In the previous chapter: Boruto appeared at the spot where the last explosion had occurred, surveying the devastation with satisfaction. After jumping to the ground, he looked in the direction of the shinobi and shouted to Kakashi, challenging him to survive. Kakashi, exhausted and supported by Shino and Konohamaru, warned the shinobi to prepare themselves, as Boruto was about to attack.
Meanwhile, Boruto was pondering the forbidden jutsu he was about to perform. A jutsu he had found incomplete in the forbidden scroll and had perfected after extensive research. He knew that the power he would unleash would be devastating and that, once started, there would be no turning back.
With a fierce shout, Boruto released the Katon: Goka Mekkyaku (Fire Release: Great Fire Annihilation), a gigantic wave of fire that began to consume everything in its path. Kakashi and the shinobi, seeing the wall of flames approaching, reacted quickly, invoking the Doton: Taju Doryuheki (Earth Release: Great Earth Wall) to stop the attack. The clash of jutsus was enormous, with the earth walls barely resisting the power of the fire, while the heat increased and the shinobi struggled not to succumb.
Saku, seeing his classmates paralyzed by fear, used his Mokuton: Mokujoheki (Wood Release: Wood Wall Block) to protect the students. Despite all efforts, the heat was unbearable and some shinobi began to burn.
Finally, after an intense chakra battle, the fire began to dissipate, leaving a completely destroyed forest. Exhausted, Kakashi looked at Boruto from a distance. The two exchanged glances, and Boruto, without saying a word, disappeared in a flash, leaving only destruction in his wake. Kakashi, kneeling and exhausted, muttered to himself:
—So... I've paid my price. Also, those final words... He doesn't like people who don't follow through on what they say... Naruto, what have you caused? —Kakashi muttered with a hint of tiredness in his voice, as he looked at the place where Boruto had disappeared.
Kakashi looked around, taking in the fallen shinobi, and what he found stunned him. Some had third-degree burns and were lying unconscious, while others could barely be said to be still alive. Regretfully, he turned his gaze to where Boruto was and thought, "Such destructive power... his skills have advanced to another level. He could even be considered the youngest and strongest shinobi in history. I hope this doesn't end badly..." He closed his eyes and fell to the ground, unconscious.
The students, sheltered behind the wooden cover created by Saku, couldn't move. Fear had paralyzed them completely; they were lying on the ground, covering themselves as best they could. The only ones who remained standing were those who knew the truth about Boruto.
Saku looked at his companions and looked at them with pity. Together with the few who were still standing, he stepped out from the wooden shield. As he crossed the barrier, his eyes widened in shock and fear. The outside of the shield was completely burnt, and the grass around it had also been razed to the ground. Everything that the shield didn't cover had been consumed by the fire, and smoke still rose into the air.
She quickly turned her gaze to the earthen walls the shinobi had raised to protect them. The walls had already collapsed to the ground, reduced to rubble. What she saw beyond took her breath away: there was no life. Everything was black, reduced to ash. The trees were gone, and the desolate landscape was proof of the destructive power of Boruto's jutsu. The residual heat from the attack still lingered in the air, making her skin shiver.
Saku's thoughts were racing: If the shinobi hadn't raised those earthen walls, we would have died. The heat alone was enough to burn the grass and the outside of my wooden shield... Shit... Boruto is on another level.
The thoughts of others also reflected their disbelief:
Sarada : No way... Is Boruto really capable of doing something like that?
Shikadai : This is no longer a simple battle... It has become a real threat.
Mitsuki : It seems this is the real Boruto... The one who has always been capable of unimaginable things.
Denki : I never imagined Boruto had this kind of power...
Iwabe : Damn it... We're nothing compared to him.
Chocho : I can't believe Boruto... even though he's handsome, he's terrifying... I don't want to get close to him!
Metal Lee : I have to train more... I can't let Boruto surpass me so easily.
Inojin : This is too much... If this is what Boruto can do, we are in serious trouble.
Sumire : Is this the Boruto we knew...? He seems like someone completely different...
Just then, more shinobi arrived at the scene, and Naruto appeared next to Shikamaru with a Shunshin. Both were shocked; their faces reflected disbelief at the sight. They couldn't believe what they were witnessing, as if it was impossible for someone to have attacked the village in this way. Without wasting any time, they ran towards the wounded.
Naruto ran to the students and asked them:
—Are you okay? Nothing bad happened to you?
Those outside the wooden shield looked at each other, and Sarada spoke:
—We're fine, Sept. We're just a little shaken up.
Naruto nodded at Sarada's words. At that moment, Shikamaru approached them and said:
—But what happened here? Do you know?
Sarada was about to respond, but at that instant, the students inside the wooden shield began to come out, looking at the Seventh with joy and hope.
Naruto, with a restless look, seemed to be searching for someone as the students left the wooden shield. He then asked:
—Hey, Sarada... I don't see Boruto. Where is he?
Sarada opened her eyes in surprise, lowered her head and replied:
—I think it would be best if you asked the Sixth... He knows everything. We only have part of the story.
Those who knew the truth about Boruto lowered their heads, not knowing what else to say. Shikamaru looked at them curiously, wanting to ask more questions, but Naruto spoke up first:
—Now that you mention it, where is he? I thought he was taking the exam with you guys.
Sarada raised her head and explained:
—I don't know... He stood in front and raised the earth walls to protect us, along with the other shinobi.
Naruto and Shikamaru opened their eyes in alarm and looked over to where a body was lying on the ground. Wasting no time, Naruto ran towards it, followed by Shikamaru. When they arrived at the place, they saw Kakashi, the Sixth Hokage, lying on the ground. Naruto and Shikamaru's eyes widened at the state he was in. Naruto quickly took Kakashi's body and disappeared in a Shunshin, taking him to the hospital at full speed.
Shikamaru, still shocked, ran back to the students and said:
—Don't worry, someone will come to take you back to the academy.
Sarada, worried, commented:
—Our sensei were with the Sixth... They may also be in bad shape.
Shikamaru nodded gravely and hurried off to find the others. Finding them in similar condition, he called several shinobi and ordered them to be taken to the hospital. More reinforcements arrived on the scene, taking the wounded to the hospital.
After a few minutes, the students and the injured were no longer there.
Naruto was running at top speed towards the hospital, his Hokage cloak flapping wildly behind him as he carried Kakashi on his back. His former master's injuries were alarming: a deep diagonal cut ran from his shoulder to his hip, and a gruesome vortex-shaped wound marked his stomach. In addition, a katana was still embedded in his right arm. Kakashi's chunin vest had disappeared at some point during the battle, and his clothes were completely destroyed, revealing the severity of his injuries.
Every step he took made Naruto's heart beat faster. "It can't end like this..." he thought as he quickened his pace.
Upon arriving at the hospital, the doors swung wide open. The medical team was already waiting for them. They knew something had happened, though they weren't entirely sure of the details. Sakura, the team leader, ran up to them instantly. Her gaze darkened as she saw Kakashi's condition.
"Naruto!" she exclaimed, focusing her attention on the serious wounds. "What happened to him? He's seriously hurt!"
—Sakura, she's on edge —Naruto answered, unable to hide the anguish in his voice—. She was in a fight. I don't know all the details yet, but... look at her condition. She needs urgent attention!
"Prepare him for surgery immediately!" Sakura ordered the medical team as she quickly examined the visible wounds.
Naruto carefully placed Kakashi on the stretcher. His breathing was weak and blood was slowly seeping from his wounds. Sakura, assessing the severity of his injuries, looked at the sword embedded in his arm and the vortex-shaped wound on his stomach. There was barely any sign that Kakashi was conscious.
"I'll do my best, Naruto. Don't worry," Sakura assured him determinedly, taking control of the situation as Kakashi was quickly rushed to the emergency room.
Naruto followed her into a room and walked up to a glass window to see what they would do to Kakashi. Jaw clenched and heart racing, he watched. At that moment, Shikamaru appeared behind him, his face showing a mix of concern and analysis.
Naruto turned to look at him and spoke:
—Shikamaru, how are the other shinobi?
Shikamaru replied:
—They are currently arriving at the hospital and are being treated by doctors.
Naruto nodded and asked:
—Are there any deaths so far?
Shikamaru, with a firm voice, answered:
—There isn't one yet, but some are between life and death. Those who received a small part of the jutsu...
Naruto frowned and spoke:
—That jutsu that appeared in the forest... I know it. I can't forget it.
Shikamaru opened his eyes in surprise and asked:
—Whose jutsu is that, Naruto?
—In the Fourth Ninja War, that jutsu was used by Madara... I can't forget it —Naruto replied.
Shikamaru was surprised by Naruto's words and replied:
—But how is that possible?
"I don't know," Naruto replied, "but we have to wait for Kakashi to wake up so he can tell us what happened."
Shikamaru sighed and looked towards the glass, observing the room where Kakashi was being treated.
"How is Kakashi?" she asked, although the gravity of the situation was evident.
"Sakura is taking care of him, but he's in really bad shape," Naruto replied, not taking his eyes off the glass showing the room.
Shikamaru sighed, crossing his arms.
—Something doesn't fit in all this. It doesn't make sense that the genin exam ends with Kakashi in this state. This isn't normal, Naruto.
Naruto nodded, still worried.
—I don't know what exactly happened. I just saw the damage, the devastation... and I don't know what's happening to Boruto. But something has happened, and I'm worried.
In the room where Kakashi was being treated, a nurse reported:
—Sakura-sama, we are trying to stabilize the Sixth Hokage, but his condition is serious.
Sakura replied:
—We have to do everything we can to stabilize him.
The medical team worked tirelessly, and minutes later, Kakashi's pulse began to stabilize.
"Inform Naruto," Sakura said.
A nurse nodded and left the room, heading towards Naruto and Shikamaru.
"Hokage-sama, Shikamaru-sama," the nurse said.
Naruto immediately asked:
—How is Kakashi?
—We have been able to stabilize him, but he is struggling. The wounds are deep and he will need hours of surgery. Apparently, the sword embedded in his arm caused considerable damage, affecting the bone. The cut on his torso is also serious, but what is most worrying is the wound on his stomach; part of his organs are damaged.
Naruto clenched his fists, holding back his anguish.
"Thank you," he said firmly. "Please let me know of any changes."
The nurse nodded before heading back to the emergency room. Shikamaru, frowning, looked at Naruto.
—We should go back to the forest. Something else is going on here, and we need answers.
Naruto nodded, though he didn't want to stray too far from the hospital.
—Yeah, let's go. We have to make sure everyone else is okay and find out what caused this.
Both of them, with concern reflected on their faces, left the hospital, determined to find out what had happened on the battlefield.
Before all this could happen, Boruto disappeared from the battlefield in a flash of yellow and appeared in the laboratory of his new lair. As smoke came out of his mouth, Boruto brought his hand to his lips, and upon touching them, he quickly pulled his hand back with a groan. He thought, "I didn't think that jutsu would be so devastating... I couldn't control it. My mouth is completely burned and my vocal cords are damaged... I can't speak. The chakra it consumed was brutal. I barely have any energy left... I need to heal, but I hope Kakashi got the message..."
A bead of anime-style sweat trickled down his forehead. Out of his thoughts, his eyes narrowed and his vision began to blur, as if he was about to faint. At that very moment, the door to the laboratory opened and a voice was heard:
—Boruto-sama...
Boruto opened his eyes and looked up, seeing Kuroshi with Moku on his shoulder.
Kuroshi ran towards Boruto, caught up with him, grabbed one of the blond's arms and placed it on him to help him walk. With effort, he carried him to a stone table, where he laid him down. Then, he spoke with concern:
—Boruto-sama, how come you are in this state?
Moku, observing the situation, also spoke with anguish:
-Teacher...
Kuroshi and Moku waited expectantly for their master's response. Boruto watched them with a tired, yet determined look. Unable to speak, he brought a shaking hand to his throat and then pointed to his mouth, where the burns were evident. Kuroshi, immediately understanding, nodded and walked over to a nearby control panel. As he pressed a series of buttons, a beeping sound echoed through the room and a large incubator slowly opened, emitting a soft hum.
Wasting no time, Kuroshi returned to Boruto. Gently, he removed his clothes, revealing the multiple wounds that covered the young shinobi's body. Boruto closed his eyes, exhausted from the effort, while Kuroshi carefully lifted him up, holding him firmly so as not to aggravate his injuries further.
—Hold on, Boruto-sama. This will heal him. —Kuroshi whispered as he placed him in the incubator.
Once inside, the healing liquid began to fill the capsule, enveloping Boruto's body in a crystal-like solution. As the liquid completely covered him, his burns and wounds began to slowly regenerate. The healing system, designed to treat extreme injuries, worked tirelessly, restoring not only the damaged skin and muscles, but also the vocal cords affected by the devastating jutsu.
From outside the capsule, Kuroshi and Moku watched intently, worried about their master's condition. The glow of the liquid softly illuminated the room, while Boruto remained floating inside, motionless, but in the process of healing. The atmosphere in the lair was tense, almost as if every second that passed was crucial to Boruto's survival.
"When I first met the master I thought he was very strong, but someone has hurt him," Moku murmured, his voice filled with uncertainty.
Kuroshi, although calmer, couldn't help but share the same feeling.
"This place is advanced enough to cure him," Kuroshi said, trying to reassure both Moku and himself. "But it will take time."
Kuroshi turned his gaze to the stone bed and walked over to it. Carefully, he picked up his master's clothes and spread out the shirt, noticing a hole surrounded by dried blood.
"That blood..." Moku murmured from Kuroshi's shoulder, looking at the garment. "It looks like a serious wound, but we didn't see anything similar on his body."
Kuroshi narrowed his eyes, examining the shirt more closely.
"It's a real wound," Kuroshi said in a deep voice, "but he's already healed it. At least, externally." His gaze turned to the computers, observing the medical data of Boruto's healing process. "Even though we can't see it on the surface, his body still has internal after-effects. That wound pierced his chest."
Moku looked at him with concern.
—Did they pierce his chest? But... that kind of wound is fatal. Anyone who suffers it would die instantly.
Kuroshi gritted his teeth, his eyes darkening with the fury that was beginning to burn within him. His fists clenched so tightly that his knuckles turned white.
"Anyone would die, but he is Boruto, our master and creator," he growled angrily. "He will not die from something like this! Yet whoever dared to harm him…" Kuroshi's Mangekyo Sharingan activated instantly, and a dark miasma surrounded him. Small blades of chakra emerged from the evil energy, spinning intensely. The ground beneath his feet began to crack under the pressure of his chakra. "If I find whoever did this, I will destroy him. I will make him wish he had never existed. HOW DARE HE DO THIS TO ME!"
The air in the room grew thick and heavy, the machines flickered from the chakra fluctuation, and Moku, sensing the danger, quickly intervened.
—Kuroshi, stop! If you damage the machines, the master won't be able to heal completely.
Kuroshi took a deep breath, his eyes returning to normal and the miasma slowly dissipating. He lowered his head, clearly trying to calm himself down.
"You're right, Moku... I need to calm down," he replied, resentment still throbbing in his chest.
Moku nodded, relieved to see that Kuroshi had regained his composure.
—But you are not wrong. —Moku said.— Whoever did this to the master must pay.
Kuroshi nodded silently, walking back to the machines monitoring Boruto's status. He sat down in a chair in front of the monitors, staring at the data on the screen as his mind continued to fill with dark thoughts.
—No matter how long it takes us... —he muttered to himself—. We will find him and make him pay.
Elsewhere, in Konoha to be exact, day had given way to night at the hospital. Naruto had just returned from the site where his master, Kakashi, had been severely injured. He had found no trace of the person responsible, only scattered blood stains, which had been sent for analysis.
Naruto walked slowly to the room where Kakashi was being operated on. Through the glass, he watched the frantic activity in the operating room. Doctors and nurses rushed in and out, while Sakura, with determination on her face, did everything she could to save her former teacher's life.
Naruto stood motionless, staring at the room from the other side of the glass, anxiety eating away at him from within.
Meanwhile, at the Uzumaki house, Hinata was sitting at the dining table with a deeply worried expression on her face. She couldn't stop thinking about her son.
"Where is Boruto?" she wondered silently. "An accident happened near the Konoha forest. I hope nothing bad happened to him..."
Hinata closed her eyes, trying to calm herself, but at that moment she felt a warm hand on hers. When she opened her eyes, she saw her daughter, Himawari, who was looking at her sweetly.
"Don't worry, Mom," Himawari said in a calm voice. "My brother is strong. Nothing will happen to him."
Hinata, touched by her daughter's words, gently squeezed her hand and nodded with a slight smile. Himawari, returning the gesture, also smiled, trying to convey some peace to her.
Back at the hospital, Naruto was still waiting. The hours passed slowly, and finally, the operation was over.
Naruto watched as the last of the doctors and nurses filed out of the operating room. Their tired but determined looks betrayed the effort they had put into saving Kakashi. Sakura was the last to leave, wiping sweat from her brow. As she approached Naruto, he noticed the worry in her eyes, though she tried to keep a firm expression.
—Sakura... —Naruto spoke, breaking the heavy silence—. How is she?
Sakura took a breath before answering.
"We made it, we stabilized him, but the injuries were serious, Naruto," Sakura said in a serious tone. "The cut on his torso affected several internal organs, and the wound on his arm was deep, damaging bones and muscles. In addition, the injury on his stomach was especially delicate: the impact created a deep vortex-shaped wound that not only damaged the skin, but also several vital organs. Some of them suffered significant damage, which greatly complicated stabilization."
Sakura looked away towards the window overlooking the intensive care room, watching her master lying on the stretcher.
—Now we just need him to wake up. But Naruto is fine now —he added in a softer tone.
Naruto clenched his fists, a mix of relief and frustration washing over him. He was grateful that Kakashi was still alive, but the state he was in made it clear that it had been a brutal fight.
"Thank you, Sakura... I know you did your best," Naruto replied, trying hard to remain calm. "Can I see it?"
"Not yet," Sakura shook her head. "He needs to rest. We'll keep him under observation overnight. I'll let you know when you can come by and see him."
Naruto nodded slowly, understanding the situation, although he found it difficult to look away from the door that separated him from his master.
—Shikamaru has already returned to the barracks. —Sakura continued. —He's investigating what happened in the forest. Something doesn't add up in all this, Naruto. I feel like there's something else.
Naruto took a deep breath, the weight of responsibility falling on him. Not only did he have to worry about Kakashi, but also the chaos that was beginning to break out in Konoha. And besides, Boruto hadn't shown up yet.
"I have to find out what's going on," Naruto said, more to himself than to Sakura. "I can't just stand by and watch all this happen."
—Naruto —Sakura looked him in the eyes—, I know you have a lot of responsibilities, but you also need to rest. You won't be able to help anyone if you overload yourself.
Naruto let out a sigh, knowing she was right, but feeling like time was slipping through his fingers.
Meanwhile, at the Uzumaki house, Hinata and Himawari finished clearing the table after dinner. Hinata still had that worry lingering in her heart, but she tried not to show it to her daughter.
—Mom, do you think Dad and Boruto will be back soon? —Himawari asked with a slight smile, trying to be optimistic.
Hinata crouched down to her daughter's height and gently hugged her.
"I'm sure they'll be fine," she replied, stroking his hair. "Your father is strong, and Boruto… is too."
However, deep inside, Hinata couldn't help but feel a pang of fear. Something told her that what was happening was much more serious than she could imagine.
A few minutes later, Hinata and Himawari were on the couch, watching TV when the front door opened, and a familiar voice echoed through the entryway.
"I'm here!" Naruto said, the weight of a long day falling into his tone.
Hinata stood up from the couch with Himawari, and the two walked to the hallway where Naruto was taking off his shinobi sandals. Himawari ran to her father and hugged him tightly.
"Welcome, Dad!" she exclaimed with a radiant smile.
Naruto smiled tiredly, returning the hug tenderly.
—Hello, Himawari.
Hinata approached more slowly, with a quiet warmth but noticing something strange in Naruto's energy.
"Welcome home, Naruto," she said softly. "How was work? Have you eaten yet?"
Naruto stood up, his expression a little more serious, but he tried to keep the mood relaxed.
—No, I haven't eaten yet —he replied while looking at Hinata—. And there's something I need to tell you... let's continue to the living room.
Hinata's heart tightened at hearing that worried tone from her husband. A feeling of unease settled in her chest, as if she feared the words that were to come. Himawari, sensing the tension in the air, looked at her parents with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty, not knowing what to say.
Hinata nodded slowly, trying not to show her nervousness, and they followed Naruto to the dining room. She entered the kitchen quietly, serving the dish she had prepared for him before his arrival. Her hands were shaking slightly as she placed the food in front of him.
Naruto sat at the table, with Himawari beside him, but his thoughts were clearly elsewhere. Hinata watched him intently, noticing that something important was on his mind. After a few minutes of silence, during which Naruto ate slowly, he finally set his plate aside and looked up at Hinata.
—Hinata... today has been a difficult day —she began with a deep sigh—. Kakashi-sensei... he is seriously injured. I took him to the hospital as quickly as I could, but his injuries were serious.
Hinata looked at him, her eyes widening in concern as a hand went to her chest.
"What happened to Kakashi-sensei?" she asked, trying not to let fear dominate her voice.
Naruto looked down, trying to find the right words.
"He was attacked during the student exam… There was an explosion. Something unexpected happened, and Kakashi was at the center of it all. He's out of danger, but… his injuries were severe. And…" Naruto paused, his voice straining. "Boruto is missing. He's missing."
The silence that followed that statement was heavy, as if the air had suddenly become thick. Hinata stood in shock, unable to process the news right away. Her heart was pounding as she approached Naruto, trying to take in what she had just heard.
"Boruto… missing?" she murmured, the anguish evident on her face. "What happened to him? Have they found him?"
Naruto shook his head, rubbing his face with one hand in frustration.
—We don't know. No one has seen him since the attack. The other students are safe, but Boruto... —she sighed deeply—. Something is happening to him, and I fear he's in the middle of something much more dangerous than we imagined.
Hinata felt tears welling up in her eyes. Fear and uncertainty took hold of her, but she didn't want to alarm Himawari, who was standing beside her, listening to everything with concern.
"Naruto... we have to find him. We have to know that he's okay," Hinata said in a small voice, gently grabbing her husband's hand, seeking comfort.
Naruto squeezed her hand tightly, a silent promise in his eyes.
—We will, Hinata. We will find him. But I need you to be strong. We will get through this together.
Himawari, until then silent, finally spoke.
"Dad, is Boruto going to be okay?" she asked, with a mix of innocence and fear.
Naruto looked at her, forcing a reassuring smile.
—Of course, Himawari. Boruto is strong, and he will be back with us soon.
But even as he said those words, the uncertainty in his heart was undeniable.
The next day, Naruto ate breakfast in silence, deep in thought. Hinata watched him from across the table, noticing his distraction, but not saying anything. She knew something was bothering him deeply. After finishing his meal, Naruto stood up, putting on his cloak and said goodbye with a forced smile.
—I'm leaving now, Hinata. I want to go to the hospital early... I need to talk to Kakashi-sensei. Maybe he has the answers I'm looking for.
Hinata walked over and hugged him gently, her face filled with worry.
—I hope Kakashi-sensei wakes up soon. Be careful, Naruto... and please stay calm. —Her tone was soft, but full of concern.
Naruto hugged her back, holding her close to him for a moment. He knew that Hinata was also worried about Boruto, even though she hadn't said it directly.
"I will, don't worry," Naruto replied, trying to reassure her. "I won't rest until I know what's going on."
Himawari, who was nearby, ran towards him and hugged him too.
"Dad! Have a nice day!" he said, his childish energy contrasting with the seriousness of the atmosphere.
Naruto smiled more genuinely this time, leaning down to kiss his daughter's forehead.
—Thank you, Himawari. Take care of your mom while I'm gone.
After bidding farewell, Naruto left the house and began running at full speed towards the hospital, jumping between the rooftops of Konoha's houses, his mind completely focused on the questions he had. As he moved forward, he noticed someone appear beside him, matching his pace.
"Hello, Naruto," Shikamaru greeted without missing a beat, his tone as relaxed as ever.
Naruto turned his head towards him as he continued running.
—Hello, Shikamaru. How did it go? Did you find anything?
Shikamaru nodded, though his expression was more serious than usual.
—You see, you remember that yesterday the students knew something, but they didn't want to tell us much. They said it was better if we listened to what the sixth had to say.
Naruto frowned slightly, remembering that moment.
—Yes, it was very strange. When I mentioned Boruto, everyone lowered their heads as if they didn't want to talk about him. I wonder what's going on... But from what you say, did your son tell you anything?
Shikamaru nodded with a slight, tired smile.
—Yes, Shikadai told me something last night when we got home. That's not all, but it seems the students saw more than we thought.
Naruto looked at him with interest, continuing to move forward.
—And what did he tell you?
Shikamaru sighed deeply before answering.
—Look, I can only tell you one thing. The best thing would be to wait for Kakashi to wake up and tell you himself. He has all the information. But if you insist, I'll tell you... although I don't think it will be enough.
Naruto thought about it for a moment, his mind struggling between impatience and caution. Finally, he spoke in a more serious tone.
—Will what you're going to tell me help me understand what happened?
Shikamaru glanced at him, his expression thoughtful.
—Partly, yes. But as I said, it's better to hear Kakashi's full version. What I tell you won't be enough, and you probably won't believe me. Besides, I don't want to jump to conclusions.
Naruto looked down for a second, deep in thought.
"Okay," he said at last, nodding slowly. "I'll wait to hear what Kakashi-sensei has to say. It's the prudent thing to do."
Shikamaru smiled slightly, satisfied with the answer.
—Good decision, Naruto. We don't want to jump ahead without having all the pieces of the puzzle.
The two continued their race to the hospital, their minds filled with uncertainty, but with a shared determination: to get the answers they so desperately needed.
After a few minutes, Naruto and Shikamaru arrived at the hospital. They jumped down from the rooftops and began walking quickly towards the entrance. As they got closer, they noticed Hiashi and Hanabi were already there, chatting quietly.
"Hiashi, Hanabi," Naruto called out, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
Hiashi turned around slowly, with his characteristic calm, and greeted Naruto and Shikamaru.
—Naruto, Shikamaru... it seems we arrived at the same time —she said with a slight nod.
Hanabi, more relaxed, smiled as she waved.
—Hello, Seventh. Hello, Shikamaru.
Naruto, with his ever joking tone, couldn't help but make a comment.
—Are you here for a checkup, Hiashi? Don't tell me you've gotten older.
Hiashi looked at him with narrowed eyes, not very impressed, while Hanabi let out a light laugh at the joke.
"We didn't come for that, Naruto," Hiashi replied in his serious tone. "We came to see Kakashi. I heard he was seriously injured in combat."
Naruto nodded, his face becoming more serious.
—Yes, it was a very tough battle. Kakashi-sensei was on the verge of death, but we still don't know who he fought against.
Immediately, Hiashi and Hanabi's expressions changed, becoming more solemn. Hiashi looked at Naruto intently before speaking.
—We may have some answers... but as we said before, it's best if Kakashi does the talking.
Shikamaru frowned, watching the conversation unfold.
"So you know about it too," he said, crossing his arms. "Looks like there are more people involved in this than we thought."
Hiashi nodded slightly, but with a serious expression.
—It seems so. But I hope that not everything is as I imagine.
Naruto looked at them, clearly frustrated at not having any clear answers yet.
"What's going on here?" he asked, his patience beginning to wear thin.
Hiashi and Shikamaru exchanged glances, not saying a word, while Hanabi lowered her head, uncomfortable with the tension in the air. Finally, Hiashi sighed.
—We better go inside. If Kakashi has already woken up, we will get all the answers.
Naruto clenched his fists, holding back his frustration, and nodded. The group began to walk into the hospital. Upon reaching the main hallway, they came across Sakura, who was looking over some paperwork.
—Hello, Naruto, Shikamaru, Hiashi, Hanabi —Sakura greeted, surprised to see them all together—. What brings you here?
Naruto answered first, with his usual urgency.
—We came to see Kakashi. How is he?
Sakura looked at him, noticing the worry on his face.
—He has already woken up, but his injuries were serious. Although we have healed him completely, he will need time to recover. His body is still very weak and needs rest.
Naruto let out a sigh of relief knowing that Kakashi was out of danger.
—So, can I see it? —he asked, more calmly.
Sakura nodded with a slight smile.
—Yes, you can see him now. I'll take you to him.
Naruto nodded gratefully, but before he moved, Sakura turned her attention to Hiashi and Hanabi.
—And you? What brings you here?
Hiashi, in his ever formal tone, replied.
—We came for the same reason as Naruto. We want to talk to Kakashi.
Sakura nodded again, though a slight curiosity flashed in her eyes.
—Alright, I'll take you all with him. But it's strange... other people also went to see Kakashi. Shino, Anko, and Konohamaru, although their wounds are already healed, went straight to Kakashi's room as soon as they came out of recovery.
Naruto frowned upon hearing that. Something wasn't right. His tone became more serious.
—Take me to Kakashi, Sakura. Now.
Sakura noticed the urgency in his voice and nodded determinedly, leading them towards the Sixth Hokage's room.
After walking for a while through the hospital's brightly lit hallways, the group finally reached a room. Sakura stopped in front of the door and gently knocked.
—Can we come in? —he asked.
From the other side, a weak but firm voice answered.
—Come in.
Sakura opened the door, entering first with her usual calm, followed by Naruto, Shikamaru, Hiashi, and Hanabi. Inside the room, Kakashi lay reclining on the bed, looking somewhat pale, but conscious. The air in the room was warm, and a gentle breeze came through the window, lightly moving the curtains, bringing with it a touch of freshness and tranquility.
In front of Kakashi, three people were already there: Shino, Anko, and Konohamaru. They all looked towards the group that had just entered, their faces serious, reflecting a latent tension in the atmosphere.
Naruto walked to the center of the room, watching his master, but also feeling the presence of the others. He could tell that this was not a simple visit to an injured person, there was something more, something that united them all in that place at that very moment.
—Sensei... —Naruto whispered upon seeing him, with a mix of relief and concern.
Kakashi, eyes half open, turned his face towards him and nodded slightly.
"Naruto... I'm glad to see you," Kakashi replied, his voice soft but tired.
Silence fell over the room for a few seconds, as everyone exchanged glances. Something big was about to be revealed, and everyone knew it. The feeling in the air was thick, almost palpable.
Naruto took a deep breath and, with determination, took a step forward.
—Sensei... we need answers. Something happened, and Boruto... —his voice cracked a little when he mentioned his son—, Boruto is missing. What really happened?
The room fell silent once again, everyone waiting for Kakashi to respond.
Kakashi was about to speak, but Hiashi, who was behind Naruto, interrupted him with his usual calm but firm tone.
"Hello, Kakashi. How have you been feeling?" Hiashi asked as he approached. "Naruto, don't you think you should say hello first?"
Kakashi, with a weak smile, replied,
"I've been better, but here I am."
Naruto, hearing Hiashi's words, turned to the others present.
"Ah! Hello, Konohamaru, Anko, Shino. How's the academy going?"
They, with an air of respect, replied in unison:
"Don't worry about us, Hokage-sama. We're fine, just a few minor injuries."
Shikamaru, who was closing the door and putting his hands in his pockets, spoke in his usual carefree tone:
"Hello, how are you?"
The three of them politely replied,
"Hello, Shikamaru."
Hiashi stepped forward, looking at the crowd with a serious expression.
"How have you three been?" he asked, referring to the sensei. Then, with a slight nod, he added, "I apologize for what my grandson did."
Hanabi, who had been following Hiashi closely , stepped forward and also gave a small bow in respect. Meanwhile, Hiashi continued speaking,
"I never thought the situation would get so out of hand."
The three sensei exchanged glances, not quite sure how to respond, until Shino spoke up, trying to calm the mood.
"There is no need to apologize, Hiashi-sama. We don't even fully understand what is happening."
Hiashi nodded slowly and said with a look that hid concern:
"They will know soon enough."
Naruto watched in silence, feeling the tension rising in the room. Though he didn't know exactly what was happening, a growing sense of unease was consuming him. Kakashi, from his bed, was also still listening to every word, while Sakura, though worried, remained silent.
Hiashi walked to the head of Kakashi's bed and, glancing at Naruto from the corner of his eye, spoke in a lighter tone,
"Could you bring a chair for this old man?"
Naruto reacted quickly, grabbing a nearby chair and bringing it over to Hiashi. With a small smile of gratitude, Hiashi sat down, while Hanabi remained standing beside him. Naruto, sensing the gravity of the situation, also came over to listen carefully to what was coming.
Sakura, ever the professional, kept silent, watching the scene as Shikamaru stood by the door, waiting for Kakashi to speak. Hiashi, now seated, turned his gaze to Kakashi.
"It was him, wasn't it, Kakashi?" Hiashi asked, his eyes filled with uncertainty.
Kakashi nodded slowly, causing both Hiashi and Hanabi to widen their eyes in surprise. Hiashi continued speaking, this time with a mix of regret and concern in his voice:
—Kakashi, I apologize. I never thought it would be this dangerous... I didn't imagine that even you, with all your experience, would end up in this state.
Kakashi, though visibly exhausted, remained conscious and receptive. He looked at him with a slight smile, accepting his words without resentment.
"I was overconfident," Kakashi admitted, his voice cracking with effort. "What you told me earlier I didn't take seriously, and it seems I've received my share of the lesson. After all, I've paid the price. There's no need for you to apologize, Hiashi-sama. I made a mistake a ninja should never make: I underestimated my opponent."
Hiashi shook his head, his expression marked with guilt.
"Only if we had had more information," he said, regretting his lack of foresight. "This wouldn't have happened."
Naruto, who had been listening silently, felt more and more bewildered. Finally, he couldn't hold back any longer.
"What's going on?" Naruto exclaimed, his voice filled with concern. "What are you two talking about?"
Hiashi turned to look directly at him, his gaze serious and firm.
"You probably have a hard time believing what we're about to tell you, Naruto," Hiashi began. "But everything that happened in the forest, and the state Kakashi is in now… it was all caused by Boruto."
Naruto widened his eyes in disbelief, taking a step back, while Sakura, who was near him, was also shocked.
"But how?" Sakura murmured, clearly shaken. "He's not that strong. It doesn't make sense!"
Shikamaru closed his eyes, connecting the pieces in his mind. Although he hadn't said it out loud, he had already suspected something.
"So it's true..." Shikamaru thought to himself, his expression grave.
Hiashi, without taking his gaze off Kakashi, replied:
—I don't know how he did it, or how he gained so much power... but Kakashi has the answers, —Hiashi said, his eyes fixed on the silver-haired ninja, waiting for him to reveal more about the incident.
Naruto spoke, disbelief and concern in his voice:
—What are you talking about? What are you saying about Boruto? Like Sakura said, he's not that strong. I know he has skills, but his strength is only rivaled by someone of chunin rank. How could he be able to rival a Kage? That's impossible.
Hiashi looked at him and replied seriously:
—What I say is true, Naruto. What you think you know is only a part of reality. It is the truth that Boruto has shown you, the truth that he wanted the world to see. But for you to fully understand, I will tell you what happened when Boruto appeared in front of Hanabi and me.
The sensei, who were present and listening, could not believe their ears. They remained silent, unable to utter a word, as Hiashi's story continued:
—Do you remember that time you went to the Hyūga estate to spend time with your family? That night, you had to leave suddenly to attend to some urgent matter. Well, that same night, Boruto made an appearance. I already had some suspicions about him, but that night I confirmed it.
Hiashi began to recount how Boruto had appeared using the Hiraishin , the Fourth Hokage's technique. He recounted the words Boruto had told them that night, revealing that what everyone knew was only a clone with 30% of the real Boruto's power. By the time he finished telling his tale, Naruto was shaken. Silent tears welled up in his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away with the back of his hand.
"Why didn't you tell me this before?" Naruto asked, his voice shaking with confusion and helplessness.
Hiashi replied:
—Boruto showed himself that night because he knew we wouldn't say anything. Even if we hadn't been the ones chosen to know the truth, if it had been any of the sensei, they wouldn't have said anything either. Even now, they would remain silent.
Naruto didn't answer, he simply walked over to a nearby chair and sat down. He lowered his head, staring at the ground, unable to take in everything he was hearing. Hiashi looked away from Naruto and back at Kakashi.
—Tell me, Kakashi, what happened when you met the real Boruto? I want to hear how you fought him and what his skills were like.
Kakashi, lying on the bed, looked at Naruto and said seriously:
—Naruto, you have to listen to this. You have to know what to do, both as Hokage and as a father.
Naruto raised his head and looked at his master, nodding. Sakura, who was nearby, walked over to Naruto and rubbed his back supportively, while they both looked at Kakashi.
Kakashi turned his gaze to Hiashi and began to tell his story, describing how Boruto appeared, how they had a small conversation, and how the match finally began. He recounted in detail how Boruto attacked, his unmatched speed and strength, the techniques he used, and the intense clashes they had. He explained that Boruto's level was in another league, far above what anyone could imagine.
Kakashi also revealed that Boruto must have had access to the forbidden scroll, or at least a copy of it, to have learned the jutsus he used. He described Boruto as cruel, with an iron will.
Kakashi finished his story by saying:
—If I hadn't been there, and there had been some random examiner in my place... he would have ended up much worse than me, or dead.
Everyone in the room was silent, their eyes wide after hearing Kakashi's story. The tale of Boruto's power, and how Kakashi was barely able to hold his own throughout the entire fight, was unbelievable, almost impossible to believe, but the truth was inescapable: Boruto was no longer the ninja they knew. There was something else, something monstrous inside him.
Shikamaru, eyes wide open, couldn't process what he was hearing. It all sounded like an absurd tale, told by someone out of his mind, but Kakashi's seriousness and the details confirmed it: Boruto had achieved a power that was beyond logic.
"What's all this?" Naruto muttered in disbelief.
Sakura was equally shocked, unable to comprehend what she was hearing. Even Hiashi, who knew part of the truth, remained silent.
Hanabi, reflecting on what she had heard, thought to herself: If I had fought the real Boruto... I wouldn't have stood a chance .
The senseis who had also been present were in shock, speechless to respond or even comment. The atmosphere in the room was one of amazement and concern.
Kakashi continued:
—If we analyze Boruto's abilities, he is an expert in Taijutsu, Ninjutsu, and Fuinjutsu, since without that he would not be able to use Hiraishin. His intelligence is enough to manipulate any situation and control his emotions. With everything I've seen, Boruto is a genius in another league. If I had to describe his talent, it would be monstrous.
No one argued with Kakashi's words. A few minutes of silence passed, until Naruto, who had been hanging his head, raised his head.
—Kakashi-sensei, where is Boruto now?
Kakashi shook his head.
—I don't know, but I doubt he's still in the village. He hasn't officially left, at least according to the reports from the Konoha barrier, but I don't think he's staying here. Although the wound he received didn't show externally, internally he needs attention, so he must be in a place where he can heal completely.
Naruto pondered for a moment, and suddenly, his eyes lit up as he remembered something.
—I think I know where he is... He must be in Shin's hideout. Some time ago, Boruto accompanied me to that place, and it's the only place where Konoha's barrier recorded his departure from the village. We have to find him and talk to him. I want to hear his words, and if he has a copy of the forbidden scroll, he must hand it over. It doesn't matter who he is.
The others remained silent, as Naruto walked towards the door of the room. Just before leaving, he stopped at the entrance and, without turning around, said:
—Kakashi... I know what you say is true, but what brought Boruto to this point?
Shikamaru intervened before Kakashi could respond:
—From what the Sixth says, Boruto was already a genius from a very young age. It's possible that he saw his friends die, and that traumatized him, causing him to lose some of his sanity. The fact that his clone was less intelligent and that he reacted like that when his companions were mentioned... it's possible that he went through something much worse, like seeing his friends die without being able to do anything. Helplessness would have consumed him. But that's just a hypothesis.
Naruto nodded, understanding Shikamaru's point. Without another word, he left the room, followed by Shikamaru and the sensei, who also didn't know how to process the situation. Sakura sighed, walked over to Kakashi to check on him once more, and then left the room as well.
Hiashi and Hanabi stayed for a moment longer. Hiashi looked at Kakashi and asked:
—Is there any way to get him out of this dark path?
Kakashi looked at him, closing his eyes briefly before answering:
—There is a way, but it's practically impossible. Boruto has no one in his life who can understand him. No one from his generation who can confront him and guide him. We'll just get in the way, or worse, he won't listen to us.
Hiashi looked down and sighed.
—So it's that complicated.
Hanabi, intrigued by what they were saying, intervened:
—I don't understand. What do you mean there's no way to get him out of that world?
Kakashi slowly opened his eyes and replied:
—In the past, someone strayed from his path, and it was a friend who brought him back to the village.
Hanabi thought for a moment before speaking:
—You mean Naruto and Sasuke? You're saying that the only way for Boruto to come back is if he's defeated by someone who understands him and is at least from his generation? I understand the part about being defeated, but the part about being from the same generation... I'm not so sure that's necessary.
Hiashi intervened:
—The same generation thing is important for Boruto to feel equal. Someone his own age, stronger than him, could push him onto a new path. A path of rivalry and growth as that person pulls him out of that darkness.
Hanabi frowned.
—But Boruto is very strong. I don't think there is anyone who is equal to or even stronger than him.
Kakashi and Hiashi nodded silently, acknowledging what Hanabi was saying.
Hiashi, after a pause, spoke:
—It's time to go. I hope you get better soon, Kakashi. I don't know how this will all end.
Hanabi also said goodbye, and they both left the room, leaving Kakashi alone with his thoughts.