Hello Kaiokenika fans! Welcome to my attempt at a second story and I hope this one does better than Hao king. Point of this story is to change the story to what if Naruto was promoted to chunin along with Shikamaru. I've got some pretty ideas for this story so let's see how it goes. And also, I DO NOT OWN NARUTO! IF I DID, RAMEN SHOPS WOULD BE AN INTERNATIONAL TREASURE AND NINJA HEADBANDS WOULD COME WITH A FREE SUPPLY OF HAIR GEL!
"I recommend him for chunin Tsunade-sama."a half faced individual who had his left eye covered with his headband, silver haired Hatake Kakashi said straightforwardly to a blonde haired woman who sat behind a desk. This was Tsunade Senju, the recently appointed fifth Hokage of the Hidden Leaf Village.
Tsunade blinked rapidly, having been caught off guard by the straightforward question from Kakashi. She turned to her former teammate, Jiraiya, who was equally shocked as well but she could see a small hint of pride gleaming in his eyes -the very person who had recently taken the role of teaching the boy in question.
Following that, she turned to Kakashi and gently rubbed her ear. "Could you repeat Kakashi? I don't think I heard you right."
Kakashi sighed in response to the question the Hokage posed. He wasn't shocked upon their reactions however; rather, he expected them. He himself still couldn't believe what he was saying but after further studying the reports he was given, he was increasingly sure this was the right and best option.
"I recommend Naruto Uzumaki for chunin Tsunade-sama,"Kakashi stated, his voice carrying a calm reassurance. His hand delved into his pouch, clearly searching for something as he continued, "I understand the confusion but allow me to explain."
Tsunade rested her elbows on her desk, patiently awaiting Kakashi's explanation while watching him retrieve something from his pouch. "Oh you better explain Kakashi! Because what you are saying clearly doesn't make any sense nor does it align with the current evaluations,"she continued, her expression a mix of curiosity and scepticism.
Kakashi gracefully unfurled what looked to be a scroll, placing it meticulously on Tsunade's desk. Jiraiya, making his way over, positioned himself near her desk and started studying the contents of the scroll.
"What's this?"Tsunade asked, inspecting the scroll as her gaze shifted between its contents and Kakashi.
"It's a report of the events during the Hidden Sand invasion."Jiraiya clarified, his eyes still glued to the scroll
Kakashi interjected, "It's a report from the chunin and genin I sent out. We'll focus on the genin report here," the jonin said, pointing to a section of the scroll. "These are the details of the fight between Naruto and the One tailed Jinchuriki, Gaara. Now, here is-"
"Naruto fought the One tails?"Tsunade interrupted, her voice a blend of curiosity and intrigue. She glanced at Jiraiya. "Were you aware?"
"Not until now,"Jiraiya smoothly responded, then dropped a subtle gesture to Kakashi, encouraging him to pick up where he left off.
Kakashi nodded, "The details of the fight say that the seal holding the One tails faltered, leading Gaara to fade into unconsciousness as the One tails took control. Naruto then summoned a large toad draped in red with a large sword sheathed on its back."
Jiraiya grinned with pride. "That's Bunta. So the kid managed another impressive summoning eh?"
"Indeed,"Kakashi said as he looked back at the scroll. "It further says that Naruto pulled off the Henge no Jutsu to get a firm grip of the one tails and once held in place, Naruto leapt for Gaara and unexpectedly headbutt him. The result? Gaara back in control and the One tails sealed away."
Jiraiya smirked, "A bit wild to think the kid could pull something like that off, isn't it?"
Tsunade acknowledged with a nod, but confusion still lingering on her face as she turned to Kakashi. "So, what's the bottom line here?" she asked, a hint of impatience in her tone.
"Well, even though that fight wasn't part of the chunin exams, the fact Naruto faced off and won against a tailed beast and also executing such a strategic plan proves that he's more deserving of the chunin rank. Jonin might be pushing it, considering the potential disasters. But if that doesn't convince you, Tsunade-sama, I've still got one more report. The fight between Naruto and Neji Hyuga."Kakashi stated, poised to unravel the details.
"Naruto fought a Hyuga?! Why am I only hearing this now?!"Tsunade demanded, her frustration evident as she glared at Jiraiya, who could only sheepishly brush his head with a goofy grin. "Didn't I tell you to disclose everything about him?"
"Did I uh, forget to mention I took his report a month ago. I was going to return it today, I swear!"Jiraiya confessed, not ready to endure a beatdown from his former teammate.
Tsunade sighed at the response and shifted her attention to Kakashi. "Go on," she urged, indicating her readiness to hear the continuation of the explanation.
"This one doesn't really require a lot of explanation. But I'll go into some details. For instance, Naruto repeatedly baited and trapped Neji into attacking the wrong clone, and used that to get hits on a superior CQC fighter. This made it easy to ambush Neji, who had a 359 degree vision in all directions for hundreds of metres. I'm sure you've studied the report of the person who we've talked about to promote to chunin, Shikamura Nara. And while you've studied the report, you know that while Shikamaru made use of his surroundings to trap his opponent, Naruto didn't have that. He had to make his surroundings go to his advantage. And while Shikamaru exhausted himself on a plan that didn't end up working, Naruto still had enough juice left to beat a Hyuga while being able to track and defeat a tailed beast. In single combat. That's beyond expectations of a jonin, much less a deadlast genin. I conclude my explanation here. The decision rests with you, Hokage-sama."Kakashi stated, standing with a face of finality. His gaze shifted between Jiraiya and Tusnade who were exchanging words about what to do. He acknowledged that he had presented a comprehensive account but the fate of Naruto's promotion rested in the hands of the Hokage.
Tsunade cleared her throat, drawing Kakashi's attention with a thoughtful gaze. The weight of Naruto's chunin promotion hung palpably in the air, and the gravity of the decision bore down on her.
"We've talked about it, Kakashi. It's a hard decision to make. While Naruto does undeniably possess remarkable strengths, we can't overlook his weaknesses. Strategic thinking, particularly, remains a challenge for him. It's not a matter of intelligence, but rather, an understanding of his unique approach to situations. We can't afford to have a chunin operating on missions with that kind of mindset,"Tsunade explained, her expression serious and unwavering, signalling the significant deliberation behind the decision. "But when with a slightly lower IQ, his battle intelligence compensates for him. Considering the reports I've just heard, I'm one hundred percent certain that with that battle intelligence in our ranks, a mission success rate will skyrocket."Tsunade asserted, this time, her serious expression disappearing and replaced with a smile.
"So you mean…"Kakashi awaited the response, anticipation evident in his gaze.
"With great joy, I'm thrilled to announce that Naruto Uzumaki will be promoted to chunin rank!"Tsunade declared, her grin growing even more pronounced as she delivered the positive news.
No words could explain Kakashi's happiness and proudness as the Hokage revealed Naruto's new promotion rank. It was a side to him that remained unseen, a surge of pride flooding through him. For the first time in his life, Kakashi felt a profound sense of pride-for someone else.
"Woohoo! Did you catch that Kakashi? Our boy's now a chunin! C'mon, let's go share the news with him!"Jiraiya exclaimed, seizing Kakashi and leaping out the window, heading in the direction of Naruto's apartment.
Tsunade watched, a visible smile playing on her lips as she stood from her chair. The revelations about Naruto had unveiled surprises, showing a side to the kid that she hadn't fully known. Her gaze drifted to the Hokage mountain, particularly fixating on the face of the Fourth Hokage.
"I hope you're watching, Minato."she murmured, her words carried by the wind, tousling her hair.
Naruto lay on his bed, facing upward, his gaze fixated on the ceiling of his room, reflecting on the whirlwind of events that had taken place in just a few days. Too much had happened and the mere contemplation of it all was giving him a headache.
On one front, he had triumphed over the prodigy, Neji Hyuga during the chunin exam quarter finals, thwarted Gaara's attempt to destroy the village and rescued his comrades from Gaara's menace. Additionally, he along with Jiraiya had been able to locate Tsunade, and convinced her to become the Head medic and the Fifth Hokage of the village. All of these triumphs happened in just a few days but there were the hardships he had to endure.
Before he could delve into his thoughts any further, a persistent knock from his door interrupted him as he got out of his bed and made his way out of his messy room to the door. The scowl evident on his face as he slowly unlocked and opened the door. "What the hell do you-"His words trailed off as he recognised the visitor. "Shikamaru?"
"Yo Naruto. So, are you up to anything lately?"the Nara asked, his tone lazy and nonchalant as if he'd rather be anywhere else.
"What?"Naruro asked, genuinely puzzled by the sudden visit. He'd rarely get any visitors, aside from the occasional presence of the Third Hokage, so it was safe to say he was surprised.
"It's such a drag, you know? My parents suddenly decided I have to 'build a sense of camaraderie' with people other than my teammates."he said in a sarcastic manner. "And since everyone is either occupied or doesn't want anything to do with me, I figured I'd come drag you along into this troublesome thing."
"Why drag me into this? I'm busy too ya know!"The blonde exclaimed, a hint of frustration in his voice. He wasn't being rude but he simply didn't want anything to do with Shikamaru right now. Exhaustion was weighing him down and all he needed was a good-night's sleep. Not a stupid trip that would add to his exhaustion.
Shikamaru casually rubbed his ear. "Well, I was gonna treat you to ramen but if you insist, I'll leave you alone,"he said, leaving the tempting offer hanging, fully aware his blonde comrade couldn't resist. If there was a foolproof way to brighten Naruto Uzumaki's mood, it was unquestionably a steaming bowl of ramen. And Shikamaru was well aware of this fact.
"Ramen? I'll be down in a flash!"The blonde's excitement rang as he hastily darted inside to throw his clothes on.
Shikamaru watched with an amused expression. "He truly is the walking definition of an idiot."
"More please Teuchi-oji!"Naruto's voice resonated through the small establishment, Ichiraku, a place close to his heart and a place he could call his second home.
"Coming right up Naruto!"The elderly man, Teuchi, clad in a cook's outfit, responded with a warm smile as he returned behind the counter to prepare another batch of ramen.
"So Naruto-kun, has anything happened these past few days?"a slender young woman with long dark brown hair tied with a white bandanna, clad in the same outfit as her father, inquired as she addressed their favourite customer.
"I've told you everything that happened, Ayame Nee-chan. Nothing interesting has happened."he replied, the weariness and exhaustion settling back in. "And why do you always ask me the same question everyday?"
"Well, you do have a way of encountering trouble everywhere you go."Ayame remarked, a playful smile tugging at her lips.
"She's got a point. You do have a knack of attracting trouble wherever you go."Shikamaru chimed in. "It's like everywhere you go, drama just follows."
"Not you too, Shikamaru."Naruto playfully groaned, earning a light-hearted giggle from Ayame.
"What about you Shikamaru-kun?"Ayame asked, her giggle fading.
"Not much. Just the usual troublesome stuff."Shikamaru replied in his nonchalant tone.
"Everything's troublesome to you Shikamaru. No wonder your parents told you to socialise."Naruto teased with a mischievous grin as he dove into the ramen Teuchi just served.
"You know me too well Naruto," Shikamaru replied sarcastically. "Try living in my shoes and you'll understand why I'm always like this."
"You're right. I should cut you some slack, Mr Lazy genius."Naruto teased in between bites. "But what I don't understand is why you didn't use those smarts of yours to pass the academy. You would've been top of the class. Even ahead of Sasuke."
Shikamaru leaned back, sighing. "Too troublesome. Being at the top means more responsibilities and missions. I prefer flying under the radar, less hassle."
"So you opted to be second last to avoid any responsibilities?"Naruto asked as he finished the last noodle in the bowl.
"Being second last meant fewer expectations and responsibilities. It's just easier that way. Look at you for instance. During your fight with Neji, you had everyone else underestimating you but you bounced back and surpassed everyone's expectations. You're fight was the same as mine besides me losing."
The blonde leaned back on his chair, reflecting on Shikamaru's words. Shikamaru's laid-back attitude had always been a puzzle to Naruto who couldn't help but admit his envy for the Nara. Shikamaru, with no apparent reason to be a ninja back then, knew he'd end up as one due to his prestigious lineage. Unlike Shikamaru though, Naruto lacked such privileges - no prestigious lineage, no inherited intelligence or talent and no guiding instructor. His nindo, his ninja way was his sole companion that saw him through every obstacle.
"Naruto? Hey, Naruto!Shikamaru casually waved his hand in front of the blonde's face, leading him back to the present.
Naruto shook his head "Oh, what's up?"
"I asked who do you think is gonna get that chunin promotion."Shikamaru asked, pondering on his own question but quietly observing Naruto as he thought.
The blonde contemplated the potential candidates, immediately ruling himself out after receiving a vague explanation from Asuma sensei. Sure he won his match but it didn't guarantee his promotion. Sasuke was disqualified since he didn't finish his match, the sand trio were not in the running and the bug guy - what was his name - was out also, leaving only one person.
"You, I guess,"he responded.
"What?" Shikamaru's expression shifted to one as he questioned, seeking clarification.
Naruto sighed. "I meant, you and I were the only ones who finished our matches but you have a higher chance of being promoted than I do."
"Oh and that's where you're wrong."a voice echoed, prompting Naruto and Shikamaru to turn their heads, searching for the owner of the unexpected statement.
"Ero Sennin? And Kakashi sensei? What brings you guys here?"Naruro asked, his face a mixture of confusion and curiosity.
"I told you to drop the nickname! Anyway, we just came here to deliver the good news,"Jiraiya replied, sparking the interest of the two genin.
"We were just talking with Tsunade when she gave us the green light. Apparently, you two… are gonna be chunin. Isn't it exciting gaki!"Jiraiya exclaimed, focusing his attention on Naruto.
The blonde's eyes met Shikamaru's, recognising a subtle groan Hidden behind the facade of good news. However, unlike Shikamaru's expression, Naruto gleamed with excitement, fully realising what he had just been told.
"I- I'm actually gonna be a chunin? Please tell me you aren't joking, Ero Sennin. If it is, you're gonna regret making it."The blonde threatened.
"Please tell me you're joking. Please let it be a joke."Shikamaru pleaded.
"Come on Shikamaru. Don't be such a drag. This is actually a good thing."Naruto said, trying to raise the Nara's spirits.
"Being chunin means a lot of responsibilities and I've already got my hands full,"Shikamaru said, sighing realising the weight of the new rank. "But I guess I can't escape trouble even if I tried."
"Actually,"Jiraiya continued, "The decision to promote you to chunin was decided before Tsunade came in." he said, earning confused looks from the two genin. "It's Naruto here who's been promoted today."
"What?"the blonde said, the look on his face signifying he didn't get it.
"You Naruto, were exceptionally promoted to chunin today for your work in stopping the One tails and for winning your fight against the Hyuga."Kakashi replied, clarifying for any confusion.
"Believe it or not, if it wasn't for this guy,"Jiraiya continued, slinging his arm around Kakashi, "You wouldn't have been promoted. He's the one to thank."
Naruto turned to Kakashi, genuine gratitude lighting up his eyes as he leapt from his chair to the silver haired man, dropping him to the ground. "Thanks a lot Kakashi-sensei. You're the best!"he enthusiastically exclaimed.
"Your enthusiasm is appreciated but let's save the celebration for later. We still need to meet up with Tsunade-sama for the announcement."Kakashi said, trying to gently slip himself away from Naruto's exuberant embrace. "I'll swing by first thing tomorrow morning to get you so why don't you go home and catch some well-deserved rest."Kakashi suggested, a faint smile playing on his lips as he gave Naruto a pat on the shoulder.
"Sure thing sensei! Catch you tomorrow!"The blonde exclaimed, a grin forming on his face as he ran.
Tsunade observed Naruto's figure through the crystal ball she placed in her office, a subtle smile gracing her lips. "I can't wait to see what you can do, Naruto."She mused as she watched the young ninja headed for his home. As the night settled, Tsunade found herself contemplating for the future, hopeful for the potential she saw in the young ninja who she had just promoted.
Note:No ninja were harmed in the making of this first chapter. Several bowls of ramen however did mysteriously disappear during the creative process. Blame Naruto for that. He's got a heavy appetite, even in the world of fanfiction.