Otsutsuki (Rebooted)

by greymatter1098

This is a reboot of my story Otsutsuki. This is an alternate universe story where Naruto is an Otsutsuki that is sent to Earth and found by Minato & taken him by him & Kushina. This universe variant of Asura will be Mito Uzumaki (Minato & Kushina's biological daughter) & Indra will be Sayuri Uchiha (Fugaku & Mikoto's daughter & Itachi's younger sister). Mostly NarutoxSayuri centric

15. Foxes & Toads

Foxes & Toads

Naruto had always imagined that a funeral—especially one for a teammate—would be held under rain-heavy skies, with thunder rumbling in the distance. He'd pictured that nature itself would mourn alongside him. Instead, the sun shone brightly, the world continuing on as though nothing had changed, as if Sakura's absence didn't matter. It felt wrong, so very wrong. He would have preferred rain to hide the tears that now streamed unchecked down his face. Though he wasn't sobbing aloud, he couldn't stop the silent grief from carving its path down his cheeks.

He stood beside Kakashi, who kept a steadying hand on his shoulder throughout the entire ceremony. Naruto was thankful for the support. Ever since the Chunin Exams, Kakashi had seemed… off, almost like he couldn't comprehend Sakura's still, lifeless form resting upon the funeral pyre. They had all expected her to be here, to be smiling, maybe joking about his training or scolding him for something trivial, but now she was gone. The finality of it settled like a heavy stone in Naruto's stomach.

Naruto's gaze swept over the small gathering of friends, family, and fellow shinobi who had come to pay their respects. He noticed the shocked, hollow expressions on many faces. Sakura's parents stood near the Hokage, the mother sobbing as the father tried, with trembling arms, to console her. Kakashi stepped forward, handing them Sakura's crimson forehead protector—the same one she had polished so meticulously. The woman's sobs intensified, and Naruto's stomach twisted painfully. He should be stronger than this, he told himself. Her mother had lost her only child. His own pain was nothing compared to that.

He forced himself to stand straighter, wiping his face. He tried to stop the tears, but they refused. He had done so much crying since her death—far more than he ever thought possible. Yet here he was, eyes watering again, vision blurring as the Sandaime finished his eulogy.

As the Hokage lit the torch, igniting Sakura's body, Naruto clenched his fists. He felt hollow. He couldn't believe how much he missed her—the way she'd smile encouragingly when he finally got a jutsu right, the way she'd frown thoughtfully as she leafed through a scroll. For so long, he'd taken her presence for granted, dismissing her talents, her quiet support. Now he'd never get the chance to tell her how much he appreciated her.

There was one absence Naruto keenly felt. Sayuri was not here. He understood the reason—she was still confined to the medical ward, recovering from the ordeal of her curse mark sealing. Even so, the team that once trained together, argued together, risked their lives together, was now incomplete in a way that felt fundamentally wrong. He tried not to resent the situation. It wasn't Sayuri's fault. She literally couldn't be here. But it still stung, to stand here without her at Sakura's farewell.

The Hokage's words ended, and the gathered shinobi bowed their heads. Naruto watched the flames consume Sakura's body, watched the smoke rise into the perfect blue sky. How he wished it would rain. He wished nature would weep for her, mourn her passing as he did. But the world kept turning, the wind blew gently, and the sky remained heartbreakingly clear.

"I'm sorry, Sakura," he whispered softly, his voice barely audible over the crackle of the flames. "Goodbye." He lingered only a moment longer before turning away. His heart pounded with unresolved pain, anger, and regret. She was gone, but he was alive. He still had a future. He swore to protect everyone he could, to never let this happen again—no more grieving mothers, no more tears shed over a friend's lifeless form.

As he walked away from the funeral, he headed straight to Training Ground Seven. The need to move, to do something, burned within him. He paused at the familiar bridge where Team Seven had so often gathered. He couldn't bring himself to cross it the normal way—he remembered Sakura's voice floating over these waters, remembered her quick laughter, her encouragements, and her quiet sighs whenever he and Sayuri argued. The memories were too heavy. With a surge of chakra to his legs, he leapt over the river instead, refusing to step on the bridge that felt so achingly empty without Sakura.

The training ground seemed just as he'd left it—sunlit grass, wooden posts, and a gentle breeze. Yet it felt alien, as though he were trespassing in a place that no longer belonged to him. Memories surged unbidden: Sakura rolling her eyes at one of his jokes, Sakura smiling as he tried and failed and tried again to perfect a technique. He clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white, driving those memories away. He needed action, not reflection.

Dashing forward, Naruto struck the wooden post with furious blows. He punched until his knuckles bled, kicked until his legs ached. It wasn't enough—physical pain couldn't overshadow the hollow ache in his heart. Without hesitation, he formed the Tiger seal, summoning a legion of Shadow Clones that filled the clearing in a massive cloud of smoke. The clones shared his anguish, their determined faces mirroring his pain and fury.

One clone lashed out at another, and suddenly the clearing erupted into chaos—a sprawling brawl of Narutos fighting each other tooth and nail. The real Naruto joined the fray, fists swinging, elbows landing. He didn't try to hone technique or form. He simply fought, each blow a futile attempt to vent the hurt that words couldn't express.

An hour later, he stood alone amid a sea of dissipating smoke and scattered leaves, every clone dispelled. He still didn't feel better. So he summoned more clones and fought again. And again. Until the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in somber shades of orange and red, as though it too finally realized how wrong it was for such a terrible day to be so bright.

By the time he finally collapsed onto the grass, leaning against one of the training stumps, Naruto was covered in bruises, cuts, and scratches. His body throbbed with pain, but the hollow ache in his chest felt numbed, if only slightly. He knew this wasn't real training—he was expending energy aimlessly, not improving technique or learning new jutsu. But he didn't care.

He was too tired to cry now, too tired to picture Sakura's face contorted in her final moments, too tired to think about Sayuri in the medic ward, too tired to curse Orochimaru or fate. Hollow was better than agony. Empty was better than breaking down at a friend's funeral or beating himself up over could-haves and should-haves.

In that quiet darkness, he breathed slowly. He thought again of Sakura's soft smile, the way she always tried to see the best in them. He thought of Kakashi's comforting hand on his shoulder, how the Jonin had tried to be strong for him. He closed his eyes, inhaling the scent of grass and sawdust, and promised himself he would grow stronger—for Sakura's sake, for Sayuri's sake, and for his own. He would never again stand powerless while someone he cared about burned.

The night was silent, save for the faint rustle of leaves. Naruto remained where he was, exhausted beyond words, staring blankly at the stars beginning to peek out from the dusky sky. The world still turned, and tomorrow would bring new trials. He would be ready.

---

Rain drummed steadily against the rooftops and wooden railings, forming shimmering puddles in the dimly lit streets. Naruto moved through the deserted lanes of Konoha, his sandals splashing through shallow pools of water. Night had long since fallen, and the village seemed almost asleep beneath the sky's gloomy curtain. Though he wasn't fond of trudging through empty streets soaked to the bone, he welcomed the solitude. After spending countless hours perfecting new techniques and pushing his limits, the silence gave him space to think.

Much weighed on his mind. The past few weeks had been brutal. He had trained ceaselessly under Yamato's watchful eye, working not just on his Mokuton abilities, but on integrating them more seamlessly with his elemental Rasengans. He had ventured further, dipping into the difficult territory of advanced dojutsu manipulation. His left eye seemed capable of cycling through various ocular powers: the Rinnegan, the Byakugan, and others that he still barely understood—like that strange Jogan he had glimpsed only a few times. His right eye, however, remained permanently bound to the Kessetsugan, a power that still mystified him. The Otsutsuki chakra flowing through him allowed him to dabble in forms he never dreamed possible. He'd even tested his True Otsutsuki form within that strange dimensional pocket linked to the Kessetsugan. Each attempt brought revelations but also left him drained and unsettled.

His Otsutsuki parents' chakra imprints resided deep within his mind, guiding him with cool, detached wisdom. He often conversed with them mentally, their voices echoing softly through his thoughts. They never commanded him, never scolded him; instead, they offered insights that were simultaneously cryptic and enlightening. He found their presence both reassuring and unsettling. They wanted him to grow stronger, to embrace his heritage, to understand the true extent of his bloodline's capabilities. But they never forced him; they let him choose. Still, the memory of Sakura's death, at Orochimaru's hands, hung like a blade over his heart. He couldn't save her. The thought alone burned like acid in his veins.

As he turned a corner, Naruto allowed himself to recall that terrible day. He saw the forest again, the twisted remains of trees, Sayuri's frantic efforts, Sakura's broken form. The anguish was as potent as any poison. He tightened his fists, knuckles white, and forced the memories aside. No time to break down. He had to move forward, to become stronger, to ensure no more friends fell before some monstrous adversary.

Though Sayuri survived that confrontation with Orochimaru—branded and cursed—she now lay recovering in the medic ward following a sealing procedure. Her absence at Sakura's funeral stung. He knew logically that she couldn't have attended in her condition, but the emotional wound remained. He missed his teammates, missed the old days when they sparred in training grounds, squabbled over nonsense, and found small joys in an otherwise harsh existence. Now, with Sakura gone and Sayuri confined, his world felt emptier. The village's rain-soaked silence offered no solace, only a damp, hollow echo of what once was.

He paused beneath an awning, letting rainwater drip from his hair. The Otsutsuki voices stirred in his mind. Father's voice, calm and profound: "Pain can refine your purpose. Do not flee from it." Mother's voice, gentle but firm: "You must harness every resource, every gift. Your destiny is not small." He nodded silently. They were right. He'd learned new skills. He had Mokuton techniques to shape wood into living weapons, elemental Rasengans that crackled with force, Byakugan insights into chakra networks, and Rinnegan manipulations of gravity and energy. He had tested his Kessetsugan pocket dimension, stepping inside a strange, timeless void where he could train without limits. Even the so-called "Kyuubi Chakra Mode"—though the fox wasn't truly sealed within him, he'd inherited that chakra—provided him extraordinary strength. He had everything he needed to surpass boundaries. Yet a heavy dread lingered in his heart.

He trudged onward, head bowed against the rain. He thought of Jigen, Isshiki, and other distant nightmares he'd glimpsed in his mindscape. The world was so vast, filled with threats beyond measure. He would need to remain vigilant. No more failures. No more helplessness.

As he neared his apartment, a dark shape materialized in the alleyway. Naruto halted, senses on high alert. He squinted through the downpour, seeing a figure clad in a standard-issue black uniform favored by Root operatives. The ninja's face was hidden behind a blank mask, but the posture and aura were unmistakable.

"Come," the Root operative said quietly, voice muffled but clear. "Lord Danzo summons you."

Naruto tensed. A summons now, of all times? He had hoped for a quiet evening, a hot shower, rest. But the life he led as a secret operative under Danzo's thumb demanded absolute compliance. He nodded once, saying nothing. The operative melted into the darkness, expecting him to follow. Without hesitation, Naruto followed, leaping onto rooftops and racing through deserted streets. Neither spoke. Raindrops pelted his face, and he steeled himself. Whatever Danzo wanted wouldn't be pleasant.

They descended into a hidden entrance, slipping through a concealed doorway behind an old storage shed. A winding stone staircase led them underground, into the Root lair's cold gloom. Torchlight flickered on damp walls, casting dancing shadows. The silence pressed heavily against his ears, and Naruto braced himself as he stepped into a wide chamber where Danzo awaited, flanked by a few silent Root members.

Naruto approached and dropped to one knee, head bowed, arms at his sides. He had to maintain the façade: obedient weapon, loyal soldier. Yet inside, he churned with questions. Danzo's single visible eye fixed on him, intense and unreadable.

"Report," Danzo commanded softly.

Naruto exhaled slowly. "During the Forest of Death," he began, voice steady, "I encountered Orochimaru. He revealed extraordinary powers and ruthlessness. He killed Sakura…" He paused, forcing himself to remain controlled, "and cursed Sayuri, incapacitating her. Orochimaru displayed dojutsu knowledge and formidable jutsu. Eventually, I clashed with him. I pushed him back, though I could not secure victory. He escaped. We barely survived."

He stopped, waiting. The silence stretched. Danzo's expression remained inscrutable. The others in the chamber stood still as statues. Finally, Danzo nodded, as if absorbing the details. Before Naruto could continue, he sensed a slithering presence. A foul chakra. His left eye twitched; he recognized that vile signature. Orochimaru.

From a dark recess stepped Orochimaru himself, pale and smiling thinly, arms folded. Naruto froze, every fiber screaming to strike. He almost called upon his chakra, but Danzo raised a hand, a simple gesture of warning. Naruto clenched his teeth. How dare this traitor appear here, in the Root stronghold? What madness was this?

Orochimaru regarded Naruto with condescending amusement. "We meet again, boy. So soon, too. I must say, I expected you to be… less alert."

Naruto's jaw tightened, heart pounding. He wanted to lunge, to tear that smirk from Orochimaru's face. But Danzo's presence reminded him of the precarious situation. He dared not betray emotion.

Orochimaru chuckled softly. "What's the matter, shoe shiner?" he said mockingly. Naruto stiffened, confused. Shoe shiner? What nonsense was that?

But Orochimaru's grin widened. "Yes, I know about your little escapades. Disguised under transformation, shining shoes for pocket change when you were younger. Quite resourceful." He leaned forward, voice dripping with mirth. "I wonder how your beloved mentors would react if they knew the mighty Naruto once stooped to such menial labor. Spitshine Naruto… or should I say, shoe shiner Hiro?"

Naruto's eyes widened, sweat forming on his brow. How did Orochimaru learn that secret? The memory flooded back. At age ten, struggling financially after being overcharged by local merchants, Naruto had secretly started a shoe shining service under a disguise. No one would trust the "brat" openly, so he pretended to be Hiro, a mild-mannered shoe shiner. Over four years, he'd earned decent money, invested wisely, even acquired property. It was a humiliating but clever solution. He had hidden this from everyone, even Danzo. Now Orochimaru dangled it mockingly before him.

He forced himself to remain outwardly calm. Inside, he burned. A glance at Danzo. The old war hawk's expression barely changed. Did Danzo know this already? Hard to say. Naruto swallowed, refusing to give Orochimaru the satisfaction of a reaction. He spoke coolly: "My past is irrelevant to the present mission."

Orochimaru's grin twitched. He had hoped to crack the boy's composure, to see him squirm. "Oh, come now," the Sannin purred. "You're not embarrassed? Hiding in plain sight, serving these villagers who despise you? How touching. Tell me, did it sting when they refused you openly, forcing you to grovel behind a mask?"

Naruto's Otsutsuki parents whispered in his mind, urging restraint. Father's voice: "Do not let trivial taunts unmake your poise." Mother's voice: "He baits you. Show no weakness." He steadied himself. "I survived," he said simply. "Your insults mean nothing."

Orochimaru's eyes narrowed, momentarily thwarted. He decided to try another angle. "And what about Sakura? You failed her. She died screaming, didn't she?" His voice turned venomous, words meant to slice through Naruto's stoicism.

A flicker of anguish passed through Naruto's eyes, but he forced it down. He would not yield. He simply said, "Her memory drives me forward. Your cruelty changes nothing."

A low hiss of displeasure escaped Orochimaru's lips. Danzo finally intervened, raising his hand again. "Enough." He eyed Orochimaru and Naruto, ensuring silence. "We have matters to discuss."

The chamber's tension thickened. Orochimaru turned his focus to Danzo, calm once more. "We stand at a threshold," Danzo said quietly, voice echoing. "The Chunin Exam finals approach. The Sound and Sand will strike. The Sand's One tailed beast shall be unleashed. The Third Hokage will be cornered and eliminated."

Naruto's heart lurched. He had suspected treachery, but hearing it confirmed so casually was chilling. He clenched his jaw. Danzo continued, "Your role, Naruto, is to stand aside. You will not interfere with the invasion. Let them come, let them shed blood. Your only task is to ensure the One Tail's rampage remains contained." His tone was cool, as if discussing weather. "Do not try to save the Hokage."

Naruto struggled to remain impassive. The village he was raised in, the system he once tried to trust, was now orchestrating its own leader's downfall in league with this monster. He wanted to scream that this was madness. But he knew Danzo too well. Open defiance here meant death. He bowed his head. "Understood."

Orochimaru smiled wickedly. "You see? The boy's loyal enough to obey. Perhaps your training isn't so faulty, Danzo."

Naruto's fists tightened behind his back, nails digging into his palms. Orochimaru tried once more: "Though I must admit, I expected more fire from him. Maybe we should thank that shoe shiner's humility or the guilt he carries over Sakura. He's too broken to resist."

Naruto didn't rise to the bait. He remained perfectly still. Danzo's eye flicked towards the Sannin. "Do not push your luck, Orochimaru. Our arrangement stands. Once the Hokage falls, we proceed as planned."

Orochimaru inclined his head mockingly. "Of course. My forces will play their part. Just keep your operatives coordinated. I trust Kabuto will handle communications?"

Danzo nodded. "Kabuto will liaise with my agents. We expect no failures."

Orochimaru grinned. "Then I'll leave you to discipline your weapon," he said, casting Naruto a lingering glance. "Until we meet again, Naruto." He vanished into the shadows, silence rushing back in.

Naruto exhaled silently, anger and confusion swirling in his chest. Orochimaru had dared to step into Danzo's domain. They plotted treachery together, openly. What twisted alliance was this? He suspected a double-cross. Danzo wouldn't let Orochimaru simply rule after the Hokage's demise. The old hawk had ambitions of his own.

Danzo broke the silence. "He thinks he's clever. Let him enjoy his fantasy. After the invasion, he will be weakened or dead. You will ensure he does not escape. If he tries, finish him." Danzo's voice was calm, as though ordering a trivial chore.

Naruto bowed lower. "Understood."

"Good," Danzo said, waving a dismissive hand. "You are dismissed."

Naruto rose smoothly and left the chamber, face expressionless. Inside, turmoil raged. Orochimaru had revealed one painful secret and taunted him with Sakura's death. Danzo expected him to assist indirectly in the Hokage's downfall by doing nothing. Worse, Danzo formed alliances with known enemies of the village he pretended to protect. This was pure treason. Yet Naruto couldn't openly challenge it. Not yet.

Once outside the Root lair, Naruto found himself back in the rain-drenched streets. The downpour had not lessened. He stood under a gutter spout, letting water cascade off the tiles, forming a sheet of water before his eyes. He replayed the events in his mind. Danzo hadn't even asked about Jigen, Isshiki, or the Otsutsuki secrets Naruto guarded. Nor had he brought up Naruto's evolving dojutsu or strange transformations. Why ignore such crucial information?

Naruto considered two possibilities: Orochimaru either hadn't shared his discovery about Naruto's Otsutsuki nature, or he had, and Danzo chose silence. In either case, why remain quiet? Perhaps Danzo judged that using Naruto as a pawn was easier if Naruto believed his secrets were still safe. Or maybe Danzo suspected something but waited for the right moment to exploit it. Either way, it was another layer of intrigue.

He shuddered. The village's darkness ran deeper than he'd realized. He recalled the Otsutsuki voices in his mind, seeking their counsel. Mother's voice: "The web of deceit around you grows thicker. You must be patient, strategic." Father's voice: "A warrior does not rush into a trap. Let them believe you tamed."

Naruto clenched his jaw, water dripping from his hair into his eyes. He had to remain calm and cunning. He could not scream his outrage into the night. That would change nothing. Instead, he must play along. Let Danzo think he had a loyal weapon. Let Orochimaru think he had a toy to taunt. Meanwhile, he would prepare for the day when he could break free from their strings.

His thoughts drifted again to Sayuri, confined in the medic ward, struggling with the curse mark. The final Chunin Exam battles loomed. She would face Gaara, he recalled. Gaara—the vessel of the One Tail—fated to run amok during the planned invasion. Naruto's role would be to contain that threat, to let the higher powers clash and murder each other while he stood by. The idea made him sick. He was no puppet. He was not born to watch his comrades die. Yet now, with no safe allies, no trust in the system, he must endure. He had to preserve himself and his secrets.

He trudged forward through the empty street, wincing at how easily Orochimaru had tried to strip away his dignity by mentioning his shoe shining past. Once a desperate measure to survive in a hostile village, it had become a secret shame. He reminded himself that survival was not shameful. He had been forced into that corner by a system that refused to support him. The masked man of Root led him to Danzo's lair; how different was that from his past struggles? He had always scraped by, forging a path from nothing. The Otsutsuki imprints respected his resilience, the ability to adapt and endure. Perhaps that trait would help him now more than ever.

His reflection in a rain puddle caught his eye. Distorted and rippling, it reminded him that he was no longer the boy he used to be. He carried secrets unimaginable. He had tapped into Otsutsuki chakra modes, tested advanced dojutsu transformations, and matched Orochimaru blow for blow in that forest. He was far beyond the old days of fumbling with basic jutsu. Power was his now, albeit at a terrible cost.

He straightened his shoulders. If he must walk this lonely road, so be it. He would prepare in silence, train harder, master more techniques, and keep his façade intact. Let them underestimate him. Let Danzo think him loyal, Orochimaru think him broken. He would wait, watch, and learn. He would sharpen his abilities until the moment came to break free, to ensure that no more innocent blood stained his hands—or burned upon a funeral pyre.

Lightning flashed overhead, followed by a low rumble of thunder. He allowed himself a small, bitter smile. This storm suited him better than the sun had at Sakura's funeral. Here, beneath thunder and rain, he could acknowledge the darkness he navigated. He would not be naïve again. He would not place blind faith in any authority. He had relied too heavily on trust, on the village's moral compass. No more. His destiny would be forged by his own hands.

A voice in his mind urged caution. "They are predators," said Mother's imprint gently. "To survive among them, you must become an apex force, calm yet deadly." Father's voice was steadier: "You have the talent and the will. Now cultivate patience. One day you will choose whom to spare and whom to destroy."

Naruto nodded imperceptibly. He had a month until the finals. In that time, he would refine his Mokuton further, polish his Rasengans to perfection, test his Byakugan's insight, unlock deeper powers of the Rinnegan, and truly master the energies in his Kessetsugan dimension.

He continued walking, the downpour masking the sound of his footsteps, leaving him alone with his thoughts. The night air felt strangely fresh now, as if washing away the last remnants of innocence. He felt older, wearier. His gaze drifted to a distant set of lights that marked a small market district. Even now, late at night, a lantern or two burned, defiant against the storm. Just as he would be defiant against the storms swirling around him.

He passed through dim streets and arrived at his apartment building's entrance. Normally, he might check on the tenants he indirectly supported through his quiet arrangements. He had learned to invest wisely. He had no pride in the memory of shoe shining, but he acknowledged its necessity. Without it, he wouldn't have had the capital to invest in property. The villagers living unknowingly under his landlordship would be astonished if they knew the truth. But he would not reveal it. Secrecy was a skill he'd honed to a razor's edge.

He paused at his door, letting rainwater drip from his hairline. Orochimaru had taunted him, calling him "shoe shiner Hiro." The Sannin wanted to humiliate him. But what was humiliation compared to survival? Naruto had done what he must. If he must keep doing it—lying, hiding truths, playing roles—then he would. There was no turning back.

The keys jingled softly as he unlocked his door. Inside, his apartment was dark, silent. He lit a small lamp, its warm glow revealing a tidy living space. Despite everything, he took comfort in these small corners of normalcy. Stripping off his damp clothes, he prepared for a shower. The water's heat would soothe bruised muscles and wash away the scent of rain and tension. The reflection in the bathroom mirror showed a boy—no, a young man—scarred by recent events. He met his own gaze, noting the hard set of his jaw. He was changing, evolving, becoming someone else.

As he stepped into the shower, hot water cascading over him, he let his mind wander. He imagined the coming invasion, the chaos, the screams. He thought of Orochimaru slinking in shadows, Danzo orchestrating betrayal, the Hokage walking unknowingly into a noose. He thought of Sayuri, healing, perhaps training in her own way, and of the promise he made silently at Sakura's funeral: never again. He would never again fail to protect those he cared about—if any remained worthy of trust.

The Otsutsuki parents' presences flickered reassuringly at the edge of his awareness. Mother's voice: "Keep your heart steady. You will outlast these schemes." Father's voice: "Your powers are not fully realized. Learn, adapt, overcome." He closed his eyes, letting the water pound on his shoulders, and nodded. Yes, he would. He must.

When he emerged, he dressed simply, moving quietly through the apartment. Outside, thunder rolled again. He switched off the lamp and sat in darkness, listening to the rain drum on the roof. There was a strange peace in this silence, a moment to gather his wits before the next storm of deception and violence. He considered what steps to take next. Training was obvious. Discretion was vital. Maybe he could glean more from Yamato, test new methods secretly. Perhaps carefully probe Sayuri's condition when she recovered. He must remain vigilant but never expose his suspicions prematurely.

He ran a hand through his damp hair, eyes adjusting to the darkness. He would have to feign ignorance about Orochimaru's presence in Root's lair, act as though he accepted Danzo's orders without complaint. He would let them think he was a loyal soldier, a blunt instrument too dull to question anything. Meanwhile, he would sharpen himself into a blade that could cut through their webs.

His stomach twisted at the memory of Orochimaru's sneer, the vile sweetness of his tone. That man had dared to mention Sakura. Naruto breathed slowly, calming himself. One day, Orochimaru would pay. One day, Danzo would be held accountable. One day, he would walk freely beneath the sun, not as a pawn in others' schemes but as a force to shape his own destiny. Until then, he would endure these games, this silent war of secrets and alliances.

He rose, peering out his window at the rain-swept village. The distant glow of the Hokage Monument loomed over everything, a silent witness to treachery and valor alike. He wondered how long before that monument became meaningless if the Third fell. Would the village survive the chaos? Would he still recognize it afterward? He hoped so. Despite everything, a tiny spark of loyalty flickered inside him for the place that had raised him, even if imperfectly. He would ensure it wouldn't burn to ashes entirely.

He turned from the window. Sleep beckoned. He needed rest, for tomorrow the harsh routine continued. More training, more planning, more secrets. He must keep his composure absolute. Orochimaru's barbs would be remembered. Danzo's orders obeyed superficially, while he preserved his independence internally. The Otsutsuki parents would guide him, but he would chart his own course through this labyrinth of betrayal.

As he lay down, the thunder's rumble comforted him strangely. This was his world now—storms within and without. He inhaled, exhaled. The darkness pressed close. He relaxed each muscle deliberately, letting go of tension. The final image before sleep claimed him was Sakura's face, smiling softly as if to say it would be all right. He knew better, of course. It wouldn't be all right, not for a long time. But he swore to that memory, and to himself, that he would fight on, adapt, and survive. He would become strong enough to turn the tide when the moment came.

In the hush of his apartment, with the rain still falling outside, he closed his eyes and let exhaustion take him. The day had been long and twisted with unexpected revelations. Tomorrow would bring more challenges. Until then, he could rest, knowing that he was forging himself into a blade hidden beneath the surface. When the time came, that blade would strike true.

---

Sayuri rubbed at her eyes, groaning softly as she awoke in the familiar confines of her own bedroom. A blanket covered her, the lights were off, and it seemed to be night, judging by the darkness beyond the window above her bed. She felt groggy, her body sore, and her overall condition hovered somewhere between "not great" and "barely adequate."

"Morning, sunshine."

The sudden voice startled her, and Sayuri's Sharingan—still dormant but always ready—almost flared to life. Her gaze shifted to the corner of her room, where Kakashi sat in a wooden chair. He looked exhausted, his single visible eye half-lidded, as if he'd been awake for too long. She rubbed her eyes again, ignoring the strands of dark hair falling into her face.

"What are you doing in here?" she asked bluntly, her voice quiet. Kakashi reached out and adjusted a small ornament on her dresser, his movements oddly careful.

"I had to make sure your condition was stable," he said. "You've been through a lot lately, and I needed to ensure you were okay. Luckily, you seem fine enough now."

Her condition. That phrasing made her frown. It implied things left unsaid—things that had happened since the preliminaries ended. She knew he had sealed the curse mark, but what else was there to worry about?

"What happened after I passed out?" she inquired. In response, Kakashi pointed to his own neck, prompting Sayuri to reach up and feel her own. Despite the darkness, she could sense new markings encircling the original curse seal, restraints woven into the flesh.

"I placed a restraining seal on it," the Jonin explained. "It should keep that mark from giving you too many problems for now. If it starts acting up again, we can tighten it more."

Sayuri nodded slowly, pushing aside the blankets and shifting until she was sitting cross-legged on her mattress. The mark had caused her trouble in the preliminaries—especially during her fight against Yoroi. She'd overcome him, but she'd felt something frightening in herself. While she hadn't killed him, she had crippled him, leaving him broken in ways that made her uneasy. She remembered how easily she'd resorted to violence, how she'd almost taken pleasure in hearing his screams. Sakura's death still weighed heavily on her; Orochimaru had been after her, and Sakura had been caught in the crossfire. That guilt gnawed at her. And then there was Naruto—she'd attacked him in the forest under the mark's influence, something she regretted profoundly.

"It drained me," she said quietly, referring to the curse seal. "And that guy was stealing my chakra, too. Everything about that fight felt wrong." Her voice wavered slightly. She didn't want to appear weak, but she also didn't want to lie.

Kakashi inclined his head. "You still came out on top," he noted. "It wasn't pretty, but you showed serious determination. Don't beat yourself up over the rough edges."

Sayuri exhaled slowly, fingers twisting in her bedsheet. "I'm not upset with how I fought," she said, though there was a tremor in her voice. "I won, and in that sense, I got what I wanted. But that's exactly the problem. I barely feel anything about what I did. I hurt him badly—Yoroi is going to remember that fight for the rest of his life—and I didn't feel remorse. Just emptiness. Maybe even satisfaction, and that scares me."

Kakashi shifted in his chair, his posture sympathetic. "People handle their first real acts of brutal violence differently. I can't speak for everyone, but I know after my first time…I didn't leave my apartment for a week. Others shrug it off more easily. Not feeling much of anything can happen too, as long as you still respect the consequences of your actions."

She shook her head, dark hair falling over her eyes again. "That's not all. It's not just Yoroi. In the forest, when Orochimaru showed up…I lost control. Naruto was in danger, and I remember feeling this surge of rage—this raw fury that made me want to tear everything apart. I nearly attacked Naruto when I was under the influence of the curse mark. I… I even enjoyed hurting others, at least for a moment. That's not me, or at least that's not who I thought I was."

At the mention of Naruto, Kakashi grew quieter. He nodded for her to continue, letting her vent her thoughts.

"I let my anger and fear drive me," Sayuri whispered. "I almost took it out on everyone around me. Sakura… Sakura died because Orochimaru came for me. If I had been stronger, if I had listened to Naruto and withdrawn, maybe he could have managed on his own. Instead, I stuck around, and we lost her. I can't help thinking that it's my fault she's gone."

Kakashi's eye darkened with sorrow. Sakura's loss hung over them all like a heavy shroud. "Orochimaru's the one who killed her," he said softly. "That's on him, not you. Don't carry that guilt alone."

Sayuri swallowed hard. The logic made sense, but logic didn't erase guilt. She remembered how Naruto had shaken her awake in the tower room, telling her how she'd been just staring at him while he slept, her eyes cold and distant. She didn't even recall doing it. It was as if some part of her mind was slipping beyond her control.

"How long have I been out?" she asked, changing the subject. She needed to know what awaited her in the finals, who her opponent would be, and what her next steps were. Dwelling too long on her internal struggles wouldn't help right now.

Kakashi turned his head slightly, glancing at the door. "Just under a day and a half. The final round match-ups were posted yesterday."

She sat up straighter. "So who am I fighting?"

The Jonin gave her a look as if bracing her for bad news. "Your opponent is Gaara." He paused, letting that sink in. "He's… formidable. But I'll train you for it. We'll get you ready."

Sayuri's stomach twisted. She knew Gaara was no ordinary opponent. She had seen glimpses of him before, felt the unearthly menace in his chakra. Facing him would be like walking into a storm. But after what she'd been through, perhaps it was fitting. Maybe facing Gaara would be a test—could she hold herself together and fight without losing control again?

"Rough luck for all of us, I guess," she commented dryly. She ran a hand through her hair, trying to smooth down the wild tangles. "Naruto got lucky with someone easy, right?" A small, bitter attempt at humor.

Kakashi shook his head. "Naruto's up against Neji, and Shikamaru's matched with Temari. No one got a free pass. Everyone's got a challenge."

She sighed. That was how fate seemed to work: no easy paths, just uphill climbs. At least it was fair in its cruelty. "Then we'll manage," she said softly.

Kakashi rose to his feet, his presence reassuring and calm. "You're healthy enough, so I'll let you rest. I'll be back soon so we can discuss training plans."

Sayuri nodded. "I'll just shower and maybe get some more sleep. Thanks…for watching over me."

Kakashi waved casually as he headed for the door. "No problem. Just remember, the finals are a month away. We have time."

With a poof of smoke, he vanished, leaving her alone in the silent room. For a moment, Sayuri simply sat on the edge of her bed, inhaling and exhaling slowly. She glanced at the windowsill, noticing the flowers she'd placed there—simple things to remind her of better times. They still looked fresh, somehow surviving neglect and stress. It was almost laughable how fragile and innocent those flowers were compared to the turbulence inside her mind.

Sakura was gone. She felt partially responsible, even if everyone insisted it wasn't her fault. She had lost control under Orochimaru's influence, hurt Naruto in the forest, crippled another genin without hesitation. It felt like parts of herself were unraveling. Was this who she was becoming, or had that darkness always been there, waiting for a catalyst?

She stood up, steadying herself. There would be time for introspection later. Right now, she needed a shower, needed to rinse away the stale sweat and grime of the past day and a half. She shuffled out of her room and down the hall to the bathroom, turning on the water and waiting for it to warm up.

As she stepped under the spray, Sayuri bowed her head and closed her eyes, letting the water drum against her neck and shoulders. She pictured the curse mark there, sealed but not silent. Orochimaru was a looming threat in the background of her life now. She would have to be stronger—strong enough to resist whatever temptations or terrors the mark inflicted on her.

And she'd have to face Gaara. One step at a time, she told herself. Survive the finals, confront her doubts, keep moving forward. The world wouldn't stop for her pain, just as the sun refused to dim for Sakura's funeral.

She sighed, scrubbing at her hair. Kakashi believed in her. Naruto would push forward no matter what. Sayuri had to trust that she could find her own strength again, rediscover the girl she thought she was, or become someone better. For Sakura's memory, for Naruto's trust, and for herself.

---

Kakashi strolled through the quiet streets of Konoha, his mind distant and preoccupied. After the trials of the Forest of Death and the blow of Sakura's demise at Orochimaru's hands, Team Seven had changed fundamentally. There were only two genin left under his tutelage now: Naruto and Sayuri. Both had survived the brutalities of the second stage, both had passed on to the final stage of the Chūnin Exams, and both bore wounds—physical and emotional—that would not be easily healed.

He had summoned them earlier that morning and told them to meet him at their usual spot, the old wooden bridge near the training grounds. Normally, this meeting place recalled memories of the full team—Naruto, Sayuri, and Sakura—but now, no mention of Sakura was made. Her absence was felt in the silence that hovered over them all.

Kakashi had just finished a brief discussion with Sayuri, advising her to head toward the meeting spot. He intended to follow shortly, but something had caught his eye before he left. A figure perched on a nearby rooftop drew his attention: a tall man with shock-white hair that was even wilder than Kakashi's, and a large scroll strapped to his back. Jiraiya, the Toad Sage. Kakashi blinked and did a double take, ensuring his vision wasn't deceiving him. Indeed, that was no illusion—it was Jiraiya, one of the Legendary Sannin, who had been absent from the village for years.

Kakashi's single visible eye narrowed, curious. Jiraiya's presence was unexpected, and anything unexpected at this delicate time—when tensions were high, secrets abounded, and new threats loomed—was worth investigating.

He followed Jiraiya's line of sight. Down below, emerging from Ichiraku Ramen's modest entrance, walked Naruto and Sayuri side by side. The two genin looked subdued, a quiet tension between them. Naruto's familiar orange jacket looked duller in the gloom, and Sayuri's stoic expression revealed little of her thoughts. They had been training separately, coping with recent events and the coming final matches. Kakashi suspected that Naruto's mood had darkened considerably since Sakura's death, and Sayuri…she was even more withdrawn. The team's dynamic was in flux, and none of them had fully come to terms with their loss.

Jiraiya's presence here, watching Naruto from a distance, stirred Kakashi's curiosity. He knew Jiraiya to be an elusive figure, usually away on espionage missions or researching the world beyond Konoha's borders. Why appear now, and why show such interest in Naruto?

Kakashi pocketed his orange book, careful not to give away his own presence. The Sannin was no fool; sneaking up on him undetected was next to impossible. Still, Kakashi moved slowly, quietly, skirting along rooftops and shifting closer until he was a mere ten feet behind Jiraiya. At that point, the white-haired Sannin turned.

"Not many can get that close, Kakashi," Jiraiya said, a faint grin on his lips. "You've improved."

Kakashi raised a brow. "Lord Jiraiya… It has been a long time." His tone was guarded. If Jiraiya noticed, he didn't comment.

Jiraiya crossed his arms over his chest. "Yes, it has. And here we are, watching your genin. Or what's left of your team, I suppose."

Kakashi's eye narrowed at the subtle jab. He knew Jiraiya was aware of Sakura's death—news like that traveled fast. "You're watching Naruto and Sayuri," Kakashi said quietly. "Why appear now? Why return at this sensitive moment?"

The Sannin looked back down at Naruto and Sayuri. They had paused by a small vendor stand before continuing on their path. The final stage of the Exams was approaching; perhaps Naruto would soon leave the village to train, and Jiraiya's timing was no coincidence.

"Not everything is as it seems, Kakashi," Jiraiya replied. His voice grew serious, losing its playful edge. "We stand on the edge of a blade. War looms, alliances shift, and old lies might be unraveling."

Kakashi stiffened. "War?" He recalled rumors, scattered reports. "So that's what brings you back?"

Jiraiya nodded, his features grim. "Hiruzen—Lord Third—has been withholding information. The balance of power between villages is trembling. I have reason to believe Konoha is at risk far sooner than most imagine. I need to assess certain… individuals."

"And Naruto is one of them?" Kakashi asked, already knowing the answer. Naruto had grown immensely, forging new abilities under mysterious circumstances. He had bested impossible odds, and rumors spread about his feats in the Forest of Death—particularly his confrontation with Orochimaru. If Jiraiya knew even half of what Naruto had done, no wonder he was interested.

Jiraiya shrugged. "I have my reasons."

Before Kakashi could press further, Jiraiya put a finger to his lips. He gave Kakashi a meaningful look before vanishing into a swirl of motion, leaving Kakashi to contemplate this sudden reappearance and cryptic warnings. The silver-haired jōnin exhaled slowly and decided it was time to meet his students.

---

Naruto and Sayuri stood at the bridge, waiting in silence. The spot once belonged to three genin and their tardy teacher, but now it felt emptier. Sayuri leaned against the railing, her expression neutral. Naruto, arms crossed over his chest, stared out at the water below. Neither said much. Without Sakura, their conversations had grown brief and awkward.

Kakashi appeared in his usual swirl of leaves. Naruto glanced over, and Sayuri acknowledged him with a brief nod.

"You're late, Kakashi-sensei," Naruto said flatly. There was less humor in his voice these days.

Kakashi raised his hand in an apologetic gesture. "I got lost on the path of life again. But no matter. I called you both here for a reason."

The two genin looked at him expectantly. Training for the final stage of the Exams was crucial. Both had powerful opponents to face. Rumor had it that Naruto's first match would be a formidable one, and Sayuri's eventual foe, whoever it might be, would not be easy. The finals were stacked with talent from various villages. And then there were the rumors of hidden agendas, alliances formed in shadows.

"I've arranged teachers for each of you," Kakashi continued. "Sayuri, I will personally supervise your training. We have much to cover. As for you, Naruto—originally I'd have let you train alone, but something changed."

Naruto's blue eyes flickered with suspicion. He was accustomed to training himself, hidden away from prying eyes, perfecting his Mokuton techniques inherited under strange circumstances, his Byakugan switching, Rinnegan powers, Bone Pulse manipulations, and experiments with the Kyuubi Chakra Mode. He was a one-man arsenal now, shaped not just by Konoha but also by the secretive guidance of Danzo and the chakra imprints of his Otsutsuki parents—information he kept closely guarded.

Kakashi cleared his throat. "Naruto, you'll be training under someone else's guidance. A skilled mentor who knows a great deal about unique abilities." Kakashi's tone was deliberately casual, but Naruto caught the tension beneath it. "He's… an old acquaintance."

Before Kakashi could say the name, a figure dropped down onto the bridge's railing, landing with showy ease. Long white hair, a toad-like grin—Jiraiya.

Naruto's eyes narrowed. He recognized this face from descriptions Danzo had provided him. Danzo had told him that Jiraiya, the Toad Sage, was once close to his adopted parents, Minato and Kushina. Danzo had also informed him that Jiraiya was his godfather—information that Jiraiya did not know that Naruto possessed. Naruto clenched his fists, forcing himself to appear uncertain and curious, not letting slip that he already knew far too much.

"Yo," Jiraiya greeted, scratching the back of his head. He sounded casual, as if meeting a student candidate was normal. But his gaze settled on Naruto with intense curiosity. "So you're Naruto, huh? I've heard some interesting things about you."

Naruto glared silently. A month ago, he'd have reacted differently, but circumstances had hardened him. He remembered Danzo's words clearly: Jiraiya was once meant to be a mentor, a protector—but had been absent from his life. Naruto's trust in Konoha's higher-ups was fragile at best. He would not show weakness.

Kakashi observed the two. He felt the tension thick in the air. Sayuri watched silently, arms folded, curious but detached. She was dealing with her own demons, not inclined to meddle unless necessary.

Jiraiya gave a disarming laugh. "I know, I know, sudden appearance. I'm Jiraiya, one of the Sannin. I've been out of the village for… research. Just got back. I volunteered to help train you, Naruto. Kakashi here says you're quite talented, and I'm eager to see that for myself."

Naruto didn't smile. "Research, huh?" He remembered Danzo's warnings about this man. Danzo had said Jiraiya vanished and never once stepped up to help Naruto. That he'd been absent during Naruto's hardships. And now he shows up wanting to train him. Naruto's skepticism soared.

Kakashi coughed, trying to ease the tension. "Naruto, Jiraiya is highly skilled. He could help sharpen your techniques."

"Is that right?" Naruto responded coldly. "Why the sudden interest?"

Jiraiya's gaze flickered. He decided to approach this softly. According to Hiruzen, Naruto discovered his parents' identity five years ago. Jiraiya wondered how much Naruto truly knew—and if the boy knew Jiraiya was his godfather. Jiraiya suspected Naruto didn't know the full story, so he'd probe gently.

"Well," Jiraiya began, "I have a special interest in unique talents. Word on the street is you displayed extraordinary power during the Forest of Death. Something about a fierce chakra cloak, a monstrous transformation that allowed you to fight Orochimaru to a standstill. Impressive for a genin."

Naruto's jaw tightened. This was a direct reference to his Kyuubi Chakra Mode. He had awakened something unprecedented, blending his inherited Otsutsuki powers with the Kyuubi's chakra inherited through unusual means. He had used it only because he had no choice—Orochimaru would have killed them otherwise. It was not something he wanted known or displayed.

"I don't know what you're talking about," Naruto said, feigning ignorance.

Jiraiya arched a brow. "Playing coy? Kakashi told me enough. Look, kid, if we're going to train together, I need to understand what you can do. Show me that chakra mode."

Naruto shot Kakashi a glare. The silver-haired jōnin raised his hands defensively. "I only told him that you displayed unusual abilities, Naruto. He guessed the rest."

Naruto took a step back, shaking his head. "I'm not performing tricks on command."

Jiraiya chuckled, an edge entering his voice. He needed confirmation of the boy's abilities—if war was coming, Naruto's powers might tip the scales. "Come on, kid. Don't be shy. Show me what you did against Orochimaru. I promise, I won't bite. I just want to see what I'm working with."

Anger flared in Naruto's chest. This man dared mention Orochimaru so casually, the man who killed Sakura and tried to brand Sayuri. And now he's demanding Naruto reveal his trump card? Naruto clenched his fists. He remembered Danzo's advice: never show all your cards unless absolutely necessary. He remembered the mocking grin of Orochimaru, the look of contempt. He wouldn't dance to Jiraiya's tune.

"No," Naruto said flatly.

Jiraiya frowned. "This isn't a request, kid. If I'm to train you, I need to see what you can do. Now quit being stubborn and show me."

Kakashi stepped in, "Jiraiya, maybe—"

Jiraiya held up a hand, silencing Kakashi. "Stay out of this, Kakashi. This is between me and the boy."

Sayuri watched silently, unimpressed by Jiraiya's pushiness. She understood pride and secrets. If Naruto didn't want to show his power, that was his right. She respected that choice.

Naruto's blue eyes, usually bright and mischievous, were now cold and calculating. He refused to be strong-armed into exposing his abilities. "You say you're here to help, but you sound like every other jerk who thinks they can boss me around. I don't even know you, and you expect me to jump through hoops like a circus animal?"

Jiraiya crossed his arms, frustration mounting. "Kid, I'm trying to help you. The finals aren't far off. If war's coming, you'll need to be stronger. Show me the chakra mode. Consider it a test of trust."

Trust. The word tasted bitter in Naruto's mouth. Trust was a luxury he couldn't afford. Not after learning truths about Danzo's manipulations, about Jiraiya's absence, about how everyone had their own agenda. He had survived this long by being cautious and guarding his secrets. He wouldn't betray that principle now.

Without a word, Naruto formed a single hand seal and vanished in a Shunshin, the wind rustling leaves in his wake. One moment he was there, the next he was gone, leaving Jiraiya blinking in surprise.

Kakashi sighed heavily, while Sayuri raised an eyebrow, mildly impressed by Naruto's stubbornness. The message was clear: Naruto wouldn't be corralled into anything he didn't want.

Jiraiya let out a frustrated growl. "That brat's got more attitude than I anticipated."

Kakashi shrugged. "He's been through a lot. If you expected him to roll over on command, you were mistaken."

The Sannin shook his head. He knew gaining Naruto's cooperation would be challenging. Perhaps he should have approached differently, more gently. But he was pressed for time and anxious to see the boy's power first-hand. Still, the kid's reaction only confirmed that Naruto wasn't a naive child. He was cunning and guarded. Jiraiya would have to adapt his approach.

Sayuri finally spoke, her voice low and carrying a hint of dryness, "You handled that well."

Jiraiya glanced at the dark-haired genin. He didn't know much about Sayuri except that she was the other survivor of the Forest of Death, a girl who had awakened new powers under duress, and had her own complicated reasons for resentment. "I can't fix what I don't understand," he admitted. "But I'll find a way to earn his trust."

Sayuri shrugged, noncommittal. "You might want to reconsider your tactics. Naruto doesn't respond well to demands."

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "She's right. If you want Naruto to show you anything, you'll need to give him a reason beyond vague talk and demands."

Jiraiya sighed again, crossing his arms. He considered revealing at least part of the truth—that he was Naruto's godfather—but Hiruzen had told him Naruto already knew about his parentage. The boy's reaction suggested he was hiding that knowledge too. It was a twisted game of who knew what. Maybe Naruto was testing him, waiting to see if Jiraiya would be honest.

The Sannin decided he would have to corner Naruto at another time and approach more diplomatically. "Fine. I messed up," he admitted. "I was impatient. This situation is… complicated."

Kakashi gave a wry smile beneath his mask. "Complicated is one word for it."

Jiraiya eyed him. "I came here to assess Naruto's readiness for what's to come. The war, the Exams, the… bigger picture. But I see he's not ready to just trust a stranger."

"Surprise, surprise," Sayuri muttered.

"Look," Jiraiya said, more to himself than anyone else present, "I'll give him space for now. I know where to find him later. For now, Kakashi, keep him close. I need to handle some other matters in the village."

Kakashi nodded slowly. "What about the information you hinted at? About the Hokage lying, about war?"

Jiraiya shook his head. "We'll talk later. This is not the place."

The tension eased slightly as Jiraiya prepared to leave. "Oh, and Kakashi… Try to soften the kid's stance a bit. He's strong and stubborn. We need him on our side."

The silver-haired jōnin said nothing, unwilling to make promises. Naruto was his student, but not his puppet. The boy had every right to doubt strangers who showed up unannounced and demanded to see his most secret transformations.

With a small wave, Jiraiya bounded away over the rooftops, disappearing into Konoha's winding alleys. Kakashi turned to Sayuri.

"Guess you'll be stuck with me for training," he said softly. "As for Naruto… he'll return when he's ready."

Sayuri nodded, her expression thoughtful. "He always does."

---

Naruto landed silently on a distant rooftop, far from the bridge and prying eyes. He took a moment to gather his thoughts. The encounter replayed in his mind: Jiraiya's insistence, his attempt to coerce Naruto into showing off the Kyuubi Chakra Mode. The man had given no reason to trust him. Yes, Naruto knew Jiraiya was his godfather—Danzo had told him—but he saw no reason to reveal that he knew.

If Jiraiya wanted to come clean, let him do so openly and honestly. Naruto wouldn't make it easy. He had spent years learning from Danzo how to survive in a world of secrets. Danzo never gave him money beyond a bare minimum, forcing Naruto to adapt, to rely on small mercenary tasks and cunning strategies to make ends meet. If Jiraiya thought he could waltz in after all these years—Naruto scoffed at the hypocrisy. He had bigger concerns. War was on the horizon. Orochimaru and Danzo's secret deal—Naruto had overheard enough from Danzo's private briefings—threatened the stability of the Leaf.

Naruto clenched his fists. He would forge his own path. He had to master his abilities, not for Jiraiya or Kakashi, but for himself and for Sayuri. He owed it to Sakura's memory to become strong enough to prevent another tragedy. He owed it to himself to never be someone's pawn again.

Yet he wondered why Jiraiya had pressed him so hard. Perhaps the Sannin knew something about his lineage or his powers that Naruto didn't. Perhaps he wanted to gauge whether Naruto's strength could be harnessed for some agenda. Naruto didn't trust easily, and Jiraiya had done nothing to earn that trust.

Still, the man was famous, powerful, and once close to his adopted parents. If Naruto ever wanted answers about them, about the circumstances of his birth and his heritage, Jiraiya might hold those keys. But Naruto would not grovel for the truth. Let Jiraiya come to him properly, let him show sincerity. Until then, Naruto would train alone.

He took a deep breath and jumped down from the rooftop, heading toward a secluded training field he favored. The night sky hung heavy overhead, the moon a silent witness. He would pour his frustration into Mokuton shaping, into refining his elemental Rasengans, and experimenting with his dojutsu rotations. The Jōgan in particular baffled him—he had awakened it only briefly, an Otsutsuki legacy that refused to give up its secrets easily. He wouldn't let Jiraiya's arrival derail his progress.

As he landed in the clearing, he paused and looked back toward the village center where Jiraiya had vanished. One day, he might give the old man a chance. After all, if Danzo's words were accurate, Jiraiya wasn't just a random Sannin—he was family by bond and promise. But for now, Naruto would keep his silence. He wasn't about to give Jiraiya the satisfaction of cooperation without reason.

He formed a hand seal and created a few clones to begin his nightly training routine. The day's events reminded him that power and secrecy were his shields. Until he understood Jiraiya's true motives and could be sure the man meant him no harm, Naruto would remain on guard. The final stage of the Chūnin Exams would arrive soon, and he intended to stand in that arena unshaken, ready to face whatever challenges came his way—and he would do it on his own terms.

If Jiraiya wanted to break through Naruto's walls, he would need more than reputation and demands. He would need honesty, and Naruto doubted anyone in Konoha's upper echelons possessed that trait in abundance.

---

The Kitsune Summoning Realm was a world of twilight and enchantment, where ancient trees stretched high beneath a violet sky and paper lanterns glowed softly along mossy pathways. Red torii gates, half-buried in drifting petals, led through quiet groves into clearings dotted with wooden shrines. Streams of freshwater trickled over polished stones, and the distant laughter of fox spirits echoed beneath canopies of broad leaves. This realm, hidden behind layers of genjutsu and sealed contracts, had been Naruto's secret training ground for years. He alone could enter it at will, forging pacts with the cunning Kitsune Clan who dwelled here.

It was here, beneath the watchful gaze of nine-tailed elders, that Naruto refined his growing powers. He had gained access to this world at the tender age of ten, shortly after Danzo pressed the Fox Summoning contract into his hands and demanded he grow strong enough to serve a greater purpose. Back then, Naruto had been frightened and unsure—just a boy caught between loyalty, fear, and the brutal lessons of Root. The foxes had greeted him with suspicious eyes, testing his resolve. Yet as time passed, and Naruto returned again and again, something resembling trust began to blossom between him and these elusive spirits.

Now, five years later, he stood in a broad clearing illuminated by bioluminescent mushrooms that cast greenish light on gnarled roots. Around him gathered several foxes in semi-human forms—bipedal, wearing elegant kimonos, their multiple tails swishing gracefully. The eldest among them, Lady Yukihana, bore nine sweeping tails of silvery fur and wore a mask carved from pale wood. She was rumored to be older than any living human, wise beyond measure. Beside her were three foxes who had been Naruto's mentors since early days: Imari, who specialized in illusions and subtle genjutsu; Kazehana, swift and silent as a gust of wind, a master of stealth and speed; and Tsumiko, a sturdy fox warrior who excelled in ninjutsu and raw power. There were others, of course—dozens who had watched Naruto's growth. But these four were closest to him, along with a few younger foxes who looked to him with curious eyes.

In the years since forging the contract, Naruto had learned to tap into the potent red chakra inherited from the Kyuubi's essence, though he was not its jinchuuriki. He had honed Mokuton techniques under Yamato's guidance, sharpened his skill in shaping elemental Rasengans, tested the strange powers of his Rinnegan and Byakugan, and explored the mysteries of his right eye's Kessetsugan. He practiced slipping into his Kyuubi Chakra Mode with increasing fluidity. Furthermore, he had spent countless hours in secret training sessions within hidden corners of this kitsune world, testing the limits of his True Otsutsuki form within the Kessetsugan pocket dimensions he could conjure at will. The foxes had guided him, nudging his progress forward with riddles, challenges, and occasional harsh lessons.

Today, however, Naruto sought something even more elusive: Kitsune Sage Mode. He knew that with the Chunin Exam finals approaching, and with so many threats circling—Orochimaru's schemes, Danzo's conspiracies, the likely invasion by Sand and Sound, and the looming shadow of that mysterious Jigen—he needed an extra edge. He needed senjutsu. He needed to truly transcend his current limits. The foxes had hinted that such a path existed, a unique sage mode reflecting their cunning illusions and chakra manipulation. Naruto also remembered Jiraiya's offer to train him. The memory made him grimace. He had only recently encountered Jiraiya again, discovering that the man was a Toad Sage. The foxes, from what Naruto understood, did not always see eye-to-eye with other summoning clans. So he had fully expected them to discourage any alliance with the Toad Sannin.

He stepped into a grove where slender trees bent gracefully, their bark etched with arcane sigils. Here, Lady Yukihana awaited him, her eyes half-lidded, tails fanned out behind her. A hush fell over the gathering as Naruto approached, bowing respectfully. Imari, Kazehana, and Tsumiko stood slightly behind the elder, their postures calm yet attentive. The air smelled faintly of incense and jasmine, the scent of ancient ceremonies.

"Naruto," Yukihana said in a voice like distant chimes. "You have come to attempt the Kitsune Sage Mode, have you not?" Her silver tail tips gleamed with inner light.

"Yes, Elder," Naruto replied. "I'm ready. I know the next battles will be fierce. I've been training non-stop, mastering different chakra modes, balancing Mokuton and elemental Rasengans, refining my dojutsu. But I know it's not enough. Not against Orochimaru, not against…everyone else." He hesitated, not wanting to reveal too much. The foxes already knew of his complicated position between Danzo and Konoha, though they had never pressed him for details. They were tricksters by nature, but they honored their summoner's privacy.

Yukihana's eyes glimmered. "Your resolve is clear. Senjutsu is not something learned lightly. Kitsune Sage Mode differs from Toad or Snake variants. Ours emphasizes ninjutsu finesse, genjutsu subtlety, and a style of taijutsu rooted in evasion and misdirection rather than brute force." She paused, tails twitching thoughtfully. "You must gather natural energy in harmony with your inner chakra, focusing on illusions, trickery, and the ethereal arts of the fox. You will gain heightened perception, fluid chakra control, and illusions that can deceive even the keenest eyes."

Naruto nodded. This sounded useful, especially for infiltration and matching the cunning of opponents like Orochimaru. But a lingering thought gnawed at him—what about the Toad Sage Mode Jiraiya offered? The toad version supposedly granted raw physical might and endurance. And he needed that too, didn't he? Orochimaru was cunning, but also insanely strong, and so were many enemies he might face. He bit his lip. He had come here resolved to learn kitsune senjutsu alone. Now doubt crept in. Should he combine both methods? Was that even possible?

He cleared his throat, forcing himself to speak. "Elder, there is something I should mention. Jiraiya, the Toad Sage, offered to teach me as well. I know you might not approve of mixing two sage styles, but I must ask your thoughts." He expected disapproval, stern warnings, or at best neutral silence. The foxes were proud, after all. He braced himself.

To his shock, Yukihana's ears perked forward, and a small smile tugged at the corner of her muzzle. Imari flicked her tail thoughtfully, while Kazehana raised an eyebrow. Tsumiko's stance stiffened, curious. Yukihana spoke softly, "So, the human sage has reached out to you?" Her voice carried no trace of anger. Instead, it sounded…amused.

Naruto blinked. "Yes. He's the Toad Sage Jiraiya. He offered to help me grow stronger. I thought you'd disapprove. After all, you've been guiding me for years, and the Toad style might differ too much from what I've learned here."

Yukihana let out a quiet chuckle that sounded like leaves rustling in a gentle breeze. "Naruto, you have learned from us an important lesson: knowledge is never a burden. Have we not taught you that true strength comes from understanding many perspectives? The Toad Sage Mode is renowned for augmenting physical prowess, granting immense brute force and stamina. It can complement our subtlety. While our senjutsu refines illusion, ninjutsu, and cunning taijutsu, the Toad Senjutsu excels in raw martial power. If you master both, you become formidable indeed."

Naruto's mouth fell slightly open. He had expected reluctance, but here Yukihana was practically encouraging him to seek Jiraiya's guidance. "But…Elder, I thought mixing styles might cause conflict. And aren't the foxes usually proud? Wouldn't it hurt your pride if I learn from another clan?"

Imari chuckled softly, her voice silky, "Little summoner, we are indeed proud. But we are not blind to the wisdom of growth. Did we not always scold you whenever you refused an opportunity to learn?"

Kazehana nodded. "Indeed. You've made remarkable progress because you never dismissed a useful technique, whether it came from human mentors, your Otsutsuki parents who whisper in your mind, or from us. Refusing Jiraiya's help out of misplaced pride would be foolish."

Tsumiko grunted, "Heh, as long as you don't abandon our training. The strength of a fox summoner lies in adaptability. If Toad Senjutsu grants you brute force, imagine pairing that with the speed and cunning we will bestow. You'd outmaneuver and overpower your foes from every angle."

Yukihana's eyes gleamed with satisfaction at Naruto's confused yet intrigued expression. "Do not be so shocked, Naruto. We foxes respect cunning and growth. The upcoming invasion, Orochimaru's machinations, Danzo's schemes, and the presence of powerful enemies like Jigen—these demand that you evolve beyond the expected. Combining two sage modes is rare, but not impossible. You must, of course, learn them separately and ensure their energies do not conflict. That will be another challenge."

Naruto swallowed, excitement and apprehension swirling in his belly. He was reminded of the words from his Otsutsuki parents who lived in his mind—Ichiro and Hikari—who often told him that no path to power was off-limits. He closed his eyes, recalling their counsel. Ichiro's calm, patient voice would likely encourage him to seize every opportunity, while Hikari's gentle reassurance would remind him not to lose himself in the process. They had guided him mentally as he struggled under Danzo's harsh tutelage, helping him retain a sense of self.

He pictured Ichiro now, telling him softly, "You must be prepared, my son. Power alone is not enough. Versatility matters." And Hikari, her voice warm, "Don't fear knowledge. Embrace it, but hold on to your morals and compassion."

The Otsutsuki imprints were silent now—Naruto sensed their approval. He turned his attention back to the elder kitsune. "I…understand. I will accept Jiraiya's offer," he said, voice steady. "And I will also master Kitsune Sage Mode. I'll combine them carefully, ensuring that I remain stable and controlled."

Yukihana's smile deepened. "Very good. Now, before we proceed with today's senjutsu exercises, tell me how your training has fared. You have juggled Mokuton sessions with Yamato, tested all sorts of new Rasengan variants, and tried to understand that mysterious Jogan ability. Have you found any synergy with your Byakugan and Rinnegan?"

Naruto nodded. "I'm getting better at controlling my left eye's dojutsu. I can switch between Byakugan and Rinnegan modes easily, though mastering their individual abilities takes time. The Kessetsugan in my right eye remains constant, and I've learned to use its pocket dimension to train in secret. Inside that space, I've tested my True Otsutsuki form—though I'm still not entirely sure of its full limits." He sighed. "Balancing all these powers is tricky, but I'm making progress."

Imari tapped a slender claw against her chin. "Excellent. Your illusions have improved as well, I hope?"

Naruto grinned slightly. "Yes, I've been working on layering genjutsu atop Mokuton-created landscapes. It's surprisingly effective against people who rely on sight-based analysis. Though I must say, I've not had many chances to test it in real combat."

Kazehana flicked his tail. "You'll get your chance soon enough. The Chunin Exams finals draw near, and with them, the invasion. But you must remember not to reveal all your secrets too early."

Tsumiko's ears flattened. "I just worry about Orochimaru. The man you described at the Root lair, the one working with Danzo—he's dangerous. He toyed with you before in the Forest of Death, and you said he also taunted you at that secret meeting underground. Are you sure you can keep your composure when facing him again?"

Naruto's jaw tightened. "I have to. I've learned to control my emotions, even under Danzo's watchful gaze. Orochimaru tried to provoke me about Sakura's death, tried to break my resolve, but I held firm. I won't give him the satisfaction of seeing me lose control." He paused, recalling the tense confrontation in that underground hideout, after Danzo's ninja dragged him away from the rain-slicked streets one evening. He remembered the shock of seeing Orochimaru emerge from the darkness in that clandestine meeting, hearing Danzo outline the planned invasion, instructing him not to interfere except to limit the One Tail's damage.

His stomach churned at the memory. Danzo conspiring with Orochimaru, letting the Sannin assassinate the Third Hokage. It was madness. Naruto had wanted to protest, but he knew better—Root training hammered obedience into him. He played the role of the perfect subordinate, only revealing his fury through the tiniest flicker in his gaze. Orochimaru noticed, of course, and had taunted him, calling him "sentimental" and mocking that Danzo hadn't done a thorough job of erasing Naruto's attachments. Then Orochimaru twisted the knife deeper by mentioning Sakura's demise, trying to make Naruto lash out. The blonde had clenched his fists but remained impassive, mindful that any slip could mean death. Danzo had then dismissed him with a gesture, and Naruto realized that Danzo planned a double cross—likely expecting Orochimaru to die or weaken enough for Danzo to seize power afterward.

He hated all of it, but what could he do now? Only grow stronger. He must surpass these manipulators and carve out his own path. The thought steeled his resolve. He would learn Kitsune Sage Mode, accept Jiraiya's help with Toad Senjutsu, and when the time came, he would ensure Orochimaru's plans failed. He would also ensure Danzo's ambitions never fully materialized. If the old war hawk wanted a puppet, he would be sorely disappointed.

Yukihana observed Naruto's changing expressions, reading the flicker of determination in his eyes. "Good. That fire you hold within—nurture it, but never let it consume your reason. Now, shall we begin?"

Naruto nodded. "Yes, Elder."

The elder fox guided him to a small platform of polished stone near a trickling waterfall. Natural energy shimmered faintly in the air. Cherry blossoms drifted through the twilight breeze. "Sit," she commanded softly. "Close your eyes. Feel the world's pulse, the quiet breathing of nature. Let it enter you, but do not let it overwhelm you."

He obeyed, crossing his legs and resting his hands on his knees. He inhaled slowly. Around him, he sensed the presence of the foxes, their chakra signatures blending with the forest's own subtle rhythms. The waterfall's murmur, the rustle of leaves, and distant fox laughter formed a tapestry of sound. He reached out with his senses, trying to draw in natural energy. It was difficult—his mind was cluttered with worries about the invasion, Jigen, Orochimaru, and Danzo. He struggled to calm his racing thoughts.

Ichiro's voice, his Otsutsuki father's imprint, echoed in his mind: "Steady yourself, Naruto. Remember, focus on what you can control in this moment." Hikari's gentle tone followed: "Clear your mind, child. Let the present guide you."

Naruto exhaled, imagining darkness and light intermingling until only calm remained. He pulled at the faint wisps of natural energy drifting in the air, letting them seep into his chakra coils. He felt a subtle tingling as his senses sharpened. The illusions around him—though there were none active right now—became more conceivable. He sensed how he could shape genjutsu more fluidly. His chakra networks felt smoother, more responsive. A whisper of fox-like awareness brushed his mind. This was a start.

After what felt like hours, he opened his eyes. Imari nodded approvingly, while Kazehana gave a rare grin. Tsumiko folded her arms, looking impressed. Yukihana lowered her head slightly in acknowledgment. "A promising first attempt. It will take practice, many sessions like this, to reach full Sage Mode. But you have begun."

Naruto stood, stretching his arms. He felt lighter, as if part of him had aligned with the realm's essence. He knew he was far from perfecting this new power. The synergy between Kitsune and Toad Senjutsu might be even trickier, and he still had to actually talk to Jiraiya about it. But at least he knew what to do next. He would not shy away from new knowledge. That was the foxes' creed: to embrace learning and turn it into strength.

He turned to Yukihana. "Elder, thank you. I'll continue practicing. And…about Jiraiya. I'll seek him out when I return to Konoha. If both your style and his can co-exist, I'll make it work. I promise I won't shame the lessons you've taught me."

Yukihana's eyes gleamed, her tails swaying gently. "I trust you, Naruto. You have grown from a hesitant child into a warrior with conviction. Remember, no knowledge is wasted, and no path to strength should be dismissed out of hand."

Imari stepped forward, placing a delicate hand—paw?—on Naruto's shoulder. Her amber eyes sparkled mischievously. "Before you depart, do you wish to spar a bit? Get a feel for applying that bit of natural energy you gathered?"

Naruto considered it. He was tired from the mental strain, but a quick spar might help him understand how his partial sage senses could influence combat. "Sure," he said, smiling. "Just don't be too rough."

Tsumiko barked a laugh. "No promises!" She leapt backward gracefully, landing on a mossy stump. Kazehana vanished in a blur, reappearing at Naruto's flank, while Imari's form shimmered, leaving behind afterimages. Yukihana merely stepped back, observing quietly.

The spar began. Naruto tried to track Imari's illusions. He could see the subtle shimmer in the air, pinpointing which images were real and which were fake more easily than before. When Kazehana dashed in, Naruto's improved chakra perception let him sense the fox's approach by subtle shifts in the air current. Tsumiko's ninjutsu blasts—small fireballs and tendrils of chakra—felt more predictable, their patterns clearer to Naruto's attuned senses. He dodged, parried, and countered with swift Mokuton branches and flickers of Kyuubi chakra energy.

Though he did not fully enter Sage Mode, even this initial attunement improved his reaction time and precision. The foxes pressed him hard, forcing him to adapt quickly. Imari cast a minor genjutsu, making the clearing spin dizzily. Naruto focused on the feel of the earth beneath his feet, recalling Yukihana's instructions about nature's rhythm. He dispelled the illusion with a thought, surprising Imari. Kazehana attempted a lightning-fast strike to Naruto's ribs. This time, Naruto anticipated it, raising a wooden tendril to deflect and forcing Kazehana to back off. Tsumiko launched a sphere of compressed chakra, and Naruto responded with an elemental Rasengan variant infused with wind. The clash sent sparks flying.

After several minutes, Yukihana lifted her paw, signaling the end. The foxes halted gracefully. Naruto lowered his hands, breathing hard but elated. The improvement, subtle as it was, made a difference.

"Excellent," Yukihana praised. "You see how even a small taste of natural energy refines your senses and chakra flow. Continue on this path, and you'll achieve full Kitsune Sage Mode before long."

Naruto nodded, wiping sweat from his brow. He felt grateful for these allies. The foxes, once distant and skeptical, had become mentors and friends. They had taught him to trust in knowledge and cunning, even as he navigated the treacherous politics of Konoha and the looming threats outside.

As he prepared to leave the kitsune realm, Naruto bowed deeply. "Thank you all. I'll return soon. I need to speak to Jiraiya and arrange training in Toad Senjutsu as well. The finals approach, and I must be ready for anything."

Imari offered a playful wink. "Just remember to come back in one piece. We still have illusions to refine and ninjutsu tricks to practice."

Kazehana smirked, "Don't get crushed by the toads' brute force approach. We'd hate to see all our subtlety overshadowed by mere muscle."

Tsumiko rolled her eyes. "Relax, he's not going to abandon us. But do be careful out there, kid."

Yukihana's expression turned momentarily serious. "Naruto, one final note: When Jiraiya trains you, observe how he gathers natural energy. Learn from it, but do not forget our methods. Combine them. In war, survival often belongs to those who adapt best." Her voice softened. "We believe in you."

Naruto stood taller, heart brimming with gratitude. "I won't let you down," he said firmly.

He closed his eyes, focusing on the contract seal etched into his memory. With a brief surge of chakra, he unmade the connection, the twilight realm fading like a dream. As the fox world's gentle lanterns and whispering leaves vanished, Naruto found himself back in Konoha, standing atop a quiet rooftop beneath a cloud-streaked sky. The village was calm this evening, though he knew chaos brewed beneath the surface.

He tucked his hands into his pockets and leaped down onto deserted streets. He still carried the weight of secrets: Danzo's alliance with Orochimaru, the planned invasion, the assassination attempt on the Hokage. He recalled Orochimaru's smirking face in that underground lair, and Danzo's cool instructions to let events unfold. The foxes' wisdom and his parents' guiding whispers had grounded him. Now he had a clear direction: grow stronger, master sage arts—both fox and toad—and prepare for the trials ahead.

He headed toward his apartment with quiet steps, considering his next moves. First, he would rest and recover. Tomorrow, he would seek out Jiraiya, accept his offer, and learn Toad Senjutsu as well. He envisioned the confrontation: Jiraiya might be surprised that Naruto agreed so readily. Naruto wondered if he should mention the foxes' encouragement. Perhaps he would keep that secret, at least for now. He had become skilled at guarding secrets.

As he moved through empty alleys, Naruto pondered the silence from Danzo since their meeting. The old war hawk hadn't summoned him again, hadn't asked about Jigen or Orochimaru's comments regarding Otsutsuki heritage. Maybe Orochimaru hadn't told Danzo. Or maybe Danzo knew and chose silence to keep Naruto guessing. Either way, Naruto resolved not to show any sign of suspicion. He would play along, watch carefully, and strike when the time was right. He would ensure Orochimaru's downfall. He would ensure that when the dust settled, he would stand free of these puppet masters.

In the back of his mind, Ichiro's calm voice approved: "This is the correct path. Patience." Hikari's gentle tone soothed him: "Stay true to yourself, my son. Grow wiser and stronger. In the end, you must do what your conscience dictates." He smiled faintly, grateful for their presence. Despite all the deceptions swirling around him, he had allies—both living and intangible—who believed in him.

Tonight, his body ached from training, and his mind buzzed with planning. But for once, he felt more hopeful than hollow. Gaining the kitsunes' blessing to seek Jiraiya's help was unexpected, yet it reaffirmed one of the first lessons he'd learned in the fox realm: do not reject knowledge or help simply because it comes from another source. Strength was cumulative.

He reached his apartment building, slipped inside, and locked the door. The memory of Orochimaru's taunts and Danzo's instructions weighed on him, but he pushed it aside. He would outsmart them all. He had to. The future of the village, of himself, and the fate of all those he cared about hinged on his ability to grow beyond their control.

In the dim light of his small home, he decided on a schedule: tomorrow, he would gather supplies, then find Jiraiya. He would accept the toad sage's offer and learn their senjutsu. He would continue visiting the fox realm whenever possible, balancing both arts. Slowly, he would forge his own hybrid sage mode. If no one had done it before, so what? That only made it a challenge worthy of him.

A soft chuckle escaped his lips at the thought of surprising Orochimaru or Danzo with this unprecedented combination of powers. Let them plot and scheme. He would stand at the crossroads of all these stolen secrets, forging something new, something no one expected. The silent vow strengthened his heart.

He retrieved a towel and began drying himself. Earlier, he had been soaked in sweat and grime before slipping into the fox dimension; now, after returning, he realized he still needed a proper shower. With the water running warm and steady, Naruto stepped in, scrubbing dirt from his hair. As steam filled the bathroom, he closed his eyes and imagined Yukihana's wise gaze and Imari's sly grin. He thought of Kazehana's silent approval and Tsumiko's bark of encouragement. He envisioned Jiraiya's astonished face when Naruto told him he was ready to learn Toad Senjutsu too. He considered how this path might honor Sakura's memory by ensuring he wouldn't fail anyone else.

When he emerged from the shower, clean and relaxed, he pulled on a set of comfortable clothes and settled on his bed. Outside, a faint breeze drifted through partially opened blinds, carrying distant scents of the village at night. He recognized that soon, everything would change—the finals, the invasion, Orochimaru's attempt on the Hokage's life. He thought of Jigen lurking somewhere, and of the One Tail rampaging if left unchecked. The world was on the brink of chaos.

Yet amid this impending storm, Naruto finally felt he had direction: master kitsune senjutsu, train under Jiraiya for toad sage arts, combine them, and become an unpredictable force capable of turning the tide. If he played his cards right, he would save lives, outmaneuver Orochimaru, and—he dared hope—eventually stand independent of Danzo's manipulations.

He closed his eyes, the image of twilight fox groves superimposed behind his eyelids. He could almost smell the incense and hear Yukihana's gentle laughter. He would return soon, train further, push deeper into sage mode. He would not let the elder foxes down, nor Ichiro and Hikari, nor the memory of Sakura, nor anyone who placed trust in him.

---

Next morning

The silver-haired jōnin and his dark-haired student stood atop a towering cliff just beyond Konoha's protective walls. They stood apart, each catching their breath after finishing a brief spar meant only as a warm-up.

Kakashi regarded his student calmly, eye crinkling slightly in approval. "Not bad, Sayuri. Your speed and strength have shown remarkable growth. I'd say your reaction time might be on par with Naruto's now—and that's without relying on your eyes' special abilities. At this moment, the two of you are pretty evenly matched."

Sayuri's lips curved into a subtle but confident smile. The countless hours of grueling practice were finally bearing fruit. "So," she asked evenly, "how do I pull ahead of him, then?"

Kakashi raised a finger, as if to say not so fast. "Oh, I have a few methods in mind, but we'll worry about that once we've dealt with more immediate concerns. Right now, our focus needs to be on preparing you for your match against Gaara."

Sayuri nodded in understanding. "When I watched Gaara's battle, I noticed something about his defenses. That sand of his moves as if it's alive, guarding him from every angle. It doesn't leave any blind spots."

Kakashi folded his arms and dipped his head in agreement. "I saw that as well. The sand is impressively fast and can cover a wide area. Overpowering it won't be simple."

Sayuri contemplated that for a moment. "Maybe I can break through it with a strong enough technique."

"Hm. Possibly," Kakashi conceded. "I do have an idea for a jutsu that could do it, but you'll likely need to weaken him or distract him first. Simply rushing in won't work, and attempting something complicated without an opening will backfire."

Sayuri tilted her head. "Shadow clones, maybe?"

Kakashi shook his head, dismissing the idea. "No. You don't have the chakra reserves to maintain a clone for that long and still perform the technique I have in mind. Your best bet is to simply outrun his sand. If you can be faster than the sand can react, you might create your own opportunity."

A trace of confusion touched Sayuri's face. "Faster than the sand? I'm not anywhere near that speed right now."

Reaching into his pouch, Kakashi produced a set of small, plain-looking weights and tossed them to her. "These should help," he said simply.

Sayuri caught them, eyebrows knitting together at how strangely light they seemed. She turned them over in her hands, puzzled by their lack of heft. Sensing her confusion, Kakashi decided to explain.

"These are chakra weights. Their true heaviness depends on how much chakra you channel into them. Since we only have a month before the finals, we'll set them to a high resistance from the start. Training with these will increase your speed and reflexes exponentially."

Recognition sparked in Sayuri's eyes. "Naruto used something similar once, didn't he? I remember him taking off a pair of strange bracelets during that mission in Wave Country. After that, he was faster than I thought possible."

Kakashi nodded. "Exactly. Working with these will give you a similar edge. Now, let's get started. First, I'll show you the technique I've chosen for you to learn, and then we'll integrate these weights into your training regime."

Sayuri looked at the weights again, determination clear on her face. "I'm ready when you are," she said, tightening her grip on them. It wouldn't be easy, but if this was what it took to surpass Naruto and stand a chance against Gaara, she wouldn't hesitate.

"Good," Kakashi said, his tone growing serious. "Pay close attention. This technique demands precise control and stamina. Once you've mastered it, you might find that Gaara's defenses aren't so impenetrable after all."

---

Morning arrived with a hush over Konoha's quiet lanes. The previous night's gloom lingered in the air, dew clinging to rooftops and the wooden planks of balconies. Pale sunlight crept cautiously over tiled eaves and half-closed shutters. Inside a modest apartment near the village's eastern quarter, Naruto stirred awake. He blinked up at a ceiling of plain plaster, heart still heavy from the revelations he'd mulled over until late into the night. His muscles ached slightly—residual soreness from yesterday's intense secret training in the Kitsune Realm—but he pushed past it.

He rose and dressed, movements brisk yet calm. Today, he intended to seek out Jiraiya. The Hokage's involvement hadn't yet come to pass in his mind, but he wanted to settle matters on his own terms. He would talk to Jiraiya, ask the hard questions, and if necessary, begin learning Toad Senjutsu. Now that he had Yukihana's approval and a plan to combine the foxes' subtlety with the toads' might, the prospect seemed less daunting.

He was just tightening the knot of his forehead protector—worn in a way that concealed subtle differences in his hairline—when a faint presence stirred outside his door. Naruto paused, senses sharpened by years of caution. He reached out with his refined perception. A chakra signature hovered there, subdued yet disciplined. An ANBU operative, likely. He wondered what message they bore.

With a sigh, he approached the door. The lock clicked softly, and he slid it open. Standing in the corridor, silent as a statue, was an ANBU masked in a Hawk visage, wearing the standard black-and-grey attire and armguards. The figure offered a curt nod, voice low: "Uzumaki Naruto, the Hokage has summoned you immediately to his office. Come at once."

Naruto's heart did a tiny flip. The Hokage? Summoning him directly, and so early in the day? He kept his expression neutral—Danzo's training taught him never to show surprise—and only nodded. "Understood," he said, voice steady. The ANBU vanished in a swirl of leaves, leaving Naruto to lock his door behind him and leap across rooftops toward the Hokage Tower.

He soared over narrow alleys and quiet courtyards, boots tapping clay shingles. Warm morning light bathed the Monument's great faces in soft gold. Soon he reached the tower's upper levels. Two Chunin guards gave him uncertain looks as he entered but made no move to block him. The summons must have been expected. He climbed the winding stairs, the building's familiar corridors feeling heavier today.

At the final landing, he paused before the large double doors leading into the Hokage's office. Another pair of ANBU stood guard. They stepped aside, silently acknowledging him. Naruto inhaled slowly, steeling himself. He had prepared to meet Jiraiya on his own terms—now the Hokage intervened. This could complicate things.

He pushed open the doors. The room beyond was spacious, windows letting in bright morning light. Shelves lined with scrolls, maps pinned to a side wall, the Third Hokage's pipe resting on a low table. Hiruzen Sarutobi stood behind his desk, arms folded within his long robes. His aged features bore a sternness that made Naruto's stomach clench. To the side, Jiraiya leaned against a bookshelf, posture deceptively casual, yet eyes alert.

Naruto closed the door behind him and bowed formally. "Lord Hokage," he said. "You summoned me?"

Hiruzen's gaze bore into him, unblinking. "Naruto," the old man said, voice carrying a gravel edge today. "I've heard of your recent… behavior."

Naruto tensed, unsure which behavior the Hokage meant. He recalled yesterday's tension—he'd refused to cooperate with Jiraiya when the Sannin demanded a demonstration of his abilities, storming off instead. Perhaps news traveled fast.

Hiruzen's voice rose, surprisingly harsh: "I understand you threw a tantrum and refused to train under Jiraiya, despite him being one of our village's greatest sages. You showed disrespect and non-cooperation." He paused to let the words sink in. Naruto felt a spike of anger—tantrum? He had merely protected his secrets. But he kept quiet, schooling his features into neutrality.

"You will not behave so childishly again," Hiruzen continued, eyes narrowing. "We do not have the luxury of indulging your moods. I order you, Naruto, to train under Jiraiya and comply fully with his instructions. Is that clear?"

Naruto blinked. This was unexpected. He had come prepared to approach Jiraiya himself, to say he'd reconsidered. Now, by the Hokage's command, he must accept. It actually made things easier. Instead of admitting he'd changed his mind, he could just nod and pretend it was the order forcing him. It saved face, spared him awkwardness.

He bowed slightly. "I understand, Lord Hokage. I will cooperate with Jiraiya," he said quietly. He offered no sarcasm, no resistance. This played perfectly into the plan he'd formed after talking with the Kitsunes.

Jiraiya raised an eyebrow at Naruto's compliance, slightly surprised. Hiruzen looked satisfied. But the Hokage's next words rattled Naruto:

"And Naruto," Hiruzen said, tone grave, "there is more you must know. I am aware of the Sound and Sand's plans to invade during the finals of the Chunin Exams."

Naruto froze inside. The Hokage knew of the invasion? That meant the old man was not as blind as Danzo hoped. Naruto kept his face blank, years of Root discipline holding firm. Still, this revelation caught him off guard.

Hiruzen continued, "I also know that Orochimaru is in league with Danzo. Together they conspire to let this invasion unfold for their own ends. Don't bother denying it, Naruto. I see through your masks."

Naruto's heart pounded. So Hiruzen knew everything. Or at least enough to guess Danzo's involvement. The old man's eyes flicked to Jiraiya, who listened intently, jaw tightening at Orochimaru's name.

Hiruzen pressed on, "Naruto, I've lived a long life as a shinobi. I recognize trained operatives when I see them. No matter how emotionless you try to appear, how you stonewall or close off, I know Danzo molded you. I also know you're aware of these invasion plans. Don't insult my intelligence by pretending ignorance."

Naruto silently cursed. These old geezers—Hiruzen and Jiraiya—were too experienced. Danzo's emotional suppression training apparently wasn't enough to fool Hiruzen's seasoned intuition. Was he really that easy to read?

He said nothing. Better to stay silent than confirm or deny. Hiruzen nodded as if expecting no answer. "I also suspect," the Hokage went on, voice quieter, "that you already know Jiraiya is your godfather. Likely told by Danzo, to poison your view of him. That's why you refused to train with Jiraiya—out of spite and resentment for his absence in your youth."

Naruto inwardly flinched. Right on target. The old man could read him like an open book. He pressed his lips together, refusing to let shock show on his face.

Hiruzen's tone hardened: "But this is not the time for petty grievances, no matter how justified they may be. Konoha's existence is at stake. We cannot afford internal disputes among our shinobi. You will work with Jiraiya now and for the foreseeable future. That is an order."

Naruto swallowed. He had already decided to comply, but hearing it framed as a necessity for the village's survival stripped away his last traces of reluctance. The Hokage had cornered him completely.

Hiruzen's eyes narrowed: "I also know Danzo likely ordered you not to interfere in my coming battle with Orochimaru, and to ensure Konoha takes minimal damage. Don't bother confirming; I can guess. But let's say I share Danzo's ultimate concern for Konoha's safety." He chuckled darkly. "For once, Danzo and I see eye to eye on something. Your orders are clear. Follow them."

Naruto offered no comment. He simply nodded. Inside, he marveled at how this conversation exposed everything he'd tried to hide. Jiraiya, watching silently, noted how well Naruto suppressed his emotions. The Sannin thought: "Danzo really did a number on this kid. He's so controlled, it's eerie."

The Hokage exhaled. "Now, about your true nature. I believe it's time you show us your real face, Naruto."

Naruto stiffened. Real face? He tried to feign confusion. "My real face, Lord Hokage?"

Hiruzen snorted, unmoved. "No point in playing ignorant. Minato told me and Jiraiya everything the day he found you—the real you. He reported that when he & Kushina came into contact with you and by extension the Kyuubi (since Kushina was its Jinchuriki), you used that cerulean dojutsu in your right eye to create a human form blending Minato and Kushina's features. That means your current appearance is a transformation. You are Otsutsuki, Naruto. We know this. Jiraiya and I spent years searching for clues about the Otsutsuki clan, a distant lineage from beyond this world, linked to the Sage of Six Paths' mother. Minato's reports confirmed it. Stop pretending."

Silence weighed heavily. Naruto's mind raced. They knew about his Otsutsuki heritage, about the Kessetsugan's role in shaping his human guise. He clenched his jaw, trying to find a way out. But Hiruzen leaked a bit of killing intent—just enough for Naruto to feel a chill. The Hokage would not ask again.

Naruto cursed mentally. Ichiro's calm voice in his mind urged him: "Show them. Hiding now is futile." Hikari's gentle tone followed: "You knew this day might come. Reveal your form." Resigned, Naruto sighed and allowed chakra to surge into his Kessetsugan. Cerulean light shimmered in his right eye. He undid the transformation carefully, relinquishing the human mask.

In moments, his skin paled to a porcelain hue. His hair elongated, shifting from sunny blond to a sky-blue. His facial structure refined into something almost ethereal, cheekbones higher, eyes more almond-shaped. An organic headband with two subtle horn-like protrusion emerged from his forehead—small, elegant crests rather than full horns. His pupil in the right eye remained that cerulean hue swirling with subtle patterns, while the left eye shifted to the pupilless Byakugan. His frame seemed slightly taller, limbs more slender yet strong. The aura around him changed—a serene, otherworldly presence. This was his True Otsutsuki form: regal, ancient, and undeniably alien.

Jiraiya gasped softly, eyes widening at the sight. Never had he imagined seeing an Otsutsuki in the flesh—let alone his own godson. The Sannin had expected something unusual, but this? It took all his self-control not to stammer.

Hiruzen, if impressed or surprised, hid it well. He merely said, "Good. Now, no more games. Tell me everything that happened in the Forest of Death. The entire truth, without omission."

Naruto sighed wearily. The jig was up. They knew too much, and the killing intent earlier showed Hiruzen meant business. He recounted all: encountering Jigen, that strange Otsutsuki presence who confronted him. He described the battle, Jigen's abilities, and the attempt to subdue or brand him. Naruto explained how he tapped into various powers to survive. Then he detailed Orochimaru's ambush, Sakura's death, and his desperate struggle to push Orochimaru back. He explained what Jigen was—a lurking Otsutsuki threat, possibly named Isshiki, who sought to claim Naruto's body or use him somehow. The words poured out, leaving no room for deception.

When he finished, silence filled the office. Hiruzen rubbed his temples, exhaustion clear in his lined face. "First Orochimaru infiltrates the Exams, then we learn of the Sound and Sand invasion, Jiraiya's report about Kumo and Iwa forming alliances, and the Akatsuki group hunting Jinchuriki—now this Otsutsuki enemy Jigen. It's too much," the Hokage muttered. The old man looked truly burdened, shoulders heavy with tension.

Jiraiya nodded grimly. "This is far more dire than we anticipated," he said quietly, processing Naruto's story. A baby Otsutsuki found by Minato, raised secretly, hidden powers, now caught in a web of conspiracies. The scale of threats was colossal.

Hiruzen turned to Jiraiya. "It seems we stand at a crossroads beyond anything we've faced. The infiltration, alliances against us, rogue S-rank nuke-nin lurking, and now an Otsutsuki foe with designs on Naruto. Jiraiya, training Naruto is your priority. We need him prepared—physically, mentally, and strategically. No half measures."

Jiraiya agreed. He formed a hand seal, and in a puff of smoke, a massive toad appeared, towering nearly to the ceiling, its orange skin warty and rough. The toad bowed slightly, allowing Jiraiya to retrieve a large scroll from its back. Another puff of smoke, and the toad vanished, leaving only the scroll behind.

Jiraiya unrolled the parchment across the Hokage's desk. Naruto recognized it as a summoning contract scroll, one of the largest he'd seen. Jiraiya tapped it with a finger. "This is the Toad Summoning Contract. To gain them as allies, you must first sign it. I know you've delayed this, but we have no time left."

Naruto stepped forward, heart pounding. He hesitated, thinking of the Kitsune's blessing. They said knowledge wasn't betrayal. Still, a pang of guilt surfaced—he felt like "two-timing" summoning clans, forging alliances with both foxes and toads. He paused, brush hovering above the scroll.

Hiruzen's voice cut in, impatience edging his tone: "We don't have time for lingering doubts, Naruto. Sign it."

Naruto sighed, pricked his thumb with a sharpened canine—his Otsutsuki nature made the gesture feel oddly natural—and pressed the bleeding digit onto the scroll's blank space, writing his name in flowing script. "Here goes," he muttered, finalizing the contract.

Jiraiya rolled the scroll shut, nodding once. Hiruzen nodded at him. "It's your job to get him ready," the Hokage said. "Now that we know what's at stake, we must act swiftly."

Jiraiya turned to Naruto, "Let's go, kid. No time to waste."

Naruto tilted his head. "Where?" he asked, carefully modulating his voice. Before Jiraiya could answer, both of them disappeared in a swirl of smoke—Jiraiya's transportation technique at work.

An instant later, Naruto found himself somewhere entirely different. His senses exploded with stimuli: the air smelled of wet moss and unfamiliar nectar, the ground felt springy beneath his sandals, and an array of giant mushrooms soared like trees. It took a moment for his vision to adjust. Everything around him hinted at toad aesthetics: enormous lily pads floating in crystal-clear ponds, rock formations carved into amphibian-like faces, and broad-leafed plants dripping with dew. Colored clouds drifted across a pastel sky.

Jiraiya's voice spoke from behind him: "Welcome to Mount Myōboku, kiddo."

Naruto turned. Before him stretched an otherworldly landscape. Towering, striped mushrooms formed natural pagodas, some leaning over ponds stocked with tiny, colorful toad-fish. Stone statues of ancient toads with wise, droopy eyes dotted the valley. The terrain undulated gently, mossy hills and winding paths leading to unknown groves. An ambient chorus of distant toad croaks created a soothing background song. The air felt rich in natural energy, thicker than in the Kitsune Realm, yet friendly and warm. Flecks of pollen-like motes danced in sunbeams filtering through clouds. Naruto's Otsutsuki senses noted a harmonic resonance in the atmosphere, as if the land itself hummed with senjutsu chakra.

He swallowed hard, taking it all in. Mount Myōboku was famed in legends, a sacred place known only through rare mentions. He never expected to stand here. The tension in his chest eased a fraction. Whatever grievances he had with Jiraiya, this place was undeniably remarkable—perfect for harnessing Toad Senjutsu.