I don't own Avatar: The Last Airbender or Naruto.
Previously on Naruto: Avatar of the Elemental Nations
"Thank you so much, Hokage-sama," Naruto bowed respectfully before turning towards the door. But just as he reached for it, Minato called out again. "Son, wait." Naruto turned around curiously and saw that Minato's gaze was still fixed on him intently. "I'm sorry for all the pain that I and your mother have caused you," Minato said with a sigh. The weight of those words hung heavily in the air between them as they both remembered past events filled with regret and sorrow. Naruto's eyes softened as he looked at his father, feeling a mix of emotions swirling inside him. He knew that Minato was trying to make things right, and he appreciated the effort. "I know," Naruto said, his voice shaking slightly with emotion. "But I won't forget." With those words, Naruto turned and closed the door behind him, leaving Minato standing alone in his office. As he walked towards the academy, Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of closure and forgiveness wash over him."
*"Introduction: Water. [Korra, with concentration etched on her face, bends a glob of water to her side, then with a swift movement, she encircles herself with another stream, sending it flying towards the camera, splashing across the screen.]
Earth. [Kyoshi, her stance strong and unwavering, shifts a rock to the screen's right while commanding another with a graceful, deliberate motion to the left.]
Air. [Aang, in a gesture of playful mastery, dances on the wind, executing an airbend with the fluidity of a breakdancer, his movements echoing the freedom of the air itself.]
Fire. [Naruto, determination in his eyes, unleashes three fire punches in quick succession to the right, then spins, bending a fierce arc of fire with precision and power. The camera follows the blaze, transitioning smoothly into a portrait of Team Avatar, heroes united across realms.]"*
A long time ago, Avatar Aang and his companions ended the Hundred-Year War, a conflict ignited by the Fire Nation. In the aftermath, they envisioned a new world, transforming former colonies into the United Republic of Nations, embodying a dream where benders and non-benders would coexist in harmony.
Yet, after Kuvira's fall, this vision became fragmented. Republic City, once a symbol of unity, divided into six distinct villages, each stepping away from Avatar Aang's dream of a peaceful coexistence:
Konohagakure
Kumogakure
Iwagakure
Kirigakure
Sunagakure
Amidst this division, one boy, familiar with the ache of neglect, embarks on his journey. His tale is one of resilience, a quest to find his place amidst the chaos. Will his inner fire burn with a passion bright enough to illuminate his path, or will it cast shadows, obscuring his way? The world watches, waiting to see if Naruto, tempered by his trials and tutelage under the Avatars, can transcend his pain and emerge as the beacon of hope his predecessors envisioned.
Naruto: Avatar of the Elemental Nations
Book 1, Fire: Return and Graduation, Part 2
Narrator: "The Ninja Academy, nestled in the imposing shadow of the Hokage statues, pulses like the very heart of Konoha – a heart fueled by the dreams of its youthful students. Within the unpretentious walls of its classrooms, the bedrock philosophies of the shinobi way are instilled in each new generation, preparing them for the trials that will one day test their mettle. The hallowed halls of the library hold centuries of whispered wisdom, echoes of long-forgotten jutsu and the storied annals of the shinobi clans. And on the sun-drenched training grounds, the village's future takes shape as fledgling ninja spar with fire in their eyes, each bout a crucible forging them anew, their sensei's watchful gaze ever-present as they inch closer to the moment they'll take their place among the ranks of the Konoha shinobi."
"Among the Ninja Academy's classrooms, one stands out – a room filled with the offspring of Konoha's most esteemed clans. These young heirs, bearing the weight of their family names, sit with a quiet…"Shut the hell up! You damned brats!"
"Seriously, if I get interrupted ONE. MORE. TIME., I'm outta here! I didn't sign up for 'Professional Interruption Specialist' at these wages. Screw the coffee mug, it's not THAT fulfilling."
Narrator's voice wobbled between a laugh and a growl as he did the angry-iguana pace around the teeny room.
A few minutes later.
"I'm sorry about our minor inconvenience, but I had to do this. Now, let's get back to the story." The Narrator's voice shook with sarcasm as he finished his sentence.
Break
The shout echoed through the classroom, coming from none other than their teacher, Iruka Umino.
Iruka was an unassuming man, of average height and build, with brown hair pulled back into a ponytail. His dark eyes twinkled with a knowing glint, and a scar bisected the bridge of his nose - a souvenir from his rough-and-tumble youth. Like any proud Konoha shinobi, he wore the standard-issue uniform, complete with a forehead protector, sandals, and a flak jacket. His sleeves were rolled up about a quarter of the way, revealing a hint of the mesh armor underneath.
"Iruka might be composed at times, but you often put yourself in his place in a room full of wild teenagers, and you'd get annoyed with the situation. He is constantly pushing buttons and testing limits, even the patience of someone as mellow as Iruka gets worn thin by the antics of his boisterous students." The narrator said.
"When I call your name, I want you to say 'Here'. Clear?" Iruka's voice rang out, cutting through the chatter like a kunai slicing through the air.
A chorus of "Yes, sensei!" echoed across the classroom, though the enthusiasm varied from student to student.
Iruka nodded, his gaze sweeping across the rows of desks. "Inuzuka Kiba?"
"Here!" a boisterous voice called out, belonging to a wild-haired boy with distinctive red fang markings on his cheeks. Beside him, a small puppy yapped excitedly from atop his messy mop of hair.
Iruka raised an eyebrow but continued down the list. "Nara Shikamaru?"
A lazy groan answered him. "Here..." In the back row, a lanky boy with a pineapple-shaped ponytail slouched in his seat, eyes already half-lidded with boredom.
"Yamanaka Ino? Haruno Sakura?"
"Here!" two voices chimed in unison, belonging to a pair of girls sitting side by side. One had long, sleek blonde hair tied up in a high ponytail, while the other sported a vibrant pink shade that was not natural. They exchanged a brief glare, clearly rivals in some unspoken competition.
"Sasuke Uchiha?"
"Hmph." That was only his response. His obsidian eyes, framed by long, dark lashes, seemed to pierce through everyone he looked at, carrying an intensity far beyond his years. Raven locks danced across his forehead, the blue tint in his hair catching the sunlight streaming through the windows, giving it an almost ethereal glow.
Despite his aloof behavior, there was an undeniable magnetism about him that drew the attention of everyone in the room, particularly the girls. Ino and Sakura, who had been exchanging glares just moments ago, now found themselves stealing furtive glances at the brooding Uchiha, Sakura's cheeks flushed ever so slightly.
"As expected of Sasuke-kun," Sakura whispered dreamily, her voice carrying just enough for Ino to hear. A faint blush crept across her cheeks as she stole another glance at the brooding Uchiha, her eyes lingering on his raven locks and intense gaze.
Ino shot her a withering glare, her lips curling into a pout. "What's so great about him, anyway? He's just a broody loner." She tossed her long, blonde ponytail over her shoulder, her eyes narrowing as she studied Sasuke's aloof demeanor.
Sakura whipped her head around, her eyes blazing with indignation. "Are you kidding me, Ino-pig?" she hissed, her voice low but laced with venom. "Sasuke-kun is the most talented and coolest guy in our class! He's a Uchiha, for crying out loud!"
Ino scoffed, rolling her eyes dramatically. "Talented, sure. But cool? He's so full of himself and acts like he's better than everyone else." She leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms defiantly. "If you ask me, he's just a stuck-up jerk."
Sakura's jaw dropped, incredulous at her friend's words. "Take that back, Ino-pig!" she snapped, her fists clenching at her sides. "You're just jealous because Sasuke-kun doesn't even look your way!"
Ino's eyes flashed with anger, and she was about to retort when a sharp voice cut through their argument.
"Haruno! Yamanaka!" Iruka barked, his gaze fixed on the two bickering girls. "If you two are quite done disrupting my class, perhaps we can move on?"
Sakura and Ino froze, their cheeks flushing with embarrassment as they realized the entire class was now staring at them. Mumbling apologies, they sank back into their seats, shooting one last glare at each other before turning their attention back to Iruka.
Iruka continued calling out names from his list. "Shino Aburame?"
"Here," a monotone voice responded from the back row, where a boy with a high collar and dark sunglasses sat impassively. His face was mostly obscured, but one could make out the faint outline of his lips as he spoke.
"Menma Namikaze?" Iruka called out.
"Here," Menma responded, his voice tinged with a hint of sullenness. Heads turned in his direction, and whispers rippled through the classroom as the girls openly admired his striking features.
Menma leaned back in his chair, his unruly blonde locks cascading down his back in a wild mane. His vivid cerulean eyes sparkled with a mischievous glint, hinting at the boundless energy and curiosity that bubbled beneath the surface. His features were sharp and angular, bearing an uncanny resemblance to his father, the esteemed Hokage.
"Isn't Menma so dreamy?" one girl whispered to her friend, her eyes fixed on the young Namikaze.
"Totally," her friend giggled in response. "Those eyes and that hair – he's like a real-life Prince Charming!"
Menma overheard the whispers and flashed a cocky grin in their direction, running a hand through his golden locks. The girls blushed furiously and quickly averted their gazes, whispering and giggling amongst themselves.
"Mito Uzumaki?" Iruka called out, moving on to the next name.
"Here," a melodic voice responded, and all eyes turned towards the crimson-haired beauty.
Mito sat with impeccable posture, her long, silky tresses cascading in waves over her shoulders. Her delicate features were accentuated by the mesmerizing violet hue of her eyes, which seemed to command respect and attention from all those around her. There was a certain regal quality to her demeanor, a commanding presence that was both alluring and intimidating.
The boys in the class couldn't help but steal glances in her direction, captivated by her beauty and grace. Whispers and hushed murmurs filled the air as they admired her from afar.
"Man, Mito is so gorgeous," one boy muttered under his breath, his eyes lingering on her for a moment too long.
"Yeah, but she's way out of our league," his friend replied wistfully. "A girl like that would never give us the time of day."
Mito seemed oblivious to the admiring glances and whispers, her focus unwavering as she waited for Iruka to continue with the roll call.
"That's some bull, Iruka-sensei!" Kiba exclaimed loudly, his sharp canine teeth bared in frustration. "How come we sit through your boring-ass lectures, but this person gets a free pass?"
Iruka's brow furrowed as he turned his stern gaze towards the boisterous Inuzuka. "Kiba, watch your language!" he chided sternly. "And what do you mean 'free pass'? The new student will have to work just as hard as the rest of you."
Kiba crossed his arms defiantly, not backing down. "Oh yeah? Then why are they joining us so late? Seems like special treatment to me."
Beside him, Shikamaru let out a long, exasperated sigh. "Kiba, you're making a fuss over nothing. It's a drag, but even you should be able to figure out that there could be perfectly valid reasons for someone to transfer to our class."
"Shikamaru's right," Iruka interjected, his gaze sweeping across the classroom. "Some of you may not know this, but the new student had... extenuating circumstances that delayed their enrollment. However, they have been privately training and are well-prepared to join us."
Murmurs rippled through the classroom as the students exchanged curious glances, wondering what kind of 'extenuating circumstances' would warrant such special treatment.
"But that's not fair, sensei!" Sakura piped up, her brow creased in frustration. "We've all been working our butts off since day one! How is it fair for this new kid to just waltz in and get a free ride?"
Ino nodded vigorously in agreement, her ponytail swishing back and forth. "Forehead's got a point. If they're so 'well-prepared', why didn't they just join us from the start?"
Iruka held up his hand, quieting the growing unrest. "I understand your concerns, but I can assure you that the newcomer has earned their place here. They've had to overcome significant hardships and challenges, far beyond what most of you can imagine."
The classroom fell silent, the students exchanging uncertain glances. Even Sasuke, who had been brooding silently in the back, seemed to perk up with curiosity at Iruka's words.
"Enough of this," Iruka said firmly. "You'll all have a chance to meet and get to know the new student soon enough. For now, let's focus on today's lesson."
As Iruka turned towards the chalkboard, the door to the classroom creaked open, and a familiar figure stepped inside...It was a young man, though his age was difficult to discern. He moved with a confident, almost regal bearing, his gaze sweeping over the students with an air of quiet assurance.
He was dressed in a striking kimono, its intricate patterns of black, red, and gold seeming to dance and swirl with his every movement. The back of the kimono bore an intricate dragon motif, the outer layer emblazoned with the kanji characters representing the five elements, while the inner layer featured a single character – "mirror."
As the young man strode forward, his footsteps fell with a soft, deliberate cadence, each step exuding a sense of purpose and control. His features were striking, with high cheekbones and piercing eyes that seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly quality. His crimson red hair and yellow highlights were tousled, framing his face in a way that only added to his enigmatic allure.
"So, I'm in the right class," he said, his voice carrying a rich, melodic timbre that instantly commanded attention.
The students exchanged bewildered glances, captivated by the stranger's presence. Even Iruka seemed taken aback, his mouth slightly agape as he took in the young man's appearance.
Sasuke, ever the stoic, narrowed his eyes, studying the newcomer with an intense gaze. There was something about this stranger that piqued his curiosity, a subtle undercurrent of power that he couldn't quite put his finger on.
Menma, on the other hand, leaned back in his chair, his eyebrows raised in a mixture of curiosity and amusement. A cocky smirk played on his lips as he appraised the newcomer as if sizing up a potential rival.
Mito, ever the regal beauty, maintained her composure, though her violet eyes sparkled with interest as she took in the stranger's appearance.
Ino and Sakura, their earlier quarrel forgotten, found themselves openly gaping at the young man, their cheeks flushed with a mixture of admiration and embarrassment.
As the silence stretched on, the young man's gaze swept over the classroom once more, lingering on each student for a brief moment before settling on Iruka.
"I believe you were expecting me, sensei," he said, his voice carrying a subtle undercurrent of confidence that seemed to fill the room.
"Yeah, come in and introduce yourself," Iruka said, motioning for the newcomer to step forward.
The figure strode to the front of the class, his movements fluid and graceful, yet brimming with an understated power. He turned to face the students, his piercing gaze sweeping over them with an intensity that seemed to command their undivided attention.
"My name is Kagami Naruto," he said, his voice resonating through the classroom with a rich, melodic timbre.
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the students as they exchanged bewildered glances. Menma's eyes widened, his cocky smirk faltering as he stared at Naruto in disbelief. Mito's composure slipped for a moment, her delicate features etched with surprise.
"Nii-san?" Menma whispered under his breath, his brow furrowing as he studied Naruto's striking appearance.
"Nii-chan?" Mito mouthed silently, her violet eyes fixed on her long-estranged brother.
The siblings had not seen Naruto in years, not since their parents had cast him aside, deeming him unworthy of their attention. Memories of that painful day of Naruto's disappearance flooded back, and a myriad of emotions flickered across their faces – shock, longing, and a hint of guilt.
Sasuke leaned forward, his obsidian eyes narrowing as he regarded Naruto with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. There was something about this newcomer that piqued his interest, a subtle undercurrent of power that seemed to radiate from him like an unseen force.
Sakura and Ino, their petty rivalry forgotten for the moment, found themselves captivated by Naruto's enigmatic presence. They exchanged a glance, their cheeks flushed with a mixture of admiration and bewilderment.
"He's... Naruto?" Sakura whispered, her eyes wide as she took in his striking features and regal bearing.
Ino nodded slowly, her gaze fixed on Naruto with an intensity that bordered on awe. "I had no idea he was... like this," she murmured, her voice barely audible.
Kiba, ever the brash one, let out a bark of laughter, breaking the tense silence that had fallen over the classroom. "No way!" he exclaimed, his sharp canine teeth bared in a wolfish grin. "This guy can't be the same Naruto we used to know. The loser whose parents wouldn't even train him?" Beside him, Akamaru let out a high-pitched yap, as if echoing his master's disbelief.
Shikamaru, ever the analytical one, studied Naruto with a newfound interest, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "Looks can be deceiving, Kiba," he murmured, his voice low but carrying a hint of respect. "There's more to this guy than meets the eye."
Naruto remained impassive, his gaze sweeping over the students with a calm, unflinching demeanor. When his eyes met those of Menma and Mito, a flicker of emotion passed across his features, but it was gone in an instant, replaced by a mask of serene imperturbability.
"It has been a long time, Menma, Mito," he said, his voice carrying a subtly formal tone that seemed at odds with their familial relationship. "I trust you have been well."
Menma opened his mouth to respond, but the words seemed to catch in his throat. He swallowed hard, his eyes flickering with a mixture of emotions – surprise, guilt, and a hint of resentment.
Mito took a deep breath, composing herself before addressing her long-lost brother. Despite her regal upbringing, she couldn't completely mask the hint of longing in her violet eyes as she gazed upon Naruto's striking figure.
"It is... good to see you again, Nii-chan," she said, her melodic voice wavering ever so slightly. "You've certainly... changed."
Naruto met her gaze, his expression inscrutable. "Indeed, it has been a long and arduous journey. One that has shaped me into the person I am today."
Menma, seemingly jolted from his stupor, found his voice at last. "Where have you been all this time, Nii-san?" he blurted out, his brow furrowed in a mix of confusion and residual resentment. "Mom and Dad said you were gone, but they never told us why."
A flicker of emotion passed across Naruto's features, but it was gone in an instant, replaced by a mask of calm detachment. "That is a long and complex tale, one that I shall share with you both in due time," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of distrust. "For now, let us focus on the present."
Iruka, sensing the tension in the air, cleared his throat loudly. "Yes, well, as you can see, Naruto has... returned to us after his disappearance," he said, his gaze sweeping over the bewildered students. "I trust you'll all make him feel welcome and help him settle in."
Kiba snorted, leaning back in his chair with a skeptical expression. "Welcome him back, my ass."
Sakura shot him a withering glare, her temper flaring. "Shut up, Kiba! You're just jealous because Naruto is so..." Her voice trailed off as she stole another glance at the enigmatic young man, her cheeks flushing slightly.
Ino, ever the perceptive one, picked up on Sakura's unspoken thoughts. "Handsome? Mysterious? Totally unlike the knucklehead we used to know?" she teased, shooting a sly grin at her rival.
Sakura's blush deepened, and she opened her mouth to retort, but Naruto's calm voice cut through their bickering.
"I appreciate your concern, but there's no need for such hostility," he said, his gaze sweeping over the students with a serene placidity. "I harbor no ill will towards any of you, and I hope we can move forward with open minds and hearts."
A hush fell over the classroom as the students found themselves captivated by Naruto's words and presence. Even Sasuke, ever the stoic, couldn't help but feel a grudging respect for the newcomer's poise and confidence.
Naruto turned to Iruka, inclining his head respectfully. "If it pleases you, sensei, can I take my seat and you can start the Graduation Exam."
Iruka nodded, his expression softening slightly. "Of course, Naruto. Please take a seat." He gestured towards the empty desk in the front row.
As Naruto made his way to the vacant seat, the classroom erupted into a flurry of whispers and murmurs. Kiba leaned over to Shikamaru, his voice low but laced with skepticism.
"Can you believe this guy? Acting all high and mighty like he's some kind of big shot."
Shikamaru merely shrugged, his expression bored as usual. "Who knows? Maybe he's got some skills to back it up."
As Naruto took his seat, the classroom fell silent, all eyes fixed on him with a mix of fascination and apprehension. He met their gazes evenly, his expression serene and impassive.
Iruka cleared his throat, drawing the students' attention back to the front of the room. "Alright, class. As you know, today is the Graduation Exam. This exam will test your skills and knowledge in various areas of ninja training, including ninjutsu, taijutsu, and genjutsu."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the students' faces. "I know many of you have worked hard and prepared diligently for this day. But remember, even if you don't pass this time, there will be future opportunities to become a full-fledged shinobi."
Kiba scoffed, crossing his arms over his chest. "Speak for yourself, sensei. I'm gonna ace this exam and become a ninja today, no doubt about it."
"Come on, Kiba, don't act so high and mighty," Shikamaru drawled, his voice laced with a hint of lazy amusement. "You might talk a big game, but we all know you're the dead-last in our class."
Kiba's eyes narrowed, his sharp canine teeth baring in a wolfish grin. "Watch it, Shikamaru," he growled, his voice low but carrying a playful edge. "Just because you're a lazy genius doesn't mean you can look down on me."
Beside him, Akamaru let out a series of high-pitched yaps, as if echoing his master's sentiments.
Shikamaru merely shrugged, his expression one of practiced nonchalance. "I'm just stating facts, Kiba. No need to get all worked up about it."
Iruka couldn't help but chuckle at Kiba's bravado. "We'll see about that, Kiba. Just don't get too overconfident."
He turned to Naruto, his expression growing more serious. "Naruto, since you're new to the class, I want you to understand the importance of this exam. It's not just a formality – it's a true test of your skills and dedication."
Naruto met Iruka's gaze evenly, his expression unreadable. "I understand, sensei. I'm ready to prove myself."
Iruka nodded, seeming satisfied with Naruto's response. "Very well. Let's begin with the written portion of the exam..."
As Iruka began distributing the test papers, the tension in the classroom was palpable. Each student knew that this was their chance to prove themselves worthy of becoming a ninja, and the stakes were high.
I'm just going to skip the written exam portion because I'm lazy and it's boring as hell. Honestly, I can't be bothered to sit through hours of tedious questions that don't interest me in the slightest. It's not like I can't or anything, but the thought of spending my time on something so mind-numbingly dull just doesn't appeal to me. I'd rather focus on the practical parts that engage me and seem worthwhile.
One hour later, the written exam was over. Iruka picked up all the papers and told the students to meet him outside at the training grounds. As the students filed out of the classroom and made their way towards the training grounds, Naruto lingered behind the other students.
Also, I am going to skip the kunai and shuriken exams as well.
"Alright, everyone," Iruka announced, his voice carrying across the training grounds. "It's time for the sparring matches. These will test your taijutsu skills and your ability to think on your feet."
Kiba grinned wolfishly, cracking his knuckles. "Finally, some action! I've been itching for a good fight."
Beside him, Akamaru yapped excitedly, sensing his master's eagerness.
Ino rolled her eyes, flipping her long ponytail over her shoulder. "Just don't get too excited, Kiba. You might hurt yourself."
Kiba shot her a glare, but before he could retort, Iruka called out the first pair of combatants.
"Sakura Haruno and Menma Namikaze, you're up first."
Sakura's eyes widened, and she exchanged a nervous glance with Menma. The son of the Hokage was known to be one of the most talented students in their class, and she couldn't help but feel a flutter of anxiety in her stomach.
Menma, for his part, flashed her a cocky grin as they stepped onto the sparring mat. "Don't worry, Sakura-chan. I'll go easy on you."
Sakura bristled at his condescending tone, her competitive spirit flaring up. "Don't underestimate me, Menma-baka! I'm not some delicate flower!"
With that, she lunged forward, lashing out with a series of quick strikes and kicks. Menma's eyes widened in surprise, and he was forced to backpedal, blocking and dodging her blows with increasing difficulty.
"Whoa, Sakura-chan! Since when did you get so feisty?" he exclaimed, narrowly avoiding a punch that grazed his cheek.
Sakura didn't respond, her brow furrowed in concentration as she pressed her attack. Menma couldn't help but admire her determination, even as he began to counter her strikes with his own.
The two traded blows, their movements becoming a blur of limbs and flashes of chakra. Sakura's strikes were precise and controlled, while Menma's style was more fluid and unpredictable.
In the end, though, Menma's superior speed and stamina proved to be the deciding factor. He fainted to the left, then spun around Sakura's guard, sweeping her legs out from under her in one smooth motion.
Sakura hit the mat with a grunt, her chest heaving from exertion. Menma stood over her, a triumphant grin on his face.
"Not bad, Sakura-chan," he said, offering her a hand up. "You've definitely improved."
Sakura accepted his hand, her cheeks flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and pride. "Thanks, Menma-kun. You're still a pain in the ass, though."
Menma chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Wouldn't have it any other way."
As the two made their way off the mat, Iruka called out the next pair of combatants.
"Shikamaru Nara and Kiba Inuzuka, you're up."
Kiba whooped, pumping his fist in the air. "Finally, my turn! Get ready to taste dirt, Shikamaru!"
Shikamaru sighed, his expression one of utter boredom. "What a drag," he muttered, shuffling onto the mat with his hands shoved in his pockets.
Kiba wasted no time, charging at Shikamaru with Akamaru at his side. The two moved in perfect sync, their attacks coordinated and relentless.
Shikamaru, however, seemed unfazed. He dodged and weaved, his movements minimal and efficient, as if he were expending the least possible effort.
"Come on, Shikamaru!" Ino called out from the sidelines. "Stop being so lazy and fight back!"
Shikamaru shot her an annoyed glance, but his focus quickly returned to the fight as Kiba's fist came whistling towards his face.
With a deft movement, Shikamaru sidestepped the blow, spinning around behind Kiba and delivering a well-placed kick to the back of his knee. Kiba's leg buckled, and he stumbled, leaving himself wide open.
In a flash, Shikamaru had him pinned, his arm twisted behind his back in a textbook submission hold.
"I win," Shikamaru said, his voice tinged with smugness.
Kiba growled in frustration, struggling against Shikamaru's grip. "That was a cheap shot!"
Shikamaru released him, shrugging nonchalantly. "If you say so."
As Kiba stalked off the mat, muttering curses under his breath, Iruka called out the next pair.
"Sasuke Uchiha and Kagami Naruto, you're up."
A hush fell over the training grounds as the two combatants made their way onto the mat. Sasuke's face was a mask of cool determination, while Naruto's expression remained serene and impassive.
Ino and Sakura exchanged excited glances, their earlier rivalry forgotten as they eagerly awaited the match between the two most enigmatic students in their class.
"This is going to be good," Ino whispered, her eyes shining with anticipation.
Sakura nodded, her gaze fixed on Sasuke's lithe form. "Just watch, Ino-pig. Sasuke-kun is going to wipe the floor with him."
Ino scoffed, tossing her ponytail over her shoulder. "We'll see about that, Forehead."
On the mat, Sasuke and Naruto faced each other, their stances poised and ready. There was a palpable tension in the air, a sense of two titans about to clash.
Sasuke was the first to move, launching himself forward with a burst of speed that caught even Naruto off guard. His strikes were precise and relentless, each one aimed at vital points with lethal precision.
Naruto, however, seemed to anticipate each blow, his movements fluid and graceful as he deflected and parried Sasuke's attacks. It was like watching a dance, each combatant perfectly in sync with the other's movements.
Sasuke's brow furrowed in frustration as his strikes continued to be effortlessly countered. He redoubled his efforts, his movements becoming more aggressive and unpredictable.
Naruto, however, remained unfazed, his expression one of calm focus. He shifted his stance ever so slightly, and suddenly, Sasuke found himself on the defensive.
A flurry of strikes rained down upon him, each one precise and carefully calculated. Sasuke's eyes widened as he struggled to keep up, his breath coming in ragged gasps.
"Impossible," he muttered, gritting his teeth as he blocked a particularly vicious blow.
Naruto didn't respond, his movements continuing with a fluid grace that seemed almost effortless.
In the end, it was a well-timed feint that caught Sasuke off guard. Naruto shifted his weight, drawing Sasuke's attention to his right, then struck with lightning speed, his palm slamming into Sasuke's chest with controlled force.
Sasuke flew backwards, hitting the mat with a dull thud. He lay there, stunned, his eyes wide with disbelief.
Naruto stood over him, his expression calm and unruffled. "You fought well, Sasuke," he said, his voice carrying a hint of respect. "But you still have much to learn."
With that, he turned and walked off the mat, leaving a stunned silence in his wake.
Ino and Sakura exchanged wide-eyed glances, their mouths hanging open in shock. Neither of them could quite believe what they had just witnessed.
"Did... did Naruto just beat Sasuke-kun?" Sakura whispered, her voice trembling with disbelief.
Ino could only nod mutely, her eyes still fixed on Naruto's retreating form.
As the shock began to wear off, murmurs and whispers rippled through the gathered students, each one speculating and debating what they had just seen.
Timeskip. Inside the Classroom. After the sparring matches.
As the day wore on, the students continued to showcase their skills, each match more intense than the last. But it was clear that Naruto's victory over Sasuke had shaken the foundations of the class, revealing a hidden prodigy in their midst. Kiba stepped forward, his fingers forming the hand seals with practiced ease. "Bunshin no Jutsu!" he exclaimed, and a puff of smoke erupted around him. When it cleared, four imperfect clones stood beside him, their forms slightly distorted and hazy.
Iruka frowned, jotting down notes on his clipboard. "Not bad, Kiba, but your clones still lack stability. Keep practicing."
Kiba scowled but nodded, dispelling the clones with a wave of his hand.
Next up was Shikamaru, who performed the jutsu with a lazy flick of his wrists. His clones were solid and well-formed, but their expressions matched his own bored countenance.
"Adequate," Iruka commented, making a few notes.
Ino and Sakura both executed the technique flawlessly, their clones perfect replicas of themselves. They exchanged smug grins, basking in their success.
Sasuke, as expected, performed the jutsu with effortless grace, his clones so lifelike that they seemed to radiate an aura of power.
Iruka nodded approvingly, though his expression remained impassive.
As the demonstrations continued, Menma and Mito both showcased their prodigious talent, their jutsu executed with precision and finesse. The other students watched in awe, whispers of admiration rippling through the crowd.
Finally, it was Naruto's turn.
He stepped forward, his movements fluid and unhurried. Closing his eyes, he began forming hand seals at a rapid pace, his fingers blurring with speed.
The air around him seemed to crackle with energy, and the ground beneath his feet trembled ever so slightly.
Iruka's brow furrowed, and he opened his mouth to speak, but the words died on his lips as Naruto completed the final seal.
"Elemental clone," Naruto murmured, his voice carrying a weight that seemed to reverberate through the very air around him.
Suddenly, two swirling vortexes of energy manifested on either side of Naruto – one a brilliant, scorching white flame, and the other a mesmerizing vortex of obsidian black fire.
The students gasped in awe, their eyes wide with disbelief and a hint of fear. Even Iruka seemed taken aback, his clipboard slipping from his grasp as he stared at the incredible display.
From the heart of the white flames, a figure began to take shape – a perfect replica of Naruto, every detail replicated down to the last strand of golden hair. The clone's eyes burned with an intense, ethereal light as if fueled by the very essence of the fire itself.
At the same time, a second Naruto emerged from the swirling vortex of black flames, its form darker and more ominous, yet no less striking. The black fire seemed to cling to the clone's skin, casting flickering shadows across its features.
Finally, Naruto opened his eyes, and the vortexes of fire dissipated in an instant, leaving only the clones standing before the stunned audience.
Even Iruka seemed at a loss for words, his mouth hanging open as he took in the incredible display of skill and power.
With a flick of his wrist, the clones dissipated, their forms dispersing into wisps of smoke that quickly faded into nothingness.
"I trust that will suffice, Iruka-sensei," he said, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.
Iruka could only nod mutely, still reeling from the stunning demonstration.
As Naruto rejoined his classmates, whispers and murmurs filled the air, a mixture of awe and trepidation.
"How did he...?"
"That's impossible!"
"Who is this guy?"
Finally, after hours of sparring and demonstrations, Iruka gathered the students before him, his expression solemn.
"You've all worked hard and shown great dedication," he said, his gaze sweeping over the exhausted but determined faces before him. "But as you know, not everyone can pass the exam and become a genin."
A hush fell over the group, each student holding their breath in anticipation.
Iruka paused for effect before continuing. "However, this year, I'm proud to say that every single one of you has met the requirements to graduate and become full-fledged shinobi of Konohagakure."
A collective cheer erupted from the students, their faces lighting up with joy and relief. Kiba let out a whoop of excitement, while Shikamaru simply shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
Ino and Sakura embraced each other, their earlier rivalry forgotten in the moment of celebration. Even Sasuke allowed a small smile to grace his features, though his eyes still burned with determination.
Naruto stood apart from the others, his expression calm and serene. But there was a glimmer of pride in his eyes as he watched his classmates rejoice.
Iruka waited for the cheers to die down before speaking again. "Congratulations, all of you. You've earned the right to wear the headband of a Konoha shinobi."
He gestured to a table laden with forehead protectors, each one bearing the iconic leaf symbol of their village.
"Come forward and claim your headbands," Iruka said, a warm smile spreading across his face.
One by one, the students approached the table, their faces alight with pride and excitement as they donned the coveted headbands.
Naruto was the last to step forward, his movements measured and graceful. He picked up a headband, running his fingers over the cool metal emblem before tying it securely around his forehead.
As he turned to face his classmates, a hush fell over the group. Naruto's striking features seemed even more pronounced, his piercing eyes framed by the sleek black fabric of the headband.
Menma and Mito exchanged glances, a mixture of emotions flickering across their faces. Pride for their brother's accomplishment mingled with a lingering sense of guilt and uncertainty.
Sasuke regarded Naruto with a newfound respect, his obsidian eyes burning with a renewed determination to surpass this newfound rival.
Sakura and Ino were speechless, their cheeks flushed as they took in Naruto's imposing figure. He looked every inch the powerful shinobi, a far cry from the outcast they had known in their childhood.
Iruka cleared his throat, drawing the attention of the newly minted genin. "Congratulations once again, all of you. You've taken the first step on a long and challenging journey, but I do not doubt that you will make Konoha proud."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the group one last time. "Enjoy this moment, but remember – the real work starts tomorrow. Dismissed!"
With that, the students erupted into cheers and celebration, their voices carrying across the training grounds and echoing through the streets of Konohagakure.
Timeskip
Outside the academy, a crowd had gathered, eagerly awaiting the emergence of the newly-minted genin. Parents, clan leaders, and villagers alike shared in the palpable excitement, their faces alight with pride and anticipation.
At the forefront of the throng stood Minato Namikaze, the esteemed Hokage himself, his arm draped around the shoulders of his wife, Kushina. Their expressions were a study in contrast – Minato's features were etched with a serene, paternal pride, while Kushina practically vibrated with barely contained enthusiasm.
"Our kids did it, Minato!" she exclaimed, her violet eyes sparkling with joy. "They're officially shinobi now!"
Minato chuckled, his gaze sweeping over the gathered crowd. "Indeed, my love. And judging by the turnout, it seems the entire village shares in our pride."
Beside them stood the imposing figures of Hiashi Hyuga and Tsume Inuzuka, their expressions stoic yet tinged with a hint of parental affection. Hiashi's pale eyes narrowed ever so slightly as he scanned the crowd, while Tsume's feral grin bared her sharp canines.
"Hinata, you have made the Hyuga clan proud today," Hiashi said, his voice carrying a rare note of warmth.
Tsume barked out a laugh, slapping Hiashi on the back with enough force to make the Hyuga leader wince. "Of course they did! And my Kiba's gonna be the fiercest of them all, just you wait!"
Nearby, Inoichi and Choza stood side by side, their expressions a mix of pride and nostalgia. Inoichi's eyes shone with unshed tears as he turned to his longtime friend.
"My little girl is all grown up, Choza," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "It seems like only yesterday she was running around the flower shop, getting into all sorts of mischief."
Choza nodded, his booming laugh echoing across the courtyard. "Indeed, my friend. And if she's anything like this father, they'll be the most formidable Konoha shinobi you have ever seen!"
As the chatter and excitement reached a fever pitch, the doors to the academy swung open, and the first of the newly-minted genin emerged. Cheers and applause erupted from the crowd as the students filed out, their faces flushed with pride and their forehead protectors gleaming in the sunlight.
Kiba was among the first, his wolfish grin stretching from ear to ear as he rushed towards his mother. Tsume enveloped him in a bone-crushing hug, ruffling his wild hair affectionately.
"That's my boy!" she crowed, her eyes shining with pride.
Shikamaru followed at a more leisurely pace, his hands shoved into his pockets and his expression one of feigned boredom. But even he couldn't quite hide the hint of a smile that tugged at the corners of his mouth as his parents swept him into an embrace.
Ino and Sakura emerged side by side, their earlier rivalry forgotten in the face of their shared triumph. Mebuki Haruno's face lit up with pride as Sakura emerged from the academy doors, her forehead protector gleaming in the sunlight. With tears of joy glistening in her eyes, she rushed forward and enveloped her daughter in a warm, loving embrace. Sakura returned the embrace, burying her face in her mother's shoulder as she savored the moment.
Inoichi Yamanaka beamed with fatherly pride, enveloping his daughter in a warm hug and showering her with congratulations. Meanwhile, his friend Choza Akimichi was squeezing the life out of Choji.
While, Shibi Aburame nods at Shino also in gratitude, acknowledging his son's efforts and the silent understanding they share.
Sasuke strode out with his usual stoic demeanor, but even he couldn't resist the faintest hint of a smile as he caught sight of his older brother, Itachi, waiting for him. The prodigy of the Uchiha clan offered a rare, genuine smile and a nod of acknowledgment, his obsidian eyes shining with pride. ( Note: The Uchiha Massacre never happened in this timeline.)
Then, at last, Menma and Mito emerged, their golden and crimson locks shining like beacons in the sunlight. Minato and Kushina rushed forward, sweeping their children into a fierce embrace, their faces alight with joy and pride.
"We're so proud of you both," Minato said, his voice thick with emotion as he held his son and daughter close.
Kushina, never one for restraint, peppered their faces with kisses, her eyes brimming with happy tears. "My babies, all grown up and shinobi! I could burst with pride!"
Menma squirmed in her embrace, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Aw, Mom, cut it out!" he protested, though a grin tugged at the corners of his mouth.
Mito, ever the graceful one, simply basked in the warmth of her parents' affection, her violet eyes shining with happiness.
But as the celebrations continued, a hush fell over the crowd as another figure emerged from the academy doors. Naruto strode forth, his striking features framed by the sleek black fabric of his forehead protector, his movements imbued with a quiet confidence that seemed to command respect.
Gasps and whispers rippled through the gathered villagers as they took in the sight of the long-estranged Namikaze son. Kushina froze, her expression a mix of shock, guilt, and a tentative glimmer of hope.
Naruto's piercing gaze swept over the crowd, lingering on his parents for a heartbeat longer than the rest. A myriad of emotions flickered across his features – pain, resentment, but also a glimmer of something softer, something akin to longing.
As if drawn by an invisible force, Minato and Kushina found themselves moving towards their eldest son, their footsteps tentative and hesitant. The crowd parted before them, a hush falling over the courtyard as all eyes turned towards the unfolding scene.
Minato was about to speak, Naruto's words at the Hokage office ringing in his ears, so he just nodded his head instead at his Oldest son.
Kushina reached out, her hand trembling ever so slightly as she sought to bridge the chasm that had grown between them over the years. "My boy... you've come so far..."
Naruto regarded them with an inscrutable expression, his eyes shimmering with a maelstrom of emotions. For a long moment, the silence stretched taut, charged with a palpable tension that seemed to hold the entire courtyard in thrall.
Then, slowly, Naruto inclined his head in a respectful nod, his features softening ever so slightly.
"Mother. Father."
The words hung in the air, thick with a myriad of emotions that threatened to overwhelm Naruto. As he stood before Minato and Kushina, his eyes locked with theirs, a torrent of memories came flooding back.
Memories of a childhood marred by neglect and loneliness. Whispers and sideways glances from villagers who saw him as an outcast, a pariah. The bitter sting of rejection from the very people who should have loved and nurtured him unconditionally.
Yet, in that moment, as he gazed upon the faces of his estranged parents, Naruto felt something stir within him. A flicker of hope, a yearning for reconciliation that he had long suppressed, buried beneath layers of pain and resentment.
Kushina's hand trembled as she reached out, her fingers tentatively brushing against Naruto's cheek. Her violet eyes shimmered with unshed tears, and her voice wavered with a raw, maternal tenderness that had been absent for far too long.
"My son," she whispered, the words catching in her throat. "My beautiful, strong son. Can you ever forgive us?"
Naruto's stoic mask wavered, his lips parting as if to speak, but no words came. He swallowed hard, his eyes flickering with a myriad of emotions – hurt, anger, and a longing so deep it threatened to consume him.
Naruto held their gazes, his expression unreadable. For a long moment, the courtyard was shrouded in a heavy silence, charged with a tension that seemed to hold the entire crowd in thrall.
"Like I said to Hokage-sama, I will forgive you, but I won't forget." He murmured, his voice low and laced with a depth of emotion that seemed to transcend mere words.
Menma and Mito exchanged a glance, their expressions a mix of hope and uncertainty, unsure of what this tentative reconciliation would mean for their family.
Taking a deep breath, Naruto nodded slowly. "It won't be easy, and there's still much we need to work through," he said, his voice low but steady. "But I'm willing to try, for all our sake. I just need time."
Kushina let out a choked sob, pulling Naruto into a fierce embrace, her tears dampening his shoulder. Minato followed suit, wrapping his arms around his family, his eyes shining with a mixture of joy and relief.
With a swift motion, Naruto formed a hand seal, and his body erupted in a swirl of black and white flames. The crowd gasped, recoiling from the intense heat and light, but when the flames subsided, Naruto was gone, leaving only a lingering sense of awe and mystery in his wake.
To be Continued…
Back with a new chapter of the long-awaited Naruto: Avatar of the Elemental Nations! Next up, I'll be updating either The Honored One: A DxD Story or The Otsutsuki Hero: Shinju. In the meantime, feel free to like, review, or PM me with any new fanfic or chapter requests you have.
See y'all later!