Chapter 3: Rains of Castamere I

Naruto stood in the heart of the forest, surrounded by the vibrant greenery of Konoha. The rustling leaves and chirping birds provided a serene backdrop to his activities. In front of him stood a makeshift contraption made from various scraps and pieces he had scavenged. It was a complex machine designed to test his kunai throwing skills. Naruto had rigged it to release targets at unpredictable intervals and angles, forcing him to rely on instinct and precision.

As he twirled a kunai deftly in his hand, Naruto's eyes narrowed in concentration. He had already managed to master the art of throwing kunai at incredible speeds, hitting targets with pinpoint accuracy. But this machine was his next challenge, pushing him to refine his skills even further. He flung a kunai, watching it spin through the air and strike a moving target dead center. A small smile tugged at his lips.

"Impressive as always, Naruto," a familiar voice called out.

Naruto turned to see his father, Minato Namikaze, standing at the edge of the clearing. Minato's blue eyes shone with pride as he watched his son.

"You're getting better every day. I'm glad I didn't give you the documents on the Flying Thunder God Technique yet. I have no doubt you'd master that too in no time," he joked.

Naruto chuckled, a rare sound that felt like sunshine on a cold day. "Thanks, Dad. But what brings you here? You're usually so busy. Is there something special happening? I've noticed that the village has been a bit more lively recently."

Minato's face softened, a hint of sadness in his eyes. He had always known that Naruto was different. Even as a baby, Naruto had never cried over soiled diapers but would scream until someone correctly guessed his need. It was as if he was born with an unusual sense of discipline and awareness, making him seem more mature than his years. This maturity had created a distance between Naruto and his parents, a gap that Minato wished he could bridge.

"Well," Minato began, trying to mask his feelings, "there is something special happening. The village has been more lively lately because we're planning a big celebration for your fifth birthday on June 10th. We're even inviting leaders from other countries."

Naruto's eyes widened slightly, a mix of curiosity and indifference flickering across his face. "A big party? For me?"

Minato nodded, feeling a pang of sorrow. Naruto was often surrounded by people who called him "Naruto-sama," yet he seemed to care little for the adulation. He was treated more like a symbol than a child, a fact that Minato deeply regretted.

"Yes," Minato confirmed. "Your reputation as a genius has spread far and wide. The villages are in a period of recovery, and having you as a symbol of hope and excellence is a way to bolster morale and keep the Daimyo happy."

Naruto sighed inwardly. He understood the politics behind it, the need to present a strong front. But he was tired of being a poster boy, tired of the constant recognition and the pressure that came with it. As a former assassin in his previous life, he had cherished the ability to blend into the shadows, to move unnoticed. Here, he was constantly in the spotlight, a role he never asked for.

"That's...nice," Naruto said, his tone measured. "But you know, Dad, I really just want to keep training and learning new techniques. This celebration thing isn't really my style."

Minato smiled, though he felt a deep ache in his heart. He admired Naruto's dedication and focus, but he wished his son could enjoy a normal childhood, filled with joy and playfulness. "I know, Naruto. But sometimes, it's good to take a break and enjoy the moment. You'll have a chance to meet new people, maybe even learn something new from them."

Naruto nodded, though his mind was already wandering. The idea of creating another identity played in his head. A way to escape the constant attention and live a life where he wasn't always Naruto-sama, the prodigious son of the Hokage. And most importantly, to achieve what he decided to achieve.

As he watched his father, Naruto felt a twinge of guilt. He knew Minato cared deeply for him and wanted the best for him. But the distance between them was something he couldn't easily bridge. He was grateful for his father's understanding and support, yet he yearned for something more.

"Thanks, Dad," Naruto said, forcing a smile. "I'll try to enjoy the party."

Minato ruffled Naruto's hair, his smile genuine despite the sadness in his eyes. "That's my boy. And remember, no matter what, we're proud of you."

Naruto watched as his father walked away, leaving him alone in the forest once more. He turned back to his machine, throwing another kunai with precise force. The target shattered into pieces, and Naruto sighed. He loved the thrill of perfecting his skills, the satisfaction of hitting his mark. But, he was well aware that he needed more than this.

This wasn't enough!

As he continued his practice, Naruto's mind wandered to the upcoming celebration. He knew it would be a grand affair, filled with important people and expectations. But deep down, he couldn't shake the feeling of being a pawn in a larger game.

'Creating a new identity will definitely be on the top of my list. My decision to not reveal all of my cards was a correct one. Though I have shown the world my talent in the shinobi arts and high intelligence, they know nothing more.'

{Name: Naruto Namikaze

Skills: [Sukuna, Lord of Malevolence], [Azmuth, The First Thinker], [Uzumaki Heritage], [Asura, Lord of Benevolence]

}

'The skill I got from eating Asura will come handy to establish myself a new identity.'

For now, though, Naruto focused on the present. He threw another kunai, watching it hit the target with perfect accuracy. 

And so, as the forest whispered around him, Naruto continued his training, dreaming of a day when he could step out of the shadows and into a world of his own making.

'Its about time that I started with my plans.'

_______

A/N:

As I said, my exams are going on right now. And I really felt that I couldn't write more. Anyways, do you guys have some suggestions? I'm planning for some big conflict during this party(as you probably read from the title).

Obito has not been sitting quietly doing nothing.

Felt like Naruto being hunted down all over the world will make for a great story(God knows, if you guys want. Imma make him join Akatsuki or make him go Napolean on the whole world hahaha). What would you like to see the current 5 year old Naruto do?

oh, and I haven't edited this at all so please forgive me if there are mistakes. Just couldn't sit still and study without releasing a chapter!!!

See ya!!!