Chapter Three : Connection from the Past

It was a cloudy day in Konoha, with storm clouds looming in the distance. Thunder rumbled occasionally as two figures moved swiftly through the trees, one chasing the other. The first figure dropped to the ground below, taking a fighting stance just as the second figure landed a short distance away. They stood still for a moment, the first figure tense and ready while the second stood nonchalantly, seemingly unfazed by the impending confrontation.

Suddenly, the first figure charged forward, and as raindrops began to fall, they threw a punch. It was immediately blocked. A kick followed, but the second figure caught it and used the captured leg to throw the first a few meters away. The first figure spun in the air, landing gracefully on both feet and quickly running back towards the second. This time, the second figure obliged the first's unspoken wishes, running towards them to engage in the fight.

The battle lasted for hours, both figures becoming soaked in a mixture of their own sweat and the heavy rain pouring down on them. They lay on the ground, covered in bruises, their bodies aching with every slight movement. Despite the pain, they both wore gigantic smiles on their faces.

"Your training is really paying off, Naruto. I sure can feel it. Why do you punch so damn hard anyway?" Shisui asked, wincing as he rubbed a sore spot on his arm.

"Well, you're the one who said not to hold back. That includes how hard I punch you, Shisui. Is this your way of telling me you want me to go easy on you? If that's the case, maybe I should be teaching you," Naruto teased, laughing.

They both laughed before Shisui stood up and extended his hand to Naruto. Naruto grabbed it with his left hand and pulled himself up. Together, they started walking back to their house, albeit slowly due to their aching bodies. Everywhere they walked, people looked at them curiously, finding it strange that two boys could look so happy and carefree despite being soaked and beaten up in the pouring rain.

It had been exactly three years since Naruto had been taken in by Shisui, and they had been the best three years of their lives. Naruto was about to turn ten years old in just one week, and he couldn't be more excited. Shisui had promised that this year's gift would be the best he had ever gotten. No matter how many times Naruto begged or pleaded, Shisui refused to give even the slightest hint of what it would be.

When they finally arrived back at their house, each went into their respective rooms to dry off and change clothes. This was one of the things that had surprised Naruto the most when he had first moved in with Shisui. Never before had Naruto had a room that belonged solely to him. He had always shared a room with many orphans, and later had been kicked out onto the streets as a child. The closest thing he had ever had to a room before was his own box, and those always got destroyed easily with the rain.

Naruto took a moment to look around his room, appreciating the warmth and comfort it provided. He had decorated it with various trinkets and drawings, each one holding a special memory from the past three years. The room was a testament to his journey, a symbol of the family he had found with Shisui.

After changing into dry clothes, Naruto went to the kitchen where Shisui was already preparing dinner. The smell of cooked rice and vegetables filled the air, making Naruto's stomach growl.

"What's for dinner, Shisui!?" Naruto asked, peeking over Shisui's shoulder.

"Your favorite—teriyaki chicken with ramen and miso soup," Shisui replied, smiling as he continued to cook.

Naruto's eyes lit up with excitement. "YESSS!!! AWESOME!"

As they sat down to eat, Naruto couldn't help but feel grateful for everything Shisui had done for him. He had gone from being a lonely orphan to having a brother who cared for him, trained him, and provided him with a home. Despite the challenges and hardships, Naruto knew he was lucky to have Shisui in his life.

"Thank you, Shisui-niisan," Naruto said suddenly, his voice filled with emotion.

Shisui looked up, surprised. "For what?"

"For everything. For taking care of me, for training me, for giving me a home. I... I don't know what I would have done without you," Naruto admitted, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Shisui reached across the table and ruffled Naruto's hair affectionately. "You're my family, Naruto. I'll always be here for you. And remember, you're not alone anymore. You have me, and you have the whole village supporting you."

Naruto smiled, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. He nodded, determined to become stronger and to protect those he cared about. With Shisui by his side, he knew he could face anything the future held.

As they finished their dinner and settled in for the night, the storm outside continued to rage. But inside, the house was filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Despite the challenges ahead, Naruto knew he was ready, and with Shisui's guidance, he would strive to become the best shinobi he could be.

⁂

Hokage Office

After watching the two interact the Crystal ball shut off and Hiruzen Sarutobi sat back in his chair, staring out the window of his office, the Hokage Monument providing a majestic yet solemn view of Konoha. Smoke from his pipe curled lazily around him, the familiar scent offering little comfort against the heavy burden on his shoulders. The growing tensions between the Uchiha clan and Kumo gnawed at his mind. Soon, delegates from Kumo would arrive in the village, and he yearned for a resolution that would prevent unnecessary violence.

Suddenly, the door to his office swung open, and Jiraiya appeared with his usual boisterous energy. "Sensei, it's been too long!" he exclaimed, striding into the room with a wide grin.

Hiruzen smiled, though it was tinged with weariness. "Jiraiya, it's good to see you. What brings you here?"

Jiraiya chuckled, rubbing the back of his head. "Oh, just gathering some important research for my next book. The hot springs are particularly inspiring this time of year." He winked, his tone dripping with suggestiveness.

Hiruzen sighed, shaking his head with a hint of amusement. "Still up to your old tricks, I see."

Jiraiya laughed heartily. "Some things never change, Sensei."

The mood in the room shifted as the conversation turned to more serious matters. Hiruzen took a deep drag from his pipe, the smoke lingering in the air as he gathered his thoughts. "Jiraiya, there's something I need to discuss with you. It's about Naruto."

Jiraiya's playful demeanor faded, replaced by a steely resolve. "I heard... Orochimaru dared to harm Naruto? That snake has gone too far this time. I promise you, Sensei, I'll be the one to end him."

Hiruzen held up a hand, his expression grave. "No, Jiraiya. It is my responsibility to deal with Orochimaru. However, I do need a favor from you."

Jiraiya frowned, concern etched on his face. "What do you need?"

Hiruzen took another deep drag from his pipe before speaking. "I need you to bring Tsunade back to the village. Naruto has undergone some concerning changes—his hair color has changed, and the density of his chakra is abnormal. I want Tsunade to conduct extensive blood work on him to understand what is happening. I can't keep relying on our doctors, no more excuses she needs to come back."

Jiraiya's frown deepened. "Tsunade? You know she'll never agree to come back. She's been wandering for years, avoiding anything to do with the village."

Hiruzen's gaze hardened, his voice resolute. "She has no choice in this matter. Do whatever is necessary to bring her back. Naruto's well-being and the future of Konoha depend on it."

Jiraiya sighed, the weight of the task settling on his shoulders. "Alright, Sensei. I'll find her and bring her back, but it won't be easy."

Hiruzen nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and determination. "I know it won't be, but I trust you, Jiraiya. Naruto needs her expertise, and the village needs her strength."

Jiraiya stood up, his usual carefree demeanor replaced by a serious resolve. "I'll leave right away. I'll find her, Sensei. You have my word." His gaze then softened up, "Hmph maybe I'll take the brat with me. Teach him a thing or two..."

As Jiraiya turned to leave, Hiruzen felt a glimmer of hope. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but with allies like Jiraiya and the potential return of Tsunade, there was a chance to protect Naruto and guide Konoha through these turbulent times.

Hiruzen watched as Jiraiya left the office, the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him once more. He took a final deep drag from his pipe, extinguished it, and turned back to the window, his thoughts heavy but his resolve unbroken. The village needed him, and he would do everything in his power to ensure its safety and prosperity.

Next Day

Naruto was bound by a faceless man, unable to move or escape as he leaned closer. The man's tongue flicked out, tasting the air as if savoring the fear emanating from Naruto. His voice, a sibilant whisper, slithered into Naruto's ear, "You will be the perfect vessel for my immortality, Naruto."

Desperation surged through Naruto as he struggled against his bindings, but it was futile. His hands were cold as they pressed against his face, tilting it this way and that, examining him like a prized specimen. "Such potential," The man murmured, "such raw power wasted on a child who doesn't even understand his own strength."

The scene shifted, and Naruto found himself in a laboratory, surrounded by containers filled with unidentifiable, grotesque experiments. The air was thick with the stench of decay and chemicals. The man's followers moved in the periphery of his vision, their faces obscured and their movements eerily silent.

"Just a little longer," His voice echoed around the room, distorted and distant as if coming from underwater. He was preparing something, a syringe filled with a glowing, ominous substance. "Once I inject you with my latest creation, you'll be more than just a ninja. You'll be eternal, just like me."

As the faceless approached with the needle, Naruto's helplessness turned into raw panic. He screamed, fought, and kicked, but nothing stopped the needle's slow, inevitable approach towards his skin.

Suddenly Naruto jolted awake, his body trembling and drenched in cold sweat. His heart pounded against his chest as the remnants of another nightmare clung to his mind. These nightmares had become more frequent lately, each one more intense than the last. He just didn't understand the dreams he had, where are they coming from?

Naruto sat up in bed, trying to shake off the lingering terror. The room was quiet, with only the soft patter of rain against the window to break the silence. He took a deep breath, running a hand through his now-dark red hair, a reminder of the changes that had begun to unsettle him. He wasn't sure what was happening to him, but he knew one thing: he needed to get out of the house, to find some semblance of normalcy.

After a few moments of collecting himself, Naruto decided there was only one place he could go that would take his mind off everything—Ichiraku Ramen. The thought of a steaming bowl of miso ramen made his mouth water, and the warmth and comfort of the small stand seemed like the perfect escape from his troubles.

He quickly dressed, slipping on his now-familiar Uchiha-crest shirt that Shisui had given him three years ago. It was a bit tighter now, a reminder of how much he had grown, but it was still a symbol of the bond he shared with Shisui, one of the few people he could truly call family.

Naruto stepped out into the damp morning air, the village still quiet as most of the residents were just beginning to wake up. The rain had lightened to a drizzle, and he pulled his hood up as he made his way through the streets, his feet carrying him instinctively toward the ramen stand. The nightmares still clung to him, but the promise of ramen gave him something to focus on.

He looked at around the streets with a bored look on his face. They looked as lively as always. Deep inside in that liveliness was deep hatred that disgusted him. Of course, the people of this village did not phase him at all. In his darkest moments he felt disgusted just by looking at them. He shoved those thoughts in the back of his head when he was interrupted rudely.

Someone hit him. He had sensed the person coming towards him, but he had not thought the man would actually bump into him. The hit was enough to send him tumbling backwards. But of course, he could have maneuvered that. However, people were not expecting an eight year old to actually do something like that. And so he hit the ground on his back before looking at the man.

''Watch where you going scum,'' the man ground out with as much as venom as he could muster. Naruto raised a ghost brow, the man had been the one to hit and and actually moved towards him, hitting him on purpose.

For a second he was tempted to curse the man and give him a chilling glare. But he settled for scratching the back of his head, while smiling nervously. ''Sorry, mister.'' he said apologetically.

''You better be,'' the man said, walking away.

Naruto almost looked amused when the man said that. He knew that behind the growl was barely hidden fear. He could swear that the man might have breathed a sigh of relief when he walked away from him. They seemed to like seeing him crawling beneath them. They were a bit sadistic sometimes. But it was okay, he did not care.

He looked around to see that almost everyone was ignoring him. But he did notice that someone gave a discreet apologetic smile. He nodded at the man and dusted himself as he stood. It was nothing new. He knew that not everyone in the village loathed him. He may be a social outcast but, there were some people who were at least kind. But they showed their kindness discreetly.

As he approached Ichiraku Ramen, the familiar sight of the red-and-white stand brought a small smile to his face. The warmth and light spilling out from the entrance felt like a beacon, guiding him toward a place of comfort. Pushing aside the flap, Naruto stepped inside, the scent of freshly made ramen instantly enveloping him.

"Naruto! Good morning!" Teuchi, the owner, greeted him with a wide grin as he wiped down the counter. Ayame, Teuchi's daughter, gave Naruto a warm smile as she prepared the broth.

"Morning, old man, Ayame," Naruto replied, his voice a little quieter than usual, but still managing to muster a grin.

"Your usual, Naruto?" Ayame asked, already reaching for the ingredients.

Naruto nodded, sliding onto his usual stool. "Yeah, please."

As he waited for his ramen, Naruto let his thoughts wander. The nightmares had been bad lately, but he didn't want to burden Shisui or anyone else with them. This place, Ichiraku, was his sanctuary—a place where he could just be himself, where the weight of his worries seemed to lift, even if only for a short time.

Ayame placed the steaming bowl of miso ramen in front of him, the rich aroma instantly lifting his spirits. "Here you go, Naruto."

Naruto's eyes lit up, and for the first time that morning, his smile felt genuine. "Thanks!"

He dug in, the warm broth and tender noodles soothing him from the inside out. For a moment, the nightmares, and the looming concerns about his future all faded away. All that mattered was the comforting, familiar taste of his favorite food and the sense of belonging he found at Ichiraku.

As he ate, Naruto couldn't help but feel a bit more at ease. Maybe things were changing—he didn't fully understand why or how—but as long as he had places like this, and people like Shisui he'll forever be happy.

"Another bowl, Naruto?" Ayame asked with a warm smile, her hands already reaching for the ladle.

Naruto grinned widely. "You know me too well, Ayame!"

As Ayame began preparing another serving, Naruto's gaze softened. He watched her work, as Teuchi, hummed a cheerful tune as he chopped vegetables nearby.

"Hey, Ayame," Naruto began hesitantly, "I just wanted to say... thank you. To you and old man Teuchi."

Ayame paused, looking up at him with curiosity. "Hmm? For what, Naruto?"

"For everything," Naruto replied, his voice earnest.

"You guys have always been here for me, even when no one else was. You've fed me when I didn't have any money, gave me a place to belong when I felt like I didn't have one."

Ayame's expression softened, and she set down the ladle, leaning on the counter to be closer to him. "Naruto, you don't have to thank us. You're like family to us. We've watched you grow up, seen you overcome so much. Now look at you, a big boy in the academy."

Naruto's eyes glistened with emotion. "You and the old man... you believed in me when no one else did. When I was just a lonely kid everyone hated, you treated me like a normal person. That meant more than you'll ever know."

Teuchi, having overheard their conversation, walked over and placed a reassuring hand on Naruto's shoulder. "Naruto, you are family. We've always seen the good in you, even when others couldn't. Your heart is as big as this village, and we knew you will grow into someone incredible."

Naruto looked between the two of them, his heart swelling with gratitude. "Whenever things gets tough, I knew I can come here. I know you'll be here for me. It's like... like you are my light in the darkest times."

Ayame reached out and gently squeezed his hand. "And we'll always be that light for you, Naruto. No matter what."

Naruto nodded, feeling a sense of warmth and security envelop him. "I promise I'll make you proud. I'll become Hokage, and I'll make sure everyone knows how important you both are to me."

Teuchi chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "We already are proud of you, Naruto. You've come so far, and we know you'll achieve your dreams. You should tell Shisui to stop by some time so we can all catch up together."

Naruto nodded as started on his second bowl of ramen, he felt a renewed sense of determination. He wasn't alone. He had a family here at Ichiraku Ramen, a place where he was always welcome, always loved. And with that knowledge, he knew he could face anything the world threw at him.

The three of them shared a moment of quiet camaraderie, the bond between them strengthened by years of unwavering support and kindness. In that small ramen shop, Naruto felt truly at home.

His thoughts were interrupted when someone approached. He looked up expecting Shisui, Itachi and his brother approaching, instead he found that a tall woman who was wearing some slightly fancy looking robes, had long red hair, and had a small reassuring smile on her face. He was slightly caught by surprised because this is the first time he's seen somebody else with the same hair color as his.

"Pardon me my dear boy, is this seat taken?" The middle aged woman motioned to the seat right next to Naruto at the counter.

The boy was taken aback. No one aside from Shisui or Itachi has ever wanted to next to him at the ramen stand. At first he thought the old hag was up to something but one look at his smile again quickly diminished any one of those thoughts.

"Sure, help yourself."

She smiled and sat down quietly. Suddenly the atmosphere changed, completely.

''I-I am going to see if father needs help,'' Ayame said, before she hastily left the boy alone confused.

The red haired woman then rested her arms slightly over the counter. Naruto took a closer look at the woman, but couldn't recognize her. True, he didn't know every single person in the village but something about this lady made it feel like she wasn't from around here. It felt even more evidenced by her clothes. The young boy has never seen anyone in the village wear robes like that. They weren't incredibly fancy, but they definitely looked out of place.

"To answer your unasked question dear boy, no I am not from this village. I'm visiting from my own home."

Naruto was caught a bit off guard from the woman's statement and then immediately asked the first question that came to his mind.

"Eh. Can you read my thoughts or something old lady?"

Naruto has never heard of anyone outside of the Yamanaka clan capable of reading thoughts. Every time he's asked Ino about her clan she's always told him to buzz off and that it was none of his business. The woman gained a tik mark at the old comment then looked at him and simply smiled.

"No, it's easy to see when you are confused, Naruto Uzumaki and I'm not old..."

Naruto definitely wasn't prepared for that. How did this hag know who he was? No one outside the village should know him considering he's never been out the village before.

The red head woman smiled once more, "You seem surprised my boy. Well you shouldn't be. It's in fact rare for an Uzumaki such as yourself to be alive and well."

Naruto looked at the lady with wide eyes. Normally after hearing something positive like that, he would be bouncing off the walls with joy. Stroking his own ego about how he will definitely become Hokage after a feat like that. Instead confusion engulfed his face again and he just looked back down at the counter. Folding his arms up and resting his chin against his hands.

"What seems to be the matter?" The woman reached out and placed a soft hand on his shoulder again. Naruto looked up at her and tried masking his confusion and hesitation.

"Oh, it's nothing ma'am. I just can't wait to eat my ramen!"

Naruto licked his lips and flexed his fingers constantly. Trying to make it look like he was impatient to get his meal. The old man merely smiled again and took his hand off Naruto's shoulder.

"It seems you are also very skilled in the art of deception too dear boy. However, when you've lived as long and traveled as far and wide as I have, you learn to sense when someone is showing you their true feelings and when they are not. So what's wrong young one?"

Naruto couldn't believe it. Only old man Teuchi has ever seen through his fake smiles. Before he could think further on the subject though, Teuchi came back with a big steamy bowl of his famous ramen in his hands and placed it in front of Naruto.

"There you are Naruto. One big bowl of beef ramen!"

The ramen chef was about to turn away when he noticed the red hair woman sitting next to the boy. A red blush painted his cheeks at the sight of the beauty before him.

"Uh O-Oh, I didn't see you there! Would like anything to eat or drink ma'am?" He said earnestly with a slight nose bleed.

The woman smiled at the chef and gave her order.

"Yes, I believe I will have what my new friend here is having and also some green tea please."

"Sure, coming right up!" The ramen chef then proceeded back into his kitchen to prepare the new order. Naruto meanwhile was so busy looking at the woman next to him that he completely forgot about the big bowl of ramen in front of him which is a rare occurrence indeed!

"You... really want to be my friend?"

The woman looked at him again. That same soft smile still gracing his face.

"Of course! You seem like a nice young man to me. Not to mention that from what I have heard of you is that you are pleasant, talented, and loyal to a fault. Why wouldn't anyone want to be your friend when you have such admirable qualities?"

Naruto would have to ask Shisui later to help train him to keep his guard up better because once again, for what seemed like the millionth time, the strange lady next to him seemed to catch him off guard again! He's never been complemented like that before. Not even by either Iruka sensei or Old Man Third!

He smiled slightly but, a look of depression began to creep its way onto Naruto's face.

"Well a lot of the villagers and kids my age here hate me because they think I'm an annoying loser who does nothing but pull pranks and doesn't take his studying seriously."

Naruto scratched his cheek nervously causing the lady to nod her head.

"Well, I don't think that at all my boy. Quite the opposite in fact. I think you're a shinobi that has extraordinary potential. The only negative quality I can think for you right now is that your allowing that delicious looking ramen of yours to go cold!"

Naruto's eyes went as wide as dinner plates and yelled as he realized that the lady was right. He's been neglecting his absolute favorite meal! He immediately broke his chopsticks and started to scarf down his ramen. Throwing his table manners right out the window, but his new friend didn't seem to mind.

While he was eating he thought about what the old man said. That he had extraordinary potential. This new friend of his was really starting to soar high up there in his list of favorite and most precious people. Just right below his teammates.

"In fact it's more than likely because of your potential that your fellow shinobi and the villagers treat you so horribly Naruto. They may not like you because they don't trust you, and they don't trust you because they fear you. Fear for the power inside you."

Naruto stopped mid-eating and just looked at the old man. Eyes wide and full of fear.

Before Naruto could confirm his worst fears the woman patted Naruto on top of the head.

"It is only natural Naruto. People often fear what they don't understand. No matter how much they try to deny it. It is in their nature."

Just as the lady finished talking his. Teuchi came back with another big bowl of ramen and a cup of green tea.

"Here you are! One large bowl of beef ramen and a cup of green tea. Can I get you anything else?" He asked probably a bit too eager.

"No thank you. That's quite enough for me."

Naruto slurped the last of his ramen, his mind reeling from everything the mysterious woman had said. His gaze kept flicking to her, trying to piece together who she was and how she knew so much about him. The way she spoke—so calm, so confident—reminded him of someone, but he couldn't quite place it.

As the woman took delicate sips of her green tea, she glanced over at Naruto, her smile never fading. "You should never let anyone's fear or ignorance define who you are, Naruto. The world is vast, and your path is yours to carve. You have the blood of the Uzumaki in you—a clan known for their strength and resilience. It's in your nature to stand tall, even in the face of adversity."

Naruto blinked, processing her words. "Uzumaki... You mean, I really have a clan? Like... a real big family?" His voice was small, almost afraid to hope.

The woman nodded, her expression softening. "Yes, a family with a rich history and powerful abilities. I even know your mother..."

Naruto eyes widened, nobody even Shisui told him anything about his parents. So how did this stranger know? Seeing his befuddled look she continued.

"Your mother, Kushina, was an Uzumaki—one of the strongest kunoichi Konoha has ever seen. And you, Naruto, have inherited her spirit."

Naruto's heart skipped a beat. His mother... someone he never had the chance to know. But here was this woman, sitting beside him, telling him about his heritage, about a clan he never knew existed. His emotions swirled—excitement, confusion, and a deep yearning to learn more.

"Why... Why are you telling me all this?" Naruto asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

The woman set down her cup, her gaze locking onto his. "Because you deserve to know who you are. And because, despite what anyone else says, you have the right to be proud of your lineage. The Uzumaki were known for their mastery of sealing techniques, for their boundless vitality, and their fierce loyalty to those they loved. You carry that legacy within you."

Naruto felt a strange warmth in his chest. He had always been alone, always felt like an outsider, but now, for the first time, he felt like he belonged to something bigger than himself.

The woman reached into her robe and pulled out two books, setting them gently in front of Naruto. One was titled *Uzumaki Clan History, and the other, *Fundamentals of Sealing Techniques*.

Naruto stared at the books, his hands trembling slightly as he picked them up. "These are... for me?"

The woman nodded. "Yes. These will help you understand more about your heritage, about the power that runs through your veins. Use them wisely, Naruto."

Naruto clutched the books to his chest, feeling a mix of gratitude and determination. He had always wanted to prove himself, to show the village that he was more than just the loser or wanna be Uchiha. Now, he had a new goal—to honor the Uzumaki name and become the strongest shinobi he could be.

"Thank you," he said earnestly, his eyes shining with newfound resolve. "Thank you for telling me all this."

The woman smiled warmly, reaching out to ruffle his hair. "You're welcome, Naruto. Just remember, no matter what happens, you're never truly alone. Your clan's strength lives on in you, and so does the love of those who came before you. If you ever want to know more about your family just seek me out but keep this a secret. Nobody and I mean nobody can know about me."

Naruto nodded, feeling a deep connection to the woman, as if he had known her all his life. But before he could ask her more, she began to stand.

"Wait!" Naruto called out. "What's your name?"

The woman paused, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "You can call me... Fūka."

And with that, she turned and left the ramen stand, disappearing into the rain-soaked streets of Konoha. Naruto watched her go, the name echoing in his mind. He knew he had just met someone important, someone who had given him a glimpse into a part of himself he had never known.

As he sat there, the weight of the books in his arms, Naruto made a silent vow. He would learn everything he could about the Uzumaki clan, about his mother, and about the power that flowed through his blood. He would prove to the village, to himself, and to this mysterious woman, that he was worthy of the name Uzumaki.

And one day, he would make them all proud.

Naruto held the books close to his chest, his mind swirling with everything the mysterious woman—Fūka—had told him. He was so deep in thought that he didn't notice Shisui and a tall man with long white hair and red streaks down his face approach the ramen stand. It wasn't until he heard Shisui's familiar voice that he snapped back to reality.

"Hey, Naruto!" Shisui called out, a smile on his face as he approached with the tall man. "I see you're enjoying some ramen. How many bowls this time?"

Naruto grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. "Just one this time, Shisui!"

The tall man chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Only one? I expected more from the kid who managed to talk up a pretty lady at a ramen stand. You've got potential, kid!"

Naruto blinked, looking up at the man, confusion written all over his face. "Pretty lady?"

Shisui nodded, leaning against the counter. "Yeah, the red-haired woman who was just here. She was talking to you, right? Who was she?"

Naruto's heart skipped a beat. He remembered Fūka's words, her soft voice telling him about his heritage, and the promise she had made him keep. He couldn't tell them—not yet. Not until he understood everything himself.

"Oh, uh, her?" Naruto stammered, trying to keep his voice steady. "I don't really know her. She just sat down and started talking. And, uh, I got these books from the library. Thought I'd, you know, read up on some stuff."

Shisui raised an eyebrow, clearly puzzled by Naruto's reaction. He could sense something was off, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. Still, Naruto had always been full of surprises, so he shrugged it off. "Well, alright then. Just make sure you actually read them and don't just use them as a pillow, okay?"

Naruto laughed nervously. "Yeah, yeah, I'll read them, I promise."

The tall man crossed his arms, looking down at Naruto with a wide grin. "So, you don't know who she was, huh? No worries, kid. You've still got plenty of time to work on your charm. But hey, before we get down to business, you should know who I am."

Naruto looked up at the man, tilting his head in curiosity. "Who are you, anyway?"

With a flourish, the man struck a bizarre pose, one leg up and his arms spread wide, his voice booming with exaggerated pride. "I am the greatest ladies' man on earth! The one and only, the legendary Jiraiya the Gallant!"

Naruto and Shisui both sweat-dropped at the dramatic display. Naruto couldn't help but let out a small chuckle, not quite sure what to make of this strange man. "Uh, nice to meet you… Mr. Jiraiya?"

Jiraiya grinned, clearly pleased with the title. "That's right, kid! You've got good taste recognizing greatness when you see it. And as your sensei, I'll teach you everything there is to know about being a shinobi—and maybe even a little about handling the ladies!"

Shisui rolled his eyes, though there was a hint of a smile on his lips. "Right, well, before you get too carried away, Jiraiya-sama, the Hokage asked to see Naruto. We should head there now."

Naruto nodded, his grip tightening on the books as he followed Shisui and Jiraiya out of the ramen stand. As they walked through the streets of Konoha, Naruto couldn't help but glance back at the spot where Fūka had been sitting. He still didn't know who she was, but he knew that her words—and the knowledge she had given him—would change his life.

As they approached the Hokage's office, Naruto felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. He had so many questions, and he was determined to find the answers. But for now, he had to keep his promise and protect the secret Fūka had entrusted him with.

When they finally reached the office, Hiruzen was waiting for them, his expression serious. "Naruto, Shisui, Jiraiya… thank you for coming."

Naruto stepped forward, his heart pounding in his chest. "You wanted to see me, old man?"

Hiruzen nodded, his gaze softening as he looked at Naruto. "Yes, Naruto. There are important matters we need to discuss—about your training, your future, and the changes you've been experiencing. We found a solution and Jiraiya here needs your help.."

Naruto swallowed hard, glancing down at the books in his hands. He knew that whatever happened next, it would set him on a path that would define not just his future, but the future of the village as well.

And with that thought in mind, Naruto took a deep breath and stepped into the Hokage's office, ready to face whatever came next.