Naruto: Starting with Infinite Chakra

"Jiraiya, I've already reviewed the operation summary Shikaku submitted. Your performance was outstanding, truly something that makes me proud as your teacher," Hiruzen Sarutobi began with his usual formalities, a standard opener that seemed well-practiced.

"With a genius like you emerging from Konoha, the village is sure to grow even more prosperous, shining brighter than ever before."

Jiraiya responded with exaggerated humility, "It's all thanks to your guidance, Sensei. Without it, I'd probably have perished long ago at the hands of that jonin."

His words dripped with flattery, a calculated move. Jiraiya knew that to reap benefits from Hiruzen, some strategic bootlicking was necessary. Internally, however, he couldn't help but feel a bit exasperated.

He's more excited about this than I am… It's just one jonin. What would he do if I took down an elite jonin? Pass out from sheer excitement?

Hiruzen's grin grew even wider at Jiraiya's words. For a moment, he regretted not having a daughter—what he wouldn't give to make Jiraiya his son-in-law. If Jiraiya weren't so firmly uninterested in men, he might've even offered up his own son to secure such a promising successor.

"This time, you've managed to annihilate the enemy ninja and safely return the herbs to Konoha. Your contributions are invaluable. As a reward, I'm giving you these two A-rank Earth Release jutsu."

Hiruzen chuckled warmly as he placed two scrolls on the desk before him.

Flattery really does pay off, Jiraiya thought as his eyes lit up. He eagerly stepped forward, picked up the scrolls, and skimmed through their contents.

"These jutsu…" he muttered to himself, recognizing them instantly.

The two techniques, Earth Release: Earth Style: Mud Fall and Earth Release: Dropping Lid, were among the most advanced Earth Release jutsu in Konoha's repertoire.

In the original series, members of the Anbu used these techniques during the Pain invasion, and their power was remarkable. Both jutsu drew upon elements from another dimension to attack the enemy.

The Earth Style: Mud Fall summoned viscous red mud from another space. Once it hit its target, it immobilized them instantly. Moreover, if the target covered in the mud was hit by a Fire Release jutsu, they would be turned into a petrified sculpture. It could even serve as a sealing technique when paired with Fire Release.

Meanwhile, the Dropping Lid summoned massive layers of earth from the sky to crush the enemy—a straightforward yet devastating offensive technique.

I wonder when I'll finally get access to Konoha's Scroll of Seals… Jiraiya thought, carefully storing the scrolls.

The village's most powerful jutsu were sealed away within that scroll, their devastating effects too dangerous for general use. But Jiraiya, with his Sage physique and formidable regenerative abilities, was confident he could withstand the risks. Unfortunately, gaining access to those jutsu was nearly impossible without approval from the highest-ranking officials.

"By the way, Jiraiya, where did you get that unusual weapon of yours?" Hiruzen asked, his curiosity piqued. He couldn't recall ever seeing such a tool in the hands of Jiraiya's family.

"It was something I found in a hidden chamber at home after my parents sacrificed themselves for the village. I'm not sure who crafted it or why it was there," Jiraiya replied, his tone steady.

"If you want it, Sensei, it's yours anytime. A weapon like this would only realize its full potential in your hands, making you even stronger to protect the village."

Jiraiya had carefully rehearsed this response. By praising Hiruzen so highly, he hoped the Hokage wouldn't even consider taking the Blade from him. After all, Hiruzen had the Enma Staff and didn't lack powerful weapons.

Still, Jiraiya knew he had to be cautious around other Konoha higher-ups, especially Danzo. By framing his words as he did, he was subtly nudging Hiruzen to pass along the message to Danzo and the others.

Hiruzen looked genuinely moved.

"To have a disciple like you is truly my greatest fortune. I doubt I could find another like you even if I searched with a lantern."

"Jiraiya, with such a noble mindset, you make me proud. I believe you're the one to carry on my will."

The Third Hokage now fully saw Jiraiya as his successor, a torchbearer of the Will of Fire. He leaned back, puffing on his pipe with a deeply satisfied expression.

Can smoking really feel that good? Jiraiya thought, bemused by Hiruzen's blissful demeanor.

"If you ever need guidance in your training, don't hesitate to come to me," Hiruzen said warmly.

"Thank you, Sensei," Jiraiya replied, bowing before leaving the office.

As he descended the stairs, he spotted Danzo climbing up with a shadowy expression.

"Danzo-sama," Jiraiya greeted politely.

Danzo gave a slight nod and continued on his way into the office. Clearly, he had pressing matters to discuss.

"Lord Hokage, most of the Anbu are deployed in Ame-gakure gathering intelligence, and the few remaining are tied up patrolling the village perimeter to ensure its safety. We lack the manpower to properly investigate the identities of the enemy ninja."

Danzo spoke bluntly, getting straight to the point.

"That's why I propose forming a new unit to cultivate elite shinobi. There are many tasks that even the Anbu, with their relatively restrained methods, are ill-suited for. We need operatives with darker hearts, those who can take on the truly shadowy missions."

Hiruzen, puffing on his pipe, asked, "Have you decided on a name for this organization?"

Danzo had pitched this idea before, but Hiruzen had rejected it. However, after giving it more thought, he realized the utility of such a group. The Anbu, being directly under the Hokage's command, carried out actions that reflected his will. But some operations needed to remain in the shadows, far removed from public scrutiny.

If Danzo created this group, Hiruzen would remain uninvolved, with Danzo absorbing any potential fallout.

Danzo smirked. "Yes… I've decided to call it Root."

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Pls Drop some Power Stones

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