As Naruto sat on the training grounds, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon, Miku approached him with a tentative smile. "Hey, Naruto," she began, her voice soft yet determined. "Mind if I join you?"
Naruto glanced up, his expression guarded but not unwelcoming. "Sure, go ahead," he replied, his tone neutral.
Miku settled herself beside him, crossing her legs and casting a thoughtful glance at their surroundings. "Beautiful day, isn't it?" she remarked, hoping to spark a conversation.
Ayato, who had been quietly observing from a short distance away, chimed in unexpectedly. "Yeah, it's nice," he agreed, his voice earnest. "Perfect weather for training."
Miku nodded in agreement before turning her attention back to Naruto. "So, Naruto," she began, her voice gentle yet curious. "I've been meaning to ask you... What made you want to become a shinobi?"
Naruto paused for a moment, considering his response carefully. "Well," he started, his voice measured. "I guess I've always admired the strength and resilience of shinobi. Wanted to prove myself, I guess."
As the three teammates sat together, Ayato's optimism bubbled to the surface like a spring in full bloom. With a confident grin, he declared, "Hey, guys, no need to worry about the test today. With our skills combined, we'll pass with ease!"
Miku chuckled softly at Ayato's unwavering positivity, her eyes alight with amusement. "Ayato, you never cease to amaze me with your optimism," she remarked, her tone affectionate. "But let's not get too ahead of ourselves. We should stay focused and prepared for whatever challenges come our way."
Ayato's grin widened at Miku's words, undeterred by her caution. "Come on, Miku, where's your sense of adventure?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "We've trained hard Academy for this moment, and I have complete faith in our abilities!"
Miku's smile remained gentle but firm as she met Ayato's gaze. "I'm all for adventure, Ayato, but a healthy dose of realism never hurt anyone," she replied, her tone gentle yet firm. "Let's stay optimistic, but let's also be ready to face whatever obstacles come our way."
Naruto observed the exchange between his teammates with a raised eyebrow, his expression bordering on skeptical. "Ayato, while it's good to be optimistic, we shouldn't underestimate the challenges ahead," he interjected, his voice calm but firm. "In our world, it pays to be prepared for the worst."
Ayato's grin faltered slightly at Naruto's words, his enthusiasm tempered by a flicker of uncertainty. "I hear you, Naruto," he conceded, his tone more subdued. "I just... I believe in us, you know? We'll face whatever comes our way, together."
As the team prepared for the upcoming test, Naruto's gaze remained focused on the task at hand, his expression a mask of determination. "Well, whatever happens, let's not get too overly excited during today's test," he remarked, his voice calm yet resolute.
Miku, her eyes filled with curiosity, turned towards Naruto with a gentle smile. "You don't talk a lot, Naruto," she observed, her tone warm and inviting.
Naruto shrugged nonchalantly, his gaze shifting briefly to the ground before returning to meet Miku's eyes. "I... well, many people don't talk with me, so I mostly stay quiet," he explained, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation.
Ayato, sensing the tension in the air, interjected with a reassuring smile. "Well, now we're a team and friends, okay?" he declared, his voice cheerful and upbeat.
Naruto's expression softened slightly at Ayato's words, a faint hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips.
"Yeah, sure," he replied, his tone subdued yet sincere. He glanced at his teammates, a silent acknowledgment passing between them as they stood united in the face of whatever challenges lay ahead.
As the sun began its Rise towards the horizon, casting a warm golden hue over the training grounds, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. Naruto, Miku, and Ayato had been waiting patiently for their sensei to arrive, their excitement tempered by a hint of nervousness.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Rin Nohara appeared on the scene, her presence commanding attention. "I'm here, cuties!" she announced with a grin, her eyes sparkling mischievously as she greeted her young students.
The trio of genin-to-be exchanged amused glances at Rin's playful demeanor, their expressions shifting from anticipation to mild exasperation. "Welcome, Rin-sensei," they chimed in unison, though their deadpan expressions betrayed their true feelings.
Naruto, ever the master of sarcasm, couldn't resist a quip as Rin approached. "Yeah, welcome," he remarked dryly, earning a raised eyebrow from his sensei. "Congratulations on your prompt arrival, sensei," he added with a hint of sarcasm, unable to resist poking fun at the delay.
Rin chuckled at Naruto's remark, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ah, always the charmer, Naruto," she teased, shaking her head in mock disapproval. "I'll have to remember that when it's time to assign missions."
With a playful wink, Rin shifted gears, her tone becoming more businesslike. "Alright, cuties, enough chit-chat. It's time to get down to business," she declared, her voice taking on a more serious note. "Group up, and I'll explain the test to you."
As the trio huddled together, Rin began outlining the details of the test, her words punctuated by dramatic gestures and theatrical flair. Ayato and Miku exchanged amused glances at their sensei's theatrics, while Naruto couldn't help but offer a candid observation.
"Dramatic explanation, sensei," Naruto remarked bluntly, his tone tinged with amusement. Ayato and Miku stifled laughter at Naruto's straightforwardness, finding themselves endeared by his unfiltered honesty.
With Rin's guidance, the team braced themselves for the challenges that lay ahead, ready to prove themselves worthy of the title of genin of the Village Hidden in the Leaves.
Rin stood before her young charges, her gaze steady and determined as she prepared to lay out the details of their first test as a team. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the training grounds, adding a sense of urgency to the air.
"Well, listen up, cuties," Rin began, her voice firm yet encouraging. "You're about to embark on your first test as genin of the Leaf Village."
The trio of genin-to-be leaned in attentively, their eyes fixed on Rin as she continued. "You have three hours to retrieve these bells," she explained, holding up two small, gleaming bells in her hand. "But here's the catch: there are only two bells, which means that one of you will fail."
Ayato furrowed his brow, processing Rin's words. "Wait, so if there are only two bells, that means one of us won't be able to get one," he pointed out, his tone tinged with concern.
Rin nodded in affirmation, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "That's right, Ayato," she confirmed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Only those who can demonstrate the qualities of a true shinobi will be able to claim a bell."
Ayato exchanged a knowing glance with his teammates, a silent understanding passing between them. With determination etched on their faces, they knew that failure was not an option.
As Rin prepared to send them off on their test, she kept one crucial detail hidden from her young students: the importance of teamwork. It was a secret she held close, knowing that the true test lay not in their individual abilities, but in their ability to work together as a team.
With a final nod from Rin, the three genin set off into the training grounds, their hearts pounding with anticipation. As they disappeared into the shadows, each one resolved to do whatever it took to succeed, knowing that their futures as shinobi depended on it.
Rin stood alone in the center of the training grounds, her gaze scanning the surrounding forest with a mixture of pride and anticipation. The air was thick with tension as she waited for her young students to make their move, hidden amongst the dense foliage.
With a sense of determination, Rin placed the hourglass on the ground before her, the grains of sand trickling steadily downward. "Our test begins now, cuties," she announced, her voice carrying across the clearing. "Best of luck to you all."
As the final grains of sand began their descent, Rin's eyes narrowed with focus, her senses alert for any sign of movement from her hidden students. She knew that this test would push them to their limits, forcing them to rely on their training, instincts, and each other in order to succeed.
In the shadows of the forest, Naruto, Miku, and Ayato crouched low, their hearts pounding with adrenaline as they prepared to spring into action. With each passing moment, their anticipation grew, fueled by the knowledge that their futures as shinobi hung in the balance.
Rin stood alone in the center of the training grounds, a solitary figure surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the forest. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting the world in a soft, ethereal glow as evening approached. The air was charged with anticipation, a palpable energy that hummed through the trees.
With a sense of purpose, Rin reached into her pouch and withdrew an hourglass, its sands shimmering in the fading light. Placing it on the ground before her, she turned to face the dense thicket of trees that bordered the clearing.
"Test begins now, cuties," Rin declared, her voice carrying through the stillness of the forest. She cast a meaningful glance towards the shadows, knowing that her young students were hidden within, poised and ready to begin.
With a flick of her wrist, Rin turned the hourglass, the sand grains trickling down in a steady stream. Time was of the essence, and the countdown had begun.
"Best of luck to you all," Rin called out, her words carrying a note of encouragement. She watched with pride as her students prepared to face the challenges ahead.
As the sands of the hourglass continued to trickle down, the tension in the training grounds reached its peak. Ayato, hidden in the shadows of the forest, waited for the opportune moment to strike. With a swift and silent movement, he emerged from the bushes, his determination evident in every step.
With a fierce battle cry, Ayato launched himself towards Rin, his fist aimed squarely at her chest. But Rin was prepared, her instincts sharp as she sidestepped his attack with ease, the rush of wind brushing past her cheek.
As Ayato stumbled forward, Rin anticipated his next move. With lightning-fast reflexes, he slammed both hands onto the ground, propelling himself backward in a desperate attempt to regain his balance. But Rin was one step ahead, dodging his maneuver with graceful agility.
As Ayato's leg whizzed past her cheek, Rin seized the opportunity, grabbing hold of his limb with a firm grip. "You know, cutie," she remarked with a playful twinkle in her eye, "sometimes it's good to let out that anger."
Ayato's confusion was evident as he tried to comprehend Rin's words amidst the chaos of their spar. "Ouch!" he exclaimed as Rin began to Slam Ayato Here and there
Each blow landing with precision and force. "Hey, watch it!" he protested, his voice laced with a mixture of pain and exasperation.
But Rin's onslaught continued, her movements fluid and calculated as she pushed Ayato to his limits. With each strike, she urged him to tap into the depths of his emotions, encouraging him to channel his anger into strength.
As the spar raged on, Ayato gritted his teeth and focused on weathering Rin's barrage. Despite the pain and exhaustion, he knew that every blow was a lesson, a reminder of the resilience that lay within him. And as Rin's final strike landed, Ayato felt a surge of determination course through his veins, driving him to rise once more and face whatever challenges lay ahead.
In the dense foliage of the forest, Miku crouched low behind a thicket of bushes, her breaths shallow and controlled as she observed the unfolding scene. Nearby, Naruto remained hidden in the shadows, his keen eyes scanning the clearing with unwavering focus.
As Rin Gave Ayato a Beat down of the day, Miku couldn't help but tense, her fingers gripping the kunai at her side in anticipation. "Careful, Ayato," she murmured under her breath, her voice barely a whisper amidst the rustle of leaves.
Meanwhile, Naruto watched with a mixture of concern and frustration as Ayato's impulsive actions played out before him. With a shake of his head, he sighed softly, a furrow forming on his brow. "I told that guy not to rush in blindly," he muttered to himself, his words tinged with exasperation.
As Ayato lay sprawled on the ground, his leg released from Rin's grasp, he looked up at his sensei with a mixture of frustration and admiration. Rin stood before him, her stance poised and confident, a faint smile playing on her lips.
With a swift kick, Rin sent Ayato tumbling backward, his body skidding across the forest floor.
As he struggled to regain his footing, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of humiliation at being so effortlessly bested by his sensei.
Rin watched Ayato's retreat with a playful gleam in her eye, her voice laced with mock sympathy. "Bye bye, cutie," she taunted, her words dripping with sarcasm as she waved him off with a dismissive flick of her hand.
Ayato gritted his teeth in frustration, his pride stung by Rin's teasing. But beneath the embarrassment, he couldn't help but feel a grudging respect for her skill and agility. Rising to his feet, he brushed off the dirt and debris, determination burning in his eyes.
"I'll get you next time, sensei," Ayato vowed, his voice tinged with determination as he squared his shoulders and prepared to rejoin the fray. With renewed resolve, he charged back into the fray, eager to prove himself worthy of the title of genin.
From his vantage point hidden amongst the foliage, Naruto watched with a mix of concern and amusement as Ayato went flying through the air, propelled by Rin's well-aimed kick. His forehead creased with worry as he observed his teammate's unexpected departure from the battleground.
As Rin's mocking farewell reached his ears, Naruto couldn't help but roll his eyes in exasperation. "Really, Rin-sensei? 'Bye bye, cutie'?" he muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with disbelief. "Talk about being melodramatic."
Though he couldn't deny the impressive display of Rin's prowess, Naruto found himself unable to resist poking fun at her theatrics. After all, what was the point of being a shinobi if you couldn't appreciate a little bit of humor in the midst of battle?
Miku sat back, her eyes narrowed in concentration as she observed the unfolding skirmish between Naruto and Rin. The tension in the air was palpable as Naruto made his move, his determination evident in every calculated step.
As Naruto touched his palm, he felt the reassuring weight of the hidden machines bestowed upon him by Hiruzen. With a silent resolve, he sprang into action, leaping gracefully from the cover of the trees.
"Well, let's get this boy's test out," Naruto murmured to himself, his voice filled with determination as he closed in on Rin.
With lightning speed, Naruto drew two kunai from his sleeves, his movements fluid and precise. He closed the distance between himself and Rin, his intent clear as he prepared to strike.
Naruto shifted his grip on the kunai, his eyes focused and his muscles tense with anticipation. With a fierce determination, he slashed at Rin with his left hand, only to have her deftly evade the attack.
Undeterred, Naruto switched to his right hand, launching another attack that Rin effortlessly dodged. With a quick and fluid motion, Naruto attempted to catch Rin off guard with a simultaneous strike from both kunai, but once again, she slipped away unscathed.
Miku remained hidden in the shadows, her gaze fixed on the unfolding battle between Naruto and Rin. She watched with keen interest as Naruto made his move, his movements fluid and precise.
Rin watched Naruto's aggressive assault with amusement, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, cutie, your combat is aggressive. Who hurt you?" she quipped, her tone lighthearted as she dodged Naruto's onslaught.
Undeterred, Naruto continued to press the attack, his determination unyielding as he spun the kunai in a dazzling display of skill. With each movement, he sought to find an opening in Rin's defenses, his focus unwavering.
But Rin was a seasoned shinobi, and she parried Naruto's blows with finesse, her movements fluid and precise. As Naruto lunged forward with a final, desperate stab, Rin deftly countered his attack, her eyes twinkling with a mixture of amusement and admiration.
The two shinobi faced off in the fading light of the forest, their movements a dance of steel and shadow. And as the battle raged on, Miku could only watch in awe at the display of skill unfolding before her.
As Rin deftly moved Naruto's hand away from her, her eyes narrowed with concentration, anticipating his next move. But to her surprise, Naruto's hand inadvertently came in front of her face, a smirk playing at his lips. Before Rin could react, Naruto swiftly released the switch concealed in his palm.
With a sudden motion, a thin chain shot forth from Naruto's hidden machinery, hurtling towards Rin's face at a startling speed. Rin's eyes widened in surprise, her instincts kicking in as she attempted to dodge the unexpected attack.
The chain whizzed past Rin's cheek, the air around it crackling with energy as it sliced through the air. Rin's heart raced as she narrowly avoided the deadly projectile, her senses on high alert as she assessed the situation.
Surprised by the sudden appearance of the chain, Rin couldn't help but marvel at Naruto's ingenuity. "Impressive," she muttered under her breath, a hint of admiration in her voice. "I didn't expect that."
Naruto grinned at Rin's reaction, a sense of satisfaction washing over him as he watched her assess the new threat. "Just keeping you on your toes, Rin-sensei," he replied, his voice tinged with amusement. "Can't make it too easy for you, can I?"
(In 1100 AD - 1200 AD Crossbow were not introduced in Japan)
As Rin gracefully dodged Naruto's relentless assault, the three-tailed turtle, Isobu, sealed within her, observed the unfolding battle with keen interest. "Impressive weapon," Isobu commented, its deep voice echoing within Rin's mind. "But not impressive enough to land a hit."
Rin couldn't help but smirk at Isobu's remark, her confidence unshaken even in the face of Naruto's unexpected attack. With a swift motion, she seized the opportunity to counter, delivering a powerful blow that sent Naruto reeling.
As Naruto staggered backward, Rin wasted no time in following up with another decisive move, slamming him into the ground with a force that knocked the wind out of him. With a grunt of pain, Naruto found himself hurled away into the dense foliage of the forest.
As he lay hidden among the trees, Naruto couldn't help but marvel at Rin's skill and power. "Well, that's surprising," he muttered to himself, his mind racing as he assessed the situation.
"I remember now," Rin murmured to herself, a thoughtful expression crossing her features. "The scroll said Naruto wasn't particularly proficient in taijutsu, but it also mentioned something about his acrobatic abilities."
With a furrowed brow, Rin considered the contradiction between the assessment and Naruto's current performance. Despite what the scroll had indicated, Naruto's taijutsu skills were clearly impressive, far surpassing what had been described.
"It seems there's more to Naruto's abilities than meets the eye," Rin mused aloud, her curiosity piqued. She made a mental note to delve deeper into Naruto's unique skill set, intrigued by the discrepancy between the academy's assessment and the reality before her.
Isobu, ever observant, chimed in once again, its deep rumble tinged with amusement. "Well, that explains his good taijutsu," the three-tailed turtle remarked. "His body is perfectly trained for his combat style."
Rin nodded in agreement, her expression thoughtful as she considered Naruto's performance. "It seems like someone was holding back in the academy," she mused aloud, a hint of admiration in her voice. "But not anymore."
Rin closed her eyes and focused, extending her senses to their fullest extent as she sought to locate her missing student, Miku. The forest around her seemed to come alive with a symphony of sounds, each rustle of leaves and chirp of birds serving as a clue in her search.
But despite her heightened awareness, Rin found herself unable to pinpoint Miku's whereabouts. "Hmm, clever girl," she muttered to herself, a hint of amusement tugging at the corners of her lips. "Playing hide and seek, are we?"
With a knowing smile, Rin decided to test the resourcefulness of her young charges. She knew that the true purpose of the test lay not in the bells themselves, but in the lessons learned along the way.
"Let's see if these brats can find out the true meaning of the test," Rin thought to herself, her eyes gleaming with waited patiently for her students to rise to the challenge and prove themselves worthy of the title of genin.
As Ayato slowly worked up the strength to rise from the forest floor, he felt a gentle hand resting on his chest. Startled, he looked up to find Miku kneeling beside him, her expression filled with concern.
"U-um, M-Miku," Ayato stammered, his cheeks flushing crimson as he struggled to find the right words.
Miku shook her head, her gaze softening as she assessed his condition. "Stay down," she said firmly, her voice laced with authority. "Your ribs are broken. I know some medical ninjutsu. I might be able to heal them."
Ayato's eyes widened in surprise at Miku's offer of help. Despite his embarrassment, he nodded gratefully, recognizing the sincerity in her eyes. "Th-thank you, Miku," he managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper.
After successfully healing Ayato's broken ribs, Miku stood up, her expression softening as she looked down at him. "Okay, now you're healed, Ayato-kun," she said gently, offering him a reassuring smile.
Ayato nodded gratefully, feeling a wave of relief wash over him as the pain in his ribs subsided. "Thank you, Miku," he replied, his voice filled with gratitude.
As Ayato started to sit up, Miku placed a hand on his shoulder, stopping him gently. "But before you go," she continued, her tone becoming more serious, "can you do me a favor? Naruto is about 50 yards away. Could you bring him here, please?"
Ayato blinked in surprise at Miku's request, but then nodded with a smile. "Of course, Miku," he said, determination flickering in his eyes. "Consider it done." With that, he pushed himself to his feet and set off towards where Naruto was hidden, eager to fulfill his teammate's request.
Naruto waited patiently, his eyes fixed on Rin as he anticipated her next move. He could feel the tension in the air, the excitement of the test coursing through his veins.
Suddenly, he sensed movement behind him and turned to see Ayato and Miku approaching. With a raised eyebrow, he regarded them curiously, wondering what had prompted their arrival.
"What's going on?" Naruto asked, his voice tinged with curiosity as he eyed his teammates.
Ayato exchanged a quick glance with Miku before responding. "Miku asked me to bring you here," he explained, a hint of uncertainty in his voice.
Naruto's brow furrowed slightly as he processed Ayato's words. "Bring me here?" he echoed, his expression growing more puzzled by the moment. "But why?"
Miku stepped forward, her gaze meeting Naruto's with determination. "There's something we need to discuss," she said, her voice firm and resolute.
Miku glanced between Naruto and Ayato, her expression grave as she prepared to reveal her plan. "Naruto, Ayato, listen carefully," she began, her voice low but resolute. "Rin is a jounin, a highly skilled and experienced shinobi. We, on the other hand, are new genin fresh out of the academy."
Naruto furrowed his brow, his mind racing as he tried to grasp the implications of Miku's words. "What are you getting at?" he asked, his tone tinged with uncertainty.
Miku met Naruto's gaze squarely, her eyes reflecting the seriousness of the situation. "Try to understand, Naruto," she explained patiently. "Rin's skill level far surpasses ours. We won't be able to beat her in a straight fight."
Ayato nodded in agreement, his earlier bravado replaced by a sense of resignation. "So, what should we do then?" he asked, his voice tinged with frustration.
Miku paused for a moment, considering her options before a determined glint sparked in her eyes. "Should we try to attack her?" Ayato suggested tentatively, the idea lingering in the air like a fragile hope.
Naruto pondered Ayato's suggestion for a moment before shrugging nonchalantly. "Well, let's give it a try, I guess," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.
Miku's lips curved into a small smile as she nodded in agreement. "I have a plan," she declared confidently, her gaze flickering between Naruto and Ayato. "But we'll need to work together and be strategic about it. Are you both ready?"
As two hours passed, Rin remained standing alone in the open forest, her senses on high alert as she waited for any sign of movement from her young students. With each passing minute, the tension in the air grew thicker, the silence broken only by the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze.
Deciding to shake things up, Rin raised her voice, calling out into the forest in a clear and commanding tone. "Well, cuties, only an hour left!" she exclaimed, her words echoing through the trees. "Try harder!"
Her intention was clear: to rile up the young genin, to push them to their limits in the hopes that they would make a mistake. Rin knew that in moments of desperation, even the most skilled shinobi could falter, and she was prepared to seize any opportunity that presented itself.
Rin's keen eyes caught sight of a glint of metal in the distance, and a smirk tugged at the corners of her lips as she recognized the telltale sign of Naruto's unique weapon. "Ah, so it's Naruto," she thought to herself, expecting another round of attacks from the resourceful genin.
But her smirk faltered as another chain emerged from the opposite direction, weaving its way through the forest floor with an eerie grace. Rin's brow furrowed in confusion as she watched the second chain slither into view, its movements mirroring those of Naruto's weapon.
Isobu's deep voice rumbled within Rin's mind, the three-tailed turtle observing the unfolding scene with interest. "Well, looks like the kids are now working together," Isobu remarked, its tone tinged with amusement.
Rin nodded in agreement, her thoughts echoing Isobu's observation. "Yes, it seems that way," she replied telepathically, her mind racing as she considered the implications of this unexpected development. "If Naruto is indeed working with them, then perhaps they stand a chance of passing the test."
Isobu chuckled softly, its amusement evident as it continued to watch the scene unfold. "Look carefully, Rin," the three-tailed turtle advised. "Those chains are the same ones that Naruto used. It seems they've all joined forces."
Rin's eyes widened in realization as she processed Isobu's words. "Ah, I see," she mused aloud, a faint smile playing at her lips. "I didn't notice that. Well, then. Let's see what they'll do next." With a renewed sense of anticipation, Rin settled into a defensive stance, prepared to face whatever challenges her young students would throw her way.
Rin's eyes narrowed as she observed the two chains emerging from the ground, one from Ayato's left hand and the other from Miku's right hand. With a flicker of recognition, she realized that these were the same chains Naruto had used earlier in the battle.
Without hesitation, Rin lunged forward, seizing both chains in a swift motion. But to her surprise, Ayato and Miku didn't falter. Instead, they began to run in circles, their movements synchronized as they worked together to bind Rin.
As Rin grappled with the chains, she sensed a shift in the air above her. Instinctively, she looked up, just in time to see Naruto hurtling towards her with a drop kick.
Isobu, ever vigilant, whispered a warning in Rin's mind. "Look up," it urged, its voice tinged with urgency.
Rin's eyes widened as she caught sight of Naruto descending towards her with incredible speed. With a swift twist of her body, she narrowly evaded the drop kick, feeling the rush of wind as Naruto sailed past her.
But Naruto wasn't done yet. As he landed gracefully on the ground, he turned to face Rin with a determined glint in his eyes. "Let's finish this," he declared, his voice ringing with confidence as he prepared to continue the battle.
As Rin launched herself forward to counterattack, she found herself momentarily ensnared in a genjutsu, her movements slowing as her mind was clouded by illusion. But with a sharp mental jolt, she broke free from the illusion, her senses sharpening as clarity returned.
Her eyes narrowed as she focused on Miku, who had cast the genjutsu. "Impressive," she remarked, acknowledging Miku's skill with a nod of respect.
With a swift motion, Rin seized the chain connected to Ayato, wrenching it from his grasp with surprising strength. In one fluid motion, she swung the chain with formidable force, delivering a powerful punch straight to Ayato's face.
The impact sent Ayato sprawling backward, his body tumbling through the air before crashing to the ground with a thud. Rin's expression remained impassive as she observed the aftermath of her attack, her mind already calculating her next move.
In the thick of the chaos, Naruto's quick thinking took the forefront as he grabbed a thin stick lying nearby. With expert finesse, he tied some ninja wire around it, fashioning a makeshift bow in moments. Eyes narrowing, he took aim at Rin, his resolve clear in his intense gaze.
Rin noticed the makeshift weapon and momentarily paused, underestimating the threat as Naruto didn't initially have any arrows. Her assumption faltered when, with a deft movement, Naruto began to form arrows made of pure chakra. He launched them rapidly, one after another-three quick, successive shots that transformed into a total of nine chakra arrows zipping through the air.
Rin, taken aback by the unexpected offensive, dodged with agile movements, the arrows whistling past her, nearly slicing through the bell Miku was sprinting towards. One of the arrows grazed Rin, leaving a shallow cut that drew a line across her forearm, a stark reminder of the threat the young genin posed.
As Miku reached out, her fingers inches from grasping the bell, Rin's eyes darted to the hourglass. The sands had run out; the test had officially ended. Rin stood still, processing the events, a mix of pride and surprise evident in her expression. The realization of Naruto's strategic use of the chakra arrows-not just as weapons but as a distraction for Miku's advance-settled in.
Rin, catching her breath and nursing her cut, smiled wryly and said, "Well played, cuties. You've used your time... creatively." Her gaze shifted between the genin, acknowledging their teamwork and growth. The bell nearly cut from its rope and the time elapsed signaled the end of more than just the test-it was the beginning of their recognition as true shinobi of the Hidden Leaf.
As the dust settled and the tension of the test dissipated, Rin looked over at the three young shinobi lying sprawled on the ground, each panting from exhaustion but also relief. She cleared her throat, ready to deliver the results with a hint of her usual flair.
"Well cuties, you all..." she paused dramatically, letting the silence hang in the air as the genin looked up anxiously, "...pass."
The reaction was instantaneous-Naruto, Miku, and Ayato all collapsed back onto the ground, a mix of fatigue and relief washing over them. Rin couldn't help but smile at their worn-out expressions, but took this moment to impart a crucial lesson.
"As much as individual strength matters," Rin began, standing tall as she addressed her exhausted students, "today you've learned that the strength of a team is just as vital. Alone, each of you is strong, but together, you're formidable. Remember, the essence of being shinobi isn't just about battling with ninjutsu or taijutsu; it's about strategy, collaboration, and sometimes, knowing when to rely on others. Today wasn't just about obtaining those bells; it was about understanding and trusting in each other's capabilities."
As she spoke, Rin noticed the genin absorbing every word, despite their tired eyes and battered limbs. There was a sweat drop trickling down her forehead, not just from the day's exertions but from the responsibility she felt towards these young lives.
From the depths of Rin's consciousness, Isobu's voice rumbled, "I think these kids will go far."
Rin nodded silently in agreement, proud yet humbled by the potential of her team. The day had ended not just with a test passed, but with invaluable lessons learned.
Rin watched as Naruto, Miku, and Ayato slowly gathered themselves, pushing up from the ground with groans of exertion but evident satisfaction in their eyes. She clapped her hands to grab their attention, a broad smile spreading across her face.
"Alright, sit up, everyone," she instructed, her voice carrying a tone of warmth and pride. The three managed to sit up, still catching their breaths, their eyes fixed on Rin, curious about what she would say next.
"Very well, my cute Genin," Rin began, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "From tomorrow, we will officially be called Team 12. We're going to train hard, go on missions, and grow stronger together. I expect each of you to bring your strengths to the table and to support each other's weaknesses. Can I count on you?"
Naruto, Miku, and Ayato nodded vigorously, a renewed energy seeming to take hold despite their tired bodies. The day's trials had bonded them in unexpected ways, and the declaration of their new team identity only solidified their sense of unity and purpose.
"Yes, Rin-sensei!" they responded in unison, their voices echoing with determination and respect for their new leader.
Rin's smile widened. "Great! Then it's settled. Team 12, prepare for the start of many adventures together. Let's strive to be a team that will make not only ourselves proud but also our village."
The new Team 12 shared a look among themselves, a silent promise of commitment and camaraderie passing between them. With the sunset casting long shadows across the training grounds, they felt a sense of anticipation about the path ahead, ready to face whatever challenges it might bring.
As the team gathered their composure and the excitement of their new beginning settled, Rin looked at each of them curiously, her gaze lingering on the makeshift weapons and the coordination they had displayed.
"So, whose plan was that impressive final attack?" Rin asked, her tone both playful and genuinely curious. There was a proud sparkle in her eyes as she surveyed her new team, eager to hear about the teamwork that had led to their success.
Without hesitation, both Naruto and Ayato pointed towards Miku, who blushed slightly under the sudden attention. Naruto chuckled, giving Miku a nod of approval, while Ayato grinned, acknowledging her strategic mind.
"It was all Miku's idea," Naruto said "She figured out how to use My chains, came up with the distraction and the timing."
Ayato added, "Yeah, Miku planned it out step by step. We just followed her lead."
Miku, slightly embarrassed but pleased, nodded. "I just thought about what we each could do best and it seemed like the right idea to bind Rin-sensei and create openings for attacks."
Rin clapped her hands, delighted. "Very impressive, Miku! It's crucial for a shinobi to use their intellect along with their strength. You've shown great leadership and strategic thinking. This is exactly what makes a team strong-not just the individual skills, but how you all come together and complement each other's abilities."
The team looked at each other with newfound respect and unity, each member appreciating the role they played in their collective victory. Rin's praise not only boosted their morale but also reinforced the importance of teamwork and strategy in their journey ahead.
As the team prepared to depart, Naruto's expression turned solemn as he realized something crucial was missing. "My gloves and the seal," he stated flatly, prompting sheepish looks from Miku and Ayato.
"Yeah, we forgot," Ayato admitted, scratching the back of his head, while Miku nodded in agreement. "But here you go." Ayato handed back the seal and gloves, while Miku turned to Rin with a request.
"Rin-sensei, could you please remove the seal from my shoulder? I don't feel comfortable showing my skin to just anyone," Miku requested earnestly. Rin nodded in understanding and gently removed the seal from Miku's shoulder, handing it over to Naruto along with his gloves.
Naruto wasted no time in putting on the gloves, but before affixing the seal, he turned to Rin with a hesitant expression. "Rin-sensei, could you place the seal on my shoulder for me?" he asked, knowing that Ayato lacked the skill and precision to do it properly.
Ayato shrugged in agreement, admitting his lack of expertise with seals, while Naruto removed his shirt without hesitation. Rin carefully placed the seal on Naruto's shoulder, ensuring it was positioned correctly before nodding in approval.
With everything in order, Miku suggested, "Very well, now let's go get some dango, and it's Naruto's treat!" She flashed a mischievous grin as Naruto's face fell into a resigned expression.
"I have no money," Naruto admitted, prompting Miku and Ayato to exchange knowing glances. "Stop lying," they insisted in unison, practically dragging Naruto along with them as Rin followed with a smile.
"Well, let's go find Minato-sensei and give him the good news," Rin suggested cheerfully, leading the way as the team set off for their well-deserved treat, their bonds strengthened by their shared triumph and camaraderie.
In Minato's spacious office, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation as the assembled jounin awaited the start of their meeting. Asuma reclined casually in his chair, a cigarette dangling from his lips, while Kurenai adjusted her glasses with a sense of quiet focus. Obito, leaning against the wall with a nonchalant air, exchanged a knowing glance with Minato as they awaited the final member of their group.
Rin burst through the door, her expression flustered as she hurried into the room. "I-I'm sorry, sensei! I thought I was going to be late," she stammered, cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
Minato smiled warmly at her, his reassuring presence filling the room. "Don't worry, Rin. You're right on time," he assured her, casting a pointed glance at the empty seat beside her.
Kushina chuckled softly, her fiery red hair catching the light as she leaned forward in her chair. "Some of us, anyway," she added with a playful wink, eliciting chuckles from the others.
As the minutes ticked by, tension mounted in the room until finally, Kakashi sauntered in with his usual air of indifference. "Sorry I'm late, sensei," he remarked flippantly, a lazy grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Got lost on the road of life."
A collective groan echoed through the room as Minato pinched the bridge of his nose, fighting back a smile. "Alright, Kakashi. Let's stay focused," he said with a sigh, gesturing for him to take his seat.
Once everyone was settled, Minato leaned forward, his expression serious as he addressed the group. "Alright, let's get down to business. I want to hear about the genin exam," he said, his voice commanding attention amidst the chatter of the room.
As the discussion continued, Asuma leaned forward, his voice carrying a hint of pride. "My team's got a simple motto: 'Food is life.' Choji's the heart and soul of the group, loves his snacks and always ready to lend a hand. Ino's a bit of a fangirl, but don't let that fool you. She's a prodigy with her clan's techniques, and she's got the skills to back it up."
Kurenai nodded in understanding before chiming in, her tone thoughtful. "On my team, Kiba's got that alpha personality, always eager to take the lead. He's a bit of a pervert, but he's got a good heart. Hinata, on the other hand, is the quiet one, but don't underestimate her. She's a master of her clan's taijutsu techniques. And Shino... well, Shino's got a unique way with insects, let's just leave it at that."
"I can work with that," Kurenai concluded with a nod, her confidence unwavering.
Obito, ever the laid-back sensei, offered his insights next. "Kiyomi's a force to be reckoned with when it comes to her clan techniques. But unlike Sasuke, she's not broody," he remarked with a grin. "And Suki... well, she's strong. Takes after her parents, eh?" he added, giving a playful nod in the direction of Minato and Kushina.
The mood shifted slightly as Obito's gaze lingered on the topic of his conversation with Sakura. "Yeah, Sakura's a bit of a fangirl," he admitted with a sigh. "Got some work to do there."
Kakashi, ever the stoic, offered his assessment with his typical brevity. "Sasuke's well-versed and strong," he stated simply, his eye narrowing slightly in thought. "And Natsu and Mito... well, they're your kids, sensei," he added with a wry grin, acknowledging their pedigree.
As the discussion turned to Rin's team, she took a deep breath before speaking, her tone measured but tinged with frustration. "Ayato shows promise, but he still has a lot of room for improvement," she began, her gaze flickering to her student with a mixture of encouragement and expectation. "Miku, on the other hand, is a true genius. She excels in genjutsu and has a natural talent that's hard to ignore."
Kurenai's voice cut through the air like a blade, her expression grim. "Miku is just like Yakumo," she remarked icily, her words dripping with disdain. "She shouldn't be a shinobi."
Rin's temper flared at Kurenai's words, her eyes flashing with anger. "You're the reason Yakumo is dead," she snapped, her voice sharp with accusation. "Control yourself before you say something you regret about my student. Trust me, the consequences won't be pleasant, my dear."
Minato interjected calmly, his voice a soothing presence in the tense atmosphere. "Let's stay focused, Rin. Please continue," he urged, his gaze gentle but firm.
Rin took a moment to compose herself before addressing Minato with a pointed question. "Minato-sensei, I have one thing to ask you," she began, her tone brimming with curiosity. "Who made this report?"
Minato's brow furrowed in confusion at Rin's inquiry. "Why do you ask?" he questioned, the curiosity evident in his voice as the other jounin exchanged puzzled glances.
Rin's lips curved into a sardonic smile as she revealed the source of her frustration. "The report was made by an academy teacher," she revealed, her voice laced with bitterness. "And let me tell you, it's utterly worthless. You'll want to slap yourself twice, then me twice, and then give twenty slaps to each teacher at the academy."
Rin's words hung heavy in the air, sparking a chorus of murmurs and exchanges among the gathered jounin. Asuma scratched his chin thoughtfully, his brow furrowed in contemplation. "Mid chunin level, huh? That's impressive," he mused, his voice filled with grudging respect. "Didn't expect that from someone we barely know."
Kurenai nodded in agreement, her expression softening slightly. "Acrobatics and weapon management skills on par with a Special Jounin? That's no small feat," she admitted, her tone acknowledging the unexpected depth of Naruto's abilities.
Obito, who had remained silent until now, couldn't help but chuckle at Rin's assessment. "Well, well, looks like our little mystery student isn't so little after all," he remarked with a smirk, his eye twinkling with amusement. "Guess you'll have to keep an eye on him."
Minato and Kushina exchanged a knowing glance, their expressions a mixture of pride and concern. "Alright, everyone, let's wrap this up," Minato announced, his voice commanding attention as he addressed the assembled jounin. "We've got a lot of work ahead of us with our teams. Best of luck to all of you."
Kushina nodded in agreement, her gaze lingering on each of the sensei in turn. "Remember, our job is to guide and support our students," she reminded them, her voice filled with maternal warmth. "Let's give them the tools they need to succeed."
With those words, the meeting drew to a close, the sensei dispersing to prepare for the challenges that lay ahead. As they exited Minato's office, the echoes of Rin's assessment of Naruto lingered in their minds, a reminder of the untapped potential that awaited discovery in their young charges.
In Minato's office, the jovial atmosphere from earlier had dissipated, replaced by an air of solemnity. Minato's usually bright eyes were now steely with determination as he turned to his wife, Kushina, who sat beside him with a furrowed brow.
"Kushina, please call Jiraiya sensei,Lady Tsunade" Minato instructed, his voice grave but resolute. "It's time we have a serious discussion."
Kushina nodded silently, recognizing the gravity of the situation, and swiftly reached for the The brush And Paper And Wrote a Letter Ans Sent it To Both Jiraiya and Tsunade By a Hawk
As they waited for their esteemed guests to arrive, Minato's thoughts raced, his mind filled with the weight of the revelation they were about to deliver. This was a moment that would change everything for their family, for Naruto, and for the village.
Meanwhile, outside the office, Mito, Suki, and Natsu loitered in the hallway, exchanging puzzled glances at the unusual summons. Sensing the tension in the air, they exchanged few words, silently agreeing to respect their parents' wishes and stay out of the office for the time being.
Finally, the door swung open, and Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Hiruzen entered the room, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. They took their seats with a sense of solemnity, ready to hear what Minato and Kushina had to say.
Naruto stepped into Minato's office with a mix of curiosity and slight unease. The room was unusually full, with not only Minato but also Kushina, Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Hiruzen present, each wearing expressions that spoke of serious matters to come.
"Hokage-sama, why am I here?" Naruto asked, his voice betraying a hint of his nervousness.
Minato, standing behind his desk, cleared his throat, his hands shuffling papers unnecessarily as he tried to find the right words. "Naruto, we have something very important to discuss with you," he began, pausing to exchange a quick, uncertain glance with Kushina.
Seeing his son standing before him, Minato's heart tightened. "This isn't easy to say, and I've been wondering how best to approach this..." he trailed off, then took a deep breath. "Naruto, I need you to know that... I am your father."
The room went still, all eyes on Naruto, waiting for his reaction. Naruto's face remained impassive, blinking slowly-a sequence of ? ﾟﾘﾑ? ﾟﾘﾑ expressions crossing his features, causing a momentary panic that they might have overwhelmed him.
But then, Naruto spoke, his voice calm, almost indifferent. "I already know that."
A collective breath was drawn around the room, and Jiraiya leaned forward, his brows knitted together. "You knew? How did you figure that out, kid?"
Naruto's gaze shifted from Minato to Jiraiya and back again. "It wasn't that hard to put together. Same hair, same eyes," he gestured towards Minato, then to himself. "And there's only one Uzumaki in the village apart from me. It wasn't exactly a giant leap."
Minato absorbed this with a mixture of pride and surprise. He had expected shock, questions, maybe even anger-but not this. Naruto's perceptiveness reminded him just how much of himself he saw in his son.
"Even though you knew," Minato finally said, finding his voice again, "we wanted to tell you ourselves. It's important that you hear it from us, and understand what it means."
Naruto nodded, his face softening a bit. "I get that. But it's my business, isn't it? Not something for everyone to fuss over."
The adults exchanged looks, acknowledging the maturity in Naruto's response. Hiruzen, in particular, seemed relieved that the boy had taken the news well, even if he had known beforehand.
"Yes, it is your business," Minato agreed, a proud smile touching his lips. "And from here on out, how we handle this, as a family, is up to us."
In the tension-filled room, the air thick with revelations, Minato's hopeful mention of "family" seemed to strike a discordant note with Naruto. As Minato reached out, both literally and metaphorically, Naruto held up a hand, stopping him mid-sentence.
"Hokage-sama," Naruto began, his voice firm and his demeanor commanding respect despite his young age. "Let me get this straight. You abandoned me, and now you want me to play happy family?" His face was composed, adorned with a forced smile, not quite reaching his eyes. "With all due respect, are you out of your mind, or..." He paused, his smile fading. "You know what, never mind. You want to play family, right? Do you even know where I've been living for the past three to four years?"
Minato, taken aback, exchanged a glance with Kushina, whose eyes were wide with a mixture of shock and pain. Neither of them spoke, the silence a heavy blanket.
"Not on the streets, that much I can say," Naruto continued, his voice low but clear. "I have a house in the red light area, over a hotel." The information hung in the air, stark and uncomfortable.
The room fell into an even deeper silence, the kind that weighed on everyone's chest. Minato and Kushina looked at each other, the pain evident in their eyes-a pain mixed with guilt for not knowing, for not being there.
Minato swallowed hard, finding his voice after what seemed like an eternity. "Naruto, I... we didn't know. That was never our intention."
Kushina's voice was a whisper, barely audible. "Naruto, we thought you were being cared for, that the village was looking after you as one of its own."
Naruto's expression softened marginally, but the hurt was palpable. "Cared for? By having me live in a place like that?" He shook his head slowly. "I learned to take care of myself, but it's too late now to play pretend."
Minato stepped forward, his face lined with remorse. "It's not about pretending, Naruto. It's about acknowledging our mistakes and trying to make things right. I am your father, and that means I have responsibilities towards you, responsibilities I've failed so far but want to fulfill from now on."
The tension in the room was palpable, each word heavy with the weight of years of hurt and misunderstanding. Naruto's gaze bore into Minato and Kushina, his eyes flashing with a mixture of anger and pain.
"Leave all things aside," Naruto began, his voice tinged with bitterness. "Why did you ever abandon me?"
Jiraiya, sensing the gravity of the moment, stepped forward, his expression grave. "Naruto, I told them about a prophecy," he admitted, his voice low but unwavering. "A child would be born with great power, destined to save the world from darkness."
Naruto's eyes narrowed, a realization dawning. "Let me take a guess," he said, his tone cutting. "Your other kids, Mito, Suki, and Natsu, were these children?"
Jiraiya went quiet, unable to meet Naruto's gaze, the weight of his own failure heavy on his shoulders.
But Naruto was past the point of being placated. "Just because of a few words," he continued, his voice rising with each word, "you abandoned me."
Kushina's voice was soft, filled with remorse. "Naruto, we thought we were doing what was best for you-"
But Naruto cut her off, his tone sharp. "Don't talk to me like that," he retorted, his words laced with bitterness. "She abandoned me, and here I am, showing this lady who calls herself my mother such respect only because of one reason: she's the woman who gave birth to me."
Tsunade, who had been watching the exchange with a mixture of concern and frustration, stepped forward. "Naruto, don't talk to your mother like that," she admonished, her voice stern.
Naruto turned to face her, his expression defiant. "Talking badly?" he scoffed. "She abandoned me, and here I am, showing her such respect only because of one reason: she's the woman who gave birth to me. And for your knowledge, I curse a lot, and if you think I'm talking badly, I haven't even cursed a single time in this office, only because of one reason: that man is my biological father, and that woman is my biological mother. And that's all."
The atmosphere in the room grew heavy as Naruto's words hung in the air, each syllable a sharp reminder of the pain and abandonment he had endured. Minato opened his mouth to speak, but before he could utter a word, Naruto cut him off with a sharp glare.
"You say we are family, right Hokage-sama?" Naruto's voice was filled with a mixture of resentment and accusation. "Then where were you when I was dying on the road, when your shinobi tossed me in trash bins?"
A somber silence settled over the room as Naruto's words echoed off the walls, the weight of his accusation hanging heavy in the air. Minato's expression faltered, his eyes betraying a flicker of guilt and regret.
Naruto continued, his voice trembling with suppressed emotion. "An old man took me in, his name was Ichiro. He taught me all the basic manners, all the things a father should have taught me. And you know what the villagers did to him? They burnt his house down. He died in that house," Naruto's voice broke slightly, his anger giving way to sorrow. "I was there too, burnt in the house. Can you bring him back?"
Kushina moved to speak, her eyes filled with empathy and regret, but Naruto held up a hand, cutting her off before she could utter a word.
"No, I am not finished," Naruto said, his voice steadying as he gathered his thoughts. His eyes bore into Minato's, a silent challenge in their depths, daring him to acknowledge the pain he had caused.
Naruto's voice trembled with suppressed rage as he continued, each word laced with the bitterness of years of abandonment and betrayal. "And then, on each of my birthdays, all the village would hunt me down like they wanted to kill me," he recounted, his voice thick with emotion.
A heavy silence settled over the room as Naruto's words sank in, the weight of his pain palpable in the air. Minato and Kushina exchanged a pained glance, their hearts heavy with guilt for the suffering their son had endured.
But Naruto pressed on, his voice gaining strength with each passing moment. "Then came the girl," he said, a hint of reverence in his tone. "She was not even 19 years old, but she took me in. She became my master, my friend, and my mother. She had no reason to take me in, but she did. Her name was Ayaka."
The room fell into a stunned silence at the mention of Ayaka's name, each adult present exchanging uneasy glances. Naruto's eyes flashed with anger as he continued, his voice raw with emotion. "And take a guess what happened," he spat out, the bitterness of loss and betrayal evident in his tone.
"Yeah," Naruto continued bitterly, his voice cracking with emotion. "She was also killed. By a few Anbu and a few blank mask Anbu."
A tense silence hung in the air as Naruto's words echoed off the walls of the office, the weight of his pain and loss palpable in the room. Every adult present at the mention of the blank masked Anbu exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions betraying a mix of guilt and discomfort. But no one spoke, the truth of Naruto's words hanging heavy in the air like a dark cloud over their heads.
Naruto's voice wavered with a mixture of sorrow and longing as he spoke, his words carrying the weight of cherished memories and profound loss. "You know, when I was coming here, I felt someone was going to stop me," he began, his tone tinged with sadness. "Don't drink milk while standing, it's not good for your stomach," he recalled with a bittersweet smile. "I thought it must be Ayaka, making her favorite dango. Who knew, when I looked around, the place was all quiet."
A heavy silence settled over the room as Naruto's words hung in the air, the memory of Ayaka's kindness and care casting a somber shadow over the gathered group. Naruto's voice trembled slightly as he continued, the weight of his grief evident in every word. "You know, whenever I got my bones broken, she would apply hot oil and then wrap a cloth around it," he recounted, his voice choked with emotion. "Even at any given holiday, she would give me money and tell me to buy anything I liked. If I annoyed her, she would punch me," he added with a faint smile, a flicker of fondness in his eyes. "But she treated me... she treated me like her own."
Naruto's gaze drifted to Minato, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and accusation. "I remember she told me, if I became a shinobi, she would treat me with her best techniques," he said softly, his voice filled with longing. "She was everything to me. Now I'm a shinobi, and she's dead. I seriously miss her."
There was a heavy silence in the room as Naruto's words echoed off the walls, each person present lost in their own thoughts and memories of Ayaka. Naruto's gaze remained fixed on Minato, his eyes searching for answers in the depths of the Hokage's sorrowful gaze. "Tell me, Mrs. Hokage," he said finally, his voice breaking slightly. "Can you bring her back?"
Naruto's voice was steady, his expression composed as he addressed Jiraiya with a mixture of sadness and resignation. "Jiraiya-sama," he began, his tone measured yet filled with an underlying sense of reproach, "your prophecy destroyed my life. And you all expect I will welcome you with open arms, like I will forget everything."
Closing his eyes for a moment, Naruto wiped away a few stray tears that threatened to betray the turmoil within him. His smile was tinged with sadness as he continued, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. "But I won't," he added softly, his voice barely above a whisper. "I won't forget."
Turning his gaze towards Tsunade, Naruto's expression softened slightly as he addressed her with a hint of wistfulness. "Lady Tsunade," he said, his voice gentle yet tinged with a touch of reproach, "do you remember the day I practically begged you? But you denied me because you thought I was pranking you."
There was a palpable tension in the room as Naruto's words echoed off the walls, each syllable a poignant reminder of the pain and rejection he had endured. His gaze moved from Jiraiya to Tsunade, his eyes searching for some semblance of understanding or remorse in their expressions. But all he found was silence, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air like an unspoken truth.
Naruto's voice was filled with a cold, unyielding resolve as he addressed Minato, his words cutting through the tension in the room like a blade. "Minato Namikaze," he began, his tone firm and unwavering, "remember these words. No matter what happens, I hate you and your family. And I will keep hating your family, Until I die."
The room fell silent at Naruto's declaration, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. Minato's expression was a mask of sorrow and regret as he listened to his son's damning words, the pain of his son's rejection etched into every line of his face.
"Say something," Minato pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper, his heart breaking at the sight of his son's unwavering resolve.
But Naruto remained steadfast, his gaze unwavering as he met Minato's eyes. "I will take my leave," he said finally, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions raging within him.
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Thank you for reading Chapter 10. Your engagement and support mean a lot! I hope you enjoyed the story and that it brought you some entertainment. Have a wonderful day ahead, and until next time, sayonara!