8 - I was just lucky...

**Konoha...**

**Beside the Forest of Death...**

On the bank of a small river flowing from a mountain through the Forest of Death, the twins, Kirito and Naruto, were fishing together. When Kirito felt they had enough fish, he left Naruto to look after the fish that were cooking on the fire and ventured into the forest to find some fruits. He didn't take Naruto with him, knowing it was a safe area and there wouldn't be any danger.

Naruto, meanwhile, continued fishing to catch more fish for their upcoming dinner. Although he knew the fish they already had would be enough for lunch, he wanted to ensure they had something for the evening as well.

He was not the sharpest tool in the shed, but he understood the importance of helping his younger brother and providing for their well-being. He was determined to support Kirito in any way he could.

As Naruto caught two more fish, the aroma of the cooking fish reached his nose. He made his way to where Kirito had placed the fish, only to find an old man eating their fish.

Naruto became upset, as he didn't want them to go hungry, especially after working hard to catch those fish. He confronted the old man, asking him angrily, "What do you think you are doing, old man? That is our fish."

The old man, named Sarutobi Hiruzen, responded with a sad face but continued eating. Naruto wasn't satisfied with the response, knowing that hunger didn't give anyone the right to eat their food. As the conversation continued, Hiruzen tried to reason with Naruto, but the young boy stood his ground.

Hiruzen eventually revealed his true identity as the Third Hokage, but Naruto, being a child, decided to call him "grams" instead.

Hiruzen offered to take the boys to a Ramen shop and treat them to as much food as they could eat. Naruto was thrilled with the idea, but before he could accept, he heard his brother's voice calling out to him.

Kirito returned, carrying a big basket full of various fruits and mushrooms. Naruto marvelled at his brother's resourcefulness in gathering so much food so quickly.

Kirito explained how he obtained the food from a beast's nest, assuring that it wasn't poisonous because the beast had consumed it without harm.

Hiruzen was both impressed and concerned by Kirito's daring act. He wondered where the Anbu he had sent to protect the twins were, as they seemed to have failed in their duty.

He decided to reassign the task to trusted ninjas, Kakashi Hatake and Yūgao Uzuki, to ensure the twins' safety.

Naruto mentioned Hiruzen's offer of treating them to Ramen, and Kirito's eyes sparkled with excitement. He had always wanted to taste the legendary Ichiraku Ramen, and now it seemed like his dream was coming true.

Hiruzen agreed to eat with them first, and then take them to the Ramen shop for dinner. The twins happily shared their food with the kind Hokage, and all of them enjoyed a pleasant meal together by the riverbank.

As they enjoyed their meal together, the atmosphere was filled with warmth and camaraderie. Kirito and Naruto chatted with Hiruzen, sharing their stories and dreams while the old Hokage listened attentively. Hiruzen was impressed by the twins' resilience and determination despite their challenging circumstances.

Kirito, still curious about why the Third Hokage was spending time with them, mustered the courage to ask, "Grandpa Hiruzen, why did you come here to eat with us? You are the Hokage, and we are just kids."

Hiruzen smiled kindly and replied, "Well, you see, I wanted to spend some time with you both as a friend, not just as the Hokage. You have shown great courage and resourcefulness, and I admire that. Besides, the Hokage needs to know and care about the people in the village, especially the younger ones who hold the future in their hands."

Naruto and Kirito exchanged glances, a mix of surprise and gratitude in their eyes. They had always thought of the Hokage as an unreachable figure, someone too important to spend time with regular kids like them. But Hiruzen was proving them wrong, and it meant the world to them.

Feeling a sense of trust and comfort, Kirito decided to open up to Hiruzen. "You know, Grandpa Hiruzen, it's not easy for us to live in the village. People treat us differently because of the Nine-Tails incident. But we don't let that stop us from trying to be the best we can be."

Naruto chimed in, "Yeah, we may not have parents, but we have each other, and that's what matters the most. We want to become strong ninjas so that we can protect each other and the village, just like the Hokage."

Hiruzen nodded in understanding. "I can see the determination in both of you. And let me assure you, you are not alone. The village may not fully understand your situation, but some people care about you. As your Hokage, I promise to do my best to protect and support you."

The twins' eyes shimmered with hope and gratitude. They had never expected such words of encouragement and support from the Hokage himself. It made them feel valued and acknowledged.

"Thank you, Grandpa Hiruzen. We will work hard to become a strong ninja and make you proud," Kirito said, a determined glint in his eyes.

Naruto added, "Yeah, and one day, we'll show the village that we are more than the Nine Tails incident. We'll become Hokage ourselves and change people's perceptions."

Hiruzen chuckled warmly, patting both their heads affectionately. "I have no doubt that you two will achieve great things. You have already proven your strength and resilience. Just remember, whenever you need guidance or support, you can count on me. And I'm sure your friends will always be there for you as well."

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