Naruto Senju the honered one(ON HOLD UNTILL MARCH, 28, 2025)

chapter 9

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It had been a few days since Team 7 returned from the Land of Waves. The mission had left a lasting impression on each of them, and now, with the Chunin Exams approaching, the team found themselves with one goal: to get stronger.

Naruto, especially, was more determined than ever. The discovery of his Mokuton ability on the bridge was still fresh in his mind, and the memory of losing control haunted him. He wanted to understand his power, to harness it so that he could protect his friends, no matter what.

Early one morning, Naruto was already up and pacing in the training grounds, waiting for his teammates to arrive. He clenched his fists, his mind focused on all the things he wanted to learn. I’ve got to master this. I can’t let everyone down.

Kakashi and the Hokage had already discussed Naruto’s unique situation. The power of Mokuton, which had only been seen in the First Hokage, would require special guidance, and Naruto needed to learn quickly if he hoped to control it. So, Kakashi had arranged for someone with experience to help him—a skilled ANBU captain who knew the secrets of the First Hokage’s unique power.

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As Naruto continued his pacing, Kakashi arrived, followed by a new figure. The man wore standard Konoha shinobi gear and a serious expression. His hair was cut short and spiky, and he carried himself with a calm authority that immediately caught Naruto’s attention.

"Naruto," Kakashi called, gesturing to the newcomer. "This is Captain Yamato. He’ll be training you in Mokuton techniques for a while."

Naruto’s eyes widened in excitement and curiosity as he looked at the new teacher. "You know how to use Wood Release too?"

Yamato nodded, giving Naruto a small smile. "Yes, I’ve been able to use it for some time now, though it’s not quite the same as the First Hokage’s power. But with my experience, I can help you learn to control your Mokuton and develop your own techniques."

Naruto’s face lit up. "Awesome! So what do we start with? Are we gonna make giant trees? Or... or maybe a wooden dragon?"

Yamato chuckled, though his expression quickly turned serious. "We’ll start small. Mokuton is about precision and control, especially since it draws on both Earth and Water chakra natures. Mastering it will require focus."

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "Yamato’s right, Naruto. You need to learn the basics before you can think about large-scale techniques. This is a rare and powerful gift, but it can be dangerous if you lose control."

Naruto’s excitement dimmed slightly, but his resolve didn’t falter. "Alright, then! I’m ready to do whatever it takes."

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The next few days were a whirlwind of intense training sessions. Under Yamato’s guidance, Naruto practiced channeling his chakra in new ways, learning to balance the elements of Earth and Water within his Mokuton techniques. Yamato taught him about the importance of chakra control—how even a slight imbalance could affect the stability of his techniques.

To improve his control, Yamato had Naruto work on small, intricate creations, such as sprouting small branches or creating miniature wooden figures. The exercises were grueling, testing Naruto’s patience and focus, but he threw himself into it with everything he had.

One afternoon, as Naruto practiced forming a small wooden doll, Sasuke appeared at the training grounds, watching his efforts from a distance. She leaned against a tree, her arms crossed, observing as Naruto struggled to maintain the shape of his creation.

"That’s supposed to be a doll?" she asked, smirking slightly.

Naruto looked up, scowling but refusing to lose focus. "Hey, give me a break! This stuff is harder than it looks!"