The Hidden Uchiha Gamer

(Akari's POV)

The sun barely crested over the horizon when I arrived at the training ground. The air was crisp and cool, the faint chirping of birds mingling with the rustle of leaves in the breeze. I adjusted the diamond-shaped pin in my hair—a small but symbolic piece of the bond I shared with Shiina. Today would be gruelling, but that was the point. Harsh training bred results.

Naruto and Hinata would not receive the same treatment Shiina had where I built her up into the harsh training. 

Shiina was the first to arrive, bounding onto the field with her usual uncontainable energy. Her golden hair shimmered like sunlight, the yellow flower-shaped clip in her hair almost glowing in the dawn light.

"Akari!" she called, her voice cheerful as always. "I'm ready for anything!"

I nodded to her, a faint smile playing at the corners of my lips. "Yeah, I know."

I responded before the sound of footsteps crashing through the underbrush interrupted us.

"Who even wakes up this early?!"

Naruto Uzumaki.

He stumbled into the clearing with all the grace of a brick, his spiky blond hair sticking up in every direction. His blue eyes scanned the area before landing on me, then Shiina, his face lighting up with curiosity.

"Whoa! You must be Shiina, right?" He grinned, pointing at her. "Akari's been talking about you! Guess you're pretty tough if you're training with her."

Shiina tilted her head, her emerald eyes sparkling with curiosity. "And you're Naruto Uzumaki," she replied, her tone light but measured. "I've heard a bit bout you too."

Before Naruto could respond, the rustling of leaves signalled another arrival. Hinata Hyuga stepped into the clearing, her movements quieter, more deliberate. She glanced around nervously, tucking a strand of dark blue hair behind her ear. Her pale eyes—striking even by Hyuga standards—flicked to me, then to Shiina and Naruto.

"Good morning," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Shiina beamed at her, stepping forward with a cheerful wave. "You must be Hinata! It's so nice to meet you! Akari-chan's told me you're really kind and hardworking."

Hinata's cheeks flushed pink, and she managed a small smile. "T-thank you. I-I'll do my best today."

I watched the three of them silently, observing their interactions. Shiina's natural sociability was already bridging the gap, her warm demeanour putting even someone as shy as Hinata at ease. It was a skill to be so genuine as Shiina was. 

Huh, why'd my heart just beat louder? Must be nothing.

"Naruto, Hinata," Shiina continued, her tone suddenly serious, "I need to warn you—Akari's training is… really hard. Like, really, really hard. If you think it's just going to be running around or sparring, you're in for a surprise."

Naruto raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. "Pfft. How hard could it be? I'm ready for anything!"

Shiina's eyes narrowed, a hint of mischief dancing in them. "Oh, really? Well, when you're dragging yourself through the last kilometre of the run or trying to keep up during sparring, don't say "I didn't warn you."

Hinata shifted uncomfortably, her hands clasped in front of her. "I-I'm sure it'll be challenging, but… I think we'll learn a lot from it."

I chose that moment to interject, stepping forward and folding my arms. "It's good that you're optimistic," I said, my tone measured. "But let me be clear—the harshness is what makes it worthwhile. You'll hate it. You'll question why you're doing it. But by the end, you'll understand why it matters."

Naruto flinched, his earlier bravado faltering for a moment before he grinned sheepishly. "Heh… well, I guess we'll see if I survive, huh?"

Shiina giggled, her earlier warning forgotten as she turned her attention to me. "So, what's the plan today, Akari?"

I motioned for them to gather around, pulling out a small notebook where I'd outlined the day's schedule. "Here's how this will work," I began. "Each of you has a personalized regimen. The core is the same, but it's tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Don't compare yourselves to each other—that's not the point of this training."

Naruto raised his hand as if he were in a classroom. "Uh, question. What if my 'strength' is just being awesome?"

Shiina laughed, and even Hinata hid a small smile behind her hand. I ignored him, continuing, "We'll start with dynamic stretches and a warm-up run. Shiina, you'll be carrying a 20 KG weight for 20 kilometres. Naruto, you'll carry 16 KG, and Hinata, you'll carry 12 KG. The point isn't speed—it's consistency and grip strength. Once that's done, we move on to martial arts training."

Naruto's face fell. "Wait, 20 kilometres?! With weights?! I don't know how long that is, but it must be a massive distance 

Shiina patted him on the shoulder, her grin almost too cheerful. "Told you it was hard." 

Hinata looked worried but nodded resolutely. "I-I'll do my best," she murmured.

The warm-up stretches were straightforward enough—basic movements to loosen the muscles, paired with yoga to improve flexibility. Shiina moved through the poses effortlessly, her form impeccable. Naruto flailed his limbs like a drowning fish, and I had to try and hold myself back from laughing. Hinata, though hesitant at first, quickly found her rhythm, her natural grace evident in the way she moved.

By the time we started the run, the sun was higher in the sky, casting golden light across the training ground. Shiina took the lead of my students, her stride steady despite the heavy weight she carried. Naruto followed close behind, grumbling under his breath but pushing himself with sheer determination. Hinata lagged slightly, her movements slower but were controlled, conserving stamina during the marathon.

I ran alongside them, keeping pace easily. Watching their progress was enlightening. Shiina's endurance had improved dramatically. Naruto had raw energy and stamina but lacked the discipline to pace himself, frequently sprinting ahead only to fall back, panting. Hinata's control and precision were her strengths. I documented everything in my mind.

When we finally returned to the clearing, Naruto collapsed dramatically onto the grass, his chest heaving.

"I… am… dead," he wheezed.

Shiina plopped down beside him, her breathing controlled. "Told you it was tough," she said with a teasing smile.

Hinata arrived a moment later, sinking to her knees and wiping the sweat from her brow. "T-that was… harder than I expected," she admitted softly.

I stood over them, arms crossed. "This was just the physical portion," A grin plastered itself on my face.

Naruto groaned, rolling onto his back. "Of course it is."

Shiina laughed, "Don't worry, Naruto," she vocalised a smile so bright on her face that it contrasted her next words–though I couldn't help but think it was endearing, "The next part is even harder!" 

The sun climbed higher as we transitioned into the second phase of training. Despite their exhaustion from the run, I saw renewed energy in their eyes—whether it was determination, curiosity, or sheer stubbornness, they were ready to push forward.

"Get up," I said curtly, motioning for them to stand. "We're moving on to Taijutsu. This isn't just about strength or speed. It's about precision, control, and understanding your own body. Watch carefully."

I stepped into the centre of the clearing, gesturing for Shiina to join me. She stepped forward with a small, confident smile, already familiar with what I was about to demonstrate.

Shiina and I squared off, our stances fluid but poised. The training I had given her over the past months had paid off—she moved with a grace and sharpness that belied her age. The style we were about to showcase was one of the lies I had made, Seikuken. In short, I needed to create a Taijutsu style to explain my fighting style which was already a combination of several Martial Arts. 

With a sharp inhale, I surged forward, my strikes precise and deliberate. Shiina responded immediately, slipping into defensive movements that flowed like water, her blocks and counters smooth and efficient. A quick jab from me forced her to pivot; she retaliated with a spinning kick that I narrowly dodged.

"Good," I said, stepping back to halt the exchange. "Shiina, you've mastered the basics, but remember—always anticipate. Don't just react. Predict your opponent's next move and make them regret it."

"Yes, Akari!" Shiina responded enthusiastically, her emerald eyes gleaming with determination.

I turned to Naruto and Hinata, who were watching with rapt attention. "That's what precision looks like. You'll each have your own focus today."

I faced Naruto first. "You'll be learning the fundamentals of Jiyūken—'Free Fist.' It's a style that prioritizes adaptability and instinct. You'll find it suits your personality, but don't mistake it for being easy. Your biggest challenge will be focus and discipline. Step forward."

Jiyuken was another lie I crafted. I decided that Naruto should focus solely on Jeet Kune Do, something that would fit his style heavily.

Naruto hesitated for a moment before stepping into the clearing, his expression a mix of excitement and nervousness. I demonstrated the basic stances and movements, emphasizing simplicity and fluidity over rigid forms.

"Jiyūken isn't about memorizing forms," I explained, circling him as he attempted the motions. "It's about reacting to your opponent and making the most of every opportunity. Be like water—flow around obstacles and adapt to the situation."

He nodded, his face scrunched in concentration. It wasn't perfect—his punches were sloppy, and his footwork was inconsistent—but I saw flashes of potential in the way he adjusted after every correction. 

"You're learning faster than I expected," I admitted after a few minutes of drills.

"Of course!" he said with a grin, wiping sweat from his brow. "I'm gonna be the best, after all!"

I smirked faintly. "We'll see."

Turning to Hinata, I softened my tone. "Your focus will be on the Juken, your clan's style. I won't interfere with what you've already learned, but I'll guide you in applying it more effectively. Confidence is your key. Without it, even the strongest strike will falter."

Hinata nodded, stepping forward nervously. Her movements were delicate, almost hesitant, as she demonstrated a series of palm strikes. I stopped her mid-motion.

"Hinata," I said firmly, "you're holding back. Don't focus on being perfect—focus on being decisive."

"I-I'm sorry," she stammered, her pale eyes downcast.

"There's nothing to apologize for," I spoke, my tone authoritative, placing my hand on her shoulder. "But you need to understand something. At some point, you will come to learn that in some situations, the only person you can rely on is yourself. Only you can choose the direction of your destiny. Whether you live or die, that is your choice. Tell me, Hinata—in that split second of hesitation, between your enemy and yourself, do you wish to die?"

Her eyes widened, her lips parting as if to respond, but no words came. The weight of my question hung in the air.

"Hesitation is your enemy, conquer it." I told her sternly. 

Hinata's expression shifted—uncertainty still lingered, but I saw a flicker of resolve begin to take root.

We spent the next hour doing just this, each of them practicing their respective techniques. Shiina's movements were sharp and confident, the result of months of training. Naruto's progress was astonishing—his natural instincts for combat made him a quick learner, even if his execution was occasionally rough he was adapting to the style quickly. Hinata improved steadily, my cold words having had the intended effect on her. 

Finally, it was time to spar.

"Hinata, Shiina—you're up first," I announced.

The two stepped into the centre of the clearing, their stances already in place. Shiina's grin was playful, but her eyes were focused, while Hinata's expression was nervous; it held more determination than expected.

"Begin!"

Shiina moved first, closing the distance with a flurry of strikes that forced Hinata to retreat. The Hyuga heiress responded with graceful counterattacks, her palms glowing faintly as she aimed for Shiina's Tenketsu. The exchange was fluid and mesmerizing, but it didn't take long for Shiina to defeat her opponent. With a swift combination of a to the chest Shiina swept low, to falter and thus sending Hinata to the ground.

"You're amazing, Hinata!" Shiina said, helping her opponent up with a smile. "You've got so much potential—I can see it!"

Hinata's cheeks turned pink, but she managed a small smile. "T-thank you. You were… incredible too."

I nodded in approval. "Good. Now switch—Naruto, you're with me."

Naruto gulped but stepped forward, his grin returning. "Okay, Akari, but don't hold back too much—I can take it!"

"I don't intend to," I said, sliding into a ready stance.

The spar began, and Naruto charged immediately, his movements wild but energetic. I dodged his first punch effortlessly, countering with a light tap to his shoulder that threw him off balance.

"Focus," I said.

He gritted his teeth and came at me again, this time with a series of rapid punches. I blocked and redirected each one, testing his reflexes. To my surprise, he adjusted quickly, his strikes becoming more fluid and unpredictable.

"You're learning," I said, stepping back briefly. "Good. But don't forget—you can't win with offense alone. Use your head."

Naruto took the advice to heart, his movements becoming more calculated. He wasn't just attacking anymore; he was observing, adapting. For a moment, I saw a glimpse of the fighter he would become—relentless, resourceful, and fiercely determined.

But he was still no match for me. With a well timed hook kick, I sent him sprawling to the ground.

"Ow…" he groaned, sitting up and rubbing his head. "Guess I still have a lot to learn."

"You do," I said, offering him a hand. "But you've come farther than I expected."

The final match of the day was between me and Shiina.

"Ready?" I asked, stepping into position.

Shiina nodded, her expression serious for once. "Ready."

The spar began, and Shiina attacked with everything she had. Her strikes were fast and precise, her movements fluid and relentless. I matched her blow for blow, pushing her to the limits of her abilities.

Despite her best efforts, she couldn't break through my perfect defence. But I saw the fire in her eyes, the same determination that drove her to keep going no matter how many times she was knocked down.

Again, I noticed that my heart rate had increased by a bit.

When the match ended, Shiina was breathing hard but smiling. "This was to be expected."

"Better," I replied, a rare hint of pride in my voice "But there's always room for improvement."

Shiina's victory against Hinata had clearly boosted her confidence, and I could see the difference in the way she carried herself.

"Right, let's go get some lunch, it's around 11:45," I say, glancing at the sun, and using its position to accurately determine the time, "So by the time we start eating it should be 12, oh and I'll pay for everything." I left no room for argument in my tone as I began leading my pawn, my soon to be promoted pawn, and Shiina down the market street.

The bustling streets of the market were alive with activity as we made our way to a small, modest restaurant tucked away between larger establishments. The smell of sizzling meat and freshly steamed rice wafted through the air, making Naruto's stomach growl audibly.

"Man, I'm starving!" Naruto groaned, clutching his stomach. "This place smells amazing!"

Shiina giggled. "I think we're all hungry after that training. Let's eat!"

We approached the entrance, but the moment the host spotted Naruto, his expression darkened. He stepped forward, blocking the doorway.

"I'm sorry," he said curtly, his eyes flicking to Naruto with disdain. "We don't serve his kind here."

Shiina's cheerful expression faltered, her emerald eyes widening in disbelief. "What? What do you mean, his kind? That's ridiculous!"

Hinata's pale eyes darted nervously between me and the host, her hands fidgeting in front of her. "M-maybe we should go somewhere else…" she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Naruto's grin faded, replaced by a forced laugh. "Heh, it's okay. I'm used to it. No big deal, right?" He rubbed the back of his head, trying to shrug it off, but I saw the hurt flash in his blue eyes.

"No," I said, my voice cutting through the moment like a blade.

The group fell silent as I stepped forward, my gaze locking onto the host's. My demeanor remained calm, but an unmistakable edge crept into my tone.

"You're saying he's not allowed in?" I asked, my voice low but clear.

The host hesitated, his confidence wavering. "I… I'm just following orders. We don't serve… him."

Something shifted in the air around me. A cold, suffocating pressure radiated outward, the kind that made every instinct scream to flee. My eyes bored into the host's, unblinking, and I could see the beads of sweat forming on his brow as his breathing quickened.

"Let me make something very clear," I said, my tone still measured but laced with a tinge of anger. "The Hokage sometimes visits the orphanages around Konoha; I wonder what would happen to this business if I told him you were treating one of Konoha's citizens—one of Konoha's orphans—this way. You don't get to treat anyone in my group like this. Not him. Not anyone. If you have a problem with that, then I hope the village isn't too harsh on your fate."

The host's knees visibly shook, and he stumbled back a step, unable to maintain eye contact. The oppressive aura I exuded seemed to drain the strength from him.

"Y-yes, of course," he stammered, his voice trembling. "Please, come in. All of you. I-I'm sorry for the misunderstanding."

The pressure lifted as I stepped back, allowing the host to scramble away. Shiina stared at me, wide-eyed, while Naruto blinked in stunned silence.

"Whoa…" he muttered, scratching his head. "What was that? That was… awesome! You didn't even have to throw a punch!"

Hinata nodded hesitantly, her hands still clasped together. "A-Akari-san… that was… incredible."

I didn't respond immediately, my mind lingering on the strange sensation that had coursed through me.

[New Skill: Bloodlust]

[Bloodlust LVL 1/10: You exude or radiate pure killing intent on targets around you, paralyzing your foes with fear. Sometimes confused with Genjutsu because of its effects, it is not actually Genjutsu.]

Right, Bloodlust. I almost forgot that this could be a thing. Well if it was possible for me to forget things anyways.

"Let's eat," I said finally, brushing off the moment and stepping inside. "I'm paying, so order what you want."

Shiina smiled hesitantly, her usual cheer returning. "You're amazing, Akari! That guy looked like he was about to faint!"

Naruto grinned, the earlier tension forgotten. "Yeah! Maybe I should learn that technique. Scare all my enemies into submission!"

I shook my head, a faint smile tugging at the corner of my lips. "It's not a technique. You exude intent to kill in a moment of anger, terrifying your opponent. In some cases, you give them visions of their own deaths. Pair that with words, and you can make quite a spine-chilling moment for the receiver that forces them to act how you want. Of course, pain can break you out of this sensation."

Naruto blinked at me, his grin turning sheepish. "Wait, they see their death? That's… kind of terrifying, but cool at the same time!"

Shiina chimed in, her tone curious. "So, it's not a Jutsu at all? You just… feel it?"

"Exactly," I replied. "It's an instinctual release of intent. Think of it as the raw energy of survival and dominance directed at a specific person or multiple people if you're skilled at it.."

Hinata tilted her head, her voice quiet but intrigued. "H-have you… always had this, Akari-san?"

I paused, considering her question. "I guess I've always had the potential for it. But this was the first time I really let it out per se."

My nonchalance in describing what I had done came off as cold, but truthfully I had no qualms about it. 

As we settled at the table and the food arrived, the earlier tension melted away. Naruto attacked his meal with gusto, Shiina kept the conversation light and cheerful, and Hinata seemed to relax, occasionally adding soft comments. I remained silent, eating my food and paying close attention to the surroundings around me and listening in on the conversations around me.

At the table nearest us, a group of Academy students laughed and chatted, their voices brimming with youthful excitement.

"Man, that Kawarimi no Jutsu is harder than it looks!" one boy complained, his voice tinged with frustration. "I thought it'd be simple, but Sensei says it's all about timing."

A girl chimed in, her tone teasing. "Maybe if you paid more attention in class, you'd get it. I nailed it on my third try!"

"Yeah, yeah," the boy grumbled, clearly annoyed. "Not all of us can be geniuses like you. Besides, Henge no Jutsu is way cooler anyway. Who cares about swapping places with a log when you can look like the Hokage and scare your friends?"

Another voice joined in, quieter but insistent. "We're supposed to learn all of them. It's not just about showing off. What if you need to escape a fight? Kawarimi could save your life."

"Whatever," the first boy muttered. "As long as I can pull off a cool Bushin, I'll be fine."

But Bushins aren't physical clones, they're Illusionary. They don't even produce shadows.

Their conversation faded as I shifted my focus to another table.

A pair of older civilians were seated near the window, their voices hushed but still audible in the relative quiet of the restaurant.

"Did you hear about the new patrols near the Uchiha district?" one of them asked, leaning forward.

The other nodded, their expression wary. "I did. Apparently, the higher-ups think it's necessary to keep an eye on them."

"Necessary?" the first snorted. "Sounds more like they don't trust them. It's always been that way, hasn't it? Even after all they've done for the village."

"It's not just the higher-ups," the second replied grimly. "People talk, you know. Whisper about the Uchiha's… ambitions. Makes you wonder if something's brewing."

Oh, I reckon another 2 years and the Uchiha massacre will happen. In that case, I have 2 years left to awaken my Sharingan to start my plans with Sasuke.

Near the back of the restaurant, two Jonin were deep in conversation, their hushed tones betraying the gravity of their discussion. I recognized one of them—a tall man with sharp features and the Uchiha clan's unmistakable fan emblem on his sleeve.

"The last run-in with Kumo Shinobi was too close for comfort," the Uchiha said, his voice low but firm. "They've been testing our borders more frequently. It's not a good sign."

His companion, a wiry man with a scar running across his jaw, nodded grimly. "You're telling me. My team barely made it out of that ambush last week. They're probing for weaknesses, no doubt about it."

The Uchiha frowned. "Did they send a report to the Hokage? He needs to know how brazen they're becoming."

"Of course," the scarred Jonin replied, his tone clipped. "But the question is, what are we going to do about it? Kumo's always been bold, but this feels different. Bolder."

The Uchiha sighed, rubbing his temple. "We'll have to keep up the pressure. More patrols, more vigilance. The last thing we need is an incident before the Chunin Exams."

"Speaking of the exams," the scarred Jonin said, his tone shifting slightly, "I heard Konoha's sending someone solo this time. One of yours, isn't it?"

The Uchiha's expression darkened slightly, but there was a hint of pride in his voice. "Yes. Itachi. He's more than capable of handling it alone. The Hokage thinks it'll send a strong message to Iwa about Konoha's strength."

"Strong message or not, sending a single Genin to Iwagakure is risky," the scarred Jonin murmured, his brow furrowing. "Even if it's someone like Itachi."

The Uchiha nodded, his gaze distant. "Risky, but calculated. If anyone can handle it, it's him. And it's not just about strength. It's about trust, about showing the world that Konoha's unity is unshakable."

Their conversation drifted into more technical details about patrol routes and strategies, which I took mental note of fully. It had confirmed that the Uchiha still had 2 more years of life left. As for Kumogakure, I bet that would be the Hyuga affair stuff, get Konoha riled up, then send a peace treaty, and then steal the Byakugan. 

In Canon, this made Kumo look very idiotic and incompetent. I mean, a female can produce a child every 9 months, but a male, well in 9 months you can have more than 1 child being born if you are going that route to steal the Byakugan for your own Village. In fact, Konoha's CRA only affects males for this very reason, although they do have the ability to choose their partners. 

As we finished our meal, I reflected on what I had overheard. The Academy students' innocent chatter, the civilians' wary whispers, and the Jonin's grave discussion painted a clear picture to me and was factored into my supercomputer-like brain.

Naruto was still laughing at one of Shiina's jokes, his earlier hurt forgotten, while Hinata quietly sipped her tea. They were blissfully unaware of the threads weaving through Konoha's fabric, threads that could unravel at any moment.

I set my chopsticks down and exhaled softly. It wasn't just about training or missions. The village was a board, and every piece had their role to play.

"Right, our next stop, Konoha library." I told them after everyone had eaten and I paid. 1200 Ryo, so it wasn't that bad for a hang out.

Naruto reacted about as well as one would expect the hyperactive blonde to react, "But books are lame and boring."

"Naruto, tell me what you think all the Hokage of old were like?" I asked, though it was a hypothetical question. The answer was obvious.

Naruto blinked, looking up as he thought for a moment. "Well, they were all super strong! Like, crazy strong! They could crush enemies, protect the village, and do all kinds of awesome Jutsu!" he exclaimed, his hands mimicking explosive gestures.

I raised an eyebrow. "And how do you think they got that strong?"

Naruto frowned, scratching the back of his head. "Uh... lots of training? Fighting tough enemies? I dunno... just being awesome?"

Shiina giggled while Hinata covered her mouth, hiding a small smile. "Naruto-kun," Hinata said softly, "I think Akari-san is saying there's more to it than just strength."

I nodded, my expression calm. "Exactly. They trained, yes, but they also studied. They understood their enemies, their allies, and the history of the world around them. They didn't just rely on raw power. They used strategy, knowledge, and wisdom to lead the village."

Naruto crossed his arms, clearly not convinced. "Still sounds boring. I bet I could be Hokage without needing to read all those dusty books!"

I sighed, a faint smile tugging at my lips. "Naruto, think of it this way. Every great ninja knows their tools, right? You wouldn't go into a battle without knowing how to use a kunai or a shuriken."

"Of course not!" Naruto replied, his tone indignant. "That's just common sense!"

"Then think of books as a means to an end," I explained. "The more knowledge you have, the more prepared you'll be. You want to be Hokage, right? That means knowing how to make decisions, understanding the village's history, and predicting what your enemies might do. Without that knowledge, you can't lead."

Naruto hesitated, his brow furrowing as he processed my words. "I guess… that makes sense," he admitted reluctantly. "But it still sounds boring."

Shiina chimed in, her tone cheerful. "It's not so bad, Naruto! The library has more than just boring stuff. They have books about legendary ninjas, epic battles, and even some cool stories. You might actually like it!"

Naruto still looked sceptical, but the promise of "cool stories" seemed to soften his resistance. "Fine, I'll give it a shot. But only because you guys are making me."

I chuckled lightly, standing up and leading the way out of the restaurant. "Trust me, Naruto. One day, you'll thank me for this."

The walk to the Konoha Library was uneventful, though the mood had lightened considerably since the incident at the restaurant. Naruto was his usual lively self, energetically recounting his favourite parts of lunch, while Shiina chimed in with her usual bubbly enthusiasm. Hinata followed behind, a soft smile on her face as she occasionally glanced at Naruto, her hands still clasped nervously in front of her.

The library loomed ahead, a striking structure that commanded attention amidst the bustling streets of Konoha. Its walls were crafted from pale gray stone, weathered yet sturdy, exuding an air of timeless authority. The building's design was a harmonious blend of tradition and elegance, its architecture reflecting the essence of the Hidden Leaf Village itself.

A wide, cobblestone pathway led up to the grand entrance, flanked by meticulously maintained hedges and cherry blossom trees that swayed gently in the breeze. The twin wooden doors stood tall and imposing, carved with intricate depictions of the village's history. At the center of each door was a carefully engraved emblem representing the great shinobi clans—Uchiha, Senju, Hyūga, Nara, and others—symbolizing the unity and legacy of the village. Over the entrance, an engraved sign read, "Konoha Library" , its bold characters painted in a deep, solemn black.

Above the doorway, a pair of large, circular windows framed the structure's second story, their stained glass depicting scenes of Konoha's founding. The colours caught the sunlight, casting faint, multi-coloured hues onto the pathway below. Between the windows was a triangular roof section adorned with the Hokage's symbol, a subtle reminder of the library's connection to the village's leadership.

The building extended upward in a series of terraces, each level lined with arched windows that hinted at the vast knowledge stored within. The topmost level featured an open-air balcony crowned with a wooden railing, often used by scholars seeking a quiet moment to reflect. Surrounding the library were smaller courtyards with shaded benches and bubbling fountains, offering serene spots for study or conversation.

Even before stepping inside, the atmosphere seemed to shift as the group approached, the sounds of the bustling market fading into a respectful quiet. The very presence of the library exuded wisdom and reverence, drawing visitors in like moths to a flame.

Naruto seemed apprehensive as he looked at the imposing structure. "Do we even know if they'll let us in? I mean… this place looks kinda fancy, and they didn't exactly roll out the red carpet for us back at the restaurant."

I sighed, answering his question, "The general section is open to all, so they'll let us in. The people here won't be prejudiced against you. Okay, Naruto?"

Naruto's scepticism didn't fade, but Shiina's bright smile helped lighten the mood. "Come on, Naruto! We're going to learn all kinds of cool stuff. I bet there are stories about ninjas here!"

Hinata, as always, was quiet, fidgeting with her fingers as she trailed behind. Her pale eyes darted around, taking in the massive building with quiet awe.

As we stepped inside, the cool, hushed atmosphere of the library enveloped us. Shelves upon shelves of books stretched out in all directions, and the faint scent of parchment and ink filled the air. A few other patrons browsed the aisles or sat at tables poring over scrolls, their quiet conversations blending into the serene ambiance.

Shiina gasped, spinning in place. "It's huge! There are so many books! This is amazing!"

Hinata nodded hesitantly. "I-it's beautiful… I didn't know there was a place like this in the village."

Naruto, however, looked less impressed. "So, where are the awesome ninja scrolls? Or books with pictures? These all look like they'd put me to sleep."

I sighed, gesturing for the group to follow me to the reception desk, where an elderly librarian with sharp eyes sat, organizing scrolls. When she noticed us, her stern expression softened into a warm smile.

"Well, well, what brings such young visitors to the library today?" she asked kindly.

"We're looking for books or scrolls for beginners," I explained. "Something simple that kids like us can understand, but that will teach us about being a ninja." I partly lied, because I already read everything a few days back.

The librarian's eyes twinkled. "Ah, eager to learn, are we? You'll want Section B—right over there." She pointed toward a smaller area with low shelves. "There's a collection for young readers and aspiring ninja. You'll find everything from stories about the Hokage to introductions to chakra theory."

Shiina clapped her hands excitedly. "Thank you, ma'am!"

Naruto still looked unconvinced, but he followed as we headed to Section B. The shelves were filled with colorful books and scrolls, some with illustrations of shinobi in action. It was clear this section was designed for children.

I picked out a scroll titled The Basics of Chakra and handed it to Naruto. "Start with this one. It explains how chakra works in a way that's easy to understand. Shiina knows this already, and Hinata was taught by her Clan, thus you need to play catch up a bit, if you have any questions come to me."

Naruto stared at the book in his hands as if it were a ticking time bomb. "Chakra basics, huh? Fine, I'll give it a try. But don't expect me to become some bookworm like you, Akari."

Shiina giggled. "I think it's cute when you try to act tough, Naruto. But you'll see—learning can be fun!"

Hinata, shy as ever, glanced over the shelves and picked up a thin book about a famous kunoichi of the past. Her pale cheeks turned slightly pink as she hugged it close. "I-I'll read this one… if that's okay."

I nodded, giving her a small smile. "Good choice. The more you know about the great shinobi who came before us, the better prepared you'll be to find your own path."

As they settled into the cozy reading area nearby, I took a moment to browse the more advanced sections. Though I'd already spent time in the library researching Konoha's history and jutsu techniques, I wanted to see if there was anything I'd missed—anything that might give me an edge in the uncertain years to come.

Walking along the rows of scrolls and tomes, I came across a small section marked Iryojutsu Basics that was strange, because Iryojutsu should have been a higher level of clearance, yet it was here. 

Returning to the group, I noticed Naruto struggling to stay focused on his scroll. His brow furrowed as he mumbled aloud, trying to piece together the concepts of chakra flow and control.

"Okay, so… chakra is like… energy, right? And you've gotta mix your Physical Energy with your Spiritual Energy? Ugh, this is way harder than it sounds!" He groaned, flopping back dramatically.

"That process happens automatically in your body, Naruto." I said with a quick sigh. "Chakra is a natural substance, thus you don't have to understand the process on how it works, but understanding the 2 parts that make it up can help in your training. Read the section fully, and you'll understand."

Naruto groaned again but nodded reluctantly, picking up the book to continue reading. He squinted at the words, muttering under his breath as he tried to make sense of it. "Fine, but if this doesn't make me super strong, I'm blaming you, Akari."

Shiina giggled at his exaggerated frustration. "You'll get it, Naruto. Just stick with it. And besides, it's not just about getting stronger—it's about understanding what you're capable of."

Hinata, sitting nearby with her chosen book, added softly, "Y-you're already strong, Naruto-kun… but knowledge can make you even stronger."

Naruto glanced at her, blinking in surprise before grinning sheepishly. "Heh, thanks, Hinata. Guess I'll keep trying."

I settled into a chair with a small pile of advanced scrolls I'd picked out for myself. As I skimmed through a particularly detailed scroll on the Chakra Pathway System, I kept one eye on the group. Shiina was flipping through a book on legendary ninja battles, her expression one of eager fascination. Hinata was absorbed in her book, her face serene yet focused, while Naruto continued his loud, determined attempts to understand the chakra basics.

It was a peaceful moment, a snapshot of a team slowly learning and growing together. Even Naruto, for all his reluctance, was making an effort, and that was what mattered most.

After some time, Naruto leaned back with a triumphant look on his face. "Okay, I think I got it! Chakra is like fuel for Jutsu, right? And if you control it better, you don't waste as much. That means I can do more Jutsu, right?"

I nodded, pleased by his progress. "Exactly. Better control means more efficient use of chakra, which can make your techniques more powerful and last longer in battle. It's one of the most important skills for a ninja."

Naruto's grin widened. "Ha! I knew I could figure it out! Maybe books aren't so bad after all."

Shiina clapped her hands in mock applause. "Amazing, Naruto! You've joined the book club!"

Naruto stuck his tongue out at her but couldn't hide his pride at finally understanding something he'd struggled with. Even Hinata looked at him with quiet admiration, her shy smile lingering.

The librarian, who had been watching us from a distance, approached with a kind smile. "You all seem to be making excellent use of your time here. I'm glad to see young people taking an interest in learning."

"Thank you," I replied courtly, "Whilst Physical might is a requirement on the battlefield, strategy is what conquers the battlefield."

She nodded approvingly. "You're wise beyond your years, young one. If you ever need help finding something specific, don't hesitate to ask."

As she walked away, I glanced at my students. Then I began reading as I looked at the scroll. 

I might not have the Byakugan's sight but if I memorised where the Tenketsu were, I could simulate the Juken's properties... I have a Juken Scroll. I almost forgot I had it. 

*A/N: I forgot to add that Scroll to her Inventory.*

With that thought, I headed away from the group. Walking towards a more private part of the library.

"Inventory: Learner Juken Scroll," I whispered quietly, making sure nobody could see what I was doing. A translucent blue box formed in front of me as I looked at it.

[Learner Juken Scroll: A beginner's guide to the Juken, this scroll provides detailed instructions on the foundational principles, stances, and techniques of the Hyūga Clan's famed taijutsu style. While the Byakugan is required to fully master the art, diligent study and practice can allow a user to approximate some of its effects through precise chakra control and an understanding of human anatomy.]

I couldn't help but smirk, I had an idea and it would be devious.Even without the Byakugan, the versatility of the Juken could not be underestimated.

I closed the box, ensuring no one had noticed the new scroll in the palm of my hand. The private corner of the library I'd chosen was quiet, the tall shelves shielding me from view. Although I knew to be careful that was why I had chosen to get this done quickly. 

I read through the contents quickly, and with ease. I decided to speed read. I was looking through the diagrams and how to use my Chakra in the precise way of the Hyuga's Juken at a pace incomprehensible to most humans I was dissecting the techniques from the Scroll quickly not stopping till I had absorbed every part, every component into my mind that where it would stay, forever.

It took me 20 seconds to read everything, around 1900 words, with 20 diagrams I had to memorise, taking only 20 seconds. With that:

[New Skill Learned: Juken]

[Learner Juken LVL 1/20: A Taijutsu Style that inflicts internal damage through attacking the body's Chakra Pathway System, subsequently injuring organs which are closely intertwined with the area of the network which has been struck. To do this, you surgically inject a certain amount of your own chakra into the target's chakra pathway system, causing damage to surrounding organs due to their proximity to the chakra circulatory system. Even the slightest tap can cause severe internal damage. +1% effectiveness in use. Uses 5 Chakra each hit.]

The scroll vanished into thin air as I finished reading it and the textbox faded away as I dismissed it. My mind preoccupied with other thoughts than just that.

I took a deep breath, closing my eyes momentarily to settle my thoughts. Despite my mastery of the Juken's fundamentals, there was no rush to put it into practice. For now, the priority was to nurture my team's development, ensuring that everyone left the library a little more prepared than when we arrived.

When I returned to the reading area, the sight that greeted me brought a faint smile to my face. Naruto was still engrossed in his scroll, albeit with his usual mix of grumbling and stubborn focus. Shiina was animatedly pointing at a picture in her book, clearly excited by a story she'd discovered. Hinata, meanwhile, was quietly flipping through her book on kunoichi, her pale eyes calm and thoughtful.

"Find anything interesting, Akari?" Shiina asked, glancing up with an inquisitive look.

"Just brushing up on a few advanced techniques," I replied, taking my seat. "You all seem to be making good progress. Naruto, how's the reading going?"

Naruto sighed dramatically, putting the scroll down. "It's… okay, I guess. I get how important chakra is, but why does it have to be so complicated? Can't I just, I dunno, wing it?"

Shiina snickered. "Naruto, if it were that simple, we'd all be Hokage by now."

I smirked. "Shiina's right. Mastering chakra isn't something you can fake. Even the strongest ninjas started by learning the basics. You'll get there if you keep at it."

Naruto groaned, leaning back in his chair. "Fine, fine. I'll keep reading. But I still say punching stuff is way more fun."

Hinata, who had been silent, spoke softly. "Naruto-kun… understanding chakra is important for punching too. If you know how to control it better, your punches could be even stronger."

Naruto blinked at her, his expression slowly shifting from confusion to realization. "Wait… you mean I could make my punches even stronger? Like… BAM!" He mimicked a powerful punch, his excitement rekindled.

I chuckled lightly. "Exactly. The better your control, the harder you can hit without wasting energy. It's not just about strength—it's about precision."

Naruto nodded enthusiastically, his eyes lighting up. "Okay, that's pretty cool! I'll read more about this chakra stuff then."

Shiina grinned. "See? I told you learning could be fun."

Hinata's cheeks flushed slightly as she smiled, her gaze dropping back to her book. She seemed pleased to see Naruto so motivated, even if he didn't notice her subtle encouragement.

For the next hour, the group continued their reading, the peaceful atmosphere of the library enveloping us like a warm blanket. Naruto occasionally mumbled his frustrations, but he stuck with it, and I could see he was starting to absorb the material. Hinata and Shiina, meanwhile, were deeply engaged in their respective books, their quiet focus a stark contrast to Naruto's boisterous energy.

When the librarian eventually announced that the library would be closing soon, I gathered the team. "All right, let's check out what we need and head back. You can finish studying at home, and we'll review everything tomorrow."

Naruto stretched, looking both relieved and satisfied. "Finally! My brain feels like it's gonna explode, but I guess it wasn't a total waste of time."

Shiina giggled. "Naruto, for you, that's a huge compliment to the library."

Hinata's quiet laugh followed, and Naruto grinned at both of them, his earlier reluctance replaced by his usual confidence.

As we left the library, the golden hues of the setting sun bathed the village, casting long shadows along the cobblestone streets. Naruto and Shiina walked ahead, their lively banter echoing through the quiet evening air, while Hinata and I trailed slightly behind.

I glanced at Hinata, who was holding her book tightly. "You did well today," I said softly. "Your insights really helped Naruto stay focused."

Her cheeks turned pink, and she looked down. "T-thank you, Akari-san. I just… wanted to help him. He works so hard…"

I smiled knowingly. "He does, in his own way. And with your help, he'll keep getting better."

Hinata nodded shyly, her expression thoughtful as we continued walking.

Operation NaruHina, phase 1 begins.

As we all walked, I moved closer to Shiina, "Those 2 look rather cute together, right?"

Shiina's sharp eyes immediately lit up with understanding. She glanced at Naruto, who was gesturing wildly as he recounted some moment from the library, and Hinata, who was smiling softly at his antics. "They do," she replied, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

"Operation NaruHina," I confirmed with a sly smile. "Phase one: Create opportunities for them to bond naturally. Keep it subtle, though. Hinata's shy, and Naruto's, well… Naruto."

Shiina giggled, her enthusiasm infectious. "Subtle's my middle name! I've got some ideas already."

"Good," I replied, pleased by her enthusiasm. "We'll work together on this. The key is to make sure neither of them realizes we're helping."

Shiina gave a mock salute. "Leave it to me, boss! By the time we're done, they'll be inseparable."

As we caught up to the others, Naruto was still rambling about chakra theory, his excitement palpable despite his earlier complaints. Hinata listened attentively, her hands clasped nervously in front of her, but the soft glow in her expression was undeniable.

I glanced at Shiina, who gave me a knowing look, and we shared a subtle nod. Operation NaruHina was officially underway. 

I felt the strings around my heart tighten at the thought of using my best friend like this, but sometimes one must do something they do not like in order to move forwards on the path to victory. 

Getting Shiina involved with the Quest I had just received 2 days ago, was the best course of action, to me it would serve as a way to make sure we let them have alone time. I'd already done a good job at preventing Hinata from fainting in Naruto's presence, but that didn't mean much when I had to get her to be bold enough to pierce Naruto's denseness, or bridge that gap enough for Naruto to realise on his own. I can do both by getting Shiina's help.

But why does she have to be so cute with that smile of hers? I can barely think of anything else but that at the moment.

I averted my gaze, but the only thing on my mind was Shiina. I still did not know why my heart beat increased when I thought of her, or how whenever I looked at her, smiling became more natural than forceful... Am I actually denying my own feelings? Or was it because I didn't understand the emotions surrounding it fully.

I couldn't tell.

And that frustrated me. It frustrated me to no end that I didn't know what this emotion spawned from a heart that spread warmth like none other throughout my body, was. Perhaps I would never know.

Heh, reminds me of a certain song.