Naruto Uzumaki was an extraordinary young boy living in the Hidden Leaf Village. Although only five years old, Naruto had already made remarkable strides in his training to become a shinobi, thanks to the tutelage of some of the village's most skilled and revered ninjas. His training had been intense and enriching, guided by the expertise of Kakashi Hatake, Yamato, and occasionally the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Kakashi, with his laid-back yet meticulous training style, had taught Naruto his style of taijutsu. Under Kakashi's watchful eye, Naruto learned to move with precision, his small frame becoming agile and strong. Kakashi often praised Naruto's determination, saying, "With your spirit, you're bound to surpass even me one day, Naruto."
Yamato, ever patient and nurturing, had introduced Naruto to the wonders of Wood Style jutsus. It was knowledge only Yamato and the legendary First Hokage had. "Focus your chakra like this," Yamato would instruct, demonstrating the formation of wooden branches with his hands. Naruto, eyes wide with awe and concentration, mimicked Yamato's movements, gradually mastering the technique. Yamato also made sure that Naruto's academic skills were up to par, teaching him to read and write, essential skills for anyone.
The venerable Hiruzen Sarutobi, with his wealth of knowledge and experience, imparted to Naruto the philosophy of the Will of Fire, emphasizing the importance of bonds and the village's collective spirit. "The Will of Fire burns brightly within you, Naruto," Hiruzen would say, his voice warm and encouraging. He also taught Naruto powerful jutsus such as the forbidden jutsu: Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu, Ninja Art: Shuriken Shadow Clone Jutsu, and the mastery of the Bo staff—a weapon that he had been using since he signed his summoning contract.
One winter day, Kakashi and Yamato gathered to discuss Naruto's progress with the Hokage. Hiruzen's advisors—Koharu, Homura, and the stern Danzo—sat around the table, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern.
"So, how is the boy progressing?" Koharu inquired, her eyes keen beneath her spectacles.
Kakashi smiled beneath his mask. "Naruto is truly something else. Despite his young age, he's mastered techniques that some genin struggle with."
Homura nodded approvingly. "And what of his demeanor? Is he disciplined?"
Yamato chimed in, "He has a heart of gold. His determination is unmatched. Though he can be impulsive, his intentions are always pure."
Danzo, always the pragmatist, interjected, "If he is as powerful as you claim, why not send him on missions? He could be of great use."
Kakashi shook his head gently. "Power isn't everything. Naruto needs more knowledge, skill and experience. Enrolling him in the Academy will allow him to grow, both as a ninja and as a person, by interacting with his peers."
Hiruzen agreed, his eyes twinkling with wisdom. "Indeed, we must follow our agreement to wait until Naruto is seven before he joins the Academy."
As the discussion continued, Kakashi and Yamato gazed out the window. Snowflakes drifted lazily from the sky, blanketing the village in a serene layer of white. Their thoughts wandered to Naruto, wondering what he might be doing on this winter day.
Elsewhere in the village, Naruto was engaged in a strategic game of shoji with Osa, his salamander summon. The room was cozy, the warmth from his air conditioning contrasting with the cold outside. Osa, with his sage-like demeanor, made his moves carefully on the board.
"You're getting better, Naruto," Osa remarked, casting a wise glance at the boy. "But remember, being Hokage means knowing when to act and when to delegate."
Naruto chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "Yeah, I know! But I just want to get things done myself. It's hard to wait around."
Osa smiled, his amphibian features softening. "Patience is a virtue, young one."
"We're both young, you know!" Naruto retorted.
"Yes, but I'm the leader of my people. You on the other hand haven't enrolled in the Academy and officially become a ninja." Osa countered, smirking at Naruto.
"Hey! I would enroll if I could. The Hokage said I'm too young to enter." Naruto replied. He never had the most patience and now he kind of wish time move faster.
"Didn't one of your sensei became a genin at the age of five?" Osa asked, remembering what Naruto have told him about his mentors, specifically the silver hair one with a mask. He wonders what he looks like underneath the mask, maybe he has a buck tooth. Naruto and him have been debating that for months and have tried pranks to get Kakashi to reveal himself, however they were thwarted every time.
"Yeah but that was during a war. There were too many casualties and the village needed bodies. Back then, I would have been in the Academy when I turn four and being able to graduate at five if I can perform the basic ninjutsus and pass the written exam." Naruto answered. Naruto wish he was an official ninja by now so he can rescue princesses and have legendary battles. He knows from the Hokage that there are still skirmishes and tensions amongst the nations. That one major event can lead to another war.
After five rounds of shoji, Naruto stretched his arms and thanked Osa for the game and the advice. Dismissing the salamander back to his realm, Naruto stood up, feeling a familiar itch in his feet—the urge to train. Kakashi had suggested that he rest today, but Naruto's energy was boundless. "I can't just sit around!" he exclaimed to himself, heading out of his small apartment.
The village was lively despite the cold, the streets filled with villagers wrapped warmly against the chill. As Naruto wandered, his attention was caught by a commotion. A group of kids were picking on someone—a small, quiet figure with dark blue hair and unusual, lavender-tinted eyes. Despite her small frame, there was an unmistakable sense of determination in her stance as she attempted to stand her ground against her tormentors.
Naruto's heart thumped in his chest, a mixture of indignation and the familiar call to action. "Hey, leave her alone!" he shouted, racing over to the scene. The bullies turned, surprised by the sudden intrusion.
"You're that freak everyone talks about!" One of the bullies pointed at Naruto, recognizing the village pariah. "What, are the freaks banding together now?"
The bullies point at him as they laugh. They thought their joke was so funny that one of them clutch their stomachs. All it did was pissed Naruto off more.
"The only freaks I see are you! Your face is so ugly, your mother couldn't even love you." Naruto retorted back. The insult did its job as the bully charged at him. Naruto clasped his hands behind his back, deciding to show them the prowess he'd gained from his training.
As the first bully swung his fist, Naruto sidestepped easily, causing the bully to lose balance and stumble into his comrade. Another attempted a kick, but Naruto expertly dodged, twisting his body gracefully. The bullies' attacks seemed to be in slow motion as Naruto maneuvered them to clash into each other, their frustration growing with each missed strike. Within moments, they were a tangled mess, tumbling to the ground in defeat.
"He's too fast!" one of them whined, rubbing his bruised arm.
With a final glare from Naruto, the bullies scrambled away, muttering under their breath. He then turned to the girl, who was watching him with wide eyes of awe and gratitude.
"Hi, I'm Naruto Uzumaki!" he introduced himself with his trademark grin, as if the scuffle had been nothing more than a casual exercise.
The girl hesitated for a moment, her cheeks flushing a soft pink as she gathered the courage to speak. "Hello, my name is Hinata Hyuga," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper but filled with sincerity.
Naruto nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "Nice to meet you, Hinata. Don't let them get to you, okay?"
Before the conversation could continue, a caretaker appeared, her expression a mix of relief and apprehension as she quickly led Hinata away. "Thank you," Hinata mouthed, casting a shy but grateful glance at Naruto as she was ushered away.
As he watched her go, Naruto felt his heart a little lighter. Either his good deed made him feel better or that he met someone not as mean as most people. "I hope I see her again," he thought, turning back towards his wanderings.
Later, as he strolled through a livelier part of the village, Naruto's eyes caught a peculiar sight: a tall man with long, white hair peering through a telescope at the women's hot spring. The man's vibrant personality was evident even from a distance, his posture relaxed yet mischievous.
Naruto's curiosity piqued, and he approached the man without hesitation. "Hey, old man! Why are you looking through that telescope into the hot springs?" he called out loudly, his innocent tone laced with mischief.
The man turned sharply, momentarily startled. It was Jiraiya, the legendary Sannin, known for both his formidable skills and his less-than-discreet habits. "Quiet, kid! You'll get us both into trouble," Jiraiya whispered desperately, glancing around nervously.
Unfortunately, his caution came too late. A commotion erupted from the direction of the hot springs, and Jiraiya knew they had been spotted. "Time to scram!" he exclaimed, and both he and Naruto broke into a run, laughter bubbling up as they sprinted away from potential trouble.
Once they were safely hidden behind a building, Jiraiya leaned against the wall, catching his breath. Suddenly, he straightened up, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "Now that we've made our escape, it's time for my introduction!" he announced, launching into an extravagant dance. His movements were surprisingly graceful for someone of his stature, and he punctuated his performance with bold declarations. "I am Jiraiya, the gallant, one of the Sannin, the mighty Toad Sage of Mount Myoboku, and most importantly, the acclaimed author of 'Icha Icha Paradise'!"
Naruto giggled at the display, the man's theatrical antics both amusing and endearing. "You're really something, aren't you, old man?" he said, eyes sparkling with humor. "I think I'll call you Pervy Sage!"
Jiraiya paused mid-pose, an eyebrow quirking up at the nickname. A deep, resonant laugh escaped his lips. "Pervy Sage, huh? I've had worse titles," he chuckled, clearly taking the moniker in stride. "What's your name, kid?"
"I'm Naruto Uzumaki!" Naruto declared proudly, his energy infectious. "You said you're Jiraiya, right? One of the legendary Sannin? Where's the other two?"
Jiraiya nodded, a gleam of pride in his eyes. "That's right. As for the others… let's say one is traveling the world collecting a massive debt due to gambling and the other is a traitor who should be burn to ash so I can piss at him. BUT that's not important! So, Naruto, how would you like to learn a thing or two from me? I could teach you some amazing jutsus."
Naruto's excitement was palpable, completely disregarding Jiraiya's information dump on his former teammates and focusing on the offer of new jutsus to learn. His eyes widening at the prospect of learning new techniques. "Really? What kind of jutsus?"
Jiraiya stroked his chin thoughtfully, deciding where to start. With a flourish, he demonstrated the Summoning Jutsu, and with a puff of smoke, a giant toad appeared beside him. The toad's presence was commanding, its eyes blinking slowly as it took in its surroundings.
Naruto, impressed but aware of his own summon, waved his hand. "Thanks, but I already have a summon. I don't want to hurt his feelings if I get another one."
Jiraiya's eyebrows raised in surprise. "Well, that's impressive for someone your age. In that case, let me show you something else. Have you heard of the Rasengan?"
Without waiting for a response, Jiraiya formed a swirling sphere of chakra in his palm, mesmerizing Naruto with its glow and impressing him with the jutsu not needing any hand seals to perform. Quickly demonstrating its destructive power, Jiraiya blasted away a nearby tree. The raw energy and destructive power of the Rasengan was awe-inspiring, leaving Naruto speechless for a moment.
"That's incredible!" Naruto finally exclaimed, his voice filled with admiration and determination. "Can I learn it?"
"Of course," Jiraiya replied with a grin. "But first things first, let's go outside the village. It's not safe for the villagers if we train here."
Naruto and Jiraiya traveled to a clearing just outside the village. The ground was dusted with snow, the air crisp and invigorating. Jiraiya, ever the enthusiastic teacher, held a water balloon in his hand.
"Alright, Naruto," Jiraiya said, his voice a blend of authority and encouragement. "The prerequisite for this jutsu is having enormous amounts of chakra, which I can confidently say you have. The first step in learning the Rasengan is rotation. You need to pop this water balloon using nothing but your chakra."
Naruto nodded, eyes gleaming with determination. He took the balloon, feeling the cool water slosh inside. "Got it, Pervy Sage! Just you watch!"
Jiraiya chuckled at the nickname, watching keenly as Naruto focused. The young boy concentrated, hands wrapped around the balloon, trying to channel his chakra. He thought about a vortex spinning in counterclockwise direction. For a moment, nothing happened, and Naruto frowned in frustration.
"Remember," Jiraiya advised, "Gather chakra in your palm, then release a steady stream of it. Use the chakra to push and churn the water inside the balloon. Imagine a spinning flow of chakra."
Naruto gritted his teeth, closing his eyes as he now imagines a whirlpool going in a clockwise direction. He tried again, feeling the chakra respond. Slowly, the balloon began to bulge and twist under the pressure, until finally, with a satisfying pop, water splashed over his hands.
"I did it!" Naruto exclaimed, shaking the droplets from his fingers, a wide grin spreading across his face.
Jiraiya surprised, nodded approvingly. "Beginner's luck, kid. But don't get too cocky. We've still got a way to go."
As Naruto lay on his bed at night after his training with Jiraiya, his mind would drift into a realm of dreams where reality blurred with imagination. The cool winter air seeped through the cracks in the window, lulling him into a deeper slumber. In his dreams, the clearing where he trained transformed into a serene, ethereal space. The snowflakes began to shimmer like stars falling gently to the ground, casting a soft glow around him.
It was here, in this dream-like space, that Naruto often found himself in the presence of two figures—his father, Minato Namikaze, and his mother, Kushina Uzumaki. Although Naruto had never met them in his waking life, their presence felt warm and comforting, like a long-lost memory.
Naruto dreamt of his father standing beside him, his form radiant and reassuring as he showed his Rasengan, which was abnormally big compare to his hand. Naruto compares it to palming a beach ball, which was impressive. Minato's gentle smile and wise gaze filled Naruto with a sense of peace.
"You're doing well, Naruto," Minato said, his voice calm and filled with pride. "The Rasengan is a difficult jutsu, but you've shown incredible progress already. It took me years to invent the jutsu."
Naruto beamed up at him, feeling a connection that transcended the boundaries of dreams. "Wow, you invented the Rasengan! That's so cool!"
Minato chuckled softly, as he cancel his Rasengan. He patted Naruto's head, seeing the pattern of his hair and the way it grows. "Remember, the key to mastering the Rasengan is to truly understand the flow of your chakra. By the pattern of your hair, I say you rotate them clockwise."
Over the next day, Naruto would rise early, his eagerness driving him to train relentlessly until he master this jutsu. He met Jiraiya in the clearing, ready to tackle the next challenge. On this day, it was rubber balls.
"Now, you need to do this." Jiraiya said, holding up a rubber ball. In the few seconds, it distorted and pop like the water balloon.
"Now here," Jiraiya throws him a rubber ball, "This step is all about force. Concentrate on the ball and pop it.
Naruto took the ball, nodding with determination. "Right! Concentrate. I can do this!"
He positioned his hands around the rubber ball. His chakra swirled and swirled violently in his hand, and he try visualizing the ball popping. The ball resisted, its rubbery exterior stretching from the force of his chakra, but not enough to pop.
Naruto's brow furrowed in concentration, beads of sweat forming despite the cold air. "Come on, come on," he murmured, urging the ball to comply.
Jiraiya watched his progress patiently.
Taking a deep breath, Naruto recalibrated his approach. He relaxed, letting the chakra flow more freely, picturing a whirlpool eating another whirlpool and becoming bigger. He keeps adding more and more, as his chakra rotates with more power. Eventually, he felt how dense his chakra was that it started to burn his hand. The rubber ball was moving so erratic, but in a blink of an eye, it finally popped.
"Yes!" Naruto shouted, jumping up with joy. "I did it again!"
Jiraiya clapped him on the shoulder, clearly impressed. "You're getting the hang of it, Naruto. Now head home and rest. I'll see you tomorrow for the final step. By this rate, you'll be the fastest to learn this jutsu."
On that night, as Naruto drifted into dreams after another day of training with Jiraiya, he found himself once more in the presence of his parents. This time, his mother, Kushina, stood beside Minato, her vibrant red hair cascading down her back like a waterfall of flame.
"Minato might be a genius with jutsus," Kushina said with a teasing smile, nudging her husband, "but he used to come up with the most ridiculous names for them."
Minato laughed, rubbing the back of his head sheepishly. "I just wanted the name to reflect the intricacy of the technique."
Kushina waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, please, 'The Ice Pop-Inspired Nimbus Jiraiya Twin Whorl Sphere' is way too long and awful. Rasengan is much snappier!"
Naruto giggled, feeling an overwhelming warmth at the easy banter between his parents. "Rasengan is a cool name! Thanks, Mom!"
Kushina ruffled Naruto's hair, her smile warm and loving. "You're welcome, my little whirlpool. Remember, this jutsu is as much about your heart as it is your chakra. Your father created this jutsu with love."
"You've got this, Naruto," Minato's voice seemed to whisper, a phantom of reassurance that bolstered his spirit.
The crisp morning air filled the clearing just outside the Hidden Leaf Village, where Naruto stood determinedly, eyes fixed on his outstretched hand. He was on the final step of mastering the Rasengan, a powerful jutsu that required immense concentration and control. Despite his young age and small stature, Naruto's heart burned with determination.
Jiraiya stood watching with a blend of pride and expectation. "Alright, Naruto," he began, a twinkle of encouragement in his gaze. "You've got the spin and power down, but the final step is containment. You need to hold the chakra in place without it bursting apart. That means you have to maintain the jutsu at one hundred percent."
Naruto nodded, his forehead creased with determination. He tried and tried throughout the day, but nothing seems to be working. In the following days, Naruto struggled with containment. He tried again and again to master it, but the chakra remained unruly, refusing to settle into a stable form. In a moment of ingenuity, he summoned a Shadow Clone to assist him, using it to help balance the chakra while he concentrated on containment.
"Hey, Pervy Sage, look! I got it!" Naruto exclaimed, showing Jiraiya a Rasengan stabilized with the help of his clone.
Jiraiya nodded, impressed but firm. "It's clever to use a Shadow Clone, Naruto, but you need to be able to do it on your own. That's where true mastery lies."
Naruto grumbled slightly but understood the importance. He knew he needed to persevere, even if it meant more hard work.
On the sixth day, after multiple attempts and invaluable tips from his dream parents, Naruto awoke with renewed determination. He met Jiraiya in the clearing, the lessons from his dreams fresh in his mind, guiding his hands as he began to focus once more.
Gritting his teeth, Naruto visualized the Rasengan, pouring his heart and will into the chakra. His small hand began to glow with energy, the swirling orb of chakra slowly stabilizing. Instead of a Shadow Clone to help him form the jutsu, he visualize Teuchi and Ayame hands helping him, then the Third Hokage, then Kakashi, then Yamato, then Osa and the other salamanders, and finally his parents. In that very moment, the Rasengan stabilized, a perfect sphere spinning rapidly in his palm, without the aid of a Shadow Clone.
"I did it!" Naruto cheered, a triumphant grin spreading across his face. His heart soared with joy, buoyed by the knowledge that he'd succeeded on his own.
Jiraiya's expression softened into a proud smile. "Well done, Naruto. You've mastered the Rasengan."
Breathing heavily but exhilarated, Naruto couldn't stop smiling. The people he had met, the people who cared about him and helped him to become strong were the reason for his success with the Rasengan. He thought about what his mother said, the jutsu was made out of love. Is that what he feels for them? Love?
With a determined shout, Naruto charged at a nearby tree, slamming the Rasengan into the wood. The tree exploded in a burst of energy, splinters flying outward as the force of the jutsu obliterated it. Breathing heavily, Naruto stood amidst the debris, his face flushed with exertion but lit up with triumph. "This is awesome!" he exclaimed.
Jiraiya ruffled Naruto's hair, his own smile wide and proud. "You are looking like a genius, brat. I knew you had it in you."
As they returned to the village, snowflakes twirling in the air, Naruto's heart was light, filled with the warmth of his achievements and the knowledge that his parents, though distant, were always with him in spirit. The dreams of Minato and Kushina became a cherished memory, a reminder of the love and wisdom that had carried him through his journey to mastering the Rasengan.