At Mount Myōboku, Naruto watched his clones scatter across the landscape, each group diving into their assigned tasks with determination. Some were buried in ancient scrolls about sealing, while others were drawing experimental seal designs in the dirt.
"Alright," Naruto said, turning back to Fukasaku. "Let's get back to sage training, ya know! I need to master this if I want to protect everyone!"
Fukasaku nodded approvingly. "Good attitude, Naruto-boy. Now, let's work on extending the duration of your sage mode."
Meanwhile, in Konoha...
Jiraiya giggled perversely as he balanced precariously on top of the hot springs' wall, his notebook ready in hand. "Hehehe... this is perfect research material for my next book!"
"The ladies are just about to—POOF!"
Suddenly, Gamakichi appeared directly on top of Jiraiya's face, his webbed feet covering Sannin's eyes.
"Yo, Pervy Sage! Naruto needs—WHOA!"
"GAHH!" Jiraiya yelped, losing his balance. His arms windmilled comically as he tried to regain his footing.
"Wait, wait, WAIT—" both toad and sage cried out simultaneously before tumbling over the wall.
SPLASH!
"KYAAAAA! PERVERT!"
"IT'S THE PERVERTED SAGE!"
"GET HIM!"
The sounds of chaos erupted from the hot springs, accompanied by the distinct noise of various objects being thrown and a grown man's yelps of pain.
"OW! Ladies, please—OW! I can explain—YEOWCH! Not the face!"
Gamakichi managed to hop safely to a nearby roof, watching the scene unfold with a mixture of amusement and sympathy. "Guess I should've waited for a better moment... Oh well!"
As Gamakichi prepared the reverse summoning, Jiraiya was still wringing water out of his long white hair. "This better be worth interrupting my resea—"
POOF!
They materialized at Mount Myōboku, and Jiraiya's jaw immediately dropped. The entire landscape was covered with hundreds of Narutos, all intensely focused on different aspects of seal work. Some were surrounded by stacks of scrolls, others were drawing complex seal patterns in the dirt, and several groups were engaged in heated discussions about chakra theory.
"What in the..." Jiraiya muttered, his eyes widening as he took in the scene. "This many clones doing intensive seal work? Is the kid trying to fry his brain?!"
He quickly scanned the area for the original Naruto, growing increasingly concerned. Even for someone with Uzumaki's legendary chakra reserves and enhanced mental capacity, processing this much information at once could be dangerous.
Finally, he spotted Naruto sitting cross-legged on a stone platform with Fukasaku, deep in sage mode training.
"Oi, NARUTO!" Jiraiya called out, rushing over. "Are you insane? This many clones studying complex seals could overload your—"
"Relax, Pervy Sage," Naruto interrupted without opening his eyes, maintaining his sage mode concentration. "Kurama's helping me filter and organize the information. Plus, I'm dispelling them in small groups to avoid information overload."
"But still—"
"Actually, Jiraiya-boy," Fukasaku interjected, "he's handling it quite well. The Nine-Tails' assistance seems to be making a significant difference in how he processes the clone feedback."
Inside Naruto's mindscape, Kurama snorted. "Tell that perverted sage to stop worrying. I'm not about to let my partner's brain turn to mush from something like this."
Naruto grinned, relaying the message. "See? We've got it under control! Now, are you gonna help us with this seal or what? We're trying to modify the Hiraishin to work with Tailed Beast chakra!"
Jiraiya's concern slowly transformed into curiosity and pride. He watched as another group of clones dispelled, and Naruto showed no signs of mental strain as he absorbed their experiences.
"Well, well," Jiraiya chuckled, pulling out a scroll and sitting down nearby. "Looks like my godson is full of surprises. Alright, show me what you've got so far."
Several clones immediately rushed over with their research notes, eager to share their progress and get input from the seal master.
"Just... promise me one thing," Jiraiya added with a serious look.
"What's that?"
"Don't let this interfere with our hot spring research sessions!"
"PERVY SAGE!" Naruto's concentration broke as he fell over comically. "Is that all you think about?!"
The surrounding clones all face-palmed in unison, while Fukasaku just shook his head with a resigned smile. Some things never changed, even with time travelers involved.
Jiraiya looked up at the setting sun, realizing they'd been at it for hours. Scattered around them were countless seal diagrams, theoretical calculations, and modified versions of the Hiraishin formula.
"Alright, kid, that's enough for today," Jiraiya announced, stretching his stiff muscles. "Even with the fox helping, your brain needs rest."
"Aww, come on Pervy Sage!" Naruto whined, his clones joining in the protest. "We're just getting to the good part!"
"No buts! Besides," Jiraiya's expression turned serious, "I need to head back to Konoha. We've got some important planning to do with Tsunade and the others about the future."
Naruto's face lit up. "Oh yeah! That reminds me..." He dispelled his remaining clones and jumped up excitedly. "Guess what I did today, dattebayo!"
"What did you do?" Jiraiya asked, suddenly wary of his student's mischievous grin.
"I had a meeting with ALL the Tailed Beasts!" Naruto announced proudly, throwing his arms wide.
"YOU WHAT?!" Jiraiya fell over in shock, quickly scrambling back to his feet. "All nine of them? How did you—when did you—"
"Well, technically eight since Kurama was already here," Naruto corrected, rubbing the back of his head. "But yeah! We made plans and everything! That's actually why we're working on this seal. It's gonna help protect them from the Akatsuki!"
Jiraiya slumped back down, rubbing his temples. "Kid, you're giving me a headache. Let me get this straight... while I was away, your real body wasn't just training sage mode, but also having a conference with the most powerful beings in existence?"
"Pretty much!" Naruto grinned. "Oh, and we figured out how to trick the Akatsuki too! We're gonna give them just enough chakra to think they caught the Tailed Beasts, but actually—"
"Stop, stop!" Jiraiya held up his hands. "Save it for when I get back. This is exactly the kind of thing we need to discuss with Tsunade and the others." He shook his head, chuckling. "You really are the number one most unpredictable ninja..."
Kurama's voice rumbled in Naruto's mind. "Tell that pervert about the timeline we discussed. He needs to know when to expect the Akatsuki's moves."
"Oh right!" Naruto snapped his fingers. "Pervy Sage, we've got about two years before the Akatsuki starts making big moves not three. That's why I need to master this seal and sage mode as fast as possible!"
Jiraiya nodded thoughtfully. "Two years... that gives us some time to prepare. Alright, kid, I'll head back and update everyone. Keep working on your training, but remember to REST!" He emphasized the last word with a stern look.
"Yeah, yeah," Naruto waved dismissively. "Just don't get distracted by your 'research' on the way back!"
"How dare you! My research is vital for—"
"PERVY SAGE!"
"Fine, fine," Jiraiya laughed, ruffling Naruto's hair. "I'll be back in a few days. Try not to have any more world-changing meetings while I'm gone!"
As Jiraiya prepared to leave, he paused and looked back at his student with pride. "You know, kid... you might be even more amazing than your old man."
Before Naruto could respond, Jiraiya disappeared in a puff of smoke, leaving behind a grinning, slightly embarrassed Naruto.
"Alright!" Naruto pumped his fist in the air. "Time for some food, then back to training! We've got a lot to do, dattebayo!"
Kurama sighed in his mindscape. "At least eat something besides ramen this time..."
"NO PROMISES!"
"Oh, right!" Naruto exclaimed, suddenly remembering where he was. "We're in Toad Land! There's no ramen here!"
Fukasaku, who had been quietly observing, chuckled. "That's right, Naruto-boy. But don't worry, we have plenty of nutritious options for you!"
Naruto's face paled slightly as he recalled his previous experiences with Mount Myōboku cuisine. "Uh, by 'nutritious options,' you don't mean..."
"Of course!" Fukasaku beamed. "We have a delightful selection of grubs, caterpillars, and my personal favorite - giant centipedes!"
Naruto's stomach churned at the thought. Kurama's laughter echoed in his mind. "What's wrong, partner? I thought you were ready for anything?"
"Shut up, furball," Naruto grumbled internally. Outwardly, he forced a smile. "Th-thanks, Gramps Sage. That sounds... great."
Fukasaku hopped away to prepare the meal, leaving Naruto to contemplate his dietary fate.
"You know," Kurama mused, "consuming those insects might actually help your training. They're packed with protein and other nutrients."
"Easy for you to say," Naruto retorted. "You're not the one who has to eat them!"
As the smell of cooking insects wafted through the air, Naruto steeled himself. "Well, if it helps me get stronger... I guess I can handle it. But I'm definitely asking Pervy Sage to bring some instant ramen next time he visits!"
With a deep breath, Naruto headed towards the cooking area, ready to face his next challenge - Mount Myōboku's unique cuisine.
As the sun peeked over the horizon, Jiraiya made his way to the Hokage's office, slipping through the window as usual. To his surprise, he found himself the last to arrive - even Kakashi had beaten him there.
"Well, well," Tsunade smirked from behind her desk. "Look who finally decided to show up. Did you get lost on the road of life, Jiraiya?"
"Very funny," Jiraiya grumbled, taking in the serious faces of Tsunade, Shikamaru, Kakashi, and Shikaku. "I had a good reason for being late, I'll have you know."
"Oh?" Tsunade raised an eyebrow. "And what might that be?"
Jiraiya took a deep breath. "You're not going to believe this, but... Naruto had a meeting with all the Tailed Beasts."
The room fell silent for a moment before erupting into chaos.
"He WHAT?!" Tsunade exclaimed, slamming her hands on the desk.
"All of them?" Kakashi's visible eye widened in disbelief.
Shikamaru muttered his signature "What a drag," while his father, Shikaku, stroked his goatee thoughtfully.
"Yep, all of them," Jiraiya confirmed. "Well, technically eight since the Nine-Tails was already with him. But get this - they're working together on a plan to trick the Akatsuki."
"How does this affect our strategy?" Shikaku asked, ever the tactician.
Jiraiya shrugged. "That's what we need to figure out. Naruto says we have about two years before the Akatsuki makes their big move not three. He's working on a seal to protect the Tailed Beasts, and they're planning to give the Akatsuki just enough chakra to think they've succeeded."
"That's... actually quite brilliant," Shikamaru admitted, his mind already racing with possibilities.
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, massaging her temples. "Leave it to that knucklehead to throw a wrench in our plans. Alright, let's hear it - how do we adapt?"
Shikaku cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention. "With all the information we've gathered, I believe I have a plan that could work. However, it will require both Jiraiya and Tsunade to remain in the village for at least a year."
The room fell silent as curious glances were exchanged. Tsunade leaned forward, intrigued. "Go on, Shikaku. What's this plan of yours?"
Shikaku continued, a slight smirk forming on his face, "The solution is actually quite simple. As Jiraiya-sama needs to stay here in the village, We'll be stating that we need another jonin to look after Naruto until Jiraiya-sama is available.
Since Naruto is in Toad Land, he doesn't need Jiraiya-sama's protection level, but we'll send a jonin anyway - creating the perfect opportunity for Danzo-sama to insert his own man without suspicion."
Jiraiya chuckled, catching on. "And then we can feed him false information. That's quite devious, Shikaku."
"As for the Konoha 11's training," Shikaku continued, "which might alert him, we can send them on numerous missions under the pretense of being understaffed. In reality, we'll be sending them to a base outside Konoha for training. Guy, Kakashi, or other trusted jonin can monitor their progress."
Kakashi's visible eye crinkled in approval. "That would work. The kids are skilled enough now to make it believable."
"Regarding the Daimyo meetings," Shikaku turned to Tsunade, "we can simply state that Tsunade-sama wants to help Naruto become Hokage, so she's helping build the groundwork.
While it might seem far-fetched, we can show concrete results by changing Naruto's reputation and revealing his true lineage.
As a perfect jinchūriki now, he's strong enough to handle the revelation. This will help achieve two goals: paving Naruto's path to becoming Hokage and keeping Danzo-sama distracted."
Shikamaru leaned forward, impressed. "Using Naruto's own unpredictable nature as a smokescreen... that's brilliant, Dad."
Tsunade stood up, walking to the window. "It's exactly the kind of plan Naruto would love - hiding in plain sight while being completely honest about our intentions. The irony would drive Danzo mad if he ever figured it out."
"And that's precisely why it will work," Jiraiya added, crossing his arms. "Nobody would expect us to be this straightforward while running such an elaborate deception."
"The best part is," Shikaku concluded, "even if Danzo suspects something, he won't be able to act without revealing his own suspicious activities. We're essentially using his paranoia against him."
Jiraiya nodded, his expression turning serious. "You're right, Shikaku. This plan is brilliant, but we need to iron out the details. And speaking of details, there's something else we need to address - Naruto's training."
The others in the room turned their attention to Jiraiya, sensing the concern in his voice.
"That knucklehead is pushing himself to the limit," Jiraiya continued, shaking his head. "He's not just studying seals - he's got a thousand clones working on it while he's training in Sage Mode. At this rate, he's going to burn himself out before the Akatsuki even makes their move."
Tsunade frowned. "A thousand clones? Even with his chakra reserves and the Nine-Tails, that's excessive."
"Exactly," Jiraiya agreed. "The kid needs an actual schedule before he kills himself. You know how he is - all enthusiasm and no restraint."
Kakashi chimed in, his visible eye crinkling with amusement. "Sounds like Naruto, alright. Always going overboard."
Shikamaru sighed, muttering, "What a drag. Leave it to Naruto to turn even training into a troublesome situation."
"So," Tsunade said, leaning back in her chair, "what do you propose, Jiraiya? How do we rein him in without stifling his progress?"
Jiraiya scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Well, we could create a structured training regimen for him. Something that balances Sage Mode practice, seal study, physical training, and medical jutsu, with the yin seal. And most importantly, we need to enforce rest periods."
Shikaku leaned forward, his analytical mind already working. "Is that all? Or are there other aspects of his training we need to consider?"
"Actually," Jiraiya sighed, running a hand through his white hair, "there's the matter of his Nine-Tails mode. Even though he's befriended the fox, his body and chakra network are still developing. They need time to adjust to handling the full power of the Nine-Tails' chakra."
Kakashi's visible eye narrowed in concern. "Isn't that a bit much? Training in Sage Mode, sealing techniques, medical jutsu, and now Nine-Tails chakra control? Even for Naruto, that's a lot to handle at once."
Jiraiya chuckled nervously. "Oh, it gets better. The kid's also trying to master chakra chains - apparently, he inherited that ability from Kushina. And..." he paused for dramatic effect, "he's working on his own version of the Hiraishin using the chakra and consciousness imprints Minato left in the seal."
"He's what?!" Tsunade exclaimed, nearly spitting out her tea.
"Classic Naruto," Shikamaru muttered, though he couldn't hide his impressed smile. "Taking everything head-on at once."
"But here's the interesting part," Jiraiya continued, "he's not just copying his parents' techniques - he's adapting them to work with his own style. He's trying to combine the Hiraishin with Nine-Tails chakra, and the chakra chains with Sage Mode. The kid's got some crazy ideas, but they might actually work."
"That's... actually quite innovative," Shikaku mused. "Using his unique circumstances to create entirely new techniques. Though we'll definitely need to structure this training carefully."
Tsunade nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Alright, let's break this down. Naruto's still only 13 this year, so we need to prioritize. We'll focus on his physical conditioning, medical training, and Sage Mode for now. He can continue working on seals with you, Jiraiya, but the more advanced techniques like the Hiraishin and Nine-Tails chakra control will have to wait until next year, depending on his progress."
"Agreed," Jiraiya said, relieved that Tsunade was taking a more measured approach.
Kakashi raised a hand, his visible eye creased in concern. "There's still one issue we need to address - the shadow clones. We need to limit how many he uses for training. Even with the Nine-Tails helping, processing that much information could fry his brain if we're not careful."
"Good point," Shikaku interjected. "Perhaps we could set a daily limit on the number of clones he can use for each type of training. This way, he can still benefit from the accelerated learning without overwhelming his mind."
Tsunade nodded in agreement. "Excellent suggestion. Jiraiya, when you return to Mount Myōboku, make sure to implement these restrictions. We can't have our future Hokage burning out before he even gets started."
"Got it," Jiraiya said, already imagining Naruto's protests. "Though convincing him to slow down might be harder than the training itself."
Shikamaru smirked. "Just tell him it's part of his Hokage training. That should motivate him to follow the rules... for once."
The room filled with chuckles as they all imagined Naruto's reaction to his new, more structured training regimen. Despite the challenges ahead, there was a sense of optimism in the air. With careful planning and guidance, Naruto's potential seemed limitless.
Tsunade nodded decisively, her amber eyes scanning the room. "Alright, here's how we'll proceed. Jiraiya, Yamato is ready to go. You'll escort him to Mount Myōboku to teach Naruto medical jutsu. While you're there, inform Naruto of these new training rules we've established. Also, help Yamato familiarize himself with Toad Land - we can't have him getting lost in that bizarre place."
Jiraiya chuckled, imagining Yamato's reaction to the giant toads and strange flora. "Got it, Princess. I'll make sure he doesn't end up as toad food."
"Good," Tsunade continued. "You'll return at the end of each month to check on Naruto's progress. We'll adjust his training plan as needed based on your reports."
She then turned her attention to Kakashi, who straightened up under her gaze. "Kakashi, you and a jōnin you trust need to start your own intensive training. We need you both in top form, ready for whatever comes our way. Additionally, you'll be overseeing the training of the Konoha 11."
"Understood, Lady Hokage," Kakashi replied, his mind already cycling through potential training partners and regimens for the young ninja.
Finally, Tsunade addressed Shikamaru and Shikaku. "You two will continue your roles as instructors and strategists. Your analytical skills will be crucial in the coming months."
"What a drag," Shikamaru muttered, though there was a glint of determination in his eyes.
Shikaku nodded solemnly. "We'll do our best, Lady Hokage."
"Excellent," Tsunade said, a small smile playing on her lips. "Now, let's get to work. We have a hyperactive, knuckleheaded future Hokage to prepare, and not much time to do it."
As the meeting adjourned, there was a palpable sense of purpose in the air. They all knew the challenges that lay ahead, but with careful planning and Naruto's unpredictable nature on their side, they felt ready to face whatever the future might bring.
Jiraiya paused at the window before leaving, a mischievous grin on his face. "You know, I can't wait to see Naruto's face when we tell him he has to cut back on the shadow clones. Think he'll believe us if we say it's to prevent his brain from turning into ramen?"
The room erupted in laughter as they imagined Naruto's reaction. Even in the face of serious preparations, they couldn't help but find humor in the situation. After all, with Naruto involved, nothing was ever entirely predictable.
After Jiraiya meets Yamato, and brings him to Mount Myōboku.
As the world materialized around them in a burst of color, Yamato stumbled, his face turning an impressive shade of green.
"Whoa there!" Jiraiya chuckled, steadying the wood-style user. "First time's always a doozy. Just breathe, kid."
Yamato nodded weakly, then froze as he took in the bizarre landscape. Towering mushrooms stretched towards the sky, strange plants dotted the terrain, and in the distance, massive toads hopped about their business.
"This is... unbelievable," Yamato breathed, momentarily forgetting his nausea.
"PERVY SAGE! YAMATO-TAICHOU!" A familiar voice bellowed across the landscape. They turned to see Naruto bounding towards them, grinning from ear to ear. Behind him, an army of orange-clad clones covered the area, some meditating, others hunched over scrolls, and a few engaged in heated debates about seal theory.
"Naruto!" Jiraiya called back, his smile quickly morphing into a frown. "Oi, what did I tell you about overdoing it with the shadow clones?"
"Aw, come on!" Naruto protested, skidding to a stop in front of them. "It's the best way to learn, dattebayo! I've got a thousand clones working on seals while I'm mastering sage mode—"
"A THOUSAND?!" Yamato and Jiraiya exclaimed in unison, their jaws dropping.
Inside Naruto's mindscape, Kurama snorted. "The pervert's got a point, kit. You're pushing it, even for an Uzumaki."
"Not you too, furball!" Naruto grumbled internally.
Yamato, still looking a bit queasy, stepped forward. "Naruto, Tsunade-sama has tasked me with starting your medical training. She believes it'll be a great addition to your skillset."
Naruto's eyes lit up like fireworks. "That's awesome, Yamato-taichou! But, uh... why do you look like you're about to hurl?"
"The reverse summoning can be... intense," Yamato admitted, his complexion still off. "And did you really say a thousand clones?"
Before Naruto could answer, Fukasaku hopped over, beaming at the newcomers. "Jiraiya-boy! And this must be Yamato-boy. Welcome to Mount Myōboku! How about some grub stew to settle your stomach?"
If possible, Yamato turned even greener. "I... I think I'll pass for now, thank you."
Jiraiya shook his head, turning back to Naruto. "Alright, knucklehead, we need to talk about your training schedule. This many clones is pushing it, even for you."
"But it's working!" Naruto insisted, bouncing on his toes. "I'm making awesome progress with the seals and sage mode!"
"Maybe so, but at what cost?" Jiraiya countered, his tone serious. "C'mon, show us your training area. We need to set some ground rules before you fry that ramen-filled brain of yours."
As they made their way through the sea of orange clones, Yamato's eyes widened in amazement. Hundreds of Narutos worked diligently around them, while the original continued to argue passionately with Jiraiya about his methods.
"This is definitely not what I signed up for," Yamato muttered, dodging a stray ink brush thrown by an overzealous clone.
"Welcome to my world," Jiraiya chuckled, clapping him on the back. "Buckle up, Yamato. With Naruto around, things are always interesting!"
"DATTEBAYO!" Naruto and his clones cheered in unison, causing Yamato to wince at the volume.
This was going to be one wild training session, that was for sure.
As they approached Naruto's main training area, the sheer scale of his efforts became even more apparent. Clones were scattered everywhere, each group focused on a different aspect of training.
"Alright, let's see what you've got," Jiraiya said, crossing his arms.
Naruto grinned, eager to show off his progress. "Check this out, Pervy Sage!" He formed a hand seal, and suddenly, glowing chakra chains erupted from his back, snaking through the air.
Jiraiya's eyes widened. "Those are Kushina's—"
"Yep!" Naruto beamed. "I've been working on combining them with sage mode. Watch this!"
The chains began to glow with natural energy, taking on a greenish tint. Naruto directed them to wrap around a nearby boulder, and with a grunt of effort, he lifted the massive rock effortlessly.
"Impressive," Yamato murmured, his earlier nausea forgotten in his amazement.
"That's not all!" Naruto exclaimed. He dispelled the chains and pulled out a familiar three-pronged kunai. "I've been working on Dad's jutsu too!"
Before Jiraiya could protest, Naruto vanished in a yellow flash, reappearing atop the boulder he'd just lifted.
"Naruto!" Jiraiya shouted, a mix of pride and concern in his voice. "That's incredibly dangerous! You can't just—"
"Relax, Pervy Sage," Naruto called down, grinning. "Kurama's helping me stabilize the chakra flow. We've got it under control!"
Inside his mindscape, Kurama snorted. "Mostly under control, anyway."
Jiraiya shook his head, torn between amazement and exasperation. "Kid, you're going to give me a heart attack. Get down here so we can talk about your training schedule."
As Naruto hopped down, Yamato stepped forward. "Naruto, while your progress is impressive, we need to establish a more structured approach. Lady Tsunade has some concerns about the intensity of your training."
Naruto's face fell slightly. "Aw, come on! I'm making great progress!"
"Nobody's denying that," Jiraiya said, placing a hand on Naruto's shoulder. "But we need to make sure you're not burning yourself out. Even with Kurama's help, this much intensive training could be dangerous."
"But—"
"No buts," Jiraiya interrupted. "We've come up with a new training regimen for you. It'll still be intense, but more balanced."
Naruto crossed his arms, pouting slightly. "Fine. What's the plan?"
Yamato pulled out a scroll, unrolling it to reveal a detailed schedule. "We'll be dividing your time between sage mode training, seal study, physical conditioning, and medical jutsu. And most importantly, we're setting limits on your clone usage."
"WHAT?!" Naruto exclaimed, his eyes wide. "But that's my best training method!"
"It's also the most dangerous," Jiraiya countered. "From now on, you're limited to 100 clones per day, divided among your different training areas."
Naruto's jaw dropped. "A hundred?! But that's nothing compared to what I've been doing!"
Kurama's voice rumbled in his mind. "Listen to them, kit. Even I'm starting to worry about the strain on your chakra network."
Naruto grumbled internally but nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But this better not slow down my progress!"
Jiraiya grinned, ruffling Naruto's hair. "Trust me, kid. This new regimen will make you even stronger in the long run. Now, how about you show Yamato around? I'm sure he'd love to see more of Mount Myōboku."
As Naruto began excitedly pointing out various landmarks to a still-overwhelmed Yamato, Jiraiya couldn't help but smile. Despite the challenges ahead, he had faith in Naruto's ability to adapt and grow.
"Alright, you knucklehead," he thought to himself. "Let's see what you can really do with some proper guidance."