Chapter 175: A Welcoming Suprise
Disclaimer:
Naruto and all its characters belong to Shueisha and Masashi Kishimoto. I own nothing but the original characters I create.
"Dialogue"
'Thoughts'
-Author notes-
Chapter 175: A Welcoming Suprise
"You're offering me a promotion already?" Naruto asked, surprised. He had intended to inquire about it but didn't expect her to offer it outright.
"Don't I need to pass an exam or some other kind of test?"
"Promotions to Jonin work very differently, Naruto," Shizune explained. "Every year, the Hokage and the ninja council can choose a few promising Chunin and give them the opportunity to be promoted."
"You've already been a Chunin for two years," Tsunade added, "and during that time, you've completed several high-ranking missions for us. Normally, a ninja of that rank would need a bit more field experience before being promoted, but considering the difficulty of the missions you and Jiraiya have undertaken, I can make an exception for you."
"I see," Naruto said, nodding. This would save him some trouble so he had no reason to complain.
Tsunade raised a hand. "However… considering you've spent the last two years away from the village, I expect those old fools on the council to complain a little. They may request a short practical exam before making the promotion official."
"What kind of exam?" Naruto asked.
"A sparring match against a veteran Jonin. Just to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills for the new position. I'm sure that won't be a problem, but I want you to keep it in mind so it doesn't come as a surprise." Tsunade replied.
"I'm fine with that," Naruto said nonchalantly. Having a match against an average Jonin at this point would not pose any issue for him.
"Good. That's the confidence I expect from you. So, do I take it you accept the promotion?" Tsunade asked.
"Becoming a Jonin also comes with more responsibilities, Naruto," Shizune warned him. "You'll often be required to leave the village for dangerous missions."
Naruto didn't mind that.
Tsunade handed him a small card. "Here's your new identification as a Jonin , and that's your official uniform...though I'm sure you won't wear it." It was clear to her that Naruto didn't have much appreciation for the typical ninja attire and preferred loser clothing that offered no protection.
"What about access to the restricted section of the Hokage Library?" Naruto asked. There was a particular scroll he'd been meaning to read.
Tsunade didn't seem surprised by the question, as if she'd expected it.
"Yes, all Jonin are given limited access to the restricted section. Come back tomorrow, and I'll have the permit ready for you."
"Is there anything else I need to know?" Naruto asked.
Tsunade seemed to consider it for a moment. "Go rest. I'm sure you're tired. If something comes up, I'll call for you."
Naruto noticed her hesitation as if there was something else she wanted to say. But ultimately, she kept silent, so he stood up and left the office.
The Hokage remained silent for a good minute after being left alone with Shizune.
"Tsunade… you didn't tell him abou—"
"I know…" Concern flashed across her face. "If we're lucky, nothing will come of it. I know the old man… he likes to throw around empty threats."
Shizune frowned. "I understand you didn't want to worry Naruto, but if he's going to be working outside the village, he has to—"
"I know. I'll tell him before his next mission," Tsunade insisted.
Shizune knew how much Tsunade had been worrying about this matter. It was the main reason she wanted to avoid conflicts with the Cloud Village and the Raikage.
There was a soft knock on the door.
"Lady Hokage, Elder Koharu is here to see you."
"Tsk! They wasted no time coming here…" Tsunade had anticipated this visit.
Not only to talk about Naruto's return but also because of Gaara's third attempt to escape. The fact that Koharu had come alone likely meant she was there to announce an official meeting later.
"Come in…" Tsunade sighed. This was going to be a long night.
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Naruto walked through the streets of Konoha at a leisurely pace.
He felt a bit of excitement at the thought of finally completing the jutsu left behind by his father.
Since he only had half of it, there was no point in trying to learn it earlier. But he was sure the other half was in the restricted section.
As the Fourth Hokage, Minato had the authority to store important jutsu there, so it made sense he would choose that location after splitting the Flying Thunder God Technique into two parts.
There was another forbidden jutsu Naruto had been meaning to learn...something he would eventually need to complete his journey. Now seemed like the perfect opportunity to acquire it.
'Mmm…' Naruto noted a lot of eyes on him as he passed through the busy commercial district.
It was already getting dark, and most civilians were finishing their shopping before heading home.
This was the shortest route to his apartment, although he used to travel across the rooftops to avoid being seen by civilians.
Their glances used to be loaded with disdain, but now he sensed something else: respect, wariness… and some fear.
Naruto wasn't sure if it was because they didn't recognize him or because they'd realized he could crush them with one finger if they tried anything.
Regardless, he continued walking as civilians hurried to get out of his way, and eventually, he arrived at the dark street leading to his apartment.
This part of Konoha hadn't changed one bit and was still as neglected as ever.
At least it was quiet, and that's all he cared about.
'Oh…' Naruto stopped for a moment before his apartment door.
Someone was inside. They were not trying to conceal their presence, and he could sense it clearly.
He opened the door to find the living room dimly lit by candles.
Someone was kneeling by the entrance.
"Hinata… what… what are you wearing?" He had already sensed it was her but wasn't prepared for her attire.
She was wearing an apron… and nothing else.
"Welcome home!" she said with a warm smile. "Would you like a bath… some dinner? Or perhaps…me?"
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