Chapter 2 - Cap 02

After a brief tour of the town, I arrived at the gates of the Ninja Academy. It was just as he remembered it from the fragments of Naruto's story: a simple but imposing building, full of students and the bustle of youth. There was a strange feeling in the air, as if I were entering a place where everything was going to begin.

Well, here we are. I muttered, adjusting my posture as I walked through the front doors.

Highly strung?. Aya appeared in my mind, her tone playful as always.

I wouldn't call it nerves. More like, curiosity.

As I walked down the hallway, I felt the gazes of several students on me. They whispered among themselves, some pointing at me in a less than discreet manner. I couldn't blame them; my white hair and appearance surely stood out.

However, something strange happened. As soon as I passed the first people, a floating icon appeared in front of me. A translucent heart that seemed to beat gently above their heads, accompanied by a bar of color. I stopped dead.

Aya...what the hell is this?

His laugh echoed in my mind, clear and mocking.

Aya: Oh, that's Harem Mode in action. Remember how I told you it would allow you to see people's emotions and levels of romantic interest? Well, now you are experiencing it.

I blinked, confused. I looked at a girl who was a couple of meters away, with brown hair and curious eyes. Above his head, the bar was green, with a slight yellow hue at the end.

And what does this mean?...ask

Aya: Green indicates friendship or neutral interest, but yellow at the end shows that she is somewhat curious about you. It could turn into something more over time, depending on how you interact with it.

This is... too much...

Aya: Oh, come on, don't tell me it's not useful. look around

I paid attention and observed the others. Some had completely green bars, which meant they were only interested in a friendly or professional way. However, upon passing a blonde-haired girl who looked a couple years older, I noticed that her bar had a slight orange tint at the end.

And this? I asked, pointing to the color.

Aya: That indicates that he has potential romantic interest in you. He was probably drawn to your appearance or something else.

This is getting weird... I asked still not believing it

Aya laughed again.

Aya: You'll get used to it. Plus, it's not just for romance. Using Harem Mode can also help you understand people's emotions, even in combat or tense situations.

I sighed deeply and focused on getting to the classroom. As I moved forward, I noticed that the bars kept appearing above everyone's heads. Most were green, but some had small shades of yellow or orange.

Finally, I arrived at my classroom. I opened the door and felt the eyes of all the students turn towards me.

It sounds like you've made a good impression. Aya commented.

I didn't answer. Instead, I turned to the professor, who gave me a brief glance before nodding.

You must be the new student. Introduce yourself to class.

I turned to face the others. I took a deep breath and said in a firm voice:

My name is Tobirama.

The class whispered upon hearing my name, and more hearts and bars began to appear above the heads of my classmates. Among them, I noticed a blonde boy with spiky hair Naruto Uzumaki and another with black hair and a cold look Sasuke Uchiha. His bars were completely green, although Naruto's seemed to fluctuate slightly.

And, in the corner, I recognized Sakura and Hinata.

Above Sakura, the bar was completely green; She clearly wasn't interested in me. However, when my eyes met Hinata's, I noticed that her bar had a soft orange hue at the end.

Aya was quick to comment:

It seems like you've already caught someone's attention.

Great... I mumbled, knowing this was only going to complicate things.

I took a seat at the back of the classroom, willing to remain discreet for now. However, one thing was clear: this new beginning was going to be more intense than he had imagined.

________________________________________

The classroom was bustling with murmurs and laughter as the teacher began to explain the basics of taijutsu.

Sitting in the back row, I tried to ignore the furtive glances some of my classmates cast my way. Although he wasn't looking directly, Harem Mode was still active, and the colored bars glowed above their heads as constant reminders.

In the corner, Naruto seemed distracted, probably thinking about something that had nothing to do with the lesson. His bar was still completely green. Sasuke, on the other hand, was focused, with his arms crossed and an expression of absolute disinterest towards everything and everyone. His bar did not show any variation either, something that did not surprise me.

But then, the classroom door burst open.

Sorry for being late! said a clear and confident voice.

I looked up, curious, and saw a girl with bright blonde hair walk in with a carefree air. I immediately recognized Ino Yamanaka. Her presence seemed to light up the atmosphere, and I couldn't help but notice that several heads turned to look at her.

Another one that stands out quite a bit. Aya commented in my mind, amused.

As soon as Ino walked past me to take a seat, Harem Mode reacted. A heart appeared above his head, and his bar was a deep yellow hue with a slight lean towards orange.

Friendship with initial interest? I asked quietly so that only Aya could hear me.

Aya: Exactly. It seems like he found you interesting right away. And considering how he likes attention, he'll probably want to know more about you, Tobirama-kun.

"Kun"? I muttered, rolling my eyes.

It's to give it a more authentic touch! Aya laughed.

Ino sat near the front row, but her attention wasn't on the class. Every once in a while, he turned his head a little to look at me, as if he were trying to analyze me. The curiosity was evident.

When class ended, the students began to gather their things. I decided to stay a little longer to avoid the tide of students leaving the classroom. That's when I noticed Ino walking towards me with a confident smile.

Ino: Hey, you're new, right? Tobirama-kun, right?

I looked up and nodded.

That's how it is.

My name is Ino. He crossed his arms, looking at me with interest. Your hair is... interesting. Are you from any clan?

Aya laughed softly in my mind.

And here we go, Tobirama-sama.

I thought quickly about my answer. He couldn't directly tell him that he was a Senju, at least not yet.

Not quite. My family was... quite reserved. I responded, choosing my words carefully.

Ino raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued, but didn't press it.

Well, I hope you get used to it quickly, Tobirama-kun. Although it won't be easy to stand out with people like Sasuke-kun around. He looked towards the Uchiha, who was leaving the classroom with his typical superior expression.

I'm not here to compete with anyone.

I said, keeping my tone neutral.

Ino smiled.

Ino: We'll see about that. Anyway, if you need anything, don't hesitate to ask.

He turned to leave, but before he could walk out the door, Aya intervened again.

You should tell him something else. Raise the bar a little.

I sighed internally, but ignored him.

Ino-san.

She stopped and looked over her shoulder.

Ino: Yes?

Thank you. It's good to know that someone is willing to help.

His eyes lit up slightly, and the bar above his head began to lean more towards orange.

Ino: Sure. See you later, Tobirama-kun.

When he came out, Aya laughed.

Aya: Not bad, Tobirama-sama. You are learning fast.

Don't start... I mumbled as I stood up.

As much as I hated to admit it, there was something interesting about Harem Mode. Not only was it helpful in understanding others, but it was also teaching me how to interact with them in a way that could be crucial in this world full of intrigue.

As I left the classroom, I knew this was just the first of many important interactions. And with the Third Hokage watching me from the shadows, I couldn't allow myself to make any mistakes.

Guided by Aya, I headed to a small clearing on the outskirts of the village.

Aya: This place is perfect, Tobirama-sama. It is away from prying eyes and will give you enough space to practice.

Perfect. It's time to find out what I'm capable of.

I stopped in the center of the clearing and took a deep breath, trying to feel the flow of chakra within me.

Aya, show me my complete state again.

The familiar translucent panel appeared in my vision:

Name: Tobirama

Age: 12 years

Clan: Senju

Appearance: Inspired by Tobirama Senju

Current Rank: Academy Student

Bloodline: Senju (Advanced regeneration, affinity with the Wood Element and the Nature Chakra)

Statistics:

•Strength: 15

•Agility: 14

•Stamina: 18

•Chakra: 22/22

•Chakra Control: 20

•Intelligence: 17

•Charisma: 16

Active Skills:

Senju Regeneration (Passive): Recovers minor wounds quickly.

Chakra Affinity (Wood): Level 1 (You can sense and manipulate nature chakra more easily).

Special System Abilities:

Harem Mode: Active (Allows you to see emotions and levels of romantic interest).

Base Skills:

Elemental Affinity: Water (Latent)

Sensory Perception (Latent)

Chakra Mastery (Basic)

Available Points: 5

Those available points… can I assign them now? I asked, crossing my arms as I examined the panel.

Aya: Of course, Tobirama-sama. They are initial rewards. You can use them to improve your attributes or unlock additional skills.

I thought for a moment, looking at my stats

My chakra control is already decent, but I want to unlock something related to my water affinity. Furthermore, that sensory perception could be useful in avoiding problems with the Hokage and other shinobi.

Aya: Good strategy. Let's assign 2 points to Elemental Affinity: Water and the other 3 to Sensory Perception.

The panel reacted, showing a blue glow as I felt a tingle run through my body. A refreshing feeling, as if I were immersed in a river, came over me.

Status Update

Elemental Affinity: Water (Latent → Basic)

Sensory Perception (Latent → Basic)

Good. How do I start practicing with these skills?

Aya responded with her usual didactic tone:

Aya: For your water affinity, try concentrating your chakra and releasing it in liquid form. Imagine that your energy flows like a river, gentle but constant.

I extended my hand, closed my eyes and tried to visualize it. At first, I didn't feel anything, but then a cold sensation began to gather in my palm. When I opened my eyes, a small sphere of water was floating there, shaky but stable.

I did it! Happy exclaimed

Aya: That's a good start, Tobirama-sama. Now try something more complex, like manipulating her.

Concentrating, I moved the sphere slowly, spreading it until it formed a small liquid whip. It was clunky and fell apart quickly, but it was working.

This will be useful in combat. I said, satisfied.

Aya: And we haven't started with the most interesting thing yet: your sensory perception.

How exactly does it work? Intrigued, he asked.

Aya: Close your eyes and extend your chakra towards the environment. Imagine that it becomes an invisible web that touches everything around you.

I obeyed, focusing on my breathing and chakra flow. Little by little, I began to feel presences around me: small animals in the forest, the rustling of leaves, even the faint chakra of some nearby villager.

Incredible... I murmur stunned.

Aya: Not bad for a beginner. However, be careful, Tobirama-sama. Experienced ninjas can hide their chakra or even use it against you if you're not prepared.

I opened my eyes and nodded. There was a lot to learn, but at least now I had a solid foundation.

Thank you, Aya. This is just the beginning.

Aya: Of course, Tobirama-sama. But remember, your real challenge is not here, but inside the village. The Third Hokage won't take his eyes off you, and you'll need to upgrade faster than you imagine.

I sighed, looking up at the sky.

I know. But if I have learned anything today it is that I can adapt. And I will do it, no matter what comes. I asked

As I returned to the village, the training I had just completed left me with a mixture of tiredness and excitement. Although he had made some progress, he knew that he was still a long way from being someone worthy of facing the threats of this world. However, an unexpected presence stopped me in my tracks.

Ohhh! You, silver-haired young man!

shouted a powerful voice, full of energy and enthusiasm.

I turned around slowly, somewhat confused, and was met with a man literally glowing with a blinding smile. He wore a tight-fitting green uniform, a ninja band around his waist, and an expression that seemed to scream "determination" in every movement.

Might Guy? I murmured, recognizing him instantly.

Might Guy: That's right, young student! I am Might Guy, the embodiment of Konoha's fiery spirit and master of taijutsu! He pointed his thumb at himself, his smile shining even brighter.

Aya immediately intervened in my mind:

Tobirama-sama, this guy is… special. Be careful what you say; could turn any word into a challenge.

I already notice it... I mentally responded while adjusting my posture.

Guy strode over, stopping right in front of me. His energy was so intense it almost made me recoil.

Might Guy: Young man, I notice great potential in you! That posture, that determined bearing! You are a diamond in the rough waiting to be polished by the fire of effort!

Thanks… I guess. I responded, trying to sound polite.

Might Guy: Don't assume, young man! Determination has no room for doubt! Tell me, what brought you to this place?

I was just training a little, trying to improve my chakra control. I answered honestly, hoping it wasn't enough to start an endless speech.

Guy seemed to ponder for a moment before nodding vigorously.

Might Guy: Training on your own shows discipline, but it's also a lonely road!

He took a step back and pointed both thumbs at himself again. Let me help you, young Tobirama-kun!

How do you know my name?

I asked, surprised.

Might Guy: Oh, I heard it at the Academy! he responded with a loud laugh. My students have also told me about you! Especially Rock Lee, who is already interested in facing you one day.

Aya intervened with a mocking tone:

It seems like you already have a small fan club, Tobirama-kun.

Don't start... I muttered, crossing my arms.

Before he could think about how to get out of this situation, Guy had already adopted a martial stance.

Might Guy: Tobirama-kun, show me your youthful spirit with a little test of strength! Nothing complicated, just a friendly exchange.

I'm not sure if this is a good idea...

Might Guy: No excuses! The path of the ninja is full of challenges, and this is the first one you will face with me!

Aya laughed internally.

Well, you can't say no. Plus, it could be a good way to measure your taijutsu.

I sighed, resigned.

Okay, but don't expect too much.

Guy smiled even wider, if that was possible, and prepared himself.

Might Guy: Don't worry, young Tobirama-kun! I just want to see how much fiery spirit you have inside!

I adopted a basic stance, remembering how little I had practiced at the Academy. Guy moved slowly at first, sizing me up, but even his basic movements were quick and precise.

I tried to dodge his first attack, a direct blow towards my shoulder, it felt like a car hitting me but I managed to keep up.

I managed to deflect his second attempt with a clumsy turn, causing him to nod approvingly.

Might Guy: Well done! You have decent reflexes for someone of your level!

That doesn't help much... I muttered, panting slightly.

I decided to try a counterattack. Remembering what I had practiced with my chakra, I focused some energy into my right arm before launching myself towards Guy. However, before my blow could even get close, he easily deflected it, pushing me back gently.

Might Guy: Impressive effort, Tobirama-kun! he exclaimed. But you still have a lot to learn.

I got up quickly, dusting myself off while he laughed with his endless energy.

Might Guy: See you soon at the Academy! And don't forget that real training only begins when you feel like you can't take it anymore!

Guy gave a thumbs up before disappearing in the blink of an eye, leaving me alone in the clearing.

Aya laughed again in my mind.

Well, that was… interesting.

I don't know if "interesting" is the right word. I said as I tried to calm my breathing.

Aya: You should be grateful. Having the attention of someone like him could help you in the future, if only because of his contagious enthusiasm.

I sighed, feeling that this day had been more exhausting than expected.

At least I survived…for now.

With that, I resumed my path toward the village, feeling that this encounter would be the first of many more unusual ones in this world.

________________________________________

Name: Tobirama

Age: 12 years

Clan: Senju

Appearance: Inspired by Tobirama Senju

Current Rank: Academy Student

Bloodline: Senju (Advanced regeneration, affinity with the Wood Element and the Nature Chakra)

Statistics:

•Strength: 15

•Agility: 14

•Stamina: 18

•Chakra: 22/22

•Chakra Control: 20

•Intelligence: 17

•Charisma: 16

Active Skills:

Senju Regeneration (Passive): Recovers minor wounds quickly.

Chakra Affinity (Wood): Level 1 (You can sense and manipulate nature chakra more easily).

Special System Abilities:

Harem Mode: Active (Allows you to see emotions and levels of romantic interest).

Base Skills:

Elemental Affinity: Water (Basic)

Sensory Perception (Basic)

Chakra Mastery (Basic)

Available Points: 00