization which Orochimaru had joined recently.
He was also doing something equally important, well to him at least, writing his latest novel, a sequel to his best-selling series, Icha Icha, he was so engrossed in writing that he did not notice the toad until it croaked loudly, startling him out of his trance. He looked at the toad, recognizing it as one of the messengers of the Hokage. He wondered what the old man wanted, hoping that it was not something serious.
"The Hokage needs you back in Konoha. An emergency involving Naruto requires your immediate attention," the toad conveyed with a sense of urgency, its words echoing through the secluded landscape.
Jiraiya's eyes narrowed as he absorbed the information. His heart skipped a beat, his mind racing with questions and worries. He had not expected to hear that Naruto was in trouble, or that he had to return to Konoha immediately. He had not expected to face a dilemma, or to make a choice.
With a decisive nod, he issued a command to the toad, "Tell Ma and Pa to reverse summon me to Konoha. It seems a dire situation has arrived, and I won't waste any time."
The toad, understanding the gravity of the situation, disappeared in another puff of smoke. Left alone with his thoughts, Jiraiya contemplated the imminent return to the village he had once called home.
The setting sun cast long shadows through the windows of the Hokage's office as Jiraiya returned to Konoha, an air of mystery surrounding entered the office and saw the Hokage sitting behind his desk, surrounded by piles of paperwork.
The Hokage greeted Jiraiya with a solemn nod, acknowledging the urgency of the matter at hand. He gestured for him to sit down on a chair across from him. He put down his pipe and looked at Jiraiya with a serious expression. He said, "Thank you for coming, Jiraiya."
Jiraiya nodded, and said, "Of course, Sensei. Now what's this emergency about Naruto. What's going on?"
The Hokage took a deep breath, and said, "Naruto, he has... awakened a new power. A power we don't understand. A power that could change everything."
Jiraiya raised his eyebrows, and said, "A new power? What kind of power?"
The Hokage leaned forward, fingers steepled, and began recounting the recent incident involving Naruto's undiscovered listened with rapt attention, his eyes widening in surprise as he absorbed the gravity of the situation. He said, "A Doujutsu, you say? And nobody knew about it?"
The Hokage nodded, and said, "Yes, But Naruto's Doujutsu is different. It's unknown and untrained. It manifested during a confrontation with bullies, and Naruto accidentally injured one of them."
The Hokage sighed, and said, "He used a power we can't quite comprehend yet. It's tied to his eyes, but we're still in the dark about its nature. All we know is that it's dangerous, and that it could attract unwanted attention. That's why I need you, Jiraiya. You're the only one who can help Naruto understand his power, and train him to use it properly. You're his godfather, his mentor, his friend. You have a connection with him that no one else has. And you have experience with dealing with unknown Doujutsu."
Jiraiya nodded, and said, "I see. You're referring to Nagato, aren't you?"
The Hokage nodded, Jiraiya sighed, and said, "Yeah, I know. Don't worry about it old man, I'll do whatever it takes to protect him, and to guide him. Minato and Kushina gave me a responsibilty when they made me his Godfather and it's about time that I take it seriously, I'll help him, and teach him."
The Hokage smiled, and said, "Thank you, Jiraiya. I knew I could count on you. But before you go, there's something else I need to tell you. Something about Naruto's training, and his partner."
The Hokage said, "You see, Naruto is not alone. He has a friend, a girl, who has been with him since he was a toddler. Her name is Mai, and she's the great-granddaughter of the First Hokage, and the niece of Tsunade. She's a Senju, and a prodigy. She's also Naruto's best friend."
Jiraiya blinked, and said, "A Senju? A prodigy?What are you talking about, Sensei? I've never heard of this girl before. Where did she come from? Does Tsunade know about this? And what does she have to do with Naruto's training?"
The Hokage said, "She came from the orphanage, where she and Naruto grew up together. Her parents died in the Nine-Tails attack. I doubt Tsunade knows about this as she didn't keep in touch with her brother after she left. I have done everything possible to keep her true heritage hidden to protect her, her current background shows her to be just the daugter of a civilian that belonged to the Senju Clan, only I know about this and you do now. Growing up, she befriended Naruto, and they formed a bond that was stronger than anything. They were inseparable, and they supported each other through thick and thin. They were also very curious, and very clever. They had a thirst for knowledge, and a passion for ninjutsu. They wanted to become ninjas, and to prove themselves to the world. But they had no teachers, no instructions, no guidance. They had to learn everything by themselves, and they did it in a very unconventional way."
Jiraiya said, "What do you mean, unconventional?
The Hokage said, "They focused on improving their taijutsu and shurikenjutsu by watching other ninjas practice. They sneaked into the academy, the training grounds, and even the ANBU headquarters. They observed the techniques, the movements, the strategies. They copied them, and improved them. They experimented with different weapons, styles, and combinations. They were ingenious, really. They learned more than most genin, without any formal education."
Jiraiya said, "That's impressive, but also risky. How did they avoid getting caught?"
The Hokage said, "They used their wits, and their skills. They were stealthy, and fast. They also had a secret weapon, a hidden advantage. They had access to a lost training ground, a place that no one else knew about. A place that enhanced their abilities, and their potential. A place that was once the pride of the Senju clan, and the legacy of the First Hokage. They had the Shinseina mori."
Jiraiya looked confused, and said, "Huh, the whatnot now...?"
The Hokage nodded, and said, "' Shinseina mori ', it is an old training ground of the Senju's from the Warring states era. From what Tobirama-Sensei told me, it was the training ground where Hashirama-sama discovered and learned about his ability to, the infamous Mokuton, it had been hidden by a forest that was made by Hashirama-sama. Every tree in that forest is soaked with his chakra, full of life and energy. But the forest dissappeared after his death only to reappear about 8 month ago, when Mai rediscovered it, we don't know how but she did."
Jiraiya was speechless, and said, "Wow. Just wow. That's incredible. That's unbelievable. That's... amazing. They trained in the Shinseina mori, probably the most sacred and secret place of the Senju clan. They became that good, without any help or guidance. They did all that, and they're only six years old. That's... that's…"
The Hokage smiled, and said, "That's Naruto and Mai. The most remarkable and promising children I've ever seen. The future of Konoha. That's who they are, and that's who you'll be training, Jiraiya. Are you ready for that?"
Jiraiya grinned, and said, "Ready? I'm more than ready. I'm excited. I can't wait to meet them, and to see what they can do. I can't wait to teach them, and to learn from them. It's going to be a hassle to manage my spy network and train them, but I will do it."
The Hokage chuckled, and said, "That's the spirit, Jiraiya. That's why I chose you. You have the passion, the skill, the experience, and the heart. You're the perfect Sensei for them, and I'm glad you're here. Now, let's go. They're waiting for you, at their new apartments. I've arranged for them to live together, in a building near the Shinseina mori. They'll be more comfortable, and more secure. They'll also be closer to their training ground. They're eager to become ninjas, and to follow their dreams.
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the village. Naruto and Mai found themselves standing in the common lobby of their new apartments, the air buzzing with the anticipation of a fresh beginning. The walls echoed with the sounds of laughter and conversation as they settled into their new lives.
As they explored their surroundings, Mai couldn't help but express her amazement at the apartments. "It's so much better than the orphanage, isn't it, Naruto?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder.
Naruto grinned, his blue eyes reflecting the excitement. "Yeah, no more creaky beds and leaky roofs. We've upgraded, Mai!"
They found themselves by the windows, gazing out at the village lights flickering to life. The transition from the orphanage was surreal, and they marveled at the sense of independence that came with their new homes.
The conversation shifted to their dreams for the future, dreams that seemed within reach in this newfound sanctuary. Naruto's eyes sparkled with determination. "I'm gonna be the best Hokage the village has everseen! Believe it!, together, Mai. We'll show them all!"
Amidst their dreams and aspirations, Naruto's mischievous nature couldn't be contained. A devilish grin played on his lips as he leaned in and whispered, "Hey, Mai, what if we prank the whole shopping district? Paint it orange! Imagine the chaos!"
Mai's eyes widened, torn between amusement and disbelief. "Naruto, you're impossible! But it does sound kind of fun..."
Their laughter echoed through the lobby as they indulged in the fantasy of a vibrant, orange village. The innocence of their camaraderie painted a stark contrast to the mysteries lurking within Naruto's eyes, still undiscovered and untamed.
As their laughter subsided, the chapter took a sudden turn. The doorbell rang, its echo reverberating through the corridor. Naruto, his mischievous glint undiminished, bounded towards the door. "I wonder who it is. Maybe someone to welcome us?"
Mai, more reserved, approached cautiously. "I hope it's not another lecture about our training."
Naruto swung open the door with dramatic flair, expecting a friendly face. However, the sight that greeted him was unexpected—an imposing figure with spiky white hair and a confident smirk.
Jiraiya, the legendary Sannin, stood at the threshold, his eyes sizing up Naruto with a mix of curiosity and amusement. "Well, well, if it isn't the infamous prankster himself. Ready for some training, kid?"
And that's a wrap. I kinda figured that the last chapter was a bit small, so I doubled down on this one, this one is double the length of the last. I kinda wanted wanted to keep this chapter a bit more serious cause of the events that happen in this chapter, but I thought it wouldn't be bad to end it on a light tone. So please leave a review and tell me what you guys think of this chapter, how can I improve and stuff.
To the people who followed and reviewed my story thank you so much!. I wasn't expecting someone even reading the story much less a follower so it really means much to me that you guys liked it.
To the people who guessed that Naruto has six-eyes bingo! I feel like it would be weird to introduce it just like that when no one in the Shinobi world even knows about it. And no Naruto is not Gojo's reincarnation, that would be weird, like imagine having Gojo of all people in your head. Anyway, I have a pretty good explanation for it, so stay tuned for that.
So that's it for this week's chapter. See ya next week.
UV out.