The Outcast Legacy (Naruto Fan-fiction)

Konohagakure?

Kazuki's journey through the Land of Fire had been an arduous one, with three days of continuous walking taking its toll. During his solitary trek, he had dedicated himself to learning jutsu he felt he should have already mastered at the academy. The determination to improve and grow had driven him forward.

On the third night, as he set up camp, Kazuki ventured to a nearby river. The waters, though chilling in the late September air, beckoned him. He waded into the river without hesitation, his clothes drenched as he began to bathe. The cold was a sharp reminder of his solitude and the challenges he faced.

After the impromptu bath, he exited the river and, with a series of hand seals, channeled his chakra to make the water evaporate from his wet clothing. It was a practical skill that showcased his determination to improve his abilities and adapt to the world outside his former village.

Kazuki's night in the wilderness had been restive, and he awoke with a start in the morning. A feeling of unease washed over him, prompting him to swiftly retrieve a kunai as his senses detected a dull chakra source lurking among the trees.

With a wary gaze, he scanned the surrounding forest, alert for any signs of movement. His voice rang out into the woods, a blend of fear and determination as he called out, "Who's there?!" The uncertainty of the situation weighed heavily on him as he prepared for a potential encounter with an unknown presence.

The sudden appearance of three masked figures startled Kazuki, his grip on the kunai tightening as they materialized in front of him. However, the lack of immediate aggression on their part began to ease his initial fear.

One of them stepped forward, taking on the role of spokesperson, and introduced himself. "I am Kasai," he began, the softness of his voice evident through the mask, "I'm an ANBU for Konohagakure. We found you on our outskirts."

Kazuki's tension began to subside as he listened to Kasai's explanation, although uncertainty still lingered. He regarded the masked man with a mixture of caution and curiosity, his young heart grappling with the presence of these unknown individuals.

Relieved that he hadn't committed any offense, Kazuki sheathed his kunai, though his cautious demeanor remained. He still wondered about the purpose of this encounter, and so he inquired, "A-alright, have I done anything wrong?"

Kasai shook his head in response. "No," he assured the young boy. "I do wonder, though, young one, are you traveling about on your own?"

Kazuki confirmed with a hesitant nod, uncertain of why his solo journey seemed to be of interest to these masked figures. "I am. Is there an issue with that?"

The ANBU shook his head, understanding the underlying concern in Kazuki's query. "Not at all," he reassured the young traveler, then cast a subtle glance toward his companions. Lowering his voice so that only they could hear, he continued, "We could bring him back with us to Konoha. He's alone and seems to have a good amount of chakra for someone so young."

The masked figures exchanged quiet glances, considering the possibilities and implications of their newfound encounter with Kazuki.

Kazuki watched and listened with growing curiosity as the masked figures engaged in their hushed debate. The revelation of one of the ANBU members as a woman named Laura and the mention of someone named Kakashi and a girl named Rin hinted at a broader context he was not yet privy to.

"You always do this, Kasai," Laura sighed, a hint of exasperation in her voice. "First that Rin girl, now this boy?"

Kasai, apparently the source of this ongoing discussion, defended his actions, his voice firm yet reasonable. "Look, to be fair, Laura, Kakashi saved her. I just helped him when he got to the village."