Naruto: The Sarutobi Who Can't Spark

After ten months of sparring in the Academy, Kaiyo labeled the students' ranking.

1. Raijin Sarutobi: 39 – 0 – 0

2. Kageyuki Uchiha: 33 – 1 – 3

3. Satoru Takahashi: 33 – 1 – 3

4. Inaki Uchiha: 32 – 0 – 5

5. Meiko Hyuga: 31 – 1 – 5

6. Yuuto Aburame: 30 – 2 – 5

7. …, …, …

10. Taro Inuzuka: 29 – 2 – 6

11. …, …,

Kaiyo assessed his students' abilities through a comprehensive ranking system based on their sparring performance, tracking wins, losses, draws, and match duration. This methodology allowed him to evaluate their skills, create balanced matchups, and support their development.

Despite Satoru and Kageyuki's impressive records, marred only by two losses and one draw against each other, Raijin consistently ranked above them having defeated both, while participating in the highest number of sparring matches.

In their second year, Satoru and Kageyuki had earned reputations as prodigies, attracting rivals among their peers who were determined to surpass them. Meanwhile, Raijin's accomplishments went largely unnoticed, as he ended his matches quickly and efficiently.

While the class revered Satoru and Kageyuki, only a few recognized Raijin as the strongest student. Observing his performance, Kaiyo wondered, "What intense training regimen is the Sarutobi Clan putting this child through?"

Over the past four months, something had troubled Kaiyo about Raijin's behavior. The boy's fighting style had grown increasingly aggressive, with attacks becoming more lethal and powerful. It seemed he struggled to maintain a gentle approach rather than trying to amplify his strength.

Though Kaiyo maintained unofficial records of Raijin's matches against Yuuto and Satoru—through both covert observation and Satoru's accounts—he still couldn't fully comprehend the extent of the boy's capabilities.

Raijin demonstrated exceptional prowess in both Shurikenjutsu and Taijutsu for his age. His academic performance was equally impressive, as he routinely solved problems intended for advanced students.

During one assessment, Kaiyo challenged the class with upper-level questions to gauge their abilities. While all students struggled, Raijin excelled, scoring in the 90s.

Two years have almost passed since Satoru and the others enrolled in the academy, and Raijin has far exceeded Kaiyo's expectations, leaving him astonished by the boy's abilities. Yet to Kaiyo's frustration, Raijin had been absent for an entire month; straight.

Although Raijin's readiness for early graduation was clear, Kaiyo had yet to submit his application. He intended to do so only after discussing the matter with both Raijin and his Guardian.

***

At 7:50 AM, Raijin remained focused on his electrical setup in the storeroom. Glancing at the wall clock, he created four shadow clones, each with specific tasks: one to monitor voltage output, another to attend the Academy, and two for Kenjutsu training at the grounds.

This arrangement had become routine. The Academy-bound clone efficiently packed the necessary materials, undeterred by possessing only one-fifth of Raijin's chakra. Its reserves were more than sufficient to maintain form throughout the school day.

The remaining two clones received their orders with silent nods before heading to the training grounds for sword practice. Raijin had learned that dividing his attention this way maximized his productivity.

The academy clone set off through the bustling morning streets of Konoha, seamlessly blending in with other students making their way to class. This had become a well-practiced routine over the past months, allowing Raijin to pursue his training while maintaining 'the academic responsibilities' that Kaiyo had nagged him about.

The morning proceeded as usual, with the clone sitting through lectures. However, the classroom's atmosphere shifted dramatically when Kaiyo announced, "Today, we'll have a Shurikenjutsu test."

A wave of anxiety rippled through the classroom. Students exchanged nervous glances, some quickly trying to review throwing techniques in their minds. The clone, however, maintained its composure.

Kaiyo led the class to the training ground, where eight training dummies were arranged in a complex pattern. Each target bore clear markings indicating vital points, and a designated route had been marked for students to follow during their demonstration.

"Raijin Sarutobi," Kaiyo called first, his voice carrying across the quiet training ground.

For the first time, Raijin was the first to proceed with anything. He proceeded to the ground and began taking a stance with some kunai in his hands. There were eight targets, and a designated route designed to help him track and hit the targets' marked vital points with precision. The route was intended to guide students in executing the task flawlessly. But today, Raijin had something different in mind.

Raijin stepped forward, the multiple Kunai/s perfectly balanced in his hands. Normally, students wouldn't pay much attention to his attempts, but today, they were curious to see how high the bar would be set for their attempts.

Eight targets, each requiring precise timing and accuracy, stood before him. The clone had already calculated trajectories and throwing angles, factoring in the morning breeze and the weight of each kunai.

The specified route wound between the targets required students to throw from various angles and distances. It tested not only accuracy but also the ability to maintain precision while in motion. Raijin's fingers tightened slightly around the multiple kunai in his hand, and with a swift motion, he launched one straight at the farthest target, hitting the marked vital point dead center.

Everybody gasped. Yuuto and Satoru watched intently, surprised by this unexpected display.

Raijin stood idly on the place. Without hesitation, he hurled another kunai, this time aimed at one of the nearest targets.

With six remaining targets, the route required students to move between them. But Raijin stood at the same place as he threw two kunai in quick succession, slightly off from each other but parallel, their paths crossing with deadly precision. The third kunai followed, faster than the first two, and sailed past them with a sharp whoosh, creating a flash of sparks as it grazed the others. One kunai struck the left target, while the other found its mark on the right.

In the blink of an eye, Raijin threw another, altering the trajectory of the third kunai mid-flight. Both projectiles hit their intended targets with flawless precision.

Satoru's jaw dropped in disbelief, and even Kaiyo looked surprised. Awestruck, the students began to see Raijin in a new light. The children from prominent clans exchanged uncertain glances.

With only two targets left, Raijin showed no sign of slowing down. He threw one kunai high into the air, and it soared straight into its target. Without missing a beat, he sprinted through the route, hitting the final target with a swift, perfect throw.

Everyone had expected a flashy, dramatic finish, but instead, Raijin's precision and efficiency stunned them. He ran the route with purpose, pinpointing the target with quiet confidence. The students, initially disappointed by the lack of theatrics, soon murmured amongst themselves, gazing at Raijin with newfound respect and awe.

Raijin walked over to Satoru and Yuuto and casually sat on the ground.

Satoru raised an eyebrow. "Well, showing off today, aren't we?"

Raijin smirked at both of them and replied, "Surpass me if you can..."

…

Kaiyo sat at his desk reviewing the Shurikenjutsu test scores. His pen lingered over Raijin's perfect 100 – a flawless performance that stood apart from the rest of the class.

"All right, everyone," he announced, rising from his desk. "Here are your scores from today's shuriken practice." The students' reactions followed predictable patterns: pride at improvement, and disappointment at mediocrity. When Raijin's perfect score was announced, light murmurs and whispers spread through the classroom.

"Take your break, everyone," Kaiyo said, then added, "Raijin, please stay behind."

As students filed out, casting curious glances over their shoulders, Kaiyo studied the boy before him. Raijin's demeanor was unnaturally composed – lacking even a hint of the natural nervousness or pride one might expect. He was calm— just too calm.

"Raijin," Kaiyo began once they were alone, "how about a spar?"

The change was subtle but immediate. A flicker of something – concern maybe anticipation – crossed Raijin's face before it settled back into his usual composure. After a long moment of silence, he offered a slight nod.

"Instructor," Raijin spoke up, his voice carefully measured, "Can I use Jutsu?"

Kaiyo smiled. A third-year Academy student requesting permission for Jutsu in a spar was unusual, even knowing from Satoru that Raijin could perform Jutsus. "Yes, sure... Use whatever means necessary."

Kaiyo watched the boy step into the sparring ring, his small frame tense but his eyes steady. Eight Years of Age. Raijin's presence conveyed an unsettling mix of confidence and reluctance.

"Ready?" Kaiyo asked, maintaining a neutral tone, hiding his curiosity. He must balance the need to assess without intimidation. He just wanted to gauge the true extent of Raijin's capabilities.

Raijin gave him a sharp nod, crouching slightly into a basic stance. Kaiyo has never seen him take a basic stance – a departure from his usual style during sparring sessions. Nothing too fancy, but his footing was solid. At least he knew the fundamentals.

Kaiyo stepped forward, making a deliberate move, slow enough to give Raijin time to react fast enough to test his instincts. Raijin didn't even flinch or overreact.

Good.

Raijin's eyes tracked his movement carefully, and at the last moment, he shifted his weight and slid out of range with a well-timed dodge. Fluid and quick.

Interesting.

"Not Bad," Kaiyo muttered, deciding to intensify the exchange. He cleared the distance and launched a series of low-to-mid strikes, nothing dangerous, just enough to keep him on edge.

To Kaiyo's surprise, Raijin didn't panic. He blocked what he could and dodged others. He even managed a counterstrike aimed at Kaiyo's ribs. Kaiyo parried it easily but the fact that he tried, and the attack carried quite a weight, was impressive.

Kaiyo pushed harder, testing his endurance. A flurry of feints and quick jabs followed, and while Raijin didn't block everything, he recovered quickly from each hit he took. Raijin's breathing was steady, his eyes focused, and he had no wasted movements. No unnecessary reactions, he was analyzing.

Then something changed. His stance shifted slightly, weight shifting to his back foot, hands loosening. He was preparing something. A trap? A counter? A Jutsu? Kaiyo didn't have time to find out.

Kaiyo heard a humming and crackling sound from behind Raijin. Just then, a barrage of lightning was directed towards him. The wave was bluish-white, and the loose lightning danced ethereally with no control, yet they targeted Kaiyo and his surroundings.

'Elemental Ninjutsu?', Kaiyo muttered and tried to leap into the sky, but he noticed Raijin darting in the possible escape. Kaiyo ran towards the opposite edge of the circle through the small opening of his lightning barrage.

He noticed Kaiyo and went around, charging forward aiming a strike at Kaiyo's shoulder. Kaiyo sidestepped and followed through with a low sweep aimed at Raijin's legs.

Kaiyo barely avoided it by jumping back, as he landed, he saw the faintest smirk on Raijin's face.

A few shuriken, crackling with lightning, whizzed through the air, heading straight for Kaiyo's face. He quickly pulled out his kunai, deflecting them swiftly—but they were heavier, a lot heavier than he had expected. The speed of the shuriken was also unnervingly fast and his kunai barely made contact in time. Had he hesitated for even a moment, the outcome might have been much worse.

Kaiyo's eyes narrowed. He hadn't underestimated his student, but this? This was something else. Raijin had the instincts of a seasoned shinobi, as well as the raw strength to back it up. His composure and precision were remarkable.

Kaiyo's mind was already working, and he was planning his next move. He couldn't let this drag on for too long. With a burst of speed, he closed the distance in a blink and tapped Raijin's shoulder—only for Raijin to dissipate into a puff of smoke.

His heart skipped a beat.

Confusion set in as Kaiyo took a cautious step back, scanning the area, searching Raijin, predicting the places for him to lunge or attack him.

Then, like a sudden jolt, it hit him.

Shadow Clone

Raijin had used a Shadow Clone to fight him, and from what he'd just seen, the clone had the strength and instincts of a seasoned shinobi. An academy student, with solid Taijutsu and elemental Ninjutsu, capable enough to go head-to-head with a Chūnin, all while using a simple Shadow Clone Jutsu.

It didn't add up. Well, it's more like it was embarrassing.

Why is he still at the Academy? Kaiyo thought, brushing the dust off his clothes. He wasn't sure whether to be impressed or frustrated.

But in the end, frustration won out. He was frustrated by the fact that a Chūnin Instructor had just endured a challenging spar with nothing more than a mere Shadow Clone of an Academy student.

***

Later that day, Kaiyo found himself standing before Sarutobi Clan Elder, Haruko Sarutobi's door who is Raijin's guardian. She greeted him warmly, her demeanor reassuring as she spoke positively about Raijin's progress. Her approval for Raijin's early graduation made the entire process smoother.

With Haruko's approval and Raijin's agreement, all Kaiyo needed to do was report and apply for Raijin's graduation to the Hokage.

And compile the necessary documentation and report of Raijin's achievement. But that was the tricky part.

The facts themselves were peculiar enough. Before even entering the Academy, Raijin had demonstrated the Clone Jutsu to Satoru – a technique most students struggled to master even in their final year. Then there was the incident with the advanced test, where Raijin had solved problems that would challenge even graduated Genin. But it was that sparring session that truly haunted Kaiyo's thoughts – how a single clone had pushed him, a Chūnin instructor, to his limits.

The Academy's report wouldn't truly stand out, save for one thing: the test Raijin had passed where questions were for last year's student. Still, the academy records would reflect little more than above-average performance, at least on paper.

The scores of Satoru and Kageyuki were just as impressive. It was difficult to convey Raijin's true potential when the paperwork didn't even begin to scratch the surface.

"I hope Lord Hokage already knows about his abilities," Kaiyo muttered as he made his way to Raijin's home.

As he walked, Kaiyo's thoughts drifted back to the Third Shinobi War. He had never been truly involved in the thick of it—not in the way Minato had. His experience had been more about supporting the frontlines, overwhelming enemies with numbers rather than strategy. He had never truly fought alongside Minato, not in the way he spoke.

Kaiyo sighed deeply, pushing those thoughts aside as he reached his destination and rang the doorbell. The door opened quickly, revealing a brown-eyed boy with black hair tied back in a neat ponytail, a wooden sword clutched in his hands.

"Raijin..." Kaiyo said, his voice low.

The boy's eyes widened in panic, and with a puff of smoke, he vanished before Kaiyo could even react. The same trick again.

Kaiyo's gaze darted to the rear of the hallway, where Raijin finally appeared, hurrying toward the door.

"I apologize for the mess," Raijin said, calm but apologetic. He bowed deeply, a gesture that caught Kaiyo slightly off-guard. At least the kid had manners. He then picked up the swords left by the Shadow Clone

"Never mind this and the afternoon trick," Kaiyo replied, waving it off. "I'm here to talk with you."

Raijin smiled bitterly and apologized once more before politely asking Kaiyo to remove his footwear.

Kaiyo did so without a word, though a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes. He half-expected Raijin to demand something more—perhaps a foot-washing ceremony—but no, it was just a simple request for basic courtesy.

Raijin didn't dare ask him to wash his feet after the afternoon's incident. Well, he had asked permission before using Jutsu, and technically, a Shadow Clone counted as using one.

Kaiyo took a deep breath, leaning forward slightly. "Raijin, I'm here to ask you about graduation. What are your thoughts on it?"

Raijin's eyes remained steady, his calm exterior unwavering. For a moment, the room was silent. Then he spoke, his voice cool and measured.

"I believe I am ready," Raijin stated matter-of-factly. "But I need to know if you think so too." His voice held no trace of arrogance, just confidence.

Kaiyo's brow furrowed slightly, studying Raijin. "It's not just about being ready for the sake of graduating, Raijin. Graduation isn't just a formality. It's about stepping into a much bigger world. You'll face far more danger and far more responsibility. Are you prepared for that?"

Raijin didn't flinch. He didn't even hesitate. "I've been preparing for that since I walked into the academy."

Kaiyo studied him for a long moment, then nodded slowly. "Alright. Then we'll start with the paperwork. If you're ready to take the next step, it's up to you to show that you can handle what comes after. But remember—once you make this choice, there's no turning back."

He paused again before adding, "Before the paperwork, I need to know all of your capabilities like Jutsus and otherwise. I'll be asking you a series of questions—answer them with utmost sincerity. You can also showcase your skills if you wish. I need to prepare a report for your graduation. Are you getting this?"

Raijin nodded, though a thought crossed his mind, 'So, you're overstepping the unsaid rule of Shinobi. Even if, technically, I'm not a Shinobi yet.'

***