Chapter 27: Chapter 27
Iruka's Inner Conflict
Although Iruka had known for a long time that he would become Uzumaki Naruto's teacher, seeing the boy in person stirred up emotions he hadn't fully prepared for. His parents had died during the Nine-Tails' attack on Konoha, and Naruto, as the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, was a constant reminder of that tragedy. The hatred he felt toward the Nine-Tails was undeniable, but as he looked at Naruto—a boy with a gentle smile and an air of quiet maturity—he couldn't help but feel conflicted.
What did Naruto do wrong? Iruka thought. He's just a child. A victim, just like me.
Naruto's refined demeanor and calm presence stood in stark contrast to the image of the monster the villagers had painted. Iruka had heard the whispers, the curses, the venomous words hurled at Naruto over the years. He had even considered joining in the hostility himself. But now, seeing Naruto's unwavering kindness despite the hatred he faced, Iruka felt a pang of guilt.
He really loves Konoha, Iruka realized. And here I am, harboring resentment toward him. Who's the real demon here?
Iruka looked away, his heart heavy with conflicting emotions. He took a deep breath and addressed the class. "Alright, who would like to be the first to introduce themselves?"
Student Introductions
One by one, the students stepped forward to introduce themselves. Murano Hi, Haruno Sakura, Akimichi Choji—each shared their hobbies, likes, and dislikes. The atmosphere was light and cheerful, but all eyes were on Sasuke and Naruto, the two most anticipated students.
Sasuke was the first of the pair to take the stage. His cold demeanor and Uchiha lineage had already made him a topic of interest among his classmates.
"My name is Sasuke Uchiha," he began, his voice steady but distant. "I like eating meatballs with my brother and training with Naruto and Rock Lee. I hate people who get in my way. My goal is to surpass Naruto and become stronger."
The classroom buzzed with murmurs. Sasuke's declaration that he wanted to surpass Naruto sparked curiosity. The Uchiha were known for their prodigious talent, and if Sasuke saw Naruto as a rival, then Naruto must be extraordinary.
Naruto's Turn
When it was Naruto's turn, the room fell silent. All eyes were on him as he walked to the podium, his white robe swaying gently with each step. He adjusted his glasses and smiled warmly at his classmates.
"My name is Uzumaki Naruto," he began, his voice calm and confident. "I like training with Sasuke and Rock Lee, and I enjoy the feeling of becoming stronger. I love exploring the unknown and learning new ninjutsu."
He paused, his expression softening. "As for what I hate... I hate being hated by others. I don't want my friends to suffer because of me."
The room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. Naruto's words resonated deeply, especially with those who had heard the rumors about him. His sincerity was undeniable.
"I hope to be good friends with everyone here," Naruto continued. "If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here to listen. In the future, I want to become Hokage—to protect everyone and become a flame that lights up Konoha."
With that, Naruto stepped down from the podium, his smile never wavering. The classroom erupted into whispers.
"He's so charming! I feel like I can trust him."
"I want to be his friend!"
Even the girls who had been fawning over Sasuke now turned their attention to Naruto. His warmth and sincerity had won them over.
Iruka's Reflection
Iruka watched Naruto return to his seat, a small smile tugging at his lips. Uzumaki Naruto is a good student, he thought. No matter his past or the rumors surrounding him, he deserves a fair chance.
For the first time, Iruka felt a sense of responsibility toward Naruto. He would be the teacher Naruto needed—someone who could guide him, support him, and help him achieve his dreams.
The Hokage's Office
Meanwhile, in the Hokage's office, Konoha's top officials gathered around a crystal ball, observing Naruto's introduction. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, puffed on his pipe, a proud smile on his face.
"See? Under my guidance, Naruto has perfectly inherited the Will of Fire," Hiruzen said. "He will warm everyone's hearts, just like Minato."
But not everyone was convinced. Koharu, one of the elder advisors, frowned. "He's too mature for his age. Are we sure he's not just saying what we want to hear? He mentioned hating being hated—what if that resentment grows and turns against the village?"
Mito Monzen nodded in agreement. "His love for the village seems almost excessive. It makes me uneasy. That said, I do admire his loyalty to his friends."
Danzo, leaning on his cane, spoke coldly. "In my opinion, he should be handed over to the Root for training. We need a weapon, not a sentimental child. The Root will strip him of unnecessary emotions and mold him into a perfect tool for Konoha."
Hiruzen's eyes narrowed, his tone sharp. "Naruto's growth is under my supervision. He will become a ninja who embodies the Will of Fire. And let's not forget—I am the Hokage."
The room fell silent, the tension palpable. Hiruzen's authority was clear, but the doubts about Naruto's future lingered.
Naruto's Resolve
Back in the classroom, Naruto sat quietly, his mind already racing with plans for the future. He knew his words had reached not only his classmates but also the higher-ups watching him. He had to tread carefully, balancing his ambitions with the expectations placed upon him.
But one thing was certain: Naruto would not let anyone—villagers, elders, or even Danzo—dictate his path. He would become Hokage on his own terms, protecting the people he cared about and proving that even a "monster" could be a hero.