Chapter 46. What It Takes To Be Hokage

Ryu was watching all this. He saw how Naruto overcame his heart's shadow. Iruka certainly is a good man. In the anime he was like a father to Naruto.

After some time the other ninjas came and took away Mizuki. He will be judged for his crimes. Naruto and Iruka went for celebrations. Naruto was pretty happy that he graduated, he couldn't wait to show his Headband to Big brother and others. Iruka paid for their meal but it put a hole in his wallet. They said goodnight and separated.

Naruto was so excited on his way home that he forgot how late it was. He quickly reached home. The moment he opened the door he felt someone hug him.

Akane was very worried seeing Naruto so late. She almost went berserk when it was almost midnight. Ryu barely managed to calm her down. He said that his clone was with him and if anything happened he would take care of it. After waiting so much time she finally heard the door opening, she didn't think anything and rushed. The moment she saw Naruto..her tightened heart was relaxed and she hugged him.

Naruto knew it was Akane who hugged him. He let her hug him for a few minutes. Rest of the family all looked at this and stayed silent. Akane released Naruto and said

' Naruto..why would you do that? Did you think we think we would be disgraced of you if you didn't become a ninja? '

Naruto's head was down, he said: I didn't want to disappoint you.

Akane gently touched his head: Naruto...no matter what happens we will always love you. Don't ever forget that.

Naruto's eyes teared. He just stood there and nodded.

Akane: Ok. Now...

Akane's gentle smile slowly changed. When the rest of the men saw this, they took a step back. They have all felt her wrath over the years. But Naruto was always doted by her. This time he really did it..

Akane: What were you doing outside so late? Huh..

Naruto stuttered. He obviously know of Akane's temper. He tried to explain but Akane nearly pulled his ears off. After she was done Naruto's ears were like an elephants except they were red.

Ryu kept silent the whole time. He knew Naruto had some doubts. Naruto may seem dumb at times but he is really cunning as well. After this little fiasco the family celebrated Naruto's graduation. Ryu and Naruto went upstairs towards their room. Naruto was about to enter his when Ryu called him.

Ryu: Naruto..come to my room. There is something I want to talk about.

Naruto just nodded and entered. He looked at Ryu.

Ryu: Aren't you gonna ask?

Naruto: No big brother. If you don't want to tell me then I won't ask.

Ryu: Don't you feel angry for what i did?

Naruto said in a firm tone: No!! I know you will never hurt me.

Ryu felt warm at Naruto's absolute trust in him.

Ryu: Naruto..I put a seal on you before the exam to disrupt your chakra so that you would fail.

Unlike Naruto's usual behaviour he just listened.

' Do you remember the first time I met you?..You longed for companions and even did some crazy things to get some friends but after you gained a family you never truly did anything to gain friends.

You closed your heart Naruto. Our family became the only place where you were happy. Your dream didn't change but your heart did. Do you know how one can be worthy to become Hokage

Naruto...One doesn't become Hokage to gain respect from others.

A person who is respected and accepted by everyone becomes Hokage.

By failing the test you lost your chance to become a ninja, so you took the path shown to you by Mizuki. You understood why the villagers and Iruka hated you. Iruka was also like any other villager but your character has shown him what you are thus gaining his trust and respect.

If this didn't happen and you passed the test.. you would simply pursue strength. You will never gain anyone's respect and NEVER become Hokage.'

Naruto was dazed at what Ryu said. He realised that he really did stop trying to gain others respect and acceptance. He looked to Ryu and suddenly hugged him. Ryu was surprised

Naruto: Thanks big brother.

Ryu patted his back and said: Naruto, I will always look out for you.

Naruto: I know. I will try to become a Hokage who is respected by others.

They talked for some time, a few minutes later Ryu told Naruto to sleep. After Naruto left Ryu looked towards the window

' It's not nice to eavesdrop '

Nobody answered..but a second later Shisui came inside through the window with an awkward smile. He asked : How long?

Ryu: The moment you started listening.

Shisui: And here I thought my genjutsu is strong.

Ryu: It is strong just not strong enough against me. So...why the sneaking?

Shisui: I was surprised when I heard Naruto failed. He is clearly already a Chunin level there is no way he will fail in a clone technique so I knew something was up, also..I saw Naruto come inside your room.

Ryu: So what do you think?

Shisui: I understand why you did that but you seem to have a plan for Naruto... That's what I don't get.

Ryu: All in good time. But know this he will great changes to this world.