Naruto Multiverse

Z observed Naruto for a moment longer, the hint of a smile on his otherwise stern face. "You are a very talented child, and you probably already understand the gist of the techniques. However, if there's something you're unclear about, do not hesitate to ask for help."

Naruto stood straight, speaking with a respectful tone. "Thank you, sir. I will ask if the need arises. I also want to express my gratitude for this opportunity. It means a lot to me."

Z nodded approvingly, satisfied with Naruto's humility and eagerness to learn. "Very well. You may leave now. On your way out, inform Hina to come in."

"Understood." Naruto gave a slight bow before turning and heading out of the room.

Outside, the square was still bustling with recruits discussing their scores and speculating about upcoming training. Naruto's sharp eyes immediately found Hina standing a bit apart from the others, her posture composed yet slightly distant, as if she were lost in thought. He approached her with a calm and friendly demeanor.

"Hina, you're being called," he said, his voice breaking her reverie. "Once you're done, feel free to come to my place. I think we could be good friends, and we can help each other improve."

Hina looked at him with a mixture of gratitude and curiosity. Naruto's confidence and straightforwardness stood out to her among the other recruits. "Hina will definitely visit. Hina believes you will be a great help to Hina's progress," she said sincerely.

Naruto smiled warmly. "Thanks for the vote of confidence. Also, for what it's worth, I think your voice is really cute."

The unexpected compliment caught Hina off guard, and a faint blush crept onto her cheeks. She quickly composed herself, shaking her head slightly to dispel the distracting thoughts. "Thank you, Menma," she said softly, before heading toward the room where Z was waiting.

Naruto, meanwhile, turned his attention to another target: Drake. The tall, imposing figure stood surrounded by a few recruits, but his sharp gaze shifted to Naruto as the latter approached.

"What do you want, Menma?" Drake asked, his tone laced with mild annoyance.

Naruto didn't flinch. His expression remained friendly, but there was a spark of challenge in his eyes. "I was thinking we should work together. You're strong, I'm strong, but together we could be even better."

Drake snorted, crossing his arms. "Not interested. You haven't proven you're stronger than me. All you've shown is that you're a better hunter. When it's time for a one-on-one fight, then we'll see who's better."

Naruto grinned, unfazed by Drake's dismissive attitude. "Why wait that long? Let's settle it next month. That gives us both time to learn new skills. When we fight, we can show everyone who's really better overall."

Drake's expression shifted, his sharp teeth showing in a wide, wolfish grin. "Sounds like a challenge, Menma. Don't regret this day, because when the time comes, I'll give you a beating you won't forget."

Naruto chuckled, the excitement of the confrontation clear in his voice. "Haha, we'll see, won't we?" With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Drake and the surrounding recruits buzzing with energy.

Drake watched Naruto's retreating figure, muttering under his breath, "That bastard's crazy, but I like it." He sat down, arms resting on his knees, his mind already planning for the upcoming fight.

The nearby recruits, who had overheard the entire exchange, were abuzz with excitement. The challenge between the top contenders spread like wildfire among the Marine recruits. Conversations erupted, ranging from speculations about the fight to outright bets.

"Who do you think will win?"

"Drake, obviously. He's been the strongest since day one."

"But Menma came out of nowhere, and he beat a Level 5 monster. He might surprise us."

"No way. Drake's got more experience. Menma's just a showoff."

As the day wore on, the atmosphere in the camp shifted. The challenge between Naruto and Drake became the talk of the training grounds, with everyone eagerly anticipating the clash between two of the strongest recruits. It was no longer just about strength—it was about pride, reputation, and the unrelenting desire to be the best.

Naruto walked leisurely back to his courtyard, his mind filled with thoughts about the new techniques he had been introduced to. His initial grasp of Haki felt almost natural. Observation Haki reminded him of his chakra sensing abilities combined with Sage sensing. Armament Haki felt akin to chakra reinforcement, a skill he had mastered to the point of instinct. Conqueror's Haki, on the other hand, felt reminiscent of his killer intent amplified through chakra, though it carried a distinct and overwhelming weight.

Even with his familiarity, he knew that refining these techniques would take significant effort. "It's not just about knowing—it's about mastering," he mused.

The Rokushiki techniques, however, were an entirely different beast. They demanded exceptional physical conditioning. Naruto couldn't help but think of Might Guy and his taijutsu, the physical intensity of which mirrored the demands of the Marine martial art. While most techniques seemed manageable, Paper Arts left him perplexed.

"How do you make your body move like paper? Their anatomy must be weird," Naruto muttered, scratching his head in frustration. "Whatever, I'll focus on the others first. Maybe the understanding will come with time."

Naruto planned his training methodically. "Haki doesn't drain physical energy, so I'll do that after physical training. For now, let's start with Soru."

He took his position and kicked off the ground with explosive force. The ground cracked beneath him as he blurred across the courtyard. His body came to an abrupt stop just before colliding with the wall.

"Not good," he muttered, inspecting the cracks on the ground. "The power's scattered, and the effect's weaker than it should be. But this is great for strengthening my legs."

Naruto threw himself into hours of Soru practice. Each attempt pushed his legs to their limits, the courtyard becoming a battlefield of fractures and craters. Eventually, his legs gave out, and he collapsed onto the ground, sweat pouring from his body.

"Man, the courtyard's a mess. Guess I'll fix it later. But we're not done yet," he muttered.

He sat with his legs stretched out and closed his eyes. Tuning out the physical world, Naruto focused inward, searching for the familiar sensation of his senses extending outward. Time ticked by as he meditated, sinking deeper into the stillness. Finally, he began to feel the presence of birds perched on trees in the courtyard.

"Good," he thought, a sense of satisfaction washing over him. "At least I can replicate something I did all the time. Now to build it into something truly powerful."

Dragging himself to the medicine closet, Naruto retrieved a jar of green liquid. He rubbed the medicinal salve over his hands, then shuffled toward the metal training poles installed in the courtyard.

"Time for Shigan practice," he muttered, determination etched across his face.

Despite his exhausted legs, he began driving his fingers into the pole with as much strength as his position allowed. Each strike sent stinging pain shooting through his fingers, his bones creaking under the strain. He pushed through, repeating the motion until his fingers turned red and fractures began to form.

"Ah, damn, this hurts like hell," Naruto hissed through clenched teeth, his face twisted in a wicked grin. "But it's worth it. Wonder if Hina would try this."

Hours later, his fingers completely broken, Naruto dragged himself to the bath. He had prepared it earlier, filling it with medicinal water to aid recovery. Removing his clothes, revealing weighted training gear underneath, he eased himself into the tub.

"Man, seals were so much more convenient," he muttered. "Now I have to waste money and time just to train with weights. Still, it's worth it. By the end of the year, I'll be as strong as I was at fourteen—except for my speed."

Sinking into the warm medicinal bath, Naruto closed his eyes and drifted off to sleep. While he rested, his body repaired itself, growing stronger and adapting to the abuse. When he awoke four hours later, he felt refreshed, his body healed completely.

After cleaning himself up and changing into fresh clothes, Naruto ate a quick meal of military rations. He didn't bother with cooking; his focus was on his training.

Next, he meditated again, refining his Observation Haki. Slowly, he began training Armament Haki, starting small by imagining chakra-like energy enveloping his finger. It took time, but his spirit, accustomed to such control, guided him. Soon, his entire arm was covered in Armament Haki.

"Success," he thought, grinning. "But how strong is it? That'll take some testing."

Before he could delve further, a knock sounded at his door.

Naruto stood, brushing off his clothes. "Who could that be?" he muttered, heading toward the entrance.

Naruto was in the middle of stretching his arms, preparing for another bout of training, when a knock at the door interrupted him.

"Naruto, it's me, Hina."

He blinked in surprise at the unexpected visit. Straightening up, he walked to the door and opened it, revealing an excited Hina. She stood there, a slight flush on her cheeks, clearly eager about something.

Gesturing for her to enter, Naruto stepped aside. Hina waltzed in with a confidence that belied her earlier flustered tone. They settled opposite each other in his room, sitting on floor cushions with a low table between them. On the table sat a small pot of herbal tea, its warm aroma filling the room.

Naruto leaned back slightly, resting one arm on his knee. "So, what's up, Hina? Not that I don't appreciate your company, but this is a bit sudden."

Hina crossed her arms and gave him an exasperated look. "Do not misunderstand. Hina came because you left so quickly without hearing the announcement. Tomorrow, we will be leaving for the Elite Section." She paused for emphasis, her voice serious. "Hina didn't want you to make a bad impression on the instructors, so Hina came at once. You may thank Hina for Hina's kindness."

Naruto smirked at her formal tone, leaning forward slightly. "Thanks, Hina. You really saved me there. But tell me something important—how much of what Z showed and explained did you actually understand?"

Hina's confident expression faltered slightly. She frowned, her tone more subdued as she replied, "Hina expected much but came up short on understanding. Hina may need more explanations and examples." She straightened, regaining her composure. "What about you?"

Naruto chuckled, leaning back again. "I'm doing all right, actually. And like I said before, I can help you out." His smirk turned mischievous, and he leaned forward dramatically, resting his chin on his hand. "Become mine, Hina."

Hina froze, her cheeks turning a noticeable shade of pink. "Awawa, Hina thinks that is too fast, so Hina shall decline," she stammered, waving her hands in front of her. Trying to recover, she added, "As for the help you offered, Hina shall accept gratefully."

Naruto laughed at her reaction, leaning back with an amused grin. "Well, that's good to hear. I'm glad you're willing to take my help. But for now, I need to rest. See you tomorrow, Hina."

Hina stood up, smoothing her uniform before extending her hand. Naruto reached out and shook it, her grip firm despite the faint embarrassment lingering on her face. "The drink was nice, Naruto," she said softly. "Hina hopes to see you tomorrow. Good night."

"Good night," Naruto replied with a nod.

Hina turned and left, her footsteps fading down the hall. Naruto watched the door for a moment before exhaling deeply and stretching again. "She's something else," he muttered with a small smile.

Shaking off the day's events, Naruto decided it was time to rest. Tomorrow promised to be another step in his journey, and he wanted to be ready. He slid onto his futon, his thoughts drifting as sleep quickly claimed him.

The next morning, the training grounds buzzed with anticipation as the recruits gathered in formation. Z stood at the front, his imposing figure casting a long shadow over the assembled trainees. His gaze swept over them, his expression as stern as ever.

"Listen up," Z began, his voice carrying authority. "The following recruits have shown the aptitude and potential necessary to join the elite camp. I'll read your names now. Step forward when called."

The recruits held their breath as Z began listing the names.

"Hina."

"Drake."

"Menma."

One by one, he called out a total of fifteen names. Each recruit who stepped forward wore a mixture of pride and determination, their peers watching with expressions ranging from admiration to envy.

Naruto, standing among the chosen, couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. He glanced at Hina, who stood with her usual composed demeanor, though her eyes sparkled with ambition. Behind him, Drake smirked confidently, clearly pleased with himself.

Once the list was complete, Z addressed the chosen recruits. "Those whose names I've called, you've earned your place in the elite camp. You'll be training under my direct supervision, and I'll accept nothing less than your very best. Now, follow me."

As the group began to move, Naruto felt the weight of the envious stares from those left behind. The remaining recruits muttered among themselves, their voices a mixture of admiration and bitterness.

"Man, I can't believe Menma made it. Is he really that good?"

"Hina, sure, but Drake? He's just a brute."

"I wish I was on that list... training under Z is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

The instructors soon dispersed the crowd, leaving the chosen recruits to follow Z. The fifteen of them walked in disciplined silence, though the energy in the group was palpable.

As they left the familiar training grounds, Naruto couldn't help but notice the change in atmosphere. The path ahead led to a completely separate section of the camp, secluded and far more imposing.

The fifteen recruits followed Z with disciplined steps, their eyes widening slightly as they ascended into the massive fortress of Marineford. The fortress exuded an air of authority and power, its grandeur reflecting its importance as the central hub of the Marines.

At the very top of the fortress was where the Fleet Admiral and the Admirals resided, along with the highest-level conference rooms used for critical decisions. Naruto found himself glancing up instinctively, aware that those who occupied those lofty positions were among the strongest individuals in the world.

Z led them downwards, bypassing the intelligence offices and administrative areas, until they reached the second floor—the heart of the elite camp. This floor housed Z's office and the renowned elite training grounds. The corridors leading to the training hall were lined with intricate carvings of Marine insignias, a silent reminder of the institution's storied history.

As they walked, every Marine officer they passed saluted Z with unwavering respect. His presence commanded authority, and even the air seemed to grow heavier in his vicinity.

Finally, the group arrived at the wide hall that marked the elite training grounds. As Z stepped inside, all activity ceased. The elite camp recruits, who had been immersed in high-intensity sparring and drills, immediately stopped what they were doing and snapped into crisp salutes.

"Teacher Z!" they chorused, their voices echoing in unison.

Naruto's gaze swept across the hall, taking in the advanced training equipment, the meticulously marked sparring arenas, and the recruits themselves. These Marines were different—every movement they made exuded discipline and strength.

Naruto's eyes narrowed with interest as his attention was drawn to a particular recruit—Smoker. The young Marine with his signature cigar and logia Devil Fruit power stood out, his confidence and aura marking him as a formidable opponent.

As Naruto observed, he noticed the elite recruits were also sizing them up. The air was filled with quiet murmurs as the current elites analyzed the newcomers.

"Newbies, huh?" one said with a smirk.

"Fresh meat for sparring."

"Finally, I won't be the weakest anymore!" another chuckled, a hint of relief in their voice.

One recruit leaned against a wall, arms crossed, and smiled knowingly. "Don't get cocky. I've heard about this Drake guy. Supposedly, he's a powerhouse. Some of us might have trouble against him."

The comment drew laughter from others. "A newcomer? Trouble for us? You've gotta be kidding. Maybe if all fifteen of them team up, they might stand a chance."

Naruto exchanged a glance with Drake, who gave him a confident smirk. The quiet hum of the new recruits' energy was starting to merge with the challenge-filled stares of the elite camp members, setting the stage for inevitable clashes.

Z raised a hand, silencing the murmurs. His voice cut through the room like a blade. "These fifteen recruits have earned their place here. They'll train under me alongside the rest of you. Underestimate them at your own peril."

The hall fell into a tense silence. The elite recruits straightened their backs, the subtle challenge in Z's words wiping away any lingering smugness.

Naruto felt a grin tugging at his lips. The atmosphere was charged, and he could already tell this was going to be a place where he could push himself to the limit.

Z's commanding presence filled the hall as he addressed the new recruits. He gestured to a side corridor leading to the quarters.

"Here is where all of you will stay. Your belongings have already been transferred, and from now on, you will address me as Teacher Z," he announced, his voice firm but carrying a tone of mentorship.

The elite recruits saluted once more before Z nodded toward them, signaling for them to resume their training. The veterans returned to their sparring and drills with renewed intensity, their movements precise and filled with purpose.

Turning his attention back to Naruto and the others, Z's expression grew serious.

"The elite camp is fundamentally different from the ordinary camp," he began. "Here, you are no longer just recruits—you are the elite of the Marines. Though you still hold the title of recruit, you have officially graduated from the Marine Academy."

A ripple of pride and anticipation spread through the group, but Z's next words quickly sobered them.

"This camp isn't just about training. You will undergo my special regimens, but you will also participate in real combat missions. These aren't mere training exercises or assessments—they are real battles against pirates."

The weight of his words settled heavily on their shoulders. For the first time, the reality of their roles in the Marines hit home. These missions wouldn't be controlled scenarios; they would face life-and-death situations.

After a moment of silence to let the gravity of his words sink in, Z's tone softened slightly as he delved into the details.

"The elite camp has distinct graduation rules compared to the ordinary camp," he explained. "To graduate, you must apply for it. Upon application, you will face an assessment. If your strength meets the standards of an Ensign, you will graduate and receive your rank. However, your performance in the assessment determines your rank. Perform poorly, and you will become an Ensign. Excel, and you could achieve a higher rank, with Lieutenant Commander being the highest for new graduates."

He paused, his eyes scanning the group.

"When you apply for graduation is up to you. However, you cannot remain here for more than three years. If you fail to apply or do not pass the assessment within that time, you will be forced to graduate as an ordinary soldier with no rank."

The recruits exchanged glances, the weight of Z's words unmistakable.

Z straightened, his voice dropping to a quieter, almost solemn tone. "However, in the history of my elite camp, no recruit has ever left as an ordinary soldier or even as an Ensign. Each of them rose to meet the challenge, and I expect no less from any of you."

His gaze lingered on each of them, his piercing eyes conveying both a challenge and an unspoken promise of guidance. "I hope none of you will tarnish that record. Prove yourselves worthy."

Naruto clenched his fists, excitement and determination burning in his eyes. He could feel the charged atmosphere in the room. This was the proving ground he had been waiting for, and he silently vowed to rise above every expectation.