I DO NOT OWN NARUTO OR ITS CHARACTERS ALL RIGHTS BELONG WITH KISHIMOTO, VIZ MEDIA, AND SHONEN JUMP. PLEASE SUPPORT THE ORIGINAL RELEASE
OChap 3 open: Welcome back. If you made it this far I thank you.
ReChap 3 open: And the rewrite continues. Jesus Christ, this story was awful. lol like I keep finding myself reading a bunch of errors. But when I was originally writing this story I was in school and working late, so I barely had time to even write. But still for all of you to support this story the way you have is wild. Remember, if you haven't checked out my other story, The Uchiha Resentment, you should do so. Not going to be that guy or anything, but something happens in that story, that affects this story later on in Arc 8. So there's time to get acquainted with the story before then. Also, sorry about the release schedule... the rerelease schedule? Whatever, sorry about the Rewrite release schedule being wonky. I'm going to try and hang out a few rewrites, send it to my beta reader and then post it when it's 101% done. Anyways Enjoy the read!
Arc 1: The Introduction
Chapter 3: Bushy Brows, Toads and Book Worms
Jiraiya finally arrived at the entrance of the village, the air filled with the scent of all the gourmet dining establishments that was at this particular entrance. As he stepped forward, the familiar faces of villagers greeted him with warm smiles, their voices filled with genuine happiness. The sound of chirping birds echoed through the bustling streets, adding to the lively atmosphere.
Jiraiya waved back at the villagers, a genuine smile spreading across his face. He could feel the soft touch of a gentle breeze against his skin, carrying with it the anticipation of his return. Since his exploits in the Second Shinobi War and his role in training the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, people had idolized Jiraiya as if he were the Hokage himself. The gratitude and respect in their eyes made him proud to have played a part in bringing peace to the village after the Nine Tails incident.
Curiosity filled Jiraiya's mind as he wondered why his sensei, Hiruzen Sarutobi, had summoned him back to the village. He had believed everything was going well, but the urgency of the summons suggested otherwise. With each step, Jiraiya's anticipation grew until he reached the towering Hokage's tower, its grand presence commanding respect.
"So, you summoned me Sarutobi-sensei?" Jiraiya asked, his voice filled with a mixture of curiosity and eagerness.
Hiruzen, seated behind his desk, looked up and met Jiraiya's gaze. "Yes, I have. It pertains to the security and safety of the village," he replied, his voice carrying a weight of concern.
Jiraiya's eyebrows furrowed, his senses heightened as he leaned in closer. "What could it be?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of worry.
Hiruzen took a deep breath before explaining, his voice filled with a mixture of seriousness and caution. "Naruto Uzumaki. He's currently a student at the ninja academy, as you know. However, something happened to him last year, and it has triggered a change in him. He has taken up Fuinjutsu and discovered a diary entry meant for him, left behind by his parents. The revelation of his heritage hasn't been easy for him, especially considering how he's treated by the villagers. He has no friends, no real ties to the village."
Jiraiya's eyes widened with realization, his emotions shifting between concern and determination. "So, Naruto knows about his heritage... I guess I should go see the little gaki," he said, his voice filled with a mix of compassion and determination. He then questioned his sensei's explanation, his voice laced with confusion and concern. "But why doesn't he have any friends? And why do the villagers treat him in a way that would make you fear he would leave?"
Hiruzen's expression turned somber, his voice heavy with regret. "I wish I had all the answers, Jiraiya. It's a complicated situation. The villagers hold deep grudges and prejudices, and they've unfairly directed them towards Naruto. Their fear and misunderstanding have left him isolated, and it pains me to see him suffer."
Disgust crept into Jiraiya's features as he absorbed his sensei's words, his voice filled with a mix of anger and determination. "Well, I won't stand for it. Naruto deserves a chance, a place where he belongs. I'll make sure he finds his path and proves them all wrong," he declared, his voice carrying the weight of his resolve.
Leaving his sensei sitting there, Jiraiya walked away, his footsteps echoing through the hallway of the Hokage's tower. The sound of chirping birds followed him, their melodic notes a reminder of the hope he carried in his heart.
With Naruto
Every morning at six o'clock, Naruto would rise from his bed, determined and resolute. The soft rays of the sun peered through his window, casting a warm glow upon the room as he prepared for the day ahead. After a refreshing shower, he would swiftly make his way to the village border, ready to embark on his daily run. The path stretched out before him, lined with vibrant blossoms and the sweet scent of nature.
As Naruto dashed through the winding trails, his determination fueled his every step. His heart pounded in sync with his rapid breaths, the rhythm of his feet echoing in harmony with the beat of the awakening village. Today, however, something caught his attention. A fellow Genin, Rock Lee, crossed paths with him during their laps, their eyes briefly meeting before continuing on their individual journeys.
After forty-five minutes of intense exertion, the Genin approached Naruto, a beaming smile on his face. "Hello there, youthful comrade! My name is Rock Lee! What are you training so vigorously for?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm and curiosity.
Naruto returned the greeting, his exhaustion momentarily forgotten. "Hello, Rock Lee. I'm Naruto. I'm training to become stronger so that everyone will treat me with respect and love," he replied, his voice carrying a mixture of determination and longing.
Rock Lee's eyes lit up with admiration, his bushy brows furrowing with excitement. "That is a most youthful reason! I don't see a hitai-ate on you. Are you not a ninja?" he inquired, his voice brimming with genuine interest.
"Not yet. I graduate from the academy in a few months. I believe I'm among the top three on the Rookie of the Year rankings board. But only two years ago, I was dead last in my class," Naruto explained, his voice tinged with a hint of pride and disbelief.
Rock Lee's astonishment was evident on his face as he exclaimed, "Wow! Going from dead last to potential Rookie of the Year?! You have come so far, Naruto-san! You are truly a genius of hard work. I, too, was once dead last in my class. I harbored a burning desire to defeat my rival, Neji Hyuga, who happens to be the top Genin in the village."
A spark of recognition flickered in Naruto's eyes as he nodded. "Hyuga, huh? I know a Hyuga. I gave her a scroll on a kickboxing style, and with that and her juken, she defeated our class prodigy, Sasuke Uchiha!" he shared, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and pride.
Rock Lee's determination shone through his gaze as he spoke with unwavering conviction. "I see. Naruto-san, I challenge you to a spar. I wish to test my abilities against the next batch of Genin. Let it be a spar of pure taijutsu. I aspire to become a splendid ninja, relying solely on the power of taijutsu!" he declared, his voice filled with fervor and excitement.
Naruto's eyes widened, a flame of enthusiasm igniting within him. "A spar, huh? Alright, Lee! Let's do it! I'll show you the power that comes from my own hard work!" he replied, his voice echoing with determination and a hunger for growth.
And so, amidst the picturesque backdrop of the village, surrounded by blooming flowers and the gentle rustling of leaves, Naruto and Rock Lee prepared to clash in a battle of wills and determination. The stage was set for a display of their indomitable spirits, as two aspiring shinobi embraced their shared journey towards becoming the best versions of themselves.
Lee and Naruto exchanged the unison sign, a silent agreement to dive into their sparring match. Lee lunged forward with a powerful punch, and Naruto swiftly moved to block, gauging the strength behind Lee's blows. The impact sent Lee flying, prompting Naruto to reflect on the formidable force before him.
"Damn, he hits hard. I need to be cautious and find a way to avoid taking more hits," Naruto thought, strategizing his approach. He decided to test Lee's speed, charging in with a kick. However, Lee anticipated the move, effortlessly catching Naruto's leg and countering with a punch to the face. Frustration crept into Naruto's mind as he struggled to find an opening.
In an unexpected twist, Lee questioned Naruto's commitment. "Naruto! Are you going to get serious?" The challenge stung, and Naruto, feeling a hint of disrespect, decided it was time to reveal his true strength by removing his gravity seals.
"Damn, I guess I will have to take my gravity seals off," Naruto declared, releasing the pressure of the weights. The revelation of his sealed strength surprised Lee. Naruto's energy surged as he exclaimed, "HAI!" – unleashing a newfound speed and agility.
As Naruto confidently attacked, Lee found himself unprepared for the enhanced speed. A powerful kick sent Lee crashing into a tree, shattering it like fragile glass. Lee admired Naruto's growth, recognizing the youthful determination in his display.
"Wow Naruto-kun! You're display of youthfulness has encouraged me to take it further. I will let you test yourself first!" Lee declared, setting the stage for a riveting clash between the two.
Their exchanges intensified, each kick and punch met with equal force. Naruto attempted a sweep kick, but Lee effortlessly leaped over it. In a surprising turn, Lee seized Naruto's arm for a Judo throw. Despite the toss, Naruto landed gracefully on his feet, a smirk playing on his lips.
Naruto's confidence met Lee's fierce smile, signaling the birth of a rivalry. "Naruto, I commend your skills! You're worthy of becoming a leaf ninja! Now I will use what I deem my special move!" Lee announced, adopting a powerful stance. The air crackled as Lee unleashed the might of the Third Gate, overwhelming Naruto with the force and spectacle.
"How could a Genin, a year out of the academy, do this?" Naruto marveled at the incredible feat. Lee, feeling the strain, pushed himself to maintain the technique.
"NOW PRIMARY LOT-" Lee's words were cut short as he charged forward and collapsed. "D-d-damn," Lee stuttered, revealing the toll of his powerful jutsu.
"ROCK LEE!? Are you okay?" Naruto rushed to his fallen comrade's side.
"N-no. I haven't pe-perfected this technique in the Third Gate yet," Lee admitted, vulnerability in his voice.
"These gates seem powerful, but I guess the strain of it is the consequence for using such power," Naruto pondered. Determined to help, he lifted Lee and carried him to the hospital, facing the stares of the villagers with unwavering resolve.
3 Hours after Lee and Naruto's spar
Naruto strolls toward his apartment, only to find an unfamiliar elderly man at his door. Rather than confronting him immediately, Naruto decides to wait, confident in the security seals he's meticulously set up within his living space. The anticipation sparkles in Naruto's eyes as he watches, a mischievous grin playing on his lips.
Jiraiya, the old man, knocks on the door, his voice cutting through the silence. "Naruto, can you open the door? I have a lot to do today, so let's make this quick," he calls out. Naruto remains silent, observing with keen interest. Impatience creeps into Jiraiya's tone as he resorts to using a special seal to break and enter.
The moment the door swings open, Naruto's security seals spring into action. Feathers, glue, and powder erupt in a chaotic symphony, enveloping Jiraiya in a messy surprise. Naruto bursts into laughter, relishing the success of his prank. Jiraiya, now coated in the aftermath of the seals, hears Naruto's amusement.
"NARUTO!" he bellows, frustration evident in his voice. Naruto seizes the opportunity to dash away, but Jiraiya quickly appears in front of him using Shunshin.
"Where do you think you're going, brat?" Jiraiya demands, his gaze piercing.
"Oh, I heard there was a ramen sale at Teuchi-san's shop, and I was headed over there," Naruto replies, feigning innocence.
"So, you wouldn't happen to be running because I got hit with this disgrace of security seals, huh?" Jiraiya questions, not fooled by Naruto's act.
"W-what? Do I even look like that kinda guy?" Naruto protests, attempting to deflect.
"Now, Naruto, can you explain why you have security seals rigged to go off like that?" Jiraiya probes, his demeanor serious.
"Oh, well, it's my place, and I want it to be safe," Naruto lies, averting his eyes.
"Cut the crap, kid. I can tell you're lying to me right now," Jiraiya asserts.
"It's because the villagers hate me and want me dead," Naruto confesses each word with a heavy heart, his head hanging low.
"What was that?" Jiraiya presses, urging Naruto to speak louder.
"It's because the villagers hate me!" Naruto blurts out. "Why do you even care? Who even are you?"
"You haven't heard of me?" Jiraiya asks incredulously.
"No, are you Santa?" Naruto quips, a hint of sarcasm in his tone.
"No, you idiot! I am the Hermit of Mount Myoboku, the wise and immortal spirit! That's right! It is I, the Toad Mountain Sage! Jiraiya!" Jiraiya declares, punctuating his introduction with a peculiar Kabuki dance.
Naruto, bewildered, thinks to himself, 'What the hell was that? What a stupid dance and introduction.' Aloud, he asks, "Oh, so you're my father's teacher. Where were you my whole life?" His words carry a sharp edge.
'Dammit. Leave it to Minato to reveal who he is to Naruto with him still being dead like this. Great, now he's gonna hate me once he finds out I'm his godfather. I think I'll leave that part out for now,' Jiraiya laments silently. "I... I had to keep out of the leaf. After Minato died, I couldn't be here. I consumed all my time with my spy network and writing books," he confesses, his tone heavy with regret.
Naruto's voice trembled as he confronted Jiraiya, his eyes filled with a mix of anger and pain. "So, did you know if I was still alive?" he questioned, his voice laced with disappointment.
Jiraiya's heart sank, regret flooding his thoughts. Remembering how last year he discovered the lies Sarutobi had told him for years. 'Dammit Sensei. What the hell did you lie to me for?' he chastised himself inwardly. Trying to find the right words, he replied, "Umm well, you see, Naruto... I kind of sort of figured you may have died that night as well." His voice wavered, betraying his unease.
Naruto's sarcasm dripped with bitterness as he retorted, "So, you, the greatest spy master in the world, didn't know I was alive?" His words were laced with a mix of resentment and disappointment, a reflection of the emotional rollercoaster he had endured.
Jiraiya sighed heavily, feeling the weight of his failure. He knew he had let Naruto down, and he was determined to make amends. "When you put it like that, I look dumb," he admitted, his voice tinged with remorse. "Listen, how about this? Me and you, we meet up at the bathhouses tomorrow at, let's say, 3pm. I'll start to train you. I mean, you have like what, four months before you graduate? So, I'll whip you up and make you Chunin level before that," he offered, hoping to salvage their relationship and provide Naruto the guidance he deserved.
Naruto's eyes widened in surprise, caught off guard by Jiraiya's sudden proposal. His emotions churned within him, battling between lingering resentment and the opportunity to bond with his father's Sensei. "This won't make us good in my book," Naruto confessed, his voice laced with skepticism. "But I will take the opportunity to bond with my father's Sensei. Maybe there's more to you than I thought," he added, slowly opening up to the idea.
A glimmer of hope flickered in Jiraiya's eyes, grateful for Naruto's willingness to give him a chance. "That's the spirit," he encouraged, a faint smile forming on his lips. "Remember, meet me at the bathhouses at 3pm, and please refrain from making noise when you arrive. Your goal is to be a ninja," he reminded Naruto, his tone shifting to that of a mentor.
Naruto nodded, a newfound determination shining in his eyes. "I'll be there," he affirmed, his voice filled with a mix of determination and curiosity. "Well, I'll see you later, kid," Jiraiya said as he turned to leave, leaving Naruto to ponder the possibilities of their upcoming meeting and the chance to forge a connection with his father's enigmatic Sensei..
About 6 hours Later
The training grounds were enveloped in the soft hues of the setting sun as Naruto fervently attempted the Clone Jutsu. The air buzzed with his frustration as each attempt resulted in a lifeless, unconvincing clone. The poof of smoke that followed each failure only intensified his exasperation.
"Clone Jutsu!" Naruto called out again, and the familiar sight of a lackluster clone materialized before him. His frustration reached a boiling point, and he couldn't contain his disappointment. "Ah, man, that's so freaking pathetic! Why can't I get this! I've been at this for hours!" he exclaimed, his voice echoing through the training grounds.
A curious voice interrupted Naruto's soliloquy of frustration. "Hey, what are you working on that has you so angry?" The newcomer, Kabuto Yakushi, introduced himself, breaking the tension hanging in the air.
"Hey, who are you?" Naruto questioned, curious but guarded.
"My name is Kabuto Yakushi! I've been a genin for about 4 years," Kabuto replied, his demeanor calm and composed.
"Oh, okay! I am Naruto, formerly Uzumaki, currently Namikaze. I'm currently training to master this darn clone jutsu, but I can't seem to do it," Naruto shared, a hint of vulnerability in his voice.
"Namikaze? Like the Fourth Hokage?" Kabuto inquired, catching a glimpse of the complexity behind Naruto's identity.
"Yes. I am his son. I just found out," Naruto confessed, a mix of emotions flickering across his face.
"I do see a resemblance. So, what are you doing again?" Kabuto asked, intrigued by Naruto's struggle.
"I'm trying to perform the basic clone jutsu. Every time I do it, it comes out like this," Naruto explained, pointing at the subpar clone with frustration.
"Hmm, do you mind demonstrating your clone jutsu again?" Kabuto requested. Naruto nodded and attempted the jutsu once more. Kabuto couldn't help but chuckle at the pitiful clone, earning a glare from Naruto.
"Sorry, sorry. Anyways, you can't ever do a simple clone jutsu. You simply have too much chakra to do it," Kabuto revealed, his tone laced with a sense of understanding.
Naruto's disbelief was palpable. "Wait, I can't do it? How am I supposed to pass the academy?" he anxiously questioned.
Kabuto met Naruto's gaze with empathy. "Well, I guess I can tell you a secret. About a year ago, there was a boy with no talent for genjutsu or ninjutsu. He passed the clone exam easily."
Naruto, now intrigued, leaned in. "Well, how did he pass if he couldn't do gen or ninjutsu?"
Kabuto leaned in conspiratorially. "He trained in nothing but taijutsu. He became so fast that he learned a technique only known to the first major taijutsu master of Konoha, Might Dai. He was so fast that he left an afterimage. Two of him appeared in front of the academy instructor. His name was something like Brock Lee or something like that."
"Hmm, okay, and I think you mean Rock Lee. I met him this morning. I'll see if he can teach me that technique. And thank you, Kabuto. I'll owe you one in the future," Naruto expressed gratitude, his eyes reflecting determination.
As Naruto walked away, Kabuto's thoughts took a darker turn. 'Oh, you have no idea what you just given me, Naruto. Owing me one is essentially owing Orochimaru-sama a favor, and when Orochimaru-sama claims this favor, you will regret it. And you just so happen to be the Namikaze brat that he was talking about. This is great!' Kabuto chuckled to himself, a sinister undertone echoing in his laughter.
Original Chapter 3 Notes: As you see I'm trying to incorporate characters much earlier into the story than before. That was one thing I hated in the original as multiple characters just pop up, like Kabuto for insistence bro popped up in the Chunin exams and was a whole spy and even worse Danzo definitely knowing about him. Oh, and what about Danzo? He didn't show up until shippuden. We definitely deserved more scenes showing Danzo and Hiruzen together alive. So, expect that in the near future. Graduation from the academy is approaching within the next two chapters. Also, who would you like to see as Godaime Hokage? Danzō, Tsunade, or someone else? Getting from Naruto Part 1 to Shippuden would be the tricky part if anyone like Danzō is in charge but I'll figure it out. Remember feel free to comment about the story. Whether that's constructive criticism, ships, how you would advance the story, or plot holes I may have left. See you in the next one!
ReChapter 3 Notes: Thank you all for tuning in. Originally this chapter was extremely short. Not even surpassing 3,000 words. I didn't explain the purpose of Rock Lee being here. Rock Lee is a measuring tape for Naruto. Naruto understands there is always a bigger fish, however, for him to see the power difference between him and Lee, is what makes him accept the offer set by Jiraiya. Anyways the next chapter releases will be put in my profile on Fanfic, so download the app.
Naruto X Haku (female)-35
Naruto X Hinata-34
Naruto X Ino-43
Naruto X Sakura-29
Naruto X Tayuya-31
Naruto X Temari-38
Remember the way to vote on this is to drop a review or Pm me. I see each review and Pm. For those of you who are guest adding reviews, I see them. When I get my laptop back I'll be sure to figure out how to add your reviews to the review page.
I won't be touching chapter 4 as it's not too too bad but I also don't feel like recorrecting a side character story. But I like how it intermingles with chapter 5. So I will leave it as such and will be working on chapter 5. Chapter 5 should re-release Sunday night. Enjoy!