### **Chapter 11: The Duel**
The sun was high in the sky, casting its heat over the training grounds where Naruto waited impatiently, bouncing from foot to foot. He had been ready for hours, eager to prove something—not just to Tomaru, but to himself. He had a point to prove, and today, he was going to show everyone that he was a force to be reckoned with.
Tomaru, on the other hand, stood at the edge of the field, his hands tucked into his pockets, eyes scanning the horizon. Despite his calm exterior, his heart raced with nerves. This wasn't just any sparring match. Naruto's fiery spirit made him unpredictable, and Tomaru wasn't sure what kind of fight he was walking into.
"You ready or what?" Naruto called from the center of the field, his usual grin plastered across his face. His eyes were gleaming with excitement, and he cracked his knuckles in anticipation.
Tomaru hesitated for a moment. His fingers twitched, a faint hum of chakra running through him, but he quickly suppressed it. "I'm not really sure if I'm ready, but here I am."
Naruto laughed, bouncing over to Tomaru, not bothered by his nonchalant response. "Come on! You're not gonna back out now, are you? I want to see what you've got!"
Tomaru sighed, taking a deep breath. He hadn't fought anyone seriously in this world yet, and he had no idea what kind of strength he should expect from a future Hokage. But there was something else gnawing at him—the fact that his abilities were so much stronger than the average ninja. It was a strange feeling, knowing that he had power, but not wanting to use it for fear of being discovered.
"Alright, let's do this," Tomaru said, stepping forward. He knew there was no way out of this. He couldn't afford to look weak in front of the class.
Naruto immediately charged at him, moving faster than Tomaru expected. He ducked to the side just in time to avoid a punch, feeling the rush of wind as Naruto's fist missed by inches.
"Not bad," Tomaru muttered under his breath, his body reacting instinctively. He didn't have the speed to keep up with Naruto's blitzing attacks, but his chakra control was better than he realized. It wasn't just the Tenseigan's perception that helped him—his own instincts were improving, adapting to the combat environment.
Naruto smirked, throwing another punch. "Heh, you're fast on your feet, I'll give you that!"
Tomaru dodged again, this time with a bit more flair, landing lightly on his feet. He wasn't going to engage in a fistfight; his fighting style was more about control. He needed to use something that would keep Naruto at a distance—something that wouldn't reveal the full extent of his power.
He formed a quick seal and pressed his palms together. "Suiton: Suiryuudan no Jutsu!"
A large torrent of water shot from the ground, coiling around Naruto like a serpent. He leapt to the side, narrowly avoiding the water, but Tomaru was already two steps ahead. Another set of seals, and he formed a defensive wall of water in front of him.
Naruto laughed. "Oh, that's clever. But you can't just hide behind water all day!"
Without warning, he formed his own seals, slamming his palms into the ground. "Kage Bunshin no Jutsu!"
Suddenly, multiple copies of Naruto appeared, surrounding Tomaru. The real Naruto grinned, watching the clones close in. Tomaru's heart raced. Naruto's Shadow Clones weren't just distractions; they were powerful in their own right, and with his chakra reserves, they could overwhelm him easily if he wasn't careful.
But Tomaru had something that Naruto didn't: Tenseigan. His right eye, glowing faintly, allowed him to track every clone's chakra signature. Even though they all looked the same, the real Naruto stood out to him.
"Gotcha," Tomaru muttered to himself, his body moving without thinking. He reached into his chakra reserves and began manipulating the earth around him.
"Doton: Doryūheki!"
A massive wall of earth shot up from the ground, protecting Tomaru from the oncoming clones. As the clones charged toward him, he grabbed a handful of earth and launched it toward them, crushing several of the clones with the heavy rocks.
Naruto's eyes widened. "Whoa, that's some pretty advanced stuff for someone who's been in the Academy for such a short time!"
The real Naruto, now on top of a nearby tree, grinned. "Alright, alright. You're way tougher than I thought. But don't think you've won just yet!"
Tomaru watched him carefully, his Tenseigan analyzing Naruto's movements. The real Naruto was the only one with a signature that didn't flicker. He had to end this quickly.
He focused, channeling his chakra into his right eye. A deep surge of energy flooded his body, and for a brief moment, he could see everything. The world around him expanded, and he could feel the subtle vibrations in the air. The chakra signatures of the clones faded from his vision, and Naruto's became clearer, sharper.
"Now," Tomaru said, his voice low, "it's my turn."
In an instant, he raised his hand, and the ground beneath Naruto erupted, forcing him to jump into the air. Tomaru followed the movement with his eye, and with a swift motion, he gathered his chakra into his palm, sending a small yet powerful burst of wind and earth toward the airborne Naruto.
Naruto gasped, just barely managing to dodge the attack. But it wasn't over yet. Tomaru moved faster than before, his foot pressing against the ground with precision, using the momentum to shoot toward Naruto. He needed to end this match, or it would continue spiraling out of control.
With a burst of speed, Tomaru reached Naruto in midair, his hand grasping Naruto's shirt and pulling him down to the ground.
The clash was brutal, but Tomaru was careful. He didn't want to harm him, just subdue him.
As Naruto hit the ground, the fight came to an abrupt halt. The clones vanished, and the real Naruto lay on the ground, laughing breathlessly. "Man, you're good! I didn't think you'd actually catch me like that!"
Tomaru stood over him, his heart pounding. "I didn't want to hurt you. You were reckless."
Naruto shot him a thumbs-up. "Hey, it's all good! I've been through worse!" He grinned up at Tomaru. "You've got some serious skills, Tomaru. No wonder you've been keeping things so quiet."
Tomaru's face softened, his shoulders relaxing. He had won the battle without fully revealing his power, but he knew it wouldn't be long before someone else figured it out. As the dust settled, he realized that perhaps the real challenge had only just begun.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 12: The Calm Before the Storm**
The bell rang, signaling the end of the training session. Naruto was still sprawled out on the ground, grinning ear to ear. Tomaru stood a few feet away, wiping the sweat from his brow as he tried to catch his breath. The fight with Naruto had been intense, and while he had held back, it was clear that Naruto had been pushing himself harder than usual.
"That was awesome!" Naruto exclaimed, lifting his thumb in the air as he got to his feet. "Seriously, Tomaru! You might be the first person to ever beat me like that!"
Tomaru shrugged, trying to appear indifferent, though inside, his mind was whirling. He had barely used his full abilities—just a little bit of his chakra, a glimpse of his Tenseigan's power—but even then, the energy he felt was almost too overwhelming to manage.
He could sense the other students approaching, their voices growing louder as they made their way over to the training field.
"Nice fight, Tomaru," Ino said, her voice filled with excitement as she jogged up to him, her eyes shining. "I never knew you could be that cool!"
Tomaru offered a small smile, his hand running through his straight brown hair. He hadn't expected Ino to be so enthusiastic. Most of the time, he kept things to himself, his interactions with others short and brief. But today... it felt different. Maybe it was because he had taken a step forward—taken the initiative for once.
"I just did what I had to do," Tomaru replied, his voice calm but soft.
Ino's smile grew wider. "Still, you were amazing. I've never seen anyone dodge Naruto's moves like that before!"
Shikamaru, who had been standing off to the side, watching the entire scene unfold, finally spoke up with his usual lazy tone. "Tch... you really shouldn't show off like that, you know."
Tomaru glanced at him, a bit surprised. Shikamaru wasn't the type to comment much, but the observation was sharp, and Tomaru could tell there was more to it than just a lazy remark.
"Why?" Tomaru asked, his voice neutral. "Was I too much?"
Shikamaru lazily scratched the back of his head, his eyes half-lidded as always. "Nah, it's just... when someone like you shows that much skill, it tends to draw attention. People will start looking at you differently. Especially someone like Danzo."
Tomaru's eyes widened slightly, a shiver running down his spine at the mention of Danzo. He hadn't even considered that. The thought of attracting the attention of someone like Danzo made his stomach tighten.
"Danzo...?" Tomaru echoed, his voice quieter than before. He hadn't fully grasped the politics of the Hidden Leaf Village yet, but he knew enough to understand that Danzo was not someone you wanted to cross.
Shikamaru nodded lazily, his expression thoughtful. "Yeah, if he notices you, things could get a lot more complicated. People like him don't care about the consequences. So, try not to stand out too much, alright?"
Tomaru nodded, more to himself than to Shikamaru. He hadn't intended to draw any attention. In fact, he preferred being invisible in the background, not causing any waves. But now, with his Tenseigan and the power it gave him, he had to rethink his approach to everything.
"Thanks, Shikamaru," Tomaru said, his tone serious. "I'll be careful."
Naruto, who had been listening to the conversation, suddenly piped up, his usual grin returning. "Come on, guys, stop being so serious! We're ninjas, aren't we? Let's have fun!"
Tomaru looked at him and couldn't help but laugh, despite the weight of Shikamaru's words hanging over him. Naruto had a way of lightening the mood, even if it meant not thinking things through all the time.
"You're right," Tomaru said with a chuckle. "Let's just enjoy the day."
The rest of the class began to gather around, but Tomaru's attention wandered. As everyone conversed, his mind returned to the earlier battle. The Tenseigan's power, his enhanced chakra reserves, and how easily he'd been able to defeat Naruto—despite Naruto's obvious power and potential. He couldn't shake the nagging feeling that his time in this world would soon become more complicated. The Tenseigan wasn't just a tool—it was a key. A key that would eventually open doors he wasn't sure he wanted to face.
His thoughts were interrupted when Ino placed a hand on his shoulder, a curious look in her eyes.
"You're awfully quiet, Tomaru," Ino remarked, tilting her head. "Something on your mind?"
Tomaru blinked, a bit surprised by her sudden attention. He realized that he'd been zoning out for a while now, lost in thought.
"Nothing, just... thinking," he answered, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Don't worry about it."
Ino raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. She seemed to accept his answer, though she still looked at him with a hint of concern in her eyes.
"Well, if you ever need to talk about anything, I'm here," she said. Her voice was soft, sincere.
Tomaru nodded. He hadn't expected Ino to be so perceptive, but he appreciated it. Her kindness was genuine, and it was rare to find that in the ninja world. He wasn't sure if he could fully trust anyone yet—his trust was hard to earn, especially after everything that had happened—but Ino's offer wasn't something he could ignore.
"Thanks, Ino," he said softly. "I'll keep that in mind."
As the group continued talking, Tomaru couldn't shake the feeling that something was changing. His life at the Academy, his interactions with the others, it was all starting to take shape. But with every passing day, it also felt like the world around him was growing more complicated. The power of the Tenseigan, the looming threat of Danzo, and the uncertain future—Tomaru knew that his peaceful days were numbered.
But for now, he would stay focused. He would do what he always did—take things one step at a time.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 13: The Calm Before the Storm**
The days in the Academy had started to feel routine, but Tomaru knew better than to let his guard down. The world he had entered—Naruto's world—was anything but predictable. Despite the bonds that were beginning to form around him, despite the normalcy of his interactions with his classmates, the weight of the Tenseigan's power, and the ever-looming threat of forces like Danzo, reminded him that the peace he felt now was fragile.
The classroom buzzed with the usual chatter as students filed in, the energy of young ninja eager to prove themselves to the world. As Tomaru entered the room, he noticed Naruto and Sasuke already engaged in one of their usual standoffs. Sakura stood beside them, looking annoyed, while Ino casually chatted with him about the upcoming exam.
"Hey, Tomaru," Ino greeted him with a smile, clearly more comfortable around him now. "Got any plans for the weekend?"
Tomaru paused for a moment. He hadn't really thought about it. "Nothing special," he answered. "Just gonna train."
"That's typical for you," Ino said, teasing him lightly. "Always so serious about everything."
Tomaru chuckled lightly. He had gotten used to her teasing and could tell she was just trying to engage him in conversation, something she seemed to enjoy. "I guess," he said with a shrug. "It's better than sitting around doing nothing, right?"
Ino laughed, her eyes lighting up with amusement. But as the conversation drifted, Tomaru's attention shifted to the front of the room, where Iruka, their instructor, was preparing for the lesson of the day. Tomaru's mind wandered, not focused on the lesson at hand. Instead, he found himself thinking about his abilities, his power, and his true place in this world.
"Are you alright?" Ino's voice brought him back to reality.
Tomaru blinked and turned back to face her, noticing the concerned look in her eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just thinking."
Ino raised an eyebrow but didn't push the matter further. Instead, she gave him a playful nudge. "Well, try not to zone out too much. I'm starting to think I'll have to drag you out of your thoughts!"
Tomaru offered her a half-smile, grateful for her warmth, though he couldn't shake the unease he felt.
As Iruka began the lesson, Tomaru focused on the words, but his mind still drifted back to the Tenseigan. He had been training his chakra control diligently, but with his current level of understanding, he hadn't been able to fully access its potential. The power was there—he could feel it stirring within him whenever he focused on his right eye—but it was like trying to use a tool he didn't fully understand. The Tenseigan allowed him to perceive things others couldn't, but the cost was steep: his chakra reserves drained faster than he had anticipated when he used it.
He had yet to experiment with its full potential, but every time he did, the energy it required left him feeling more and more exhausted.
'What if I overuse it? What if I drain my chakra completely?'
Tomaru couldn't afford to make mistakes. He didn't want to attract attention, especially from someone like Danzo. But the Tenseigan was too powerful to ignore. Its potential, the way it allowed him to see through walls, perceive chakra pathways, and even see far beyond the village—it was unlike anything he had ever imagined. And yet, he knew it was dangerous. In the wrong hands, the power of the Tenseigan could be catastrophic.
"Tomaru!" Ino's voice cut through his thoughts, and he blinked, looking up to see her standing next to him with a raised hand.
"Sorry, what did you say?" Tomaru asked, momentarily flustered.
"I said, do you want to practice together after class?" Ino repeated, her smile widening. "I can help you with some jutsu, if you need it."
Tomaru hesitated. It wasn't that he didn't appreciate Ino's offer—it was just that his mind was elsewhere. But then again, it would be nice to practice with someone.
"Sure, why not?" he replied, offering a small smile.
Ino's eyes sparkled. "Great! I promise I won't go easy on you, though!" she teased.
Tomaru chuckled, feeling a little lighter. The interactions with his classmates had become more natural recently, and it was something he hadn't expected. He had always been the quiet one, never drawing attention to himself. But now, with the Tenseigan and its overwhelming abilities, he was starting to find his place among them.
The lesson passed without much incident, and soon enough, Iruka dismissed the class. As the students filed out, Tomaru found himself walking alongside Ino, who was chatting away enthusiastically about her plans for the rest of the day.
"So, do you think you'll ever be a Jonin, Tomaru?" Ino asked casually.
Tomaru glanced at her. "I don't know. I'm just trying to get through the basics for now."
Ino gave him a mock pout. "Come on, you have the potential! If anyone in our class can become a Jonin, it's you, for sure."
Tomaru didn't answer immediately. He knew she was just being supportive, but her words weighed heavily on his mind. Jonin. The thought of it seemed so far away. He wasn't sure if he was ready to step into that world yet.
They reached the training grounds, and as Ino began to go over some basic jutsu, Tomaru found himself thinking about Shikamaru's words from earlier. About standing out.
'Am I really ready for all this? Am I just playing a part in someone else's story? What if I'm not meant to be here?'
His thoughts were interrupted when Ino suddenly demonstrated a jutsu, and Tomaru couldn't help but admire her smooth technique. Ino wasn't just talk; she had talent. It was clear that she took her training seriously.
"Your turn!" Ino called out, her eyes bright with excitement.
Tomaru nodded, setting his concerns aside for the moment. For now, all he could do was focus on the present.
The future was uncertain, but he would face it one step at a time.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 14: The Test of Strength**
The days at the Academy passed in a blur of lessons and training sessions. Despite the growing camaraderie among his classmates, Tomaru couldn't shake the feeling that he was being watched—either by unseen forces or by his own subconscious. The ever-present weight of the Tenseigan's power reminded him that there was far more at stake in this world than he had anticipated.
It was the day of the first real test for the students. Iruka had announced that they would be participating in a series of mock battles to test their skills. There was an air of nervous excitement in the classroom, and Tomaru couldn't help but feel the pressure mounting. This wasn't just a simple exercise—it was a glimpse into the life of a ninja.
Naruto, as usual, was brimming with enthusiasm, even though he hadn't fully thought through his strategy. Sasuke, on the other hand, remained cool and collected, though Tomaru could sense the slight competitive edge in his gaze whenever he looked at Naruto.
"Are you ready?" Ino asked Tomaru as she adjusted her forehead protector, her voice tinged with excitement. "This will be fun! Let's show them what we're made of!"
Tomaru nodded but couldn't fully share in her enthusiasm. He was ready for the test, but there was one problem—he hadn't been able to master any advanced jutsu yet. His chakra reserves were impressive, but his control was still shaky. His usual strategy of relying on the Tenseigan felt too risky in such a public setting.
The classroom doors opened, and Iruka entered, carrying a stack of scrolls. He was all business now, the cheerful, easy-going instructor replaced by someone serious and determined.
"Alright, everyone," Iruka said, his voice firm. "Today is your chance to show what you've learned. You'll be paired up and tested on your basic jutsu and tactics. Keep in mind, this is not just about strength—it's about strategy and teamwork. Be smart, and show me what you can do."
Tomaru couldn't help but glance over at Sasuke. The Uchiha prodigy stood as if he had already won, his expression neutral but his posture poised. Naruto, on the other hand, was practically vibrating with nervous energy, muttering to himself about how he was going to show everyone he was the strongest.
"Ino," Iruka called out, scanning the room. "You'll be paired with Tomaru. Show us what you've got."
Tomaru's heart skipped a beat. He was being paired with Ino? It wasn't that he didn't want to work with her—Ino had been nothing but kind to him. But he didn't know if he was ready to perform in front of the class, especially not with his Tenseigan still mostly untested.
Ino grinned at him, her eyes sparkling. "Don't worry, Tomaru! We've got this! You just follow my lead, and we'll ace this test!"
"Right," Tomaru replied quietly, trying not to let the nerves show on his face. But deep down, he knew this would be a challenge.
As they moved to their designated battle area, Tomaru took a deep breath. His mind raced through the few techniques he had been able to master. He had only ever really practiced simple jutsu so far: the basic Clone Technique, a few Water-style jutsu, and a couple of Earth-style jutsu. Nothing impressive by ninja standards.
Ino took her place on the opposite side of the field, her posture confident. "Let's do this!" she called out, throwing a confident thumbs-up in his direction.
Tomaru nodded, even though his thoughts were anything but calm. 'Okay. Focus. I need to get through this without embarrassing myself. Don't use the Tenseigan unless absolutely necessary.'
Iruka gave the signal, and the match began.
Without wasting any time, Ino immediately formed a series of hand signs and unleashed a barrage of kunai toward Tomaru. It was a basic attack, but it was fast and precise, designed to test his reflexes.
Tomaru reacted quickly, forming his own set of hand signs and using a simple Doton jutsu—he raised the ground beneath him, creating a shield of earth that blocked the incoming kunai.
"Not bad," Ino said, impressed, as she watched him defend himself with ease. "But can you keep up with this?"
Ino jumped into the air and launched a series of powerful shuriken toward him, followed by a flurry of clones to confuse him.
Tomaru knew this was where he had to think fast. He couldn't just rely on defense. His chakra reserves were plentiful, but he had to use them wisely. As the clones closed in, he closed his eyes for a moment, activating the Tenseigan. The world around him shifted, his vision sharpening and expanding. He could see the faint chakra lines of each clone, each one outlined in the glow of their respective energy.
In a split second, he identified the real Ino and focused his chakra into a quick Water-style jutsu—he sent a powerful jet of water toward her, easily knocking her out of the air and dousing her clones in the process.
Ino landed gracefully on the ground, a look of surprise flashing across her face before she grinned widely. "Okay, I see you, Tomaru! That was good!" she shouted, giving him a thumbs-up.
Tomaru felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had done it. His Tenseigan had given him the edge he needed, and he hadn't even had to rely on it completely. Ino, on the other hand, had remained calm and strategic. She was clearly skilled at working with others, and it had made all the difference in this battle.
Iruka clapped his hands, bringing their match to an end. "Good work, both of you," he said. "You two worked well together, and you showed solid technique and adaptability. Tomaru, Ino—you're both improving."
Tomaru let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. He hadn't failed. He hadn't embarrassed himself.
As the rest of the class continued their matches, Tomaru couldn't help but reflect on what had just happened. His Tenseigan had been a valuable asset, but it wasn't invincible. He could still make mistakes. But for now, he felt that much closer to understanding his place in this world. He didn't have to be the best ninja—but he couldn't afford to be the weakest either.
And, at least for today, he'd made it through unscathed.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 15: The Unseen Forces**
The days after the mock battle had passed by quickly. Tomaru felt a strange sense of unease building within him. He had managed to perform well in his match with Ino, and his Tenseigan had been useful in a way that even he hadn't fully expected. But there was something else—something deeper, something he couldn't quite place—that nagged at him.
Ino had congratulated him enthusiastically, her eyes shining with admiration. Tomaru had appreciated it, but he couldn't shake the feeling that it was only a matter of time before the other students started questioning him. The Tenseigan, despite how useful it was, was not something that could be easily explained away. And as much as he didn't want to attract attention, he knew that hiding it forever wasn't an option.
He spent the following days training alone, practicing his basic jutsu and honing his chakra control. As much as he wanted to rely on the power of the Tenseigan, he understood that it wasn't enough to just sit back and rely on his abilities. He needed to train. The future wouldn't be kind to someone who relied on raw power alone. Especially in a world full of unpredictable challenges.
It was early morning when he found himself on the Academy rooftop, practicing a simple Water-style jutsu. He had already mastered the Water Clone Technique, but he wanted to push himself further. He formed the hand signs slowly, concentrating. The familiar rush of chakra surged within him, and he released the technique—a smooth wave of water that shot toward the distant training targets. It hit dead center, splashing harmlessly across the wooden posts.
"Not bad, huh?" he muttered to himself, a small smile tugging at his lips. Despite everything, he felt proud of the progress he'd made.
But that's when he felt it—a shift in the air. It was subtle, barely perceptible, but something told him he wasn't alone.
He turned sharply, his Tenseigan flaring to life in his right eye.
And that's when he saw him.
A figure standing in the shadows, leaning casually against a nearby wall. His face was hidden by the shadows, but Tomaru could make out the distinct headband—a symbol of the village. The man wore a long, dark cloak, his posture relaxed, but there was an undeniable air of authority around him.
Tomaru's heart skipped a beat. Who was this?
"I was wondering when you'd notice me," the man said, his voice smooth, almost too calm.
Tomaru didn't answer immediately. Instead, he focused his vision, scanning the stranger with his Tenseigan. He could see the faint lines of chakra flowing through the man's body, though it wasn't like any chakra pattern Tomaru had ever seen before. The energy was far denser, more controlled, like a well-trained ninja—but there was something off about it.
"Who are you?" Tomaru finally asked, his voice low, cautious. He took a step back, instinctively reaching for a kunai that wasn't there.
The figure chuckled softly. "Relax, kid. I'm not here to fight. At least, not yet."
Tomaru's brow furrowed. "Then what do you want?"
"I'm just here to observe," the man said, pushing himself off the wall and stepping into the light. Now that Tomaru could see him more clearly, his heart skipped a beat. The man's features were sharp, almost too perfect, and his eyes gleamed with a strange, unsettling intensity.
"Observe? Who are you?" Tomaru repeated, his hand instinctively twitching at his side, his Tenseigan still glowing faintly. He hadn't sensed anyone like this before, not in all his time in the village.
The man smiled, a cold, knowing smile. "My name is not important... But for now, let's just say I'm someone who takes an interest in potential."
"Potential?" Tomaru raised an eyebrow, confused and increasingly uncomfortable. "What are you talking about?"
"You're not just any ordinary ninja," the man said, stepping closer. "That eye of yours... It's not something many people are fortunate enough to possess. In fact, most would die for the power that you have."
Tomaru's heart beat faster. His Tenseigan. The man had seen it. And now, it seemed like he was offering something—something Tomaru didn't understand.
"Don't worry," the man added, his tone almost soothing, "I'm not here to hurt you. At least, not yet. I'm merely... keeping an eye on things. People like you are dangerous in the wrong hands."
Tomaru's mind raced. Dangerous in the wrong hands? Was this man working for someone else? Someone who wanted his power?
Before he could respond, the figure turned, vanishing into the shadows without another word.
Tomaru stood there for a long moment, his mind in turmoil. Who was that? Why had he come to him? And why had his presence felt so unnerving? His heart pounded in his chest as he tried to piece together the meaning of the encounter.
He couldn't shake the feeling that this man—whoever he was—wasn't the only one who had noticed his Tenseigan. There were forces in this world that Tomaru couldn't yet comprehend. And whatever they wanted, it wasn't something he was prepared for.
---
Later that day, Tomaru found himself surrounded by his classmates as they practiced in the training yard. As usual, Naruto was being loud and enthusiastic, trying to show off his abilities to anyone who would listen, while Sasuke remained silent and aloof. Shikamaru was lounging nearby, eyes half-closed as he muttered about how troublesome everything was. But as Tomaru looked around, he couldn't shake the feeling that someone—something—was watching him.
Ino, ever the chatterbox, was talking to him about something trivial, but Tomaru's mind was elsewhere. The encounter with the mysterious man kept replaying in his mind, over and over.
"Hey, Tomaru," Ino said, catching his attention. "You okay? You've been pretty quiet today."
Tomaru blinked, his gaze snapping back to her. "Yeah. I'm fine." He gave her a small smile, trying to shake off the feeling of dread creeping up on him. "Just... thinking about something."
Ino frowned slightly, but Tomaru could see the concern in her eyes. "If you ever need to talk about it, I'm here, you know?"
Tomaru nodded silently, though his mind was still on the strange figure and what his appearance might mean. For now, all he could do was keep his head down and push forward. But deep down, Tomaru knew that his peaceful life in the village was about to become far more complicated.
And he wasn't sure he was ready for whatever was coming next.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 16: Whispers in the Dark**
The days following the mysterious encounter weighed heavily on Tomaru. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, that forces beyond his comprehension were circling around him. As he trained, it was hard to focus. His mind kept drifting back to the cloaked figure he had met on the rooftop.
The man's words replayed over and over in Tomaru's mind: "People like you are dangerous in the wrong hands."
What did he mean by that? Who was he, and why was he interested in Tomaru? His Tenseigan was powerful, yes, but he didn't feel like he was anything special. It wasn't like he had access to some untapped well of knowledge or skills. All he had were his chakra affinities and the mysterious power of the Tenseigan—an eye that seemed to do far more than he had yet understood.
He tried to push the thoughts away, but it was impossible. The sensation of being watched lingered in the back of his mind, a constant reminder that he wasn't just another Academy student. There was more to his situation than he could grasp, and the sooner he figured it out, the better.
---
It was lunchtime when Ino approached him again, her usual cheerful self. She had become a constant presence in his daily life, and despite Tomaru's tendency to keep to himself, he didn't mind her company. In fact, he found himself appreciating the quiet conversations they shared. Unlike Naruto's loudness or Sasuke's indifference, Ino was easy to talk to. She seemed genuinely interested in him, and her presence was a welcome distraction from his growing unease.
"Hey, Tomaru!" Ino called as she sat down beside him at the table. "You look like you've got something on your mind. Something bothering you?"
Tomaru glanced up from his food, trying to hide his discomfort. "It's nothing," he said, forcing a smile. "Just... some things I've been thinking about."
Ino didn't look convinced, but she didn't press him further. "Well, if you ever want to talk, I'm here for you. You're not alone, you know?"
Tomaru felt a small flicker of warmth at her words. He had never had anyone really say something like that to him before. Even though he wasn't sure how to respond, a small part of him appreciated the sincerity behind it.
"Thanks, Ino," he said quietly, grateful for her kindness.
As Ino began chatting about something trivial, Tomaru let his mind wander again, trying to make sense of everything. The Tenseigan's abilities were still a mystery to him. He could see chakra networks, far beyond what most people could. He could manipulate gravitational forces to a degree, though he had yet to really test the limits of that power. But more than that, he had the unsettling feeling that he was being pulled into something far bigger than himself.
He was no longer just a civilian ninja. He wasn't even just another kid at the Academy. He was someone who had something special—a power that could change the course of things. But the question was, what would he do with it?
---
Later that afternoon, Tomaru stood alone in the training yard, facing a tree. He had been practicing basic jutsu all day, working on control and precision. But his thoughts kept drifting to that encounter. His Tenseigan flared involuntarily as his frustration built, and he caught sight of something in the distance.
A figure—another figure, just standing there, watching him from the shadows.
His breath caught in his throat. Was it the same person? The man in the cloak?
He activated the Tenseigan without thinking, scanning the figure. Unlike last time, this person didn't seem to have any unique chakra signatures, but their presence felt... different. It was almost as if they were out of place in this moment, a reminder that not everything was as it seemed.
"Who are you?" Tomaru muttered under his breath.
As he took a cautious step forward, the figure's face came into view, revealing an older man with long, dark hair. His eyes—familiar yet strange—glimmered with a cold, calculating intensity. Tomaru couldn't help but notice the symbol on the man's cloak: a crescent moon, surrounded by intricate patterns.
The man didn't speak, but he did make a small gesture with his hand, as if beckoning Tomaru closer.
Against his better judgment, Tomaru found himself walking toward him. Something about this man felt different, but it wasn't like the earlier figure. This one wasn't trying to hide. He was calm, patient even, but there was a dangerous energy surrounding him.
"You're stronger than I expected," the man said, his voice low and smooth.
Tomaru stopped a few paces away, keeping his distance. "Who are you?" he asked again, his voice firmer now. "What do you want?"
The man smiled, but it wasn't a comforting smile. It was almost predatory. "I want nothing from you, Tomaru. Not yet, anyway."
Tomaru tensed. He knew there was something more here, something deeper than just idle conversation. "What do you mean by that?"
The man chuckled softly. "You have something that the world is beginning to notice. That eye of yours, it holds power. But power is a dangerous thing. It can change everything, for better or worse."
Tomaru's hand instinctively moved to his right eye, the Tenseigan. He had never truly thought about the consequences of its existence. He had always taken its abilities for granted, but hearing this man speak made him realize how little he truly understood.
"The world is full of people who want that power, Tomaru," the man continued, his gaze intense. "You'd do well to be careful."
Tomaru didn't answer right away. He wasn't sure how to respond. He wasn't even sure he fully understood what the man meant. All he knew was that the presence of this stranger—and his words—felt like a warning.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Tomaru said, trying to keep his voice steady. "I'm just a kid. I don't want any part of whatever you're talking about."
The man's smile faded, and for a moment, there was a coldness in his eyes. "You'll come to understand, in time. Be careful who you trust. And remember, not everyone is as friendly as you think."
With that, the man turned and walked away, disappearing into the shadows as quietly as he had come.
Tomaru stood still for a long moment, processing the encounter. Something about it felt wrong—like he was being pushed into something he didn't fully understand. But there was one thing he did know for sure: the Tenseigan wasn't just a gift. It was a beacon. A calling card to those who knew its true power.
And Tomaru had a sinking feeling that this was only the beginning.
---
### **To be continued...**
### **Chapter 17: The Gathering Storm**
The days following the strange encounter with the mysterious man weighed heavily on Tomaru's mind. Every corner of the village seemed to hold secrets, and every glance in his direction felt like it was filled with hidden meanings. The words of the cloaked figure echoed in his mind: *"Be careful who you trust. Not everyone is as friendly as you think."*
Tomaru's gut instinct told him to be cautious. It was the only thing he had learned from his past life—avoid confrontation, stay unnoticed, and blend into the background. But now, with his Tenseigan, it was impossible to go unnoticed. People were already starting to look at him differently. His abilities, his eyes... they were the kinds of things that made people curious, or worse, suspicious.
Still, he couldn't shake the sense that someone or something was watching him. Every time he tried to practice or focus on his training, his mind wandered back to the unknown man and his cryptic warning. Who was he? What did he want with Tomaru? And more importantly, what was Tomaru supposed to do now?
---
That afternoon, Tomaru sat on the roof of his apartment, his legs dangling over the edge. He wasn't exactly sure why he came up here—perhaps it was the sense of peace he found in the solitude, or maybe it was just a way to clear his mind. The sky was a soft orange, the sun beginning to set as he gazed out over the village.
The Hokage's Monument loomed in the distance, the stone faces of the Hokages carved into the mountain, watching over the village. He had never really thought about them before, but now, as he looked at their stone likenesses, it felt like they were staring directly at him.
*"Is this really the world I'm in?"* Tomaru thought, rubbing his eyes. His mind was still struggling to catch up with reality. He had always loved *Naruto*, but now that he was living in this world, things didn't seem as simple as they had appeared in the anime. There was danger everywhere, and power was a double-edged sword. He was no longer just a viewer—he was a part of the story, and that terrified him.
He reached up to touch his right eye, feeling the warmth of the Tenseigan beneath his fingertips. It still felt... alien. He had learned to control it to an extent, seeing chakra pathways and manipulating gravitational forces. But there was so much more he didn't understand.
*"If I'm really in Naruto's world, then what happens if I face someone like Madara, or worse, the Akatsuki? I'm just a kid. I'm not even a proper ninja."*
His thoughts were interrupted by a familiar voice below.
"Tomaru! You up there?"
Tomaru blinked and looked down to see Ino waving at him from the street. He gave her a small wave in return, standing up from the roof's edge and climbing down the side of the building with ease.
"Hey, Ino," he greeted, brushing his hair back as he landed lightly on the ground.
Ino raised an eyebrow. "You're always up on the roof. What is it with you and heights?"
Tomaru just shrugged. "I like the view. Helps me think."
Ino chuckled. "Well, as long as you're not trying to jump off and leave me here alone, I don't mind. Got some free time?"
"I guess," Tomaru answered, though his mind was elsewhere.
Ino stepped closer, her expression turning serious. "You've been kind of... off lately. Something bothering you?"
Tomaru paused, unsure of how to answer. He didn't want to burden Ino with his worries. She had already been so kind to him, and he had no real answers to give her. But she could tell something was wrong, her perceptiveness sharper than most.
"I'm fine," he said with a forced smile. "Just... a lot on my mind."
Ino didn't push it. Instead, she smiled brightly and changed the subject. "Well, if you're free, I was thinking we could go grab something to eat. My treat! You've been working hard lately, and I think you deserve a break."
Tomaru felt a bit of tension release at her offer. As much as he tried to avoid it, he did enjoy Ino's company. She was straightforward, kind, and didn't pressure him like others might.
"Alright," he said, still feeling a little out of place, but deciding to take her up on the offer. "Sounds good."
---
The two of them walked through the village, chatting about trivial things. Ino was full of energy, as always, and Tomaru found himself more relaxed than he had been in days. The crowd of people, the noise of the village—it all felt so... normal.
But there was always a part of him that felt like an outsider, like he didn't belong. He had come into this world with memories that weren't his own, and even though the life he lived was quiet and uneventful, there was always a feeling of impending danger hanging over him.
As they passed the Hokage Monument again, Tomaru glanced up at the faces carved into the rock. For some reason, today it seemed different. He felt as if they were watching him, judging him. What would they think of him, this boy who didn't truly belong in this world, yet was somehow tied to its fate?
The thought was unsettling, but it was the reality he now faced. No matter how much he tried to push it away, he couldn't ignore the pull of his destiny—or whatever this was.
---
That night, Tomaru couldn't sleep. The weight of everything—the Tenseigan, the stranger's warning, the growing sense of responsibility—pressed down on him.
He lay in his bed, staring up at the ceiling, feeling the subtle thrum of chakra moving through his body. His thoughts drifted back to that mysterious figure, the one who had spoken so cryptically. What did he mean by *"You'll come to understand, in time"?*
Was there something he was supposed to do? Something he was meant to accomplish?
Finally, he closed his eyes and let out a long breath. "I don't know," he whispered to himself. "But I'll figure it out. I have to."
As sleep finally began to claim him, fragments of memories began to surface. Not from his past life, but from the body he now inhabited. Vivid images filled his mind: the Academy, training sessions, his time with Ino and the others. He saw moments of laughter, fleeting glimpses of friendship, and... loneliness.
He wasn't sure what this new life was going to bring, but one thing was clear: Tomaru was no longer just a bystander in this world. He had a part to play—whether he wanted it or not.
And something told him that the storm was just beginning.
---
### **To be continued...**