Under Tsunade's guidance, Kushina Uzumaki spent an entire day exploring the vibrant streets of Konoha. Meanwhile, the Third Hokage had finalized her enrollment in the prestigious Ninja Academy.
At Konoha's Ninja Academy, students were divided into four grades: A, B, C, and D. Class A, the top tier, consisted of the most talented children, whether due to their lineage or exceptional abilities. While the academy was open to everyone, the opportunities offered to students often reflected the inherent disparity between those from noble ninja families and civilian students.
As a member of the Uzumaki clan, Kushina was placed directly into Class A by the Third Hokage. This strategic decision wasn't merely an acknowledgment of her heritage—it was part of the Hokage's plan to integrate her into the ninja community, fostering bonds with other children of prominent families and exceptional civilians. After all, as a future Jinchuriki, she would need strong ties to Konoha's elite.
In Class A, most students hailed from ancient ninja clans, their backgrounds rooted in Konoha's history. The few civilians admitted to this class were extraordinary talents, destined to achieve at least Chunin rank—an impressive status for ordinary ninja families. For Konoha's civilian population, even reaching the Chunin level was a prestigious accomplishment.
Back at Uzumaki Mito's estate, Raiden was busy contemplating his future while nursing. Despite his infantile limitations, he understood the harsh realities of the world he now inhabited. As Kushina's younger brother, he felt a responsibility to grow stronger—not just for himself but for his sister, too.
Raiden knew from the timeline he recalled that Kushina's life would face grave dangers. By the time Naruto was born, and Kushina's tragic fate unfolded, Raiden would be in his teens. He vowed to obtain the strength necessary to change the future before then.
"Luckily, I've been given time," Raiden thought. "I can grow, learn, and prepare to face whatever comes. If I plan carefully, I might be able to alter the course of events."
From what he could piece together, the world was in a fragile peace following the First Ninja World War. Though tensions simmered, Konoha had emerged as a dominant force under Sarutobi Hiruzen, bolstered by Uzumaki Mito's immense power. However, Raiden knew that Mito's eventual passing would trigger a cascade of events, leading to the Second Ninja World War.
Understanding the stakes, Raiden set a small, immediate goal: to wean himself off milk and prepare for solid food. "This is the first step to independence," he thought wryly. "Also, I'm honestly getting tired of this same flavor…"
Meanwhile, Kushina was thriving in the academy. A week after her enrollment, she earned the nickname "Head Sister of the Academy." Her fiery temper and iron fists ensured that any child who mocked her distinctive red hair or her origins learned a swift and painful lesson.
When parents complained to the Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen skillfully calmed their anger, offering assurances and apologies. Despite the complaints, Kushina faced no real consequences. At home, she was warmly comforted by Mito and Tsunade, who praised her resilience.
Raiden, observing this, realized just how deeply connected their family was within Konoha. "If my sister can get away with fighting kids at school without punishment, we're clearly untouchable," he thought.
Two years passed quickly.
By this time, Raiden had achieved several milestones. He had successfully weaned himself off milk, learned to walk proficiently, and even mastered basic speech to express his needs. The simple joy of not needing diapers anymore was a victory in itself.
His chakra had also grown exponentially. Though still a child, Raiden's natural talent allowed him to manipulate chakra with ease, something most ninjas took years to master. His innate abilities, coupled with the steady nurturing environment provided by Mito, laid a strong foundation for his future growth.
Meanwhile, Kushina continued to flourish at the academy, balancing her training with her role as a self-proclaimed protector of justice. Despite her fiery temperament, she found joy in her daily life and built strong connections with her classmates—even those she occasionally disciplined with her fists.
For Raiden, the simple pleasures of early childhood—learning, growing, and laughing with family—were a source of happiness. Despite the shadow of impending challenges, he remained optimistic about the future, determined to carve his own path in this new world.
(End of Chapter)
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