Naruto's Guardian(Remake)

Chapter Five: Forbidden Scroll

Aoi awoke early on a particular morning, driven by his feral instincts urging him to hunt. However, today was different; he needed to suppress those instincts for a specific reason. Over the past year, Aoi had engaged in hunting for Naruto, providing him with grilled fish as a preferred alternative to raw meat. Today, he had a mission of a different kind.

Venturing into the kitchen, Aoi took notice of a carton of milk that had long overstayed its welcome in the fridge. Mindful of Naruto's well-being, he disposed of the spoiled milk, ensuring his friend wouldn't inadvertently consume it and face Kakashi's inevitable disappointment. Aoi then secured some money from Naruto's frog wallet, placing it in his small money pouch along with his identification collar.

Guided by the prospect of a more flavorful meal, Aoi headed to the Inuzuka district, where a grilled chicken stall awaited. The locals were accustomed to dogs fetching food for their owners, and Aoi was no exception. Standing on his hind legs, he greeted the stall owner with a bark, displaying his money pouch. The transaction proceeded smoothly as the stall owner packed up grilled chicken for Aoi, who eagerly accepted the bounty in a plastic bag, handles clenched in his mouth.

Returning home, Aoi placed the chicken on a table, anticipating Naruto's delight. The ritual of their morning routine unfolded predictably – eating, bathing, and gearing up for the day's activities. As Naruto, still half-asleep, prepared for the academy, Aoi sat beside his food bowl, displaying a level of excitement that only the prospect of a delicious meal could evoke.

Naruto, still immersed in his morning routine, was jolted wide awake by Aoi's resonant bark. Startled and vigilant, he quickly assessed the situation, realizing it was a friendly wake-up call from his loyal companion. Appreciative, Naruto acknowledged Aoi's role in ensuring he was ready for the day on time.

After a swift breakfast, the duo set off for the academy, managing to arrive on time for once. The graduation exam loomed, and Iruka explained the procedure, emphasizing the challenge of creating clones. Nervousness settled in as Naruto's name was called, leading him to the examination room accompanied by Aoi.

Inside the room, Aoi's growl caught the attention of both Iruka and Mizuki, a reaction unusual for the normally amiable wolf. Naruto, however, pressed on, determined to prove himself. Unfortunately, the resulting clone was lacklustre – pale, weak, and prone on the ground. Iruka's disappointed declaration of failure left Naruto disheartened.

The solemn aftermath of the final exam hung in the air as Naruto, visibly disheartened, sought solace on a swing near the academy's entrance. The jubilant reunions of successful students with their parents only deepened Naruto's sense of disappointment and isolation, accentuated by the conspicuous absence of parental figures in his life. Aoi, the steadfast wolf companion, sensed his distress and nuzzled against him in an attempt to offer comfort. Naruto managed a feeble smile, but it quickly dissipated as he continued to watch the joyous scenes unfold around him.

In this moment of vulnerability, Mizuki, attuned to Naruto's emotional state, approached with an air of understanding. Together, they retreated to Naruto's home, settling on the balcony floor with legs dangling, as Naruto poured out his frustrations regarding Iruka's seemingly harsh decision.

Naruto: I try so hard, but it never seems to be enough, dattebayo. Why can't Iruka-sensei acknowledge my efforts?

Mizuki: (smirking) It's frustrating, isn't it? But what if I told you there's a way to prove yourself?

Mizuki, seizing the opportunity to exploit Naruto's desperation, divulged the existence of a secret scroll containing techniques that could potentially alter Iruka's decision. Gullible and yearning for a chance, Naruto, driven by the desire to prove himself, fell into Mizuki's carefully laid trap. Aoi, understanding the gravity of this pivotal moment for Naruto's growth, refrained from intervening.