Chapter 5

KONOHA TRAINING GROUND 7, 8AM IN THE MORNING

Kakashi was crouched down in some bushes overlooking the field. He had been waiting since 5 am for his team to arrive, but no one had shown up. His statement of starting that earlier was a ruse, he wanted to see if these genin possessed the ability to see underneath the underneath. It was a good plan however, he probably should've shown up on time yesterday, so it wasn't so obvious that he was messing with them.

He heard voices approaching from the distance. He peeked through some foliage and saw the Uchiha twins walking to the open field. Kiyomi was messing with her brother while Sasuke paid her no mind and was locked into his book.

Kakashi did not see or sense the white-haired boy. Kakashi sighed. What a shame, he had heard Naruto had so much potential but never applied himself. Little did Kakashi know, Naruto sat half a kilometer away, watching his sensei and the Uchiha. Kakashi decided that it was time to reveal himself and begin the exam.

He walked over to the two with a casual stride. He tilted his head and raised an eyebrow as he asked, "I see you two finally showed up. Now, where's Naruto?

Kiyomi glanced around nervously, looking for her friend. She shrugged and said, "I don't know sensei. We haven't seen him since yesterday."

"We'll have to begin without him," Kakashi said, pulling out two bells from his back pocket. He held them up and jingled them slightly, making them shine in the morning sun. "Your objective is to take these bells from me before noon. When you hear that alarm go off" he pointed to an alarm clock on top of a wooden post, "come back here. Any questions?"

"Sensei, why are there only two bells?" Kiyomi asked.

Kakashi eye smiled at her. "For those who fail to get a bell before noon, you will be sent back to the academy. If you two can get these bells, you'll have passed but since Naruto isn't here he'll be sent back to the academy," he said. "However, that doesn't mean you automatically pass." He clipped the bells on his left hip and crossed his arms. "Whoever gets a bell before noon passes, but if only one you do the other will be sent back along with Naruto."

Kiyomi looked nervous, she wanted to become a genin but she didn't want to be sent back to the academy nor did she want Naruto or her brother. She looked over at Sasuke, studying his reaction.

Sasuke had a neutral expression. He didn't like Naruto, but he also didn't want him to be sent back to the academy. It was Naruto's fault as he did not show up, but Sasuke had this unnerving feeling in his gut. As much as he hated to admit it, he didn't want Kiyomi to be sent back either. He met his sister's gaze and nodded slightly, indicating that they would work together.

Kakashi, satisfied with their reactions, continued. "Come at me with the intent to kill. You may use traps, shuriken, kunai, or whatever you may like. We'll begin on my mark."

Sasuke put his book away and assumed a ready position. He felt a rush of adrenaline and determination. He was determined to acquire those bells. Kiyomi gulped, then positioned herself as well. She felt both nervous and scared, but she was ready at the same time. She was going to get a bell.

"Ready... go!" he spoke.

The twins vanished from their previous spot and took refuge in the forest.

Good, it is essentially for a shinobi to conceal their presence and hide effectively, Kakashi thought. They're hidden pretty well. Now, what's your next move?

While he waited for them to attack, Kakashi pulled out his favorite book, Icha Icha Paradise, and began to read it. He giggled like a schoolgirl as he flipped through the pages.

Oh, so you're a pervert, eh? Naruto thought laughing out loud to himself. He focused his attention back on the Uchiha twins. I wonder what they'll do. He hoped they would put up a good fight.

From a tree overlooking the field, there perched Sasuke and Kiyomi, looking at their sensei giggling to himself.

"What's he doing?" Kiyomi whispered. She felt confused, irritated, and insulted. Was he mocking them?

"He's reading and has his guard down," Sasuke said, looking at his sister. "Let's make a plan of attack before we jump down. We can't beat him one-on-one without a strategy."

Kiyomi nodded as they devised a plan to take the bells from their sensei.

Kakashi stood in the middle of the field, still reading with a hand in his pocket. That was until a storm of shuriken was flung towards him from within the forest. He dodged the shuriken with ease, grabbing two with his free hand, and spinning them on his fingers as he continued to read.

Behind him, he heard a 'poof' and saw from the corner of his eye Kiyomi, standing by the river weaving the dragon, tiger, and hare hand seal.

A C-rank water release technique? Naruto mused.

Hmm, water release? That's odd, especially for a Uchiha, Kakashi thought, intrigued by her unusual elemental affinity. As he watched Kiyomi, he heard feet touch the ground behind him. He turned to see Sasuke finishing the hand seals for a fire release technique. Attacking me at the same time... smart. He was impressed by their strategy and coordination.

"Suiton: Mizurappa (Water Release: Wild Water Wave), Katon: Gōkakyū no Jutsu (Fire Release: Fireball Jutsu)!" they shouted.

A wave of water spewed out of Kiyomi's mouth headed towards Kakashi and on the other side, a giant stream of fire was headed towards him as well. He jumped out of the way as the two attacks collided with one another, causing a cloud of steam to envelope the field.

A diversion? Kakashi thought. He sensed a presence behind him and turned around, catching a punch headed for his face. Upon impact, the steam dispersed oddly. Sasuke was confused, he wasn't that strong, and the steam should've stayed for longer.

"That was good, using the steam as a cover. I wouldn't have expected anything less from the Uchiha clan" he said, praising Sasuke. He smiled and looked down at Sasuke, making contact with the boy's two tomoe Sharingan.

"Two tomoe?" Kakashi said. He was impressed that Sasuke had been able to awaken the clan's dōjutsu and reach this stage at a young age.

As he was preoccupied with Sasuke, he felt a presence running behind him, trying to grab the bells. "Good try, but you're too slow," he said. Using his other arm, he blocked Kiyomi's advancing hand. Kakashi attempted to jump away and reposition himself, however, he realized he couldn't move.

He looked down to see a purple tongue holding his leg. What is this? Kakashi looked to his left and his surprise saw a green, human-sized toad with marks around its eyes and a strange symbol on its stomach, outstretching its tongue.

Oh, this is interesting, Naruto thought. A toad shikigami that allows him to restrain opponents. He smiled; you keep getting more and more interesting... Sasuke.

"Kiyomi, grab the bells!" Sasuke shouted using his free hand to grab Kakashi's arm.

Kiyomi reached out her hand, grasping her fingers on the bells and taking them. She felt a surge of joy and relief. "I got them!" she said. However, before she could celebrate, the bells disappeared with a 'poof'. She felt a shock and confusion. "What?"

"So close," but not bad Kakashi said sarcastically before disappearing with a 'poof' and turning into a log.

Naruto put his hand on his chin. Our sensei is crafty, he used Kawarimi no Jutsu (Substitution Jutsu) to replace himself and bells with a clone and log.

The twins looked around for him, but they couldn't find him. They felt a mix of frustration and fear. "Where did he go?" Kiyomi said.

"Down here," a voice cried out from under the earth. A hand popped out and grabbed Kiyomi by the leg. She felt panic and tried to kick the leg away, but the grip was too strong.

"Wha—?"

"Doton: Shinjū Zanshu no Jutsu (Earth Release: Headhunter Jutsu)!" Kakashi said, pulling her down into the ground leaving only her head visible.

An assassination-type jutsu, Naruto commented. It traps the opponent and leaves an opening for interrogation or decapitation.

"Argh... I can't move" she said trying to move her submerged body.

"So, Sasuke what will you do now? You should probably just give up. It won't be long before it's noon," Kakashi said, jumping out of the ground.

"Tch," Sasuke said. He dissolved the toad back into the shadows. He made a hand seal resembling a bird. "Nue." Sasuke's shadow started to expand and take shape, revealing a large owl-like creature with orange feathers and a white mask-like skull. It had large wings, two sets of talons, and human-like teeth.

Naruto smiled. So that's how his technique works. He can summon unique shikigami using his shadow as a medium. They can aid him in battle. It looks like he can summon up to ten... all with unique abilities. Hmm, I wonder what else he can do with this.

Hmm, another one of those creatures. I'm assuming it's made out of his chakra. Kakashi thought. He was amazed and curious by Sasuke's shadow technique.

Sasuke rushed at Kakashi throwing a barrage of kicks and punches while Nue flew at Kakashi trying to snag the bells. Kakashi avoided the creature's swan dives, moving his head and body out of its way. Sasuke went for a sweep kick, but Kakashi jumped back into the river behind him.

"I got you now," Sasuke said making a one-handed seal with index and little finger extended, and the ring and middle finger held down by his thumb. "Nue: Inazumageki (Lightning Strike)!"

Nue's wings started to conduct purple lightning and it dived towards Kakashi. Kakashi's eyes widened as he realized what was happening. Nue divided into the water, discharging its electricity into the river, stunning Kakashi.

Kakashi cried out in pain before falling over, face-first, onto the surface.

Sasuke panted, he was exhausted from using the Sharingan and his shikigami in tandem. He released Nue, deactivated his Sharingan, and walked over to Kakashi's floating body; he wasn't dead, just unconscious. He felt triumphant; he had done it; he had beaten their sensei. Just as Sasuke was about the pick up the bells, the body disappeared with a 'poof'.

"Wait, another clone," Sasuke said, looking around frantically as he tried to pinpoint Kakashi.

"Sasuke! Behind you!" the head of Kiyomi shouted.

"That was good but sadly not good enough," Kakashi said as he appeared behind Sasuke and kicked him into a tree.

Sasuke hit the tree hard, getting the wind knocked out of him. He struggled to get back up and just as he did the alarm clock with off, signifying the end of the exam and their failure. Sasuke was on his knees and slammed the ground, disappointed in himself.

Kiyomi lowered her eyes.

"You two put on a good show, but unfortunately you didn't get the bells," Kakashi said. He looked at Sasuke and Kiyomi with a serious and stern expression. He wanted to teach them a lesson and make them reflect on their mistakes. "But with that, you—"

"Pass right?" a voice spoke.

Everyone turned toward the voice's direction. They were shocked to see Naruto, with the bells in his hand.

"So, we pass right?" Naruto said dangling the bells in front of the shell-shocked Kakashi, Sasuke, and Kiyomi. "I got the bells."

Kakashi looked down at his hip, still seeing the bells. He was amused at Naruto's confidence, but the boy still had much to learn. He picked up and held them but not for long as they disappeared with a 'poof'. "H-h-ow d-did you―?" Kakashi said flabbergasted.

"Snag these?" Naruto replied, his grin widening. "Caught you off guard in the steam and chaos. Swiped the bells right from under your nose. I replaced them as I wanted to see your fight carry on a little longer."

That's why the steam cleared so fast, Sasuke thought.

Wow Naruto, I knew you were smart but not this smart, Kiyomi thought.

"But how far away were you, and how did you slip in and out unnoticed?" Kakashi inquired, leaning casually against a tree.

"Ah, sensei, a true shinobi never spills secrets prematurely... perhaps I'll let you in on the mystery one day," he said, grinning playfully. "And speaking of mysteries, your reputation precedes you, Kakashi Hatake – the infamous copycat ninja."

Kakashi's posture straightened, his visible eye narrowing in response.

Kiyomi and Sasuke exchanged curious glances, intrigued by the reference to Kakashi as a "copycat ninja."

"You're quite the enigma, Naruto," Kakashi mused. His interest in him deepened, knowing there was more to uncover about his skills and psyche. He needed to get a good read on the boy. It wasn't going to be good if he didn't know how Naruto reacted to certain situations. Kakashi pushed these thoughts aside, he would have ample time to figure out how the boy clicked. "It's going to be interesting as I discover what other tricks you've got up your sleeve."

Kiyomi's eyes widen from his last comments. "Wait, so are you saying we pass?"

Kakashi gave her a thumbs up. "I wanted the objective of this test to be for you three to work together as a team. The bell was a decoy to make you be at each other's throats but that didn't happen. Partially due to you being siblings and also because Naruto did not join you this morning. You two pass because of your teamwork, while Naruto passes because he got a bell."

Kiyomi and Sasuke couldn't help but breathe a collective sigh of relief. While Naruto simply tossed the bells back to Kakashi in a carefree manner.

Naruto strolled over to where Kiyomi's head protruded from the earth. "I'm here to save you, Kiyomi," he announced with a grin. Leaning down, he teasingly asked, "Are you crying?"

Kiyomi's frustration turned into pure indignation. "I'm not crying!" she snapped, determinedly trying to free herself. "Where the hell were you? We were fighting for our lives trying to pass, and you were just watching."

Naruto chuckled. "Didn't I already tell you? The teams were already made. You weren't going to fail. The only one here who could've failed was me. The higher-ups and clan heads despise me."

"Will you shut up about that? I was fighting with everything I had," she retorted, irritation etched across her face. "I didn't have time to think."

They went back and forth until Kakashi intervened with a sigh. "Will you stop arguing like an old married couple? As much as I enjoy your camaraderie, I have something to show you three. So, Naruto help her up and follow me," he said, turning and walking in the opposite direction.

They exchanged glances before Naruto pulled Kiyomi from the ground. Sasuke noticed that Naruto didn't grab Kiyomi's shirt but just put his hand on her head. Strangely the rocks seemed to levitate around them. He kept this to himself and walked in the direction of Kakashi.

After a fair bit of walking, they reached a memorial stone in the middle of the clearing.

"Look at this... there are many names engraved into this stone," Kakashi said with his back facing them. "Many shinobi have died and many more will. You did get the bells, but the purpose of this exam was to show you the importance of teamwork. In every mission, you put your line on the line. Yes, a ninja must indeed develop their skills individually, but teamwork is much more important, especially for you genin."

Kakashi turned towards them. "In the ninja world, those who break the rules are called scum. That is true, but those who abandon their friends are worse than scum. Remember this as we begin our journey as Team 7." He gave them a thumbs up. "We start missions tomorrow. I'll walk with you back home."

The genin nodded and followed Kakashi back to the leaf village.

As Team 7 made their way back to the village, the high sun painted the sky in warm hues, casting long shadows across the familiar streets of Konoha. They made their way through the streets and could barely see the entrance gates of the Uchiha Compound. Kakashi, led the way, reading his book as his team conversed amongst themselves.

"Wait, sensei. Let's stop here," Naruto said, turning towards Sasuke. "I've got something to say."

Kakashi, lifting an eyebrow in mild confusion, nodded, indicating that Naruto had the floor.

"Sasuke, why did you hold back?" Naruto's voice was direct, filled with curiosity.

The sudden question left everyone momentarily stunned. Kiyomi, was the first to speak up, "What do you mean he held back?"

Naruto's gaze remained fixed on Sasuke. "When I watched you two fight Kakashi-sensei, something felt off. Sasuke has the potential to surpass Itachi, but the way he fought was just... average."

Tension filled the air as the mention of Itachi and any comparison to him was a sore topic that affected the twins differently.

Kakashi, sensing the undercurrents, observed quietly, "Naruto brings up an interesting point."

Kiyomi's confusion was visible as she turned to Kakashi. "Is this true, sensei?"

Kakashi nodded, his one visible eye assessing his team's dynamics. "I agree with Naruto. I expected more. I did mention to come at me with the intent to kill."

Sasuke interjected, "But sensei, trying to kill you would be irresponsible. Our goal was to work as a team."

Kakashi acknowledged, "Yes, teamwork is crucial. However, understanding each other's capabilities is equally important. Just because I stress teamwork doesn't mean you shouldn't bring out your best in every situation."

Naruto grinned. "Sasuke, I know what your problem is; it's your mindset. You don't know how to bring out your best, do you?"

Sasuke, visibly irritated, retorted, "What? You think I'm not giving it my all?"

Naruto's tone slightly shifted but still laced with playfulness. "I'm not saying you aren't giving it your all. I'm saying you can't. Take, for example, the bell test. Why let Kiyomi go for a bell instead of chasing one yourself? If she had succeeded, and I did too, you would've failed. Did you want her to pass even though you'd fail? That's a noble attitude."

Kiyomi chimed in, "But Kakashi-sensei emphasized the importance of teamwork. Wasn't that the point of the test?"

"True, teamwork is well-suited for the average shinobi," Naruto remarked, his tone becoming serious. "But Sasuke, you have the potential to surpass that. Consider the Fourth Hokage, Madara Uchiha, Hashirama Senju, or even the Legendary Sannin. Do you think their strength was solely dependent on how they worked in a team?"

Naruto continued, his gaze unwavering. "No matter how many allies you have, when you die, you'll die alone." He paused, letting the weight of his words settle. "You dream of killing a certain man, but at your current level, it's an unattainable goal. You can't fathom a stronger version of yourself, perhaps due to your trump card, right?"

Sasuke's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and realization. "How do you know about that?"

Naruto lowered his glasses ever so slightly. "Let's just say I have good eyes. You believe sacrificing your life will resolve everything when you confront this man. But at that point, winning becomes a distant memory. At this rate, you won't even measure up to a low Chūnin." Naruto drew closer to Sasuke, the gravity of his words setting in. "Dying to win and risking death to win," he flicked Sasuke's forehead, "are entirely different concepts."

Sasuke, normally composed, seemed thrown off balance. Naruto's words lingered, a weight settling on him.

"If you want revenge against that man, give it your best... be greedier," Naruto advised before returning to his carefree demeanor. "Okay, I'm done. We can continue."

Kakashi, who had been silently observing, closed his book with a faint smile. For someone carefree, Naruto surprisingly holds valuable wisdom. "Let's keep going." He gestured for the team to continue their journey; the air thick with contemplation.

KONOHA UCHIHA COMPOUND

Hiruzen, Fugaku, and Naobito sat within the walls of the Konoha Military Police Force Headquarters, located just outside of the new Uchiha compound. Hiruzen and Naobito occupied chairs in front of Fugaku's desk while the subtle presence of Hiruzen's personal Anbu guard lingered in the shadows. In addition, two vigilant Police Force members stood watch outside the office door.

"How is the Police Force?" Hiruzen asked, with a pipe in his mouth. "What is crime looking like in the village?"

"Ever since the Massacre, we've rebuilt our force to 70% of its original strength. The Fūma Clan, our distant relatives, have been invaluable in filling vacancies. I've been collaborating with Kōtarō Fūma to address our deficiencies, but our security, especially near the barrier, needs reinforcement."

Hiruzen nodded attentively.

"As for crime, we've seen a 25% reduction in crime over the past 7 years. However, we are still facing resistance from villagers, especially those who were drastically affected by Kyūbi's attack so many years ago." Fugaku said.

Hiruzen nodded. He looked at Naobito, "What about the relationship with Hyūga Clan? Have there been any attempts at cooperation?"

Naobito chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "The relationship with the Hyūga is almost nonexistent. Those Hyūga bastards are almost as arrogant as the Uchiha. However, Kiyomi is best friends with Hiashi's daughter, creating a window of opportunity. There's a prodigy in the Hyūga, a genin, with extraordinary abilities. We considered an arranged marriage between Kiyomi and him, but declined when learning that he was a branch member." He took a pause, "I don't think that would've worked out anyway especially considering that girl has her eyes set on the Uzumaki."

Hiruzen wasn't surprised at this; the two had been close ever since they were young. It was only natural for one to develop feelings for the other. He hoped this didn't end in tragedy like most love stories. As for the Hyūga, he needed to have a serious conversation with Hiashi about the continued mistreatment and use of the Kago no Tori no Juin (Caged Bird Curse Seal).

"Speaking of the Uzumaki, why was he placed on their team?" Fugaku inquired. "His academy file indicated no combat record. Are you not worried he will get killed when they start doing missions?" Fugaku was never friends with Minato, unlike their wives, the two simply had mutual respect. He was curious about his son and wanted to see his abilities, especially after he learned about Kiyomi's infatuation (this means admiration... sorry for using a big word) with him.

Hiruzen understood Fugaku's concerns. "I believe he can offer a challenge and push them to great heights. Naruto is extremely gifted, with higher academy scores than even Itachi," Hiruzen smiled.

Naobito leaned back in his chair. "Oh my, that is impressive. This brat must be something special to have outdone Itachi in test scores."

Fugaku nodded. He truly is that man's son.

"However, he lacks real connections with others and can be very self-centered at times. Your children can help Naruto; putting him on this team will foster friendship and a sense of family among the team."

"You'll have a chance to see him if you desire. I told Kakashi to bring them to the compound gates after he finished their test." Hiruzen said.

As their discussion seemed to conclude, Hiruzen leaned forward, glancing out of the window. The Uchiha compound lay just beyond the horizon, and a thoughtful expression crossed his face.

He felt an eerily familiar chakra signature in that direction, one he hadn't felt in a long time. "What's happening at the Uchiha compound right now, I wonder," Hiruzen thought, contemplating what potential challenges awaited.

"Ahhh we're finally here," Kakashi said looking up the compound entrance. Taking in the somber and quiet atmosphere. There weren't many out, just a few Uchiha here and there. "It's still pretty dull but give ten years it'll be bustling again," he said. "I'll see you three tomorrow―."

Naruto put a hand up. "Wait," he said, "someone's coming."

Kakashi, Sasuke, and Kiyomi became alert. Kakashi, in particular, focused his senses. After a couple of tense seconds, nothing happened.

Just as Kiyomi was about to speak, they felt it.

"Guess it's show time..." Naruto's voice cut through the tense air. As the colossal chakra enveloped them, a sudden scream echoed from above.

"WEEEEEEE!" A high-pitched shriek was heard which sent shockwaves through the air. Team 7 looked upward, a collective gasp escaping their lips.

Kakashi, his one visible eye focused, barked a quick order, "Move out of the way!"

The team scattered, leaping to safer ground as the monstrous being landed. The shockwave rippled through the area, creating a crater where the figure touched down. The ground groaned in protest, as it began cracking open like a spiderweb. Dust and debris billowed into the air, obscuring their vision. The echoes of the crash were accompanied by distant cries and screams.

As the settling dust revealed the creature, Team 7 was beheld to a frightening sight. Towering before them stood a monstrous being, its wild orange hair framed against darkened skin. Feral yellow eyes glowed with an unsettling intensity, and bone protrusions adorned its form, forming menacing horns, spikes, and claws. Muscles strained against a purple shirt and black pants, giving an impression of raw power. The creature roared, a sound that reverberated through the air, sending shivers down their spines.

"Who are you?" Kakashi asked.

However, the creature ignored him and charged at Naruto, the closest one. The beast raised his right hand, leaving his index and middle finger extended with the other fingers into the palm. A small flesh pod formed on the compound wall to the left of Naruto.

Naruto turned his head as he looked at the flesh pod. Pure chakra started to converge and build up tons of pressure.

"Look out, Naruto!" Kakashi's desperate shout was drowned out by the deafening blast as the flesh pod erupted. The explosion consumed Naruto, leaving nothing but smoke and destruction in its wake. The pavement shattered, and panic spread through the compound. The wailing alarms echoed the distress of the situation.

Team 7 stood frozen; their eyes fixed on the devastation before them. Kiyomi sank to her knees, overcome with grief, while Sasuke clenched his fists in silent rage. Kakashi, haunted by guilt and sorrow, felt the weight of his failure to protect his student. Forgive me Minato-sensei, I have failed you, he thought.

From the office, Hiruzen, Fugaku, and Naobito felt a massive unknown chakra spike. The three stood up from their seats. They could hear an emergency alarm going off in the distance, signaling an intruder.

"What was that?" Fugaku asked.

"It seems to have come from the Uchiha compound entrance," Naobito spoke. "I suppose this meeting is over Hokage-sama."

Hiruzen ignored Naobito's sarcasm and barked order to the nearby shinobi. "Assemble a squad and head there now! That's an order."

"Hai, Hokage-sama" they replied before moving at quick speeds to gather men and find out what was happening.

"I hope we're not too late," Hiruzen said, concerned with their safety. That chakra signature was large and would be too much for the average genin.

The beast laughed and looked at the remaining members of Team 7. "That was easier than expected."

Sasuke got angry upon hearing his words and moved forward, but he was stopped by Kakashi's arm blocking his path.

"I'm not going to lose any more genin today," Kakashi said putting his left hand underneath his headband about to lift it. "No more holding back."

Before Kakashi engaged with the man-beast, a voice cut through the chaos. "Who are you... calling easy?" The smoke cleared, revealing Naruto standing tall, his right hand forming a half tiger/ram seal.

The beast, surprised, growled, "Brat."

Naruto's thoughts raced. He can talk? That blast was pure chakra. It also had something else in it, sage chakra maybe? It wouldn't be unlikely; this guy is pulling in a lot of chakra from the surrounding nature.

Kakashi, torn between relief and confusion, spoke up, "Naruto, step aside; I'll handle this. You can't win against him."

"Nah, sensei. I'd win," Naruto replied with a confident smile, turning to face the man-beast. "Let this be my makeup since I missed the bell test this morning. Plus... I'm starting to find this fun." He stretched his legs out and then cracked his knuckles, ready for the unexpected battle ahead.

Kakashi looked attentively at Naruto. He loosened up and put his hand down. "Alright Naruto, show us what you got. If it looks like you're in danger at any moment, I'm stepping in."

"Wait, Naruto it's not safe," Kiyomi said with dried-up tears.

"Don't worry Kiyomi-chan. I will win" Naruto replied.

Kakashi ordered Sasuke and Kiyomi to take a vantage point nearby to observe the battle safely.

"Hey ugly!" Naruto cried out, "What's your name?"

The man-beast started at him before replying, "Jūgo" he said. "But that will be the last name you'll ever hear. Now die!" he said charging at Naruto.

Why did he choose to attack here? It's not as if this place isn't guarded... maybe he's here to collect some Uchiha, but what for and why now? I wonder who sent him? Naruto thought.

Jūgo's right arm began to transform, gaining jet-booster-type appendages. "Taren Fujizuho (Cursed Seal Chakra Blast)!" Concentrated balls of chakra shot out at astounding speeds towards Naruto.

"I'm afraid this is the last thing you'll ever do...," Naruto said forming the same half tiger/ram seal.

The blasts made contact with some sort of wall protecting Naruto, stopping the attacks right in front of him. The force of the balls making contact created shockwaves behind Naruto.

From their watching position, Sasuke asked Kakashi a question. "Sensei, what technique is that? I don't understand why the attack stopped before hitting Naruto."

Kakashi observed Naruto's defensive technique with intrigue. "I couldn't say," he muttered, sharing Sasuke's confusion. "I've never seen anything like it."

Kiyomi started at Naruto from the distance, in awe and worry for her friend.

With Naruto, he stood there observing the chakra balls that hit his 'wall'. "Hmm, I wonder why there wasn't a detonation." Just then the balls started to oscillate, "sound?" Naruto questioned. The chakra balls then exploded causing Naruto to teleport onto the compound walls to avoid the attack. "A two-stage attack of sound and explosions? That's clever" He stated.

Jūgo jumped up to where Naruto was standing atop the walls. "There's more" he yelled. "Kassokuken: Ichishiki (Piston Fist: Style One)!" Jūgo's left arm was transformed into the same jet-booster appendages and blasted Naruto again, releasing a massive chakra blast.

Debris and smoke filled the air, leaving Team 7 momentarily uncertain about Naruto's fate.

Kiyomi, on the edge of panic, turned to Kakashi. "Sensei is Naruto...?"

"No, I don't believe so," Kakashi reassured, though he couldn't help but feel a sense of doubt at Naruto's resilience.

Sasuke activated his Sharingan, studying the battlefield with a focused intensity. The red glow reflected his determination to comprehend the unfolding events and understand Naruto's technique.

Jūgo looked at the spot where Naruto had been, now covered with smoke. "That's all it took" he scoffed. "He was just as fragile and weak as the rest of these shinobi."

As he turned to leave, confident in his presumed victory, Naruto's voice echoed through the smoke. "We just went over this a moment ago," he teased, dispelling the haze with a wave. "This smoke is so annoying."

"What's the meaning of this? I know I hit you." Jūgo stated confused about what was happening.

Naruto smiled. "Well to put it simply, you didn't actually hit me. You touched the "Infinity" that exists between you and me," he said pinching his pointer and thumb together. "This is a result of my Mukagen no Jutsu (Limitless Technique)."

"Mukagen no Jutsu?" Sasuke asked.

So that's the name of his technique? But what can it do exactly? Kakashi thought.

Jūgo still looked very confused.

Naruto chuckled raising his right hand. "Here I'll show you," he said, inviting Jūgo to extend his. "Put your hand out."

Jūgo stood still.

"Come on, come on. I won't bite," Naruto said, waving his hand with a mischievous grin.

Jūgo hesitated but decided to approach Naruto, curious about the mysterious ability he had just witnessed. He sensed no killing intent from Naruto and assumed it would be fine.

"What's he doing?" Kiyomi asked, confusion etched on her face. She didn't know what Naruto's plan was.

Kakashi sighed and put a hand on his head. "Being himself, sadly."

Sasuke watched with anticipation, trying to decipher Naruto's intentions.

Jūgo reached Naruto's position and extended his left hand. As he got closer to Naruto's hand, he felt an invisible barrier preventing him from making contact. The realization struck him—his hand couldn't touch Naruto no matter how hard he pressed forward. It stopped just before making contact. Is this infinity? he wondered.

"See," Naruto explained, "you're not exactly stopped, but the closer you get, the slower you go. So, what now?" Naruto playfully pressed his hand closer to Jūgo's. "We could shake hands like this, ya know?"

"I refuse," Jūgo replied, getting annoyed with Naruto's antics.

"Come on now, don't be shy." Naruto locked his hand with Jūgo's. "You're making me embarrassed too, ya know."

Jūgo couldn't tolerate the situation any longer. "You damn brat! Let go!" he shouted; frustration evident in his voice.

Without warning, Naruto delivered a swift and powerful palm strike to Jūgo's abdomen. The impact caused Jūgo to stagger back and hurl up blood, however Naruto did not let go of his hand. The sudden attack left everyone, including Kiyomi, Kakashi, and Sasuke, in shock.

What was that? Jūgo thought as his mind raced trying to understand this brat's abilities.

He's fast, Kakashi thought. That wasn't a regular blow, or a blow enhanced by chakra... no that was something else.

"I could barely see that," Sasuke stated. Naruto's attack was so quick that his Sharingan was having issues keeping track.

Kiyomi looked in awe at Naruto. She couldn't even tell what he just did.

"There's still more!" Naruto said. He hit Jūgo three more times, with quick succession, in the gut then he followed up with a spin kick, knocking Jūgo off the wall and leaving him suspended in mid-air.

Naruto put his left hand into his pocket and extended his right index and middle finger out. "Infinity exists everywhere. My kekkei genkai just brings it forward into reality." Blue light started to form on his fingertips, the chakra converging to one concentrated point. "Convergence, divergence... What do you think happens when one touches this void?"

He pointed his fingers toward Jūgo, making a 'spirit gun', "Mukagen no Jutsu: Ao (Limitless Technique: Blue)". A blue orb sprang forth and launched itself at Jūgo who tried to evade but couldn't.

As the orb traveled it picked up debris and chunks, almost as if it was sucking mass into itself. On impact with Jūgo's body, he seemed to vertically stretch and horizontally compress; his body was being pulled into a long thin shape. This caused immense damage to Jūgo, but the blue orb was also causing damage to the Uchiha compound due to its gravitational force. However, before any serious damage was done to the compound, the orb dissipated. Leaving Jūgo in the air.

Naruto felt blood trickle from his nose. I guess I still can't use these two in tandem, he thought.

Naruto clasped his hands together and teleported to Jūgo's position. He pulled back his left fist and delivered a powerful punch to Jūgo's face sending him flying into the ground. On impact, his body formed a crater pushing up rock and dust.

Kakashi, Sasuke, and Kiyomi had to brace themselves due to the amount of force generated. After the dust settled, they found Jūgo on the ground, badly beaten. They averted their eyes upward to see Naruto, levitating in the air, with his hands in his pockets as debris particles were suspended near him.

Naruto lowered himself to the ground, releasing his technique, as the debris suspended in air came crashing down. He wiped the blood from his nose and took a moment to examine the destruction he caused. A section of the compound wall was destroyed, the road had missing chunks, and some nearby houses had their roofs partially destroyed. Thankfully no civilians or bystanders had been hurt.

After taking in the aftermath, Naruto spoke. "Maybe I overdid it?" He said rubbing the back of his head sheepishly.

Team 7 came down from their viewing area to Naruto and the beaten Jūgo.

Kakashi was the first to speak. "You're full of surprises. Aren't you Naruto?"

Sasuke said nothing, he simply looked at Naruto with awe.

"Wow, Naruto that was amazing!" Kiyomi shouted before getting pissed. She slapped Naruto onto of his head, "Why didn't you tell anyone about this? I thou-I mean we thought you died."

Naruto rubbed his head, "Well I'm glad you were worrying about me." He said smiling at Kiyomi.

She blushed before mumbling unintelligible words.

"Naruto, did you kill him?" Sasuke said interrupting the two.

"Oh yeah him. He's not dead... yet. Most of his organs have been crushed and he has a lot of internal bleeding." Naruto turned towards Kakashi. "Sensei, what should we do with him?"

Before Kakashi could respond. Dozens of shinobi arrived on the scene prepared for a fight, including Hiruzen, Naobito, and Fugaku. They were shocked to see the destruction. Hiruzen ordered the men to attend to the civilians, apprehend the assailant, and clean up the damage.

Kakashi turned around and bowed. "Hokage-sama, Uchiha-samas" he said.

"Kakashi, it seems our meeting will have to be pushed back" Hiruzen chuckled before getting a serious expression. "What happened here?"

"What took you so long?" Naruto interjected. "I guess old age is finally catching up to you."

Naobito laughed at Naruto's comments. "I like this kid," he said.

"Naruto don't be so rude!" Kiyomi spoke.

Sasuke said nothing, as he was too invested in his book.

"Apologies Hokage-sama," Kakashi said. He would have to correct Naruto's behavior and attitude.

Hiruzen smiled. "No need to apologize. Now" he said seriously, "what happened here?"

Kakashi told Hiruzen what had transpired while the rest of the shinobi dealt with the damage and checked up on nearby civilians.

"I see," Hiruzen said. "So, you engaged a mid-chūnin intruder and successfully defeated him. It seems Team 7 is already up to great things."

Kakashi nodded. He had wanted to tell Hiruzen about Naruto's abilities, but the Old Kage gave him a look indicating that they would talk later, in private.

"I shall put this as a C-rank mission and give out the appropriate amount of ryō as compensation. Well done you three, let this be a solid foundation for the future." Hiruzen said before leaving with his Anbu guard.

Kakashi turned to his team. "Well, that was pretty exciting."

"Not really, it was pretty boring," Naruto replied with a yawn. "That guy was weak." He walked away from the group heading back to the village.

"Wait Naruto, where do you think you're going?" Kakashi asked.

Naruto kept walking. "Home... I'm going to take a nap. It's been a long day" He lifted his right hand and gave a slight wave to his team.

However, before Naruto could leave, he looked up to see Naobito in his path.

"Boy, I wish to speak with you," Naobito said. "I have an offer for you." "I believe I have information that you would find interesting. Information regarding your clan."

Naruto raised an eyebrow. "What's your offer?" He wondered what this old man wanted.

"I propose an alliance between the Uchiha and Uzumaki clan." Naobito crossed his arms. "I believe this will help both the clans."

Sasuke and Kiyomi were shocked upon hearing this information.

Uzumaki Clan, eh? I wonder if the technique is common among them, Sasuke thought.

"Wait, U-uzamki is clan? I haven't met anyone with that name besides Naruto. What happened to them?" Kiyomi asked, visibly confused.

Kakashi spoke up. "The Uzumaki clan was a feared clan from Uzushiogakure (The Village Hidden in Whirpools). They had a close connection with Konoha but sadly their village and clan were destroyed during the Second Great Ninja War. This caused most of their members to be killed or displaced."

Naruto laughed. "I'm flattered by the offer and the recognition of my strength but I'm only one man. Well, I guess since the Uchiha are still considered a clan with only 13 members it makes sense."

"Naruto can you count? There's only ten" Kiyomi said.

Naruto looked back at her. "What do you mean, there are 12, including Itachi. Some Uchiha girl just gave birth making it now 13."

"But who's the extra person?" She asked. "We already knew she gave birth, but who's number 13?

"I thought..." Naruto's voice trailed off. He looked at Kakashi and realized something. I thought he was Uchiha but now I see. His chakra signature isn't similar to any of them. His left eye is the only similar chakra; he probably has a Sharingan underneath it. I wonder how he got it. This also explains why his chakra is so low, he probably has to use a ton because he isn't a Uchiha.

"Never mind... I miscounted," Naruto said, pushing this realization aside. "Anyway, what's the catch to your offer?"

Kakashi looked at Naruto curiously. By the way, Naruto was speaking he concluded that the boy could see chakra. Naruto must have thought Kakashi was a Uchiha due to his Sharingan. I wonder what else those eyes can see? He mused.

"No catch, that is my offer. I wish to strengthen the Uchiha clan. Combining the clans would help both with their deficiencies." Naobito stated. "I can get the Uzumaki Clan to be recognized if you have more than two members."

"Where can I find my clanmates?" Naruto asked. He didn't know of any Uzumaki survivors.

"I was getting to that. I've received intel that Uzumaki survivors were spotted in Kusagakure (Village Hidden in the Grass) and Amegakure (Village Hidden in the Rain). When my spies get back to me and confirm the validity of these reports, I'll let you know." Naobito paused. "Now what do you say?"

Naruto looked a Naobito for a moment, observing his facial features and body language. He put his hand on his chin, contemplating the information he received. After a few moments, Naruto looked up with a smile.

"Why the hell not? I accept your offer," he stated.

Naobito smiled and nodded. "After we've located the survivors, I'll inform you of their locations. Once you have successfully retrieved them, the Clan will be re-established at Konoha, and you will be named Clan head."

Naruto grinned. "I can't wait to see the look on those bastards' faces when they hear this news." He knew this would cause much pain to the council members. "Well, I'm off then," he said clasping his hands together and vanishing in a white blur.

Kakashi looked at his remaining team members. "I'm off as well. We will take a break tomorrow and start missions in two days. Get some rest." he said before disappearing in a trail of leaves.

"Kiyomi, Sasuke. Let's head home," Fugaku said.

"Hai, tousan" Kiyomi responded. She was still processing what she heard.

Sasuke said nothing as he simply hoped the Uzumaki members were not full of people like Naruto.

They walked home as shinobi around them worked diligently to repair the damage caused by the earlier fight.

Jūgo's lifeless body lay on the ground, the aftermath of a brutal encounter. Unbeknownst to the nearby shinobi, a malevolent snake slithered away into the shadows, escaping their notice. It vanished into the darkness, burrowing into the ground, carrying with it the secrets of this encounter.

UNKNOWN LOCATION

From the shadows, a cloaked figure sat in a chair, gazing out of a window. A shinobi, donning a bear-style animal mask and a black cloak, materialized in the room, one knee on the ground. "My lord, Jūgo has fallen to the Kyūbi's container," the shinobi reported.

The figure leaned back, the dim light unveiling a bandage tightly wound around his forehead and right eye. "The longer that brat lives, the more he festers as a nuisance." He murmured with a tone that dripped with calculated disdain. You are dismissed," he declared.

The shinobi with the bear mask vanished.

A chilling voice emanated from the unseen corners, resonating with a sinister curiosity. "That Uzumaki is starting to interest me, especially his kekkei genkai... he may be the perfect vessel for me," the shadowy voice stated.

"Forget not, the Kyūbi's container is mine. In exchange for my assistance with acquiring the Sharingan; you will assist in the annihilation of Konoha," the figure with bandages responded. "I am also allowing you to kill Sarutobi."

"Don't you think I've forgotten our little deal?" They said, menacingly. "I've given your men my curse mark for strength. You should be grateful, Danzō. Without me, you would be a dead man with no assets, infrastructure, or anywhere to hide."

Danzo, seated at his desk, clenched his fists. His eyes narrowed with a combination of resentment and determination. He would protect Konoha and safeguard the village's best interests regardless of the sacrifices or death that needed to be made. And best believe many more sacrifices would need to be made to protect the village.

"Everything will be ready for our invasion soon. Gather your forces. I'll retrieve you when the hour of attack is nigh," the shadowy voice declared before slithering away into the darkness.

"Tch." Danzō balled his firsts as he sat at his desk. He hated being under this bastard, however, he had no other options. He would wait and plan until an opportunity arose. It was his duty and responsibility to save Konoha from these fools and he would do what was necessary, regardless of how many innocents he needed to kill.

/END OF CHAPTER/

A/N: Apologies as this was a long one but please leave any feedback you have. Goodbye, and see you next time.