Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto or The DC Universe. They belong to their respective owners. All I own are my ideas. Additionally, I use AI to help me write.
"Normal Talking"
Powers, Techniques, and Jutsu
"AI Talking"
(Scene Break/Time Skip)
(Half a month later – Late morning – Minato and Kushina's home - Kitchen)
Over the past half month, Naruto had been growing colder toward Aito, which was evident to everyone in the family. Naruto is pissed off that Aito is getting "special" treatment because he is a "freak" and Aito is getting tired of the cold attitude and is determined to get the truth out with his parent's permission hoping that Naruto would understand once he knows the truth.
"Mom, Dad, I think Naruto deserves to know the truth about his/our lineage/heritage. If he learns about it after developing a power or powers rather than before, I feel it will do more harm than good. I understand why I was told so young; I am an extraordinary case, but Naruto also deserves to know the truth." Aito explained before turning to Kushina, "Even you said that he should be developing powers soon, so it's a ticking timebomb of a potentially explosive reaction waiting to happen, especially given his personality. And I personally would like to avoid that outcome."
Kushina and Minato looked at one another for about a minute, their eyes in a silent conversation, before they sighed. "We agree that Naruto should know…the problem is we don't think he is mature enough to handle this kind of secret/revelation without blabbing about it. He has your mother's personality, and she couldn't even keep her pregnancy a complete secret. We decided to tell you at a young age because you exhibited having my personality, so we knew the risk of you telling someone was very slim."
"So you are willing to risk a potentially very explosive reaction once he learns after developing powers?" Aito asked, "If he thinks I am a freak because of my height, what do you think he will think when one of his powers potentially develops in the field, not knowing the truth?"
"Yours, Naruto's, and Mina-To's lineage is a very closely guarded secret within the village, only known to a select few because we didn't want it getting out, same with the village technology and Chakranium." Kushina answered, "If the secrets of your and Naruto's lineage, along with Konoha's technology and Chakranium, were exposed, it would make the village a major target for other hidden villages. Despite our advanced capabilities, a united attack by all four hidden villages or two or three could overwhelm us, even if the chance is quite low. You need to wait until all your Kryptonian powers develop, and you must master your Kryptonian and additional powers. Historically, Mina-To served as our crucial deterrent, preventing other villages from declaring war on us."
"We could apply a modified version of the Cursed Tongue Eradication Seal to Naruto with his consent as a requirement of revealing the truth to him." Minato pointed out
"That would work. But only if Naruto consents to it." Kushina stated
"So then we can tell him so long as he consents to the seal?" Aito asked with hope
"Yes." Minato and Kushina answered
"We can tell him at the Fortress. We can leave once he gets back. That way, if he has any questions, Mina-To can answer them." Kushina added
(Hours later – Early evening)
Minato, Kushina, and Aito had been waiting in anticipation for hours for Naruto to come home. Just as their front door opened, Minato called out to him.
"Naruto, come here. We have something that needs to be talked about." Minato called from the living room
Everyone waited in anticipation as Naruto's footsteps got closer and closer until he rounded the corner to the living room. Upon spotting Aito, Naruto spun around and started walking away, only for Minato's voice to stop him.
"Naruto, would you like to know why your brother is so different and why he is getting the treatment he is getting?" Minato asked
"You are going to tell me?" Naruto answered skeptically
"We will, but under one condition in which your consent is required." Kushina answered
"What's the requirement?" Naruto asked curiously
"We place a seal on you to ensure that you don't blab about it or tell anyone, accidentally or not, what you learn." Minato answered
"Is it really that important that the information stays a secret?" Naruto asked, only getting nods from Minato, Kushina, and Aito, "Fine."
Minato walked up to Naruto, "Stick out your tongue."
Naruto stuck out his tongue, and Minato grabbed it before channeling some chakra. A seal with five horizontal lines, three full and two broken, appeared.
"Alright, we need to go somewhere special in case you have questions you want answered." Minato said before he turned to Kushina and Aito, "See you two there."
And with that, Minato and Naruto disappeared, followed shortly by Kushina and Aito.
(Mina-To's Fortress of Solitude – North Pole)
The arctic wind howls fiercely across the desolate ice-scape, its chill penetrating the vast, unending white that blankets the horizon. Amid this inhospitable wasteland, a structure emerges from the snow like a monolith of ancient lore, etched into the world by celestial forces.
The fortress itself, sculpted from an unyielding, crystal-clear material, not of this Earth, resembles a collection of geometric spires, each facet and angle reflecting the pale sunlight in a kaleidoscope of icy blues and whites. The architecture is an alien elegance, commanding yet serene, inspired by Kryptonian design yet distinctly tailored by Mina-To's unique heritage and personal aesthetics.
Inside, the atmosphere shifts. The air is warmer here, controlled by advanced Kryptonian technology that defies the arctic freeze. The main hall is vast, cathedral-like, with high arching ceilings echoing with alien machinery's soft, subtle hum. Walls lined with artifacts from across the galaxies, each piece telling a story of a warrior, a scholar, or a lost civilization.
Various chambers branch off, each serving its purpose. There's a library containing scrolls and books in a myriad of languages, some glowing with their own internal light, others ancient and fragile. Another chamber houses a holographic interface where you could converse with the AI echoes of Mina-To's ancestors, seeking wisdom or solace.
The fortress, in its solitude and splendor, stands not just as a refuge but as a beacon of who Mina-To is: a fusion of worlds, a guardian of peace, and a solitary figure watching over a planet far from home yet very much a part of his destiny.
A sudden flicker of blue light pierced the silence of the vast, crystalline chamber, heralding the arrival of Minato, Kushina, Naruto, and Aito. They materialized instantly, the air crackling with the residual energy of the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Naruto's eyes darted around, widening at the alien magnificence surrounding him. "Whoa, where are we?" he gasped, his voice echoing slightly off the high crystal walls.
"This." Minato began, with a warm smile, "is your Kryptonian father's Fortress of Solitude."
Kushina stepped beside him, her gaze sweeping the fortress with a nostalgic glint. "It's a place of great importance to your and Aito's heritage."
Naruto's brows knotted in confusion. "Kryptonian? What's a Kryptonian?"
Before either parent could answer, a shimmering figure materialized beside them. The holographic AI, a representation of Mina-To, appeared with a gentle hum, causing Naruto to jump back. Mina-To was just a little shorter than Aito "A Kryptonian." Mina-To began, its voice calm and measured, "is an inhabitant of the planet Krypton."
Naruto squinted at the hologram, which reminded him of the high-tech gadgets used in the academy. "This stuff looks like what they used in the academy."
Minato nodded, "Indeed, Konoha's technology is based on Kryptonian designs, enhanced with a unique and powerful metal we call Chakranium."
"But why are we here, at this fortress?" Naruto's voice carried a hint of frustration. "And when will you tell me what makes Aito so special?"
Mina-To's holographic form seemed to pulse, considering. "Is now the time?" it asked, turning slightly towards Minato and Kushina.
Both nodded in agreement. "We've put enough safeguards in place to ensure you won't accidentally reveal anything, Naruto." Kushina explained. "It's important you understand, as it's caused some distance between you and Aito."
Mina-To floated closer, its form becoming more detailed. "Let us start with the history of Krypton." As it spoke, the image shifted to show Krypton spinning gracefully in space, its cities gleaming like jewels. "Krypton was once a planet thriving with life and advanced beyond the dreams of many worlds. Its achievements in science, arts, and technology were unparalleled." the AI began, its tone infused with pride and sadness.
The hologram zoomed in on towering cities made of crystal and steel, floating vehicles zipping through the sky. "Kryptonians were a people who prized knowledge and innovation. They explored the mysteries of the universe, creating technologies that could manipulate the very fabric of reality."
The scene shifted to a grand hall where holographic figures, Kryptonians, moved about, engaged in discussions or interacting with various devices. "Their society was structured around guilds, each dedicated to different disciplines: Science, Artisan, Warrior, and more. Each citizen of Krypton, upon reaching maturity, was assigned to a guild based on their aptitudes and interests."
Suddenly, the image darkened, and Mina-To's tone grew somber. "But with great progress came great challenges. Krypton began to suffer from its own success. Resources became scarce, and political divisions widened."
A crack appeared in the depiction of the planet; the ground shook in the hologram, and buildings started to crumble. "The core of Krypton became unstable due to years of mining and the extraction of a powerful element known as Kryptonite. Despite warnings from their leading scientists, including Jor-El, the ruling council refused to take the necessary actions."
The holographic Krypton started to break apart, its destruction detailed and vivid. "This led to the planet's ultimate destruction. A cataclysm that shattered Krypton, sending shards throughout the cosmos. Only a few managed to escape, preserving the legacy of Krypton among the stars."
Mina-To paused, allowing the story's gravity to sink in, the last images of Krypton's demise lingering in the air. "Among those who fled was me, and I encountered a space-time anomaly, bringing him to your universe, where I sought refuge on Earth after being forcefully merged with your human father, Minato."
The display faded, leaving only Mina-To in the group's center, its holographic eyes meeting each of theirs. "This history is crucial, for it shapes the heritage of both of you, heirs to a world of wonders and warnings. It is a legacy of both immense power and profound responsibility."
The room was silent, each person processing the rise and fall of such a magnificent civilization and its impact on their lives. Mina-To stood by, ready to answer any questions or delve deeper into the rich history of Krypton as needed.
"What does this have to do with Aito?" Naruto asked
An activated console then projected holograms of various DNA strands: a normal Kryptonian, a regular human, Naruto's, and Aito's.
"Naruto, you possess a 50-50 genetic composition between human and Kryptonian DNA. Your Kryptonian genes are expressed through increased durability, heightened senses, and latent superhuman strength. However, your development remains tied to human growth patterns. Your Kryptonian abilities will gradually manifest as you mature under a yellow sun. Still, the balance in your hybrid DNA allows both sides to have stable, gradual maturation." Mina-To explained enlarging Naruto's DNA hologram
"Aito's genetic structure is a unique anomaly in the Hybrid lineage. While his genetic composition is predominantly Kryptonian, making him more of a Kryptonian than you, Naruto, there exists a second genetic element that is neither Kryptonian nor human. This unknown genetic material, which I will refer to as the 'Y-gene' for simplicity, constitutes a critical portion of his overall makeup synergizing with his Kryptonian genes, classifying him as a Kryptonian-Unknown Hybrid." Mina-To explained enlarging Aito's DNA hologram and moving it next to Naruto's
"The Y-Gene integrates seamlessly with Aito's Kryptonian genetics, enhancing his cellular functions far beyond standard Kryptonian capabilities. His cells exhibit an anomaly that allows them to absorb and store twice as much solar energy at a 200% more efficient rate than a typical Kryptonian. This appears to result from the unknown genetic material interacting synergistically with his Kryptonian cells. The precise mechanism of this interaction remains unclear. Still, it significantly increases Aito's stamina, durability, and strength, potentially surpassing a pure Kryptonian under a yellow sun." Mina-To explained, enlarging the normal Kryptonian DNA and placing it next to Aito's
"The Y-gene is responsible for Aito's chakra pathways and circulatory system. Aito possesses the same chakra pathways and circulatory system but is greatly amplified by the Y-gene's interaction with his unique physiology. His reserves are also vastly larger than a standard Jonin ninja's. This allows him to harness chakra with a potency far beyond any human, potentially leading to entirely new abilities or enhanced versions of known techniques, including the possibility of developing Bloodline Limits." Mina-To explained
Naruto took a moment to absorb the overwhelming information, his gaze shifting from one DNA strand to another. "So... what does that mean for me?"
"You are going through puberty, Naruto." Mina-To explained gently. "You may begin to develop Kryptonian powers, though initially diluted due to your 50-50 genetic split. Over time, they will strengthen, though it is unlikely they will match Aito's intensity of a full-blooded Kryptonian's, like me."
"Unlike you, Naruto, who will follow normal human development with Kryptonian abilities gradually manifesting, Aito will grow at a pace consistent with a pure Kryptonian under a yellow sun. However, the presence of the Y-gene introduces an unpredictable element to his growth. The Y-gene may further accelerate his growth or introduce new characteristics as he matures." Mina-To explained
Naruto's eyes filled with awe and uncertainty, the weight of his heritage and the difference between him and Aito dawning on him as he looked between his parents and the brother he had only begun to truly understand.
"So the chances of me ever being as strong as Aito or my Kryptonian father are slim to none." Naruto stated
"That would be correct." The AI answered
"So that's why Aito gets Dad all to himself." Naruto said rhetorically
"You also have the potential to awaken the Sharingan, which, given your Kryptonian half, means that it might not be a normal Sharingan, and thus, you may have additional abilities that come with it, which Aito won't have." Minato pointed out
"Does that mean that Aito also could awaken the Sharingan?" Naruto asked
"I have awakened something else due to being a genetic anomaly." Aito answered, dropping his transformation, revealing his true form. Naruto saw Aito's Shinryokugan and horn-like protrusions and adopted a look of awe.
"What Bloodline is that?" Naruto asked
"From what I know, it is called the Shinryokugan." Aito answered, "Additionally, the 'unknown' portion of my Hybrid genetics are Otsutsuki genetics, inherited from Mom and Dad's direct lineage to Indra and Asura Otsutsuki, Hagoromo Otsutsuki, the Sage of Six Path's sons, and amplified by my Kryptonian genetics due to genetic variation." causing Kushina and Minato to display a shocked expression
"And how do you know all this?" Minato and Kushina asked
"Hagoromo appeared to me on my 11th birthday when I awakened my Shinryokugan, and my horns grew in. As well as external knowledge." Aito answered
"So, does that mean I will get a unique dojutsu?" Naruto asked
"It's likely it will be something along those lines." Minato and Kushina answered, getting over their initial shock
"From what I understand about the Sharingan, it is awakened through experiencing powerful emotional conditions. Does my Kryptonian half change that any?" Naruto asked
"If it's anything like when I awakened my Shinryokugan, it will just be something that happens. So it's probably just a matter of time before you awaken your Sharingan or unique Dojutsu." Aito answered, "I can see your full potential, yes you will not be as strong as me. When you finish maturing, you will be the second strongest being on the planet."
"Aito, I'm sorry for how I have been treating you over the two weeks. Seeing you get special treatment for reasons I didn't know was so frustrating." Naruto apologized
"All is forgiven, bro. At least now you know why." Aito smiled before turning to Kushina and Minato, "You guys can head back home. I have some questions for Mina-To."
Minato and Kushina nodded before Minato grabbed Kushina and Naruto and disappeared.
"What did you want to ask me, Son?" Mina-To asked
"I want to know how to make a copy of the Fortress in one of my pocket dimensions. I want a place of Solitude where I can go when I want to know or do something without worrying about everything being logged." Aito answered, "How did Dad create this place for himself and us?"
"This place was not constructed of brick and mortar, Aito, but was born from the Kryptonian crystal technology. These structures you see are grown rather than built. The foundational crystal, encoded with specific data sequences, is activated upon placement in an optimal environment. This initiates a rapid crystalline growth, forming the fortress. The process is harmonized with local geology to ensure stability and longevity." Mina-To explained, gesturing to the walls as they shimmered slightly, illustrating the crystalline growth in a mesmerizing dance of light
"That's incredible. The knowledge and capabilities here... could I have crystals of my own?" Aito asked, "One that contains all this knowledge stored here. One for your AI consciousness. And another, to create my own fortress where I can preserve this knowledge forever. I already know I will outlive everyone on Earth because of my alien lineage and the Eternal path of my Shinryokugan."
"It is within my capabilities to grant your request, Aito. I can create three distinct crystals for you. The first will enable the construction of your fortress, embedded with the same Kryptonian crystalline technology. The second will contain the entirety of the knowledge stored here—every piece of data and history, every scientific discovery. The third will house my AI consciousness, ensuring you have guidance regardless of the eons that may pass." Mina-To answered
Mina-To motioned to a console of crystals, which Aito approached as three different sparkling crystals extended. The first glows with a deep, structural blue, the second pulsing with the vibrant light of accumulated knowledge, and the third shines with a serene, constant light indicative of Mina-To's AI consciousness stored within.
"Each crystal is unique, crafted to serve its purpose flawlessly. With them, you carry the legacy of not just our people but of all that I have learned and we have been." Mina-To said
"Thank you, Dad. Please don't tell Mom, Dad, or Naruto about what happened here or what we discussed. They don't need to know all of this right now. I will tell them in time, but not any time soon." Aito requested
"Very well, I will keep our conversation and what happened here private." Mina-To said
Aito carefully plucked the three crystals from the console and stored them away in the stasis pocket dimension he created for storing things. With his mission complete, Aito began focusing, honing in on the marker that he had at home. After about 10 minutes, he disappeared.
(Half a month later – Hokage's training ground)
At the month's end, Minato said they would move on to another category of ninja arts. This month, they will be refining Aito's Taijutsu skills. At the same time, Aito divided his clones again to work on Kenjutsu. Minato arranged a training session with Might Guy, who brought along Rock Lee to assess Aito.
"You know what will be revealed here today is considered an S-class secret, right Guy?" Minato asked because he had brought Lee with him, "Meaning that both of you will not be allowed to talk about anything you learn here today outside of this training ground."
"I figured as much, seeing as we are on Lord Hokage's private training ground. I brought Lee because he would be a good gauge for Aito." Guy answered
"How good is your student at keeping secrets?" Minato asked
"Depends, but he could definitely keep a secret." Guy answered
"Alright then, I'll trust that Lee will keep what he learns here a secret." Minato said, "Let's continue. Aito."
Seconds later, Guy and Lee were sucked into a swirling vortex, and soon Minato and Aito followed.
(Aito's physical training pocket dimension)
When Minato and Aito entered the pocket dimension, they watched as Guy and Lee took in their surroundings.
"Where are we?" Guy and Lee asked
"My special training ground pocket dimension, here this planet orbits a red sun rather than a yellow sun like our planet does. Puts me on an even playing field for physical training purposes." Aito answered
"Your Flames of Youth burn bright, Aito!" Guy exclaimed
"I couldn't agree more, Guy sensei!" Lee agreed
"Alright, Guy, you are the Taijutsu expert. How is this going to work?" Minato asked
"A one-on-one sparring match. Aito versus Lee while I watch and analyze." Guy answered
Rock Lee, his pupil, brimmed with a comparable enthusiasm, his fists clenched, eyes burning with the fire of competition. He faced Aito, who appeared calm and collected, his rich black eyes reflecting the unusual sky.
"Are you ready, Aito?" Might Guy shouted, his voice echoing across the flat expanse.
"Whenever he is." Aito replied, nodding towards Lee.
Without further ado, Lee charged, his speed phenomenal even without the opening of the Eight Gates. Aito stood his ground, his body relaxed yet evidently ready to react. Lee launched a flurry of punches, each aimed with precision and ferocity. Aito moved fluidly, his body swaying with an almost imperceptible grace, dodging each strike by mere inches.
Lee, undeterred, switched tactics, aiming a sweeping kick at Aito's legs. Aito leapt over the attack, flipping backward and landing softly on the balls of his feet. His movement was a blend of elegance and lethal intent, a dance of combat perfected through rigorous training.
Might Guy observed, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Focus on your balance, Lee!" he called out. "Anticipate his moves!"
Lee responded with a nod, not breaking his rhythm as he unleashed another series of attacks. This time, his moves varied, incorporating feints and unexpected changes in direction. Aito adapted instantaneously, his responses so seamless that he appeared to be predicting Lee's moves.
The fight escalated, with Lee attempting to open the First Gate to increase his speed and power. His body emitted a faint, green aura, and his muscles tensed visibly as he tapped into his inner energy. Aito's expression shifted slightly, an acknowledgment of the shift in intensity.
With the gate open, Lee's attacks became even faster, his strikes almost blurring as he pushed Aito to defend more aggressively. Now on the defensive, Aito was forced to parry and block, his arms moving in swift, controlled arcs.
Suddenly, Lee spun, using a powerful whirlwind kick aimed directly at Aito's head. Aito ducked under the kick, using the moment to counter with a palm strike to Lee's midsection, but Lee twisted, avoiding the contact and resetting his stance with astonishing agility.
Might Guy clapped his hands, clearly pleased with the display. "Excellent! You're pushing each other to new heights!" he exclaimed, unable to keep the pride from his voice.
The battle continued, neither combatant gaining a clear advantage. Aito's style was adaptive, almost fluid in its execution, perfectly countering Lee's explosive and direct approach. The terrain, devoid of obstacles, was an ideal stage for displaying pure taijutsu skill.
As minutes turned to hours under the red sun, fatigue began to manifest, even in someone as conditioned as Lee. Aito, too, felt the strain, the environment, and his dampened powers drawing heavily on his endurance.
Finally, as both warriors reached a standstill, gasping for breath, Might Guy stepped forward. "Enough!" he declared, smiling broadly. "This was not just a test of strength but of heart, and both of you showed incredible spirit!"
Lee bowed deeply to Aito, respect etched in every line of his face. "Thank you for this match, Aito. I have learned much."
Aito returned the bow, equally respectful. "The honor was mine, Lee. Your dedication is truly inspiring."
"What was that that Lee did to increase his speed?" Aito asked with curiosity
"He opened one of the Eight Gates. The first one, to be specific." Guy answered
"Could you also teach me how to open these Eight Gates?" Aito asked, causing Guy to turn to Minato
"He can handle it." Minato reassured
"If your sensei says you can handle it, sure. Your flames of youth burn bright, Aito!" Guy exclaimed, "Now let us begin refining your Taijutsu skills."
(One month later – Aito's physical training dimension)
As the Chunin exams got closer, Aito progressed in everything he practiced. He had shaved off half the time it took him to lock onto a Flying Thunder God Technique marker. He was now down to five minutes, and the Chunin exams were a month away so Minato had upped his training regimen. Today was the day that Hayate was supposed to come and assess Aito to see if he was ready to move on to more advanced stuff.
Hayate Gekko stands at the edge of the training area, his arms crossed, with a curious and slightly skeptical expression. Holding a standard shinobi training sword, Aito stands at the center of the clearing, his stance relaxed but clearly ready to begin.
"Alright, Aito. Show me the basics you've mastered. Let's see your form and technique." Hayate instructed
Aito nods back, taking a deep breath. He shifts into his starting stance, feet shoulder-width apart, sword held in front with both hands, the tip angled slightly towards the ground.
"First, the basic strikes." Hayate instructed
Without hesitation, Aito begins. He steps forward, delivering a sharp vertical strike down towards an imaginary foe. Fluidly pulls the sword up smoothly to execute a horizontal slash. Each movement is precise, demonstrating control and balance, his eyes focused intently on the spaces where an opponent might be.
He then transitions into a series of diagonal cuts, left to right, then right to left, each slice cutting through the air with a swoosh. The coordination between his eye movements and hand positions is seamless, indicating his awareness and intention with each strike.
"Good. Show me your defensive moves." Hayate said with an approving nod
Aito responds by positioning himself near one of the wooden poles. As he pretends to face multiple attackers from different directions, he demonstrates basic parrying techniques—upward, downward, and side blocks—each with a quick counterattack. The blocks are tight and controlled, barely moving from the core of his defensive stance, showcasing his ability to deflect and immediately respond.
"Now, footwork." Hayate instructed
He jumps back from the pole, then advances with a series of quick, light steps demonstrating agility and maintaining balance. Aito's movements are nimble; he moves around the training dummy and strikes at different angles, simulating an actual fight scenario. His footwork is not just functional but strategic, positioning him optimally for both attack and defense.
"Not bad at all. You've got the basics down, Aito. Your grip and stance are solid, and your movements are fluid. Let's see how you handle speed." Hayate said smiling
Aito grins, with the challenge accepted. He then performs a rapid sequence of strikes combining all the basic techniques he's demonstrated: vertical, horizontal, and diagonal cuts, each flowing into the next. He moves around the dummy, striking quickly but without losing form or precision, his blade a blur.
As he finishes, Aito holds his final pose momentarily, sword extended in a clean line, breathing steadily. He then relaxes, stepping back and sheathing his sword with a satisfying click.
"Impressive, Aito. Your control and speed are exceptional. You've certainly mastered the basics of kenjutsu. With your abilities, you're ready for more advanced techniques." Hayate said, clapping softly, "We can work on creating a kenjutsu style that is unique to you and your abilities."
"Thank you, Hayate. I'm ready to take the next step." Aito said with a nod
Author's Note: The next chapter will mark the beginning of the Chunin exams.