7 Chapter 7

Kazuki focused, his hand now surrounded by a condensed sphere of Kokuton. He directed it towards a nearby boulder, and upon contact, the dark energy corroded the rock as if it were mere paper. "Corrosive Properties. It breaks down anything it touches."

Shikaku nodded, acknowledging the power at play. "But every technique has its drawbacks. What are yours?"

Kazuki's expression turned thoughtful. "Chakra Intensity. Kokuton demands a substantial amount of chakra. Prolonged use can lead to exhaustion." He flexed his fingers, dismissing the dark energy temporarily.

"Control is another challenge," he continued. "Manipulating such potent and corrosive force requires precision; although it is highly versatile, it requires a really high level of mastery of shape manipulation. A lapse in control can lead to unintended consequences."

Shikaku, leaning against a tree, absorbed the information. "And the range?"

"Kokuton is most effective up close," Kazuki admitted. "Its potency diminishes over long distances."

Shikaku grinned, a mixture of pride and curiosity in his eyes. "You've been busy, haven't you? Developing this Kekkei Genkai of yours."

Kazuki nodded with a determined gleam in his eyes. "I want to be prepared for whatever comes our way. With Kokuton, I can amplify all my elemental release techniques, and it also increases my elemental affinities; it also helps absorb incoming attacks."

Shikaku pushed himself off the tree. "Well, it seems you've given our clan an edge. Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility. Don't let it consume you."

Kazuki met his uncle's gaze, a solemn nod conveying his understanding.

"Oh, by the way, uncle, before I forget. Shikamaru, get your big brother's bag over here," Kazuki instructed, his tone carrying a playful note. Shikamaru, who had been observing the training session from under a tree, swiftly grabbed the bag and ran towards them.

"Here, Kazuki Niisan. Will you take me out on a stroll to the market now that you are done with your training? Remember, you promised," Shikamaru eagerly reminded, his eyes shining with anticipation.

Shikaku, standing nearby, raised his brows, silently urging Kazuki to share more information. Kazuki chuckled and produced three storage scrolls, handing them over to Shikaku, who collected them with growing excitement.

"Is this what I think it is, Kazuki?" Shikaku inquired, his anticipation evident in his voice as he examined the scrolls.

"Yes, uncle. I have perfected it, and I believe it can now be used by our family members," Kazuki confirmed, a hint of pride in his tone. "I've left detailed instructions regarding it in the scrolls. However, I would suggest first testing it on the field with the help of our family Jonins, who have exceptional mastery over their shadow manipulation. I do not have to tell you its importance, uncle. I hope you can take the necessary measures."

Kazuki's reminder carried a weight of responsibility, emphasising the significance of the contents within the scrolls. Shikaku nodded in acknowledgment, realizing the potential impact this advancement could have on the Nara Clan's strength.

"Kid, rest assured. I know of its importance, and I will assign things accordingly. And don't stay out late if you guys are going out; is that understood?" Shikaku instructed with a mix of authority and concern. The well-being of his family was always at the forefront of his priorities.

Kazuki, respecting his uncle's words, nodded solemnly. "Understood, uncle. We'll be back in time." With that, he and Shikamaru set off, with the promise of a stroll to the market awaiting them and the potential of the new scrolls promising a brighter future for the Nara Clan.

Kazuki accompanied Shikamaru and walked in the direction of the Akimichi clan to bring Choji along with them to the market.

"Shikamaru, come quickly. Do you know how hard it is to get a reservation at the new restaurant? Such exquisite food—I never thought that food could be so heavenly. Our family members have been whining with dad to ask your father to provide exclusive discounts to Akimichi members to dine."Choji, who was the same age as Shikamaru, has been chubby since young but has been his best friend and is currently almost drooling because big brother Kazuki had promised to take them to the most famous restaurant in Konoha. The food here was simply a novelty.

Kazuki, ever-observant, couldn't shake the feeling that they were being observed. His attention shifted towards a distant shadow, a subtle movement that betrayed the presence of a hidden onlooker. The root ninja, skilled in the arts of stealth, recoiled as Kazuki effortlessly detected him.

"Damn, that kid's senses are monstrous. Is he a sensor type? I should inform Danzo Sama about this. Even then, I was almost over five hundred metres away from his position. How did he find me?" The root Ninja thought to himself and retreated to make a new report about the Nara kid.

"Choji, remember, we first go to the market and then to the restaurant at the end. That's what we have planned, and what reservation are you talking about? I never had to wait to eat at the new restaurant," Shikamaru teased Choji knowing how much he loved eating.

"Yeah, well, of course the restaurant is owned by your Nara clan; why would you have to wait? Say, Shikamaru, why don't you ask your dad to give me VIP access? Aren't I your best friend?"Both kids were jokingly exchanging words, while Kazuki was making sure that there were no more annoying flies around trying to disturb their day out.

"Boys, haven't you forgotten something important before we head to the market?" Kazuki inquired about the boys, who were too immersed in their playful banter.

"Well, big brother Kazuki is paying for all the expenses. I dont think we have forgotten anything, right?" Choji said while rubbing his tummy, making sure to mention that it was Kazuki's treat. However, before he could continue, Shikamaru smacked him lightly and said,.

"Choji, is food the only thing you can think of? We still have to pick up Naruto on the way. Remember, Big Brother Kazuki had promised to take all three of us out together. Shikamaru's reminder made Choji realize that he had completely forgotten about his new friend because of food. He couldn't help but give out a sheepish grin and start walking in the direction of the orphanage.

As Kazuki, Shikamaru, and Choji approached the entrance of the park, their light banter subsided as they noticed a lonely figure sitting on a bench. A mop of unruly blond hair, large, innocent blue eyes, and a cheerful orange jumpsuit revealed the identity of the child waiting eagerly.

Naruto, a mere two years old, sat on the bench near the entrance of the orphanage, his tiny legs swinging back and forth. His eyes sparkled with a mix of excitement and anticipation; his attention was fixated on the entrance, hoping for the arrival of his newfound friends. The vibrant orange of his jumpsuit contrasted against the greenery of the park, making him a beacon of youthful energy.

Kazuki, ever vigilant, observed the scene with keen eyes. His perception extended beyond the obvious, catching the subtle nuances in the surroundings. He noticed the ANBU ninja, clad in the shadows, monitoring Naruto from a distance. A second ninja, hidden even more expertly, eluded the average observer. Yet, with Kazuki's affinity for darkness, every shadow became a canvas for him to paint with his awareness.

The presence of these unseen protectors didn't go unnoticed by Kazuki. He understood the significance of their watchful eyes, a testament to Naruto's unique status within the village. The lonely child, marked by the Nine-Tails sealed within him, had found companionship in Kazuki and his friends. This bond was both heartwarming and bittersweet, for Naruto's innocence belied the challenges that lay ahead for him.

As the trio approached, Naruto's face lit up with joy. His wide smile revealed the dimples that made him all the more endearing. His small hands clapped together in excitement as he saw Kazuki approaching.

"Big brother Kazuki! Shikamaru! Choji!" Naruto exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine happiness.

Kazuki couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility and warmth towards the little boy, who faced the world with unbridled optimism. The ANBU remained hidden, allowing Naruto to enjoy his moments of joy with his friends. The second ninja, though concealed, subtly acknowledged Kazuki's vigilance.

"Hey, Naruto! Ready for our adventure today?" Shikamaru called out, his own enthusiasm matching Naruto's.

The bustling Ninja Market in Konoha was a vibrant tapestry of colours, sounds, and scents. Stalls and shops lined the narrow streets, each one brimming with a diverse array of merchandise catering to the needs and desires of the Shinobi populace. The lively chatter of vendors haggling with customers, the clinking of coins, and the occasional burst of laughter created a lively atmosphere.

As Shikamaru, Choji, and Naruto entered the market, their eyes widened with excitement. Shikamaru's typically lazy demeanour seemed to fade as he eagerly explored the various stalls. Choji, driven by his love for food, was drawn to the enticing aromas wafting from food vendors, his mouth watering at the prospect of the upcoming feast. Naruto, despite the hardships he faced, radiated an infectious enthusiasm, his bright eyes reflecting the wonders of the market.

However, the joyous mood faced a harsh reality when some shopkeepers, recognising Naruto as the container of the Nine-Tails, denied them entry. The stigma associated with the tailed beast made the trio unwelcome in certain establishments. Shikamaru and Choji, initially unfazed, grew increasingly frustrated by the unfair treatment of their friend.

Naruto, though hurt by the rejections, maintained a positive attitude. His resilience shone through as he smiled and shrugged off the negativity. However, the continuous encounters with prejudice were beginning to wear on him.

At one point, as the trio approached a weapons shop, the gruff shopkeeper eyed Naruto with disdain. "We don't serve his kind here," he barked, pointing at Naruto.

Shikamaru scowled, ready to voice his protest, but before he could speak, Kazuki stepped forward, intercepting the hostility. "We'll go elsewhere," he calmly stated, shielding Naruto from the verbal assault.

The shopkeeper, dissatisfied, raised his hand threateningly towards Naruto, but Kazuki intercepted the impending blow. He took the hit stoically, preventing any harm from befalling Naruto. It was a moment of silent solidarity, a testament to the bond that had formed among the trio.

Ignoring the aggressor, Kazuki redirected the group towards a different section of the market, specifically the Nara Clan's owned shops. Nara's influence held sway in these establishments, and the trio found themselves welcomed with open arms.

The shopkeepers, familiar with the trio, warmly greeted them. Kazuki, putting on a facade of indifference, subtly communicated to Shikamaru and Choji the importance of staying composed in the face of adversity. Naruto, despite the recent hostility, embraced the newfound warmth, appreciating the genuine kindness.

Amidst the bustling Ninja Market, a quaint and unassuming relic shop beckoned to the trio of children. With its entrance adorned with faded curtains, the shop seemed to whisper tales of a bygone era. Rumours circulating in the village hinted that the elderly owner was once a member of the First Hokage's esteemed personal guard, adding an air of mystique to the establishment.

As the trio stepped inside, the shop unfolded like a treasure trove of history. The dimly lit interior was a haven of antiquities, each item telling a silent story of the shinobi who wielded it in times long past. Shelves meticulously arranged with ancient scrolls, weathered ninja tools, and mysterious artefacts created an atmosphere of reverence for the ninja arts.

The scent of aged paper, mixed with a faint trace of incense, hung in the air. Dim lanterns cast a warm glow, illuminating the eclectic collection. Scrolls with intricate seals lay carefully wrapped, their secrets preserved for those who sought the wisdom of the ancients.

The centrepiece of the shop was a massive oak counter, where an elderly man reclined in a comfortable chair, his eyes dancing with a glint of nostalgia. His weathered hands, adorned with scars and callouses, rested on the surface as if connected to the very essence of the relics around him.