NLS10-20

Chapter 10: Who am I?

Note to self. Chakra exhaustion fucking sucks!

It was ten minutes into the exercise when I figured that out.

There was one small thing I overlooked.

Uses: 20 CP per minute

Yup, that's the one. And considering that I had only 25 CP, that meant I

could only use the exercise for a minute. But guess what, even that

was fuckign wrong! Because….

CONTROL- 20%

That meant I was only using 20% of the all the chakra I was fucking

using! Meaning not only could I not do the exercise of a minute. I could

use it for only 16 fucking seconds! FUUUUUUUUCCCCCCKKKKKK!

After sixteen seconds I was done. Not a drop of chakra left. I couldn't

believe it, I had wasted 80% of all my chakra simply because I didn't

have enough control. What the fuck right?!

So now I was sitting panting on my bed, not believing how unfair the

world was. Either I fucking raise my chakra level or I improve my

control. And honestly I don't know which.

I opened my menu and looked at my menu and saw my CP bar slowly

filling itself, up. I don't even know the rate of regeneration. So growing

curious I clicked on the bars and a new menu popped up;

HP- DEX [Base 50 + 50 per 10 points in DEX]

HP REGN. [Base 10%+ 2% for every 10 points STR per minute]

SP- VIT [Base 25 + 25 per 10 points in VIT]

SP REGN. [Base 10%+ 2% for every 10 points in VIT per minute]

CP- CHA [Base 25 + 25 per 10 points in CHA]

CONTROL- [+ 2% per 10 points put into CC]

CP REGN. [Base 10% + 2% per 10 points in CHA and CC per

minute]

Perfect, just what I needed. From what I can see I need DEX to get

more life, and STR determines my rate of regeneration, so got to keep

that us for sure.

Then there is VIT that keeps up my stamina, and oh, it seems it also

makes handles regeneration. Damn, that's an important stat right there.

Then comes chakra. The one I'm most concerned about right now.

According to this CHA deals with my chakra capacity and also adds to

my regeneration. CC deals with control and again adds to my

regeneration. So they both were on equal footing so far.

But...I realised something very important. CC dealt with percentages

while CHA dealt with hard numbers. If I raised CHA it would give me

limited boosts, but if I improved CC, then when I deal with CHA on a

latter date I wouldn't just have a little chakra to work with, I would have

colossal amounts!

For now controlling chakra is more important to me than becoming the

next tailless beast. And while gaining a level in leaf concentration

exercises would help in granting me an additional point into CC, I can't

do that if I don't have enough chakra to work with in the first place!

So reluctantly I took the four points I had on hand and placed them all

into CC.

CC- 8

Damn it it had to be done. At least now I should have better

control…..why isn't the thing increasing?

I grumbled and re-read the conditions and realised that it only applied

to every 10 points of CC, meaning...I was two points short. I hanged

my head in shame. I don't deserve to live.

I waited for around ten minutes before regaining my Chakra to 100%. I

placed the leaf on my forehead again and made it stick using chakra. I

counted, one, two, three…..ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen,

fifteen and done!

I stopped the chakra flow. I looked at my CP bar and found a sliver of

chakra remaining. I was panting this time sure, but at least I wasn't

suffering from chakra exhaustion, that was a hundred times worse!

I still had to wait for ten minutes, but at least now I wasn't grumbling in

fucking pain.

I didn't have a clock in my room so I don't know how long I have been

doing this. It was almost robotic the way I moved from fifteen seconds

of chakra control to ten minutes of waiting. I watched the CP bar

regenerate itself slowly, ad when I wasn't doing that I looked out the

window, wondering just what was happening in this seemingly quiet

night out.

But this did have it's own rewards;

Ping! Ping! Ping! Ping!

The skill had leveled up four times in total. To my utter joy. Guess

grinding really was the way to go.

Leaf concentration exercise, Lv- 5 (32%)

By keeping a leaf stuck on your forehead thanks to chakara you

now only help with your chakra control exercise but also improve

your concentration.

Uses: 18 CP per minute

Leaves to hold up- 2

+1 INT while active

+1 CC permanent bonus per level

The CP cost went down, allowing me to go on for just a little bit longer.

It went down by a single point every two levels and when it reached

level 5 the number of leaves I could use went up to two!

I tried to use two leaves at once, but stupid me didn't realise that meant

I would be using twice as much chakra. I figured that just meant I could

use two leave for the same amount, it was an easy mistake to make.

But I did discover something amazing. Each leaf equated to an INT

point. Meaning two leaves game me a bonus of +2 INT when active!

So yes, it does seem impossible now, but I can make it a reality soon! I

had to!

And also thanks to this skill leveling up I also managed to raise my CC

stats;

CC- 12

It was now my highest stat. But even after it crossed the ten point

threshold, my CONTROL didn't raise from 20% to 22% like it was

supposed too. I was almost in tears when I saw that. But after Gamer's

mind calmed me down I realised it will probably only become active

after I level up, since that's how every other point system seemed to

work.

Chapter 11

I kept going, focused on nothing but gaining the next level for the skill. I

did calculation in my head on how much time I had left between each

skill level. It looked like I need little over an hour to get a level up, more

with each level up.

I actually gasped in surprise when I saw the sun rise off in the distance.

I never realised it was so late. But it made sense, doing the same thing

all night, I must have trained for well over seven hours.

But the wierd part is….I wasn't sleepy. Not one bit. I know what I feel

like when I stay up all night, but this wasn't it!

Maybe it was because I channeled chakra into my brain all night?

Maybe that kept it active? No, what am I saying? That sounds stupid!

No, it must be because of the Game, I never see video game

characters need to sleep...yes, that makes sense, Gamer's body can

do that!

So cool! I don't need to sleep! But damn, that means I really need to

find something fun to do while in my room, maybe a book? Hm, does

Konoha have a library? What am I saying? Of course it must have one.

I looked out and saw a gaurd walking up to the gate and opening it. I

smiled, now was my chance to escape!

I ran out of my room with a towel in hand. I saw Kusume outside going

around to wake people up. She noticed me running to the bathroom

and glared hatefully, but said nothing. Guess that's how she wants to

play it huh? Fine, I can deal with that.

I took a nice long bath, because it was so early all the hot water was

still available, plus I didn't have to share the shower with other people. I

then went back into my room, put on a fresh set of clothes, black shirt

with white shorts and my sandals.

I looked into the cafeteria but found it empty with no food ready, people

were working in the kitchen, preparing the food, but I doubt it will be

ready soon.

I sighed, fine, so no food...not that I'm hungry...wait, can I even get

hungry? I don't need to sleep, so food should be the same thing right?

Can I get hungry?! Go I need to eat?!

Deciding to test out my theory I chose to skip breakfast today. I know I

know, very bad for a child to do, but I'm experimenting! I instead

walked out of the orphanage, stopping to ask the watchman whether

he knows where the Konoha library is.

The man complied easy enough, but was curious why I was going out

so early. I told him I wasn't hungry and needed something to do, like

having a book to read. He seemed satisfied with my answer and left

me go after that.

I followed his directions, along with whatever vague memory of the

place I had in my head, and found myself at the steps of a giant

building that was already open. I found a old woman who had dark skin

sweeping the stairs. She had her hair in a bun and glasses, looking

every bit like a stereotypical librarian.

Misa Rural, Librarian

Lv- ?

REP- 0

Woah, a question mark for a level? She must be pretty strong. Maybe

high Chunin? Maybe even Jonin? Hm, would make sense, a library is

the home of knowledge and to a ninja knowledge is power. Having a

civilian gaurd all that power would be like having an 8 year old being a

cop.

Misa looked up and noticed me immediately, she smiled, "can I help

you dear?"

I gulped and nodded, "yes," it came out speaky, I cleared my throat and

tried again, "I was just wondering if the library was open."

Misa smiled, "indeed it is…."

"Yami," I supplied.

Misa nodded, "Yami, lovely name. Please go right inside," she

motioned to the open doors. I thanks her and ran in finding the inside

filled with rows and rows of books.

There were three floors with a staircase near the back leading to the

first and second floors. On the ground floor the room was separated

into two parts, three shelves near the back which had the label, 'Only

Ninja's allowed beyond this point', and the other part and no

restrictions whatsoever.

Apparently only ninja's got most of the knowledge, isn't that something.

I went into the civilian section and looked around trying to find a book

that would interest me. I found several decent ones, like books on

cooking, history, math, science, genetics, ninja weapons-wait wha?!

I grabbed the book and found the label reading, 'Weapons, a ninja's

best friends' and inside I found a list of all the weapons a common ninja

would need along with instructions on how to use it.

I found this very very interesting. I need it!

I kept looking and found a book on history, because duh it's a lesson

for this year and one a romance fiction story that honestly had a

brilliant story premes, a poor farmer becomes a ninja to save his wife

from a war lord! Can't say much about the author's writing quality, but

hey, it's something.

I took all three books and walked to the front counter where Misa now

sat smiling at me. "Did you find what you were looking for?" she asked.

I nodded slowly, "yes," I put the books on the counter, "can I take

them?"

Misa smiled, "of course. I just need your parent's permission first

before you can. Some of these books are very advanced and

dangerous, I don't want you to get hurt," she said looking at the book

about weapons.

I nodded, "that's fine and all, but I'm an orphan."

Misa blinked, "oh, well then just wait a moment, I'll ring this up for you. I

don't suppose you have a library card yes?"

I shook my head, "no ma'am."

The woman smiled, "not to worry, I'll have it ready for you in an instant."

She smiled before taking out a form and having me fill it up. I did so

quickly and using the information she made me a small card with my

name and address on it along with a particular string of numbers.

Chapter 12

"Here you go Yami," the woman smiled putting the books into a plastic

bag and handing me the library card, "no don't lose these you here?

They are very important and it'll cost a lot to replace them. Do you

understand?"

I nodded, "yes ma'am," I bowed a little, "thanks for helping me."

"Oh it's fine, I'm just glad there are kids today who are still so excited to

be learning bright and early," she smiled.

I thanked her again before leaving the library. As I walked away I

suddenly realised that the old woman was right. If I lose these books

I'm finished! I don't have any cash to pay people back with!

I could hide it in my room...but that matron, she hates me. She might

steal them or burn them without me seeing or something and blame

someone else. Maybe even some other kid. That was she won't be

implied. Damn it! I'm giving myself weaknesses.

I grumbled, if only I had some kind of storage seal that can...that's it! A

storage seal! No, not a storage seal, the video game equivalent,

"inventory open!"

And the moment I called it out a blue box opened before me. It had

several smaller boxes inside it, rows and rows of it. I was giddy with

excitement. I looked around, the streets were practically empty, but

can't be too careful when dealing with ninjas.

So I snuck into an alley and went behind a garbage can and squated. I

looked around, with the coast clear, I took out the books form the

plastic bag and one by one pressed them against the inventory screen.

At first touch the screen applied allowing the object to slip in

immediately. I watched in awe as each book took up a box all for itself.

I threw away the plastic bag and smile, this could be potentially

awesome!

I touched one box, selecting the book. This caused the book to come

out of the screen similar to how I put it in. Fucking amazing! This way I

don't have to worry about anyone stealing from me ever again!

This is so cool!

I put the book away along with my library card, can't lose that. With my

hands now free I decided it was finally time to check out that

mysterious symbol I saw in the park yesterday.

I ran to the place as fast as my little body could take me and reach

there in ten minutes. I looked around and found the fire statute pretty

easily. I looked down and there it was, that glowing leaf symbol.

I smiled as I touched it and suddenly new box popped open;

You have discovered a natural dungeon! Would you like to go

inside?

Y/N

Dungeon, Lv- 1

I was torn, on the plus side a dungeon meant lot and other goodies,

maybe even some cash if I'm lucky enough. But on the other hand...I

might fuckign die. I had no skills, no weapons and absolutely no idea

how to fight.

Yup, I can actually die. So no, not now. I might go later, but not until I

have a weapon, a jutsu I can use and know how to fight.

Ping!

Quest Alert!

Train for a dungeon!

Learn one jutsu (0/1)

Have a weapon (0/1)

Learn how to fight

Rewards:

?

50 EXP

Failer:

Being a loser and never having the guts to enter a dungeon

Do you accept?

Y/N?

I grumbled reading the failure option, an annoying little fucker aren't

you? Either way, I accepted the quest.

I closed the box and left, intending to go to the academy a little early

when I realised something. I forgot my damn note book! I must have

left it in my bed when I went for a wash! Fuck me!

I grumbled and immediately walked back to the orphanage and found

the entire building more active. I went into my room straight away and

found it the same, guess the matron didn't trash it...yet.

Not willing to leave anything to chance I shut the door and began to put

everything I had into my inventory. My clothes, my sandals and even

my red notebook. I also put away my tooth brush, paste and spare

pillow. What? Never know when you're going to need it!

When I was done the room looked barren, like no one lived there. But I

suppose that was fine. I walked out of my room and found the time was

around 7:30, I had enough time to eat something, even though I didn't

really feel hungry. I really have to say, this Gamer's body is totally

broken!

I went into the cafeteria, grabbed a plate for myself, sat with kids my

age and ate in silence. All the while listening to what they were saying.

"Did you hear what the matron said, we aren't supposed to play with

him anymore!"

"But he looks so sad sitting there all alone!"

"So what? You remember the last time she called a kids bad? It was

that Naruto brat! We need to stay away, that's all I know."

Ah, so the matron made her move. Ostracising, not bad. If you were

dealing with a child, but me? I was born alone, I was raised alone, I

didn't have a friend until I was already a man! Whahaha!

Okay no, that was a lie, I had many friend, but not all of them were

super close. I'm used to being alone, if this is the best the matron can

do then I'm not worried, not one bit.

At the end of breakfast my experience rate for my eavesdropping skill

was at 74%, not bad, maybe at lunch or dinner I can level it up.

I put away the plates for washing and went to leave when suddenly

Ksume waked in glaring at me, "where do you think you're going Yami?

It's your turn to wash the dishes today."

I blinked, "oh...right," I blinked as I followed her into the kitchen and

saw the pile of dishes piled up near the sink. I looked at a chart near

the sink with a list of names on it, and sure enough, under sink

cleaning for today was my name.

Chapter 13

I gulped as I looked at the time, I had an hour to get to the academy,

God I wish I knew the shadow clone jutsu right now.

I said nothing else and got to work. I think that irritated the matron a lot,

the fact I didn't complain.

I worked hard, washing the dishes as quickly as I could. It was hard at

first, but I managed to keep up with the workload. And just as I washed

my twentieth dish a new box opened up;

Ping!

You have created a new skill!

Maintenance, Lv- 1 (0%)

Maintaining something is just as important as owning it.

+2% bonus to all items you maintain (clean, polish oil) for

whatever their use is.

Bonus lasts for 30 minutes

I blinked, what did that mean? You use a plate to hold food, does that

mean it got a 2% bonus in holding food? That didn't make any sense?

Okay yes, I suppose washing dishes is maintaining them, so yes that

does apply, but the bonus?

I looked at the dishes, they didn't look any different, I narrowed my

eyes and really focused on them and suddenly another box popped up!

Ping!

You have created a new skill!

Observation, Lv-1 (0%)

The skill to learn about an object or person by observing them.

I blinked, alright, this was something new. I looked at the plates again

and this time a new box opened up with the Plate's picture near the top

right corner.

Dish, E class item,

It is a plate of metal that can be used to hold food.

Bonus- 2% more nutrition for all food items held on this plate

(29:55)

I blinked, well that certainly answered my questions.

"Stop staring, you'll be late," Matron hissed into my ear making me jerk

into action. I shot her a glare before getting back to work.

By the time I was done I had ten minutes to reach the academy, stupid

bitch. I had to run out the door in order to reach the place in time. But

at least it wasn't all for nothing, I managed to level up my maintenance

skill twice!

Maintenance, Lv- 3 (40%)

Maintaining something is just as important as owning it.

+4% bonus to all items you maintain (clean, polish oil) for

whatever their use is

Bonus lasts for 35 minutes

I ran into the academy in that last minute, threw the door open and

leaped inside, "safe!"

"Good morning professor, I see you have been very active today

morning," I looked to see Mizuki at the lecture podium. He smiled at

me, "go on, take your seat, don't be too late next time."

I nodded as I looked around and spotted Naruto waving me over to our

usual spot near the back. I quickly went up to him and sat down,

"morning Naruto."

"Hey Yami," the kid smiled, "what happened? You were really late."

I shrugged, "don't worry about it. Let's focus on the class," Naruto

shrugged doing just that.

As Mizuki gave a lecture I narrowed my eyes at him and whispered,

"Observe." Immediately his menu card came up;

Mizuki, Chunin of Konoha

Lv- 41

REP- 10

HP- 20,500/20,500

SP- 15,000/15,000

CP- 16,000/16,000

CONTROL- 43%

Allegiance- Self/ Orochimaru

STR- 43

VIT- 49

DEX- 32

INT- 39

CHA- 40

CC- 32

LUC- 20

Mizuki was born in Konoha as an orphan with no name or anyone

to care for him. He believes in one rule of thumb, the strong

survive the weak die. As such he dedicated his life to getting more

power

I blinked, 'damn, I never realised the man was already a traitor. That

Allegiance bar is really useful.' I said nothing as Mizuki continued with

his speech but on the inside I was a little cautious, I need to keep an

eye on the man.

But on the other hand I also realised I need to level up my Observation

skill. It's a powerful tool for a ninja, especially if it can give me more info

the stronger it get.

So while Naruto and the others struggled to listen to Mizuki's speech I

payed more attention on Observing everything around me, that

included the kids, the desk and the tables. By the end I had leveled up

the skill twice over, though it still didn't grant me any new info when

observing someone.

Observation, Lv-3 (43%)

The skill to learn about an object or person by observing them.

During lunch Naruto and I ate together, he talked while I listened

halfheartedly, while I also eavesdropped on the kids around us.

Allowing my skill to level up;

Easdropping, Lv- 4 (4%)

Your ability to listen in someone else's conversation without them

being aware of it. This is a very important skill for a ninja to

possess for information gathering.

Range: 13 feet (100% accuracy)

-10% accuracy for every additional feet

After lunch we had another lecture from Iruka, before we all went out to

the backyard and began physical training. Again another ten laps. I

freaking hate exercise!

Ping!

You have gained +1 VIT!

Meh, at least there's that.

After the academy got over that day Naruto dragged me to the park

and we played until the sun went down. Honestly after a point I got

tired of playing tag, he just laughed and called me a whimp. Grumble.

I went back to the orphanage that night and ate my dinner, grinding my

eavesdropping skill in the process. And just like that I found myself in

my room, the gates to the orphanage closing.

I sighed, well at least I have some books to read. I took out the one

about the ninja weapons and poured through it, using the moon to give

me some light. It wasn't much, but it was enough.

Half way through I realised this book was very useful, if a little dry. My

mind kept wandering off, hm, it looks like I'm going to have to

concentrate. Meaning, leaf concentration exercises!

I quickly grabbed a leaf from the tree branch outside my window and

stuck it to my forehead. I focused on keeping it up using my chakra,

which lasted for around twenty seconds, before I put it aside, returning

to the book while I waited for my chakra to regenerate.

Chapter 14

And so this time I had something else to do during the ten minutes gap

of recharging my chakra.

I read all night, the quietness of the night really helping me focus. It

was honestly amazing, I don't remember much from my old life, but I'm

pretty sure I was a bibliophile and the fact that I know what that word

means is probably proof enough of that statement.

Imagine, being able to read for however long you want without growing

tired or sleepy? It was the dream! I didn't even realise what time it was

until the sun came up, and by then I was on the last page of the damn

instruction manual!

I would have finished it a lot sooner, but every time I finished reading

about a weapon and it's uses I had a little fantasy play out in my head

about how I can use the weapon and the like. I have to say so far the

kunai is my favorite.

I put the book away and got off my bed, stretching like a cat to wake up

my sore muscles. As I trained through the night my leaf concentration

exercises went up by two levels last night;

Leaf concentration exercise, Lv- 7 (75%)

By keeping a leaf stuck on your forehead thanks to chakara you

now only help with your chakra control exercise but also improve

your concentration.

Uses: 17 CP per minute

Leaves to hold up- 2

+1 INT while active

+1 CC permanent bonus per level

CC- 14

Not bad for a night's work if I do say so myself. It's going to get tougher

to level it up I know, but hey, I'll cross that bridge when it comes to it.

I was honestly surprised I didn't get a new skill for reading the ninja

weapons book. But I suppose it makes sense, I know the theory, but I

didn't actually do anything to warrant a new skill. So maybe I should

work on that...hm...yeah.

I got out of my room, had an early shower like yesterday, took out my

red notebook for school and sat down in the cafeteria where kids my

age usually sit.

I looked over the notes I took, like a good little nerd. I watched as more

kids slowly walked in, talking with each other something or another. I

strained to hear them speak, getting only a few words in between,

guess they were out of my range thereby giving me a less accurate

reading.

But I did get more experience for the skill and for me that's enough. I

waited until the food arrived before getting myself a plate and sitting

down, listening to the people around me while also spamming my

Observation skill.

I managed to level the latter skill once before I had to leave for the

academy;

Observation, Lv-4 (21%)

The skill to learn about an object or person by observing them.

But again, no new listing in the menu cards I got. Damn it all to hell!

Any I made my way to class, Naruto was late again. I sat in our usual

spot and took out the other book I got, History 101 and began to read it

eagerly. I was halfway through the tenth page when Iruka came in and

right after him was Naruto.

At the end of that school day Naruto and I went our separate ways.

Apparently he had gotten caught after doing a prank on Mizuki so he

had detention with Iruka. So I found myself free for the first time since

coming here.

I walked around the village for a while, bored and wondering what I can

do. I had the entire village for myself to explore..hm, maybe I can see

what other ninja teams are doing? After all don't they use training

grounds?

I went around for a while and asked directions to the training grounds.

Obviously no civilian here knew where that was and even if they did

they wouldn't tell a child. But I happened upon a map of the village and

managed to figure out there was a lot of forest covered area along the

walls of the village, meaning chances are the training fields are all

probably there.

I rushed to the nearest one, located near the Academy. I walked

towards the end of the road and found that there was a small fence

covering up the area with the words, 'Training ground 2 up head'. I

smiled and quickly leaped over the fence, rushing into the forest.

The forest was dense, I found no real path so I was forced to leap over

bushed and other shrubbery. But just then, I heard it, the clashing of

metal. I immediately bent down hiding myself as I snuck over to the

noise.

And slowly the trees opened up revealing a flat training grounds where

two green flak jacket wearing ninjas fought each other with sharp

knives. I lowered my head into the shrubs and watched from a

distance.

One had a large black beard and had a kunai in his right hand while

the other had long blonde hair tied in a ponytail. Both were male and

form the way they moves I'm guessing they were at least Chunin.

I saw the bearded dude deflect several shurikens with his kunai before

leaping at his opponent. They then proceeded to fight each other hand

to hand, blocking and striking almost immediately, each strike like

lightning.

My eyes widened, 'this is so fucking cool!' It was inhuman the way they

moved, like a choreographed dance both knew how to play. I watched

in silence as the men tried to beat the other one up into paste, but

unable to gain the advantage.

Ping!

You have created a new skill!

Stealth, Lv- 1 (0%)

Your ability to hide in plain sight is crucial for being a ninja.

Chances of not getting spotted- 5%

For stronger opponents, -2% for each level they surpass you

'What kind of shitty skill is this?!' my eyes went wide, 'that means even

if I'm spying on Naruto, I would have a 0% chance of getting away with

it. No, scratch that, less than 0%!'

I grumbled as I swiped the box away and turned back to the fighting,

but I realised something, the two men were gone. I blinked as I looked

around, where did they go?

"Looking for us kid?" came a sharp voice from behind me.

Chapter 15

I went stiff as I slowly turned around seeing the two men looking down

at me with amused smirks on their faces. How did they….oh right, of

course, my stealth level is shit anyway.

The blonde one;

Karu Hashmi, Chunin of Konoha

Lv- ?

REP- 5

And the bearded one;

Ryuto, Chunin of Konoha

Lv- ?

REP- 5

I blinked, "ah...hi."

Ryuto snorted, "hey yourself kid. What are you doing here?"

I looked at them, "talking to you."

Karu snorted, "oh, looks like we have a smart ass on our hands Ryuto."

"This is a dangerous place kid, not the kind of area kid like you should

be around," the bearded man warned.

I shrugged, "it's fine, I'm training to be a ninja so I need to learn these

things."

The two of them looked at each for a moment before exploding into

laughter. "Kid, you're one strange boy!" Karu laughed hard, "so tell me

little ninja, what do you want to learn?"

My eyes winded, practically sparkling, "you mean it?"

Ryuto rolled his eyes, "come on Karu, we don't have time for this."

"Hey, it's my day off," the blonde smirked, "besides, the kid has spark.

Can you imagine one of us going into a training ground when we are

barely out of our diapers just to learn?"

The bearded man rolled his eyes, "fine, whatever. Just don't come

crying to me if you kill the kid," he looked at me, I guess he expected

me to react negatively to his death threat, too bad I know for a fact he's

full of shit.

"So kid, what's your name?" Karu asked me.

"Yami," I replied bowing a little, "it's nice to met you."

"I'm Karu, that grumpy teddy bear is Ryuto," the blonde man smiled,

"now, what do you want to know?"

I blinked, "ah….can you help me increase my chakra reserves?"

Ryuto snorted while Kaoru smiled, "sorry kid, but chakara training is

very dangerous business, if you want your reserves to grow you just

have to allow it to happen naturally."

Or in my case pour a crap ton of points into the CHA stat. I nodded,

"okay...hm, can you help me with weapons?" I used the only other thing

I knew about.

This time Ryuto was the one to speak, "this guy teaching a kid about

weapons? Please, don't make me laugh. He can barely hit a target with

his kunai let alone teach!"

"Hey watch to panda bear! Or skin you!" Kaoru growled.

"Bring it wallflower!" Ryuto growled back.

I cleared my throat, "so weapons, is that a yes or no?"

The two ninjas turned to me with surprised looks. "You're pretty calm

for a kid aren't you?" Karu asked.

I nodded, "yup, not a lot that can surprise me. Anyway, weapons."

Karu grumbled, "as much as I hate to admit it, but the bear is right-"

"-Ha!"

"-Shut it!" Karu snapped, "sorry kid, I'm not that great of a teacher

when it comes to weapons. But there is something else I'm good at,"

he smiled as he took out a scroll and brush, "fuinjutsu."

I blinked, "woah, cool."

"Oh please, I would hardly call your skills something to boast about,"

Ryuto snorted, "it's barely good enough to form a storage seal.

Remember that time you tried to seal up some food and it exploded?"

"That was one time!" Kaoru yelled before sighing and turning to me,

"sorry about him. He's just sad that his girlfriend doesn't love him

anymore. Anyway, here look," he put the scroll on the ground and used

his brush to draw intricate kanji on it, "this is a storage seal."

I looked at him, "it's not going to explode is it?"

"Ha! I like this kid," Ryuto snorted, "he's a great judge of character!"

Karu rubbed his nose, "that's because he has such a negative

influence! Mainly you! Now shut the fuck up!" He grumbled before

turning to me and stopping, "ah...please don't mind that. No, it won't

explode, I promise."

I raised an eyebrow before nodding and returning to the seal. I

watched his hand move like water creating an intricate design into the

paper scroll. He then took out a kunai and placed it on the scroll before

it vanished in a poof of smoke.

"Ta-da!" Kaoru said with a smirk, "magic!"

I nodded, "cool. Can you teach me?"

Kaoru chuckled, "sorry kid, but you're much too young to learn this

stuff. You need to atleast be a ninja before you can even attempt to

learn this stuff."

I hummed, "I see...what would I need to learn it though? I need to know

kanji that's for sure, and paper and ink. But what else?"

Karu and Ryuto shared a look. "Well I suppose you would need to

know the basic scripture of each seal," Kaoru shrugged, "and practise

until you can perform kanji in your sleep. Oh and a very good teacher

because believe me you don't want to practise fuinjutsu without proper

training."

I nodded, "interesting..."

Ping!

Quest Alert!

Learn the art of seals!

Rewards;

+500 EXP

+2 stat points

Fauiler:

Nothing, you just suck

Do you accept?

Y/N?

I shrugged, what the hell. I accepted the quest, right now this is the one

I knew with the highest reward, so if I want to level up I need to focus

on this.

"Right, anyway, it's time for you to leave," Ryuto said gruffly, "you need

to head home kid, I'm sure your parents are worried about you."

I shrugged, "not really. I'm an orphan, no parents to speak off."

I saw Ryuto's eyes soften, I'm guessing since he doesn't have a last

name he must be an orphan too. I bowed to them, "thanks for teaching

me, I'll try not to get caught next time."

"Wait what?" Kaoru's eyes shot open, "you mean you won't come here

again!"

"No, I mean I'll try not to get caught," I shrugged, "bye!" I walked away

quickly.

"Can you believe that kid?" Karu snorted, "the balls on him."

"He kid," Ryuto called out. I turned just in time to see him toss me a

kunai through the air. It moved so slow I could easy snatch it out of the

air. I looked at it, shiny iron kunai. I blinked and looked at him, Ryuto

shrugged, "consider it a bride. Don't come back here until you're ten,

got that?"

I blinked, "here as in this training ground or every training ground?"

Ryuto and Kura groaned, "every training ground!"

I shrugged, "fine," I looked at the kunai and smirked, "thanks for this,";

Ping!

You have made progress in a quest!

Train for a dungeon!

Have a weapon (1/1)

I smiled, 'a weapon and making progress on a quest? That's so fucking

cool!' I waved at them, "see you guys later!" and ran out of the training

grounds.

When I reached the road again I opened my inventory and put the

kunai inside. I know it was just a kunai, but it was my first and...well, it

was my only weapon, can't lose that can I?

Chapter 16

I found myself going back to the Orphanage, and to do that I had to

pass by the academy grounds once again. When I passed by the

grounds however I heard a thumping sound. Curious I walked inside

and into the back yard finding a kid with circular eyes and bushy

eyebrows hitting a wooden pole constantly.

Rock Lee, Hard worker

Lv- 3

REP- 0

I was amazed, the kid was what, ten? And he was already hitting that

pole until his knuckles bleed. I could see it, his knuckles were bleeding

through his bandaged fists. Damn it, that kid's starting to make me

jealous.

I had nothing else to do plus I don't want to end up in the orphanage

just yet so I decided why not get some training done? After all I do

need to improve my physical stats.

I walked into the training yard and immediately Lee noticed me. He

smiled and waved, I returned it, "hello Lee, hard at work I see."

"Oh? You know me?" Lee asked surprised.

I nodded, "yes, I heard about you. You can't use chakra yes? Very

interesting."

Lee hung his head in shame, "y-yes, that is right, I cannot use chakra

I….I cannot be a ninja."

I raised an eyebrow, why was he so depressed? Oh, right, he didn't

have Gai to teach him yet, hm, makes sense.

"Well you know, there a lot more to being a ninja than just chakkra," I

told him with a shrug.

"Your words are kind, but I know you're just saying that," Lee struck the

post again, "I can never become a ninja."

I looked at him, "why? Because you can't mold chakra? Oh please,

there have been several ninja who can't do that."

"Like who?" he asked in a channeling tone.

I shrugged, "Mighty Duy."

"Who?"

"He's a guy who took on the seven swordsman of the Mist, the top

ninjas of the Mist village and held them off using nothing but taijutsu," I

approached the pole and looked at, hints of Lee's blood was in the

wood's frame, "the man fought them all off with nothing but taijutsu, so

you see, you don't need charaka to be a ninja."

Lee's eyes went wide, "a-are you serious?"

I nodded, "yeah, go look it up if you don't believe me."

Lee's eyes shined, "a ninja who used only taijutsu? Amazing."

I shrugged, "yeah. And his son's the same, Mighty Gai, some say he's

the greatest taijutsu user of all time. Maybe you should ask him to train

you?"

"Do you think he would?" Lee asked with hope in his voice.

I shrugged, "maybe, I don't know, I'm sure if you ask him he would-"

ZOOM!

Lee bolted away into the streets of Konoha screaming, 'Gai-sensei!

Teach me!' I blinked, guess he was weirdo even before Gai met him. I

looked around at the now empty training field and saw all the

equipment just lying around. If I'm going to exercise I can't use weights,

I'm too young. But...stamina can always use a boost.

So with a dreadful sight I began to run laps around the academy

training yard. I kept going until it got dark outside, I lost count of how

many rounds I went, I instead kept track by counting how many stat

points I earned, the total came up to 2.

You have gained +1 VIT!

You have gained +1 VIT!

VIT- 6

Not bad for a day's work, though I'm sure next time I do this I'll gain

only one stat point and the time after that none at all.

I made it back to the orphanage that night and did what I usually would,

eat while eavesdropping before going to bed and watching the

orphanage gates close for the night.

I took another leaf and began my chakra control exercises once again,

taking out my history book and reading it. I had much less light this

time, it was a very dark night, honestly would it kill these people to get

a few candles? Then again I suppose they are strapped for cash as it

is.

Ping!

Your skill has leveled up!

Leaf concentration exercise, Lv- 8 (5%)

By keeping a leaf stuck on your forehead thanks to chakara you

now only help with your chakra control exercise but also improve

your concentration.

Uses: 16 CP per minute

Leaves to hold up- 2

+1 INT while active

+1 CC permanent bonus per level

Ping!

You gained +1 CC!

CC- 15

I smiled, this was going well for me.

I spent a better part of the night reading the history book, but

eventually I got bored. So I opened my inventory and tossed my book

inside, and decided I might as well learn something about using a

kunai, so I took out the book about ninja tools and the one kunai I had.

I opened the book to the chapter about the bladed weapon and began

to read it holding the weapon up to the dull moonlight seeing how ti

shined in the light.

I groaned, I'm no expert, but the weapon looked at little dull. I quickly

observed it;

Kunai, E class time

A standard weapon for a ninja, a kunai can be used in a variety of

different ways in combat.

DMG: 5

I blinked while it was too bad it wasn't all that great either. I man just 5

health points? Sure it could kill me no problem, a ninja? This thing was

way too weak. Bu I suppose if I stabbed someone in the eye with it

then I would land a critical hit.

Chapter 17

I quickly reread the book and went to the part about maintenance. I

took out an old shirt of mine, something I couldn't wear anymore, and

used the cloth to polish the kunai. After which I began to sharpen the

blade on my stone window sill. It wasn't a proper wet stone, but it was

the best I had at hand.

I did my best at making sure I didn't damage the blade's edge and

when I made to sharpen the other side something happened;

Ping!

A skill has leveled up!

Maintenance, Lv- 4 (2%)

Maintaining something is just as important as owning it.

+5% bonus to all items you maintain (clean, polish oil) for

whatever their use is

Bonus lasts for 35 minutes

I blinked, the same skill I gained when washing dishes was applicable

for maintaining weapon? Of course, it made sense, it didn't specify only

dishes can be used for this too. Immediately I observed my kunai

again;

Kunai, E class time

A standard weapon for a ninja, a kunai can be used in a variety of

different ways in combat.

DMG: 5.25HP (+0.25 Maintenance bonus for 34:56 minutes)

Holy shit, it got stronger! That means….oh my God. If I level up my

maintenance skill by washing dishes, I could fucking make a simple

kunai, which does only 5 DMG, do 10 DMG! Granted it's not much, but

if I had a real weapon, like a sword, then I could possibly double its

attack power!

This definitely warranted further exploration!

After polishing the kunai as best I could I put it away and returned to

my weapons book. I read up on how to use a kunai in battle and how to

hold it. Needless to say I was itching to try it out.

The next day morning I walked up the matron and tapped her shoulder.

She turned around and narrowed her eyes looking at me, "what do you

want Yami? I'm very busy."

"Can I wash all the dishes?" I asked her.

Her eyes went wide, she definitely wasn't expecting this from me, "w-

what? Why?"

"I feel like it," I told her as a shrug, "I want to wash all the dishes,

please."

The woman blinked, "but why do you want to do that Yami?"

I shrugged, "I just feel like it. Can I?"

She looked a little taken back, "w-well I suppose-"

I nodded and gave her a little bow, "-thank you." I then went into the

kitchen and began to do the dishes as fast a I could, I need to be on

time for school. I noticed Ksme in the edge of my vision, looking at me

curiously, I guess she wants to know why I'm acting so selflessly. Heh,

as if.

Ping!

Your skill has leveled up!

Maintenance, Lv- 5 (22%)

Maintaining something is just as important as owning it.

+5% bonus to all items you maintain (clean, polish oil) for

whatever their use is

Bonus lasts for 40 minutes

I closed the box and put all the dishes away. I then ran to the academy,

making it just in time for the bell to ring.

I sat through a boring lecture after another, much to Naruto's and mine

annoyance and finally for the physical portion of the class I ran fifteen

rounds instead of ten, much tougher, but needed.

It was the end of school when Naruto approached me again, "hey

Yami! You want to go play in the park today?"

I shock my head, "sorry Naruto, I'm training today, you want to join

me?"

"Huh? Training? But we just finished learning ninja stuff!" Naruto

whined.

I shrugged, "yes, but I want to do some more training. Come on, it'll be

fun!" I told him with my best smile.

Naruto sighed, "fine, but tomorrow we go and play in the park!"

I nodded, "deal." We went back to the training yard and Naruto whined

all the way there.

"But I thought you hated running!" he asked.

"Yes, but it's something I need to do!"

"But why?!"

"Because it's something I bad at."

"But if you're bad at it why do you do it?!"

I started to get ticked off, "because then I won't be bad at it anymore!"

"But that doesn't make any sense!"

"Argh!" I need something to distract the damn kid! I opened my

inventory and took out my kunai, "here, play with this!"

Naruto's eyes sparkled,"woah! Is that a real kunai?! So cool! Where did

you get it?!"

I sighed as he snatched it from my hand and looked at it like it was a

golden prize, "I got it from a ninja. He caught me walking into the

training grounds and I when I told him I wouldn't do it again he gave me

that. Don't lose it okay? It's my only one and special to me."

I saw Naruto's REP score go from 20 to 26 in one giant leap. "I

promise!" Naruto cried out with a big smile. I sighed, I already knew I

was going to regret this.

I began to run laps around the yard watching Naruto as he threw the

kunai at a target near the back. So far he wasn't too bad, managed to

get the kunai into the target once in awhile, though he did have to run

to the target to get it back.

I soon stopped paying attention to Naruto, focusing on running, when I

heard him yell, "oh no!"

I stopped and turned to him, "what happened?"

He looked like he saw a ghost. He turned to me with wide eyes, tears

forming in them, "I-I I'm sorry! I didn't mean too."

I raised an eyebrow, "what happened?"

"Y-your kunai! It's gone!" Naruto said crying out loud, "please don't hate

me."

I sighed rolling my eyes, I knew this would happen. I walked up to him

and smacked him up the head, "pipe down you cry baby, it's not a big

deal,"

Ping!

You have lost a quest item!

Train for a dungeon!

Have a weapon (0/1)

"Ah...okay, it's kind of a big deal. We need to find it, quickly, where did it

go Naruto?" I asked him.

"Y-you're not mad?" he asked sniffing.

I sighed, "no. Now pull yourself together you moron, the future Hokage

can't be seen crying like a little baby!"

Naruto quickly got the steel back into his eyes, "r-right! I threw it over

the wall, I think it landed on the other side."

"Well since no one is screaming bloody murder I guess it's safe to say

no one got hurt, come on," I told him pulling Naruto along as we ran to

the other side of the compound wall and looked around.

Chapter 18

We found ourselves on a bridge over a canal. Naruto and I looked

around frantically on the bridge when suddenly Naruto pointed at

something in the canal below, "there it is!"

I looked down and sure enough my kunai was there by the grass and

mud. I was thinking of a way to go down there and safely get it when I

saw Naruto climb onto the railing and jump down into the water.

"No don't!" I cried out, but I was too late.

Splash!

He landed in the water and splashed his way towards the grass and

mud. He reached out and grabbed the kunai holding it up in the air

waving it around proudly, "I got it!"

But as he waved it around I saw him being carried away by the current,

"w-what's going on?! Hey!" Naruto cried out as he struggled to move

away from the strong current, flailing around like a Magikarp.

I groaned, "of course, the moron doesn't know how to swim." I sighed, I

really liked this shirt too. I got on the railing and leaped into the water. I

swam along the current reaching Naruto quickly. I grabbed his smaller

body and began swinging towards the edge of the canal.

We were being pulled along for the ride, but soon we reached a more

open area of the canal with a river bank by the side. I managed to grab

hold onto dry land before I threw Naruto out of the water and crawl out

myself.

I laid down panting, I looked over and found Naruto leaning up,

panting, he didn't have the energy to say a word.

Ping!

You have gained a new skill!

Swimming, Lv- 1 (0%)

Your swimming skills are needed when you are in water...duh.

Speed- 1 Km an hour

Cost- 10 SP per minute

I sighed as I dismissed the skill box and turned to Naruto, "think before

you leap...moron."

Naruto smiled, "hehe, sorry."

"Don't give me that sorry bullshit! You almost died! If you fucking

becoem the Hokage god help us all!" I yelled.

Naruto however didn't feel bad, he just chuckled and smiled. He held

out the kunai he was holding, "her, sorry I lost it."

I looked at the thing and sighed, "listen you blonde moron, I don't care

about a kunai, I can get that anywhere, so don't risk your life again for

something so trivial. Got that?"

Naruto blinked, "well, I didn't get it because it's a kunai Yami, I got it

because you trusted me with it and you're my friend. I didn't want to

break our friendship."

I blinked I looked up at his REP score and sure enough it jumped from

26 to 32. I was impressed, he really did make an effort.

I looked at him and sighed, "you moron. You think I would stop being

your friend because of this? Please," I got to my feet and helped him

up I took back the kunai and smiled, honestly I was happy to see it

back in my hands;

Ping!

You have gained a quest item!

Train for a dungeon!

Have a weapon (1/1)

I smiled and put it in my pocket. I looked down at my clothes and

noticed it was drenched. I grumbled, "damn it! Now I'm drenched!"

"If you want you can come to my house and take a shower," Naruto

offered.

I blinked, "oh, thanks Naruto, that would be nice."

I followed him out of the canal and into the streets once more. This

time I found myself going into the bad part of town, before Naruto

quickly took me into a ratty old building that looked like it was built

round the same time this village had been made.

Naruto lived on the third floor and I honestly felt bad for the kid. The

corridors smelled of garbage, I can only imagine how a few of the

houses smelt. He took out a key and opened a door, inside I found a

very messy looking apartment with ramen cups in the kitchen, garbage

overflowing and even a dusty table, I'm guessing Naruto never uses it.

"Here you go," Naruto said opening the door to his bathroom, it was

barely ten feet wide, he scratched his head nervously, "sorry I know it

isn't much."

I shrugged, "it's not like I live in a mansion," I walked in and quickly

took off my clothes and put it for drying. I took a quick shower and

walked out, hanging my clothes in a clothesline NAruto had set up

inside his living room.

Naruto put our clothes up for drying before going in for a shower

himself. So now I found myself alone, sitting on his bed with nothing

but a towel on. I have to say, not how I was expecting today to go.

I began to look around the place, honestly it wasn't that bad, it just

needed to be cleaned up a bit. I'm sure with two people working

together this place wouldn't be half bad. But also, I still needed 8 REP

points to get Naruto to open up to me and allow me to stay here.

As I was going through his kitchen though I noticed something on the

counter. I blinked, it glowed a golden hue and it was in the shape of the

konoha leaf symbol. It resembled the dungeon I found in the park, so it

must be a part of my game.

Curiously I touched the symbol causing a box to pop open;

Ping!

Congratulations! You have found a legendary spot: Naruto's

apartment!

Locations found in Konoha: 1/30

Select your reward!

+500 EXP

+5 Stat points

Mysterious jutsu of unknown rank

+10 Skill scroll

Okay, this was something else. I first touched the legendary spot tag

and a new box came up:

Hidden in this world are locations of utmost importance or

noteworthiness. This could range from monuments to even small

closets. Each location is special in some way, finding one will give

you a reward!

I blinked and turned to the reward options. The EXP was nice, it could

get me to level two, but the stat points were also important. I didn't

know what the +10 skill scroll was so I selected the tag;

+10 skill scroll- A scroll which will allow you to automatically level

up any skill by ten levels!

Well, that's very useful. If I had some skill I wasn't good at this scroll

would make me a master at it. Plus if I used this on leaf concentration I

could gain 10 additional stat points into CC!

I then turned to the last tag;

Mysterious jutsu of unknown rank- as the name implies a jutsu of

unknown rank that can rage from an S rank or an E rank. It's all up

to fate.

Obiously that was a succkers bet. My luck literally had a single stat

point in it. I wouldn't hold my breath on getting an S rank, plus even if I

did get an S rank what good will that do me? It's not like I can use any

jutsu I get, heck I don't even think I can do a bunshin with my control

and chakra capacity.

So far the skill scroll and the 500 EXP looked pretty good. But in the

end the scroll was the most logical choice, since it not only leveled up a

skill, but the skill I would level up would give me points for my control.

So I selected the +10 skill scroll.

There was a poof of smoke before a scroll appeared on the counter

instead of the glowing leaf symbol. I smiled as I picked it up and put it

away.

Alright this was interesting, I had 29 more locations to go in the village

and they each were somehow involved in the story. I know the hokage

monument is definitely one, but it's too big and I can't rock climb all that

well. So maybe I deal with that later.

The Academy was also another, but I haven't found any so far, hm,

looked like I need to be a more observant being from now own.

"Yata! That was a great shower!" Naruto said as he walked out with his

hair all wet.

He and I talked for a while before the clothes fully dried up. I put my

clothes on and said goodbye to him, he apologised once again but I

told him once again, there was no need.

I went back to the orphanage that night and did my usual stunt,

eavesdrop and then wash the dishes for the evening. I think Kusume

started to like my helpful nature, I saw her REP score go down from

-41 to -32.

But of course, I wasn't doing it for her, but myself.

I didn't level up any skills that night, but it was alright. I went to my

room that night and began to read my book while practicing my leaf

concentration exercises.

I decided to hold off on using the +10 skill scroll, I'll first level up the

skill using sheer grinding, and when it reaches a point where I can't

progress any further without days upon days of training, only then will I

use the scroll.

And with that I spent the rest of the night reading under the pale

moonlight. I seriously need some light in this place.

Chapter 19: Academy Life

It's been a week since I found that golden leaf symbol in Naruto's

place. Ever since then I've been spending all my free time in the

academy searching this place top to bottom trying to find a golden

symbol here too.

My reasoning? This is the place where Naruto became a ninja, where

he trained, where he met Sasuke and more importantly Iruka. So a

golden leaf had to be here!

This was the seventh time I was searching in our classroom but again,

nothing. But just then, I got an idea. What if I was searching in the

wrong place? Naruto grew super close with Iruka in the last year, this is

the first year class room.

So I quickly ran to the older year class room, luckily right now it was

lunch, I told Naruto I wasn't feeling well, the boy looked a little sad but

he understood. I entered the classroom and searched the place top to

bottom.

Nothing, not a single thing. I looked at the desk and grumbled, I

searched every where! From top to...bottom….what?

I had an idea, a crazy idea. I looked under the tables, from the front

row to the back. I looked under each one slowly and then, in the last

row I found it. A golden leaf symbol. I grinned and touched it;

Ping!

Congratulations! You have found a legendary spot: Academy

Classroom!

Locations found in Konoha: 2/30

Select your reward!

Secret Taijutsu style: Disturbance style

+1000 EXP

+ 10 Stat points

Special armour equipment

Okay, different rewards, that made sense, different location different

rewards. But at the same time, what the fuck am I supposed to pick?!

Okay, first things first, the special armour is nice and all but useless to

me right now. I don't know what it is, again it's based on my luck. The

10 stat points are nice and all, but the 1000 EXP would level me up

twice giving me the same amount.

But now, what's important now is the secret Taijutsu style. The EXP

was...tempting alright, something I would totally take up any other time.

But this...this was too important. I need a specialised training style and

I need it now.

So I selected the special taijutsu style. There was a poof of smoke as

the golden leaf vanished leaving behind a yellow scroll with the words

'Disturbance style' written on it. The moment it touched my hands a

new box came online;

Ping!

You have obtained a skill scroll! Would you like to learn?

Y/N?

I blinked, I immediately pressed yes and watched as the scroll

exploded into a bright light before flowing into my head. I blinked a

suddenly I began to understand….something else. It was like

movement were imprinted into my head, thirty different kata's and

movements were installed into my head, I could see it all, just out of

reach but there.

Ping!

You have learnt a new skill!

Disturbance style, Lv- 1 (0%)

Akin to a warrior's dance performance, a user of this style is able

to rapidly and relentlessly bombard their target with precision, at

various angles and locations. This style, comprised of sheer

unpredictable movements, can easily catch his opponents off-

guard.

DMG- +5 + STR + DEX

Speed- 10% faster

I suddenly realised I knew different way to attack someone and many

different strikes. But at the same time, it was like a fog covered the rest

of the knowledge from me. I'm guessing I need to level up to obtain it

all, hum, this will be troublesome.

Ping!

You have made progress in a quest!

Train for a dungeon!

Learn how to fight

My grin grew wider, two birds one scroll. This means I only have to

learn a jutsu before I can enter a dungeon. And then, unlimited power.

"WHAHAHHAHAAH!"

"Oye! Shut it down in there! Some of us are trying to work!" came a cry

from outside. I lowered my head in shame and quickly snuck out of the

class.

I went back to my classroom by the time lunch ended. I sat with

Naruto, a small smile on my lips. "What happened?" Naruto asked in a

whisper as Iruka entered the room and began his lecture.

"Nothing, hey do you want to go to the park today?" I offered, I felt bad

for ignoring the kid all week long while I searched for that damn golden

leaf.

Naruto's eyes winded, almost sparkling, "damn right I do!" he cheered

loudly.

"Naruto!" Iruka yelled out, "I'm trying to teach here! Keep it down!"

"Sorry Iruka-sensei!" Naruto called back scratching his head nervously.

I continued to listen to Iruka's speech, but as I did I began to remember

what I did over the past week while I wasn't looking for that damn leaf.

I managed to level up my Eavesdropping skill by three levels;

Easdropping, Lv- 7 (43%)

Your ability to listen in someone else's conversation without them

being aware of it. This is a very important skill for a ninja to

possess for information gathering.

Range: 16 feet (100% accuracy)

-10% accuracy for every additional feet

And thanks to me washing dishes every morning and night I also

leveled up my maintenances skill;

Maintenance, Lv- 7 (89%)

Maintaining something is just as important as owning it.

+7% bonus to all items you maintain (clean, polish oil) for

whatever their use is

Bonus lasts for 40 minutes

And this did get me a bonus. The Matron seemed to lose her anger at

me, I guess me being so ready to help out by washing dishes made

her like me more. Her REP score went back to 0, but hey, at least she

doesn't hate me.

I listened to classes everyday and got a three points for INT because of

that;

INT- 11 (+2)

And of course the few days I managed to convince Naruto to train with

me I managed to run and work up a sweat, which gained me a two

points for VIT;

VIT- 8

But I didn't just run around in circles, no, a few days Naruto and I took

turns tossing my kunai into targets. This gave me a new skill!

Kunai techniques, Lv- 3 (83%)

Your ability to handle a kunai accurately.

Aquaracy- 20%

Bonus- 2% to DMG

Not a bad skill if I do say so myself. Unfortunately I haven't been able

to level it up.

I also finished reading the books I got from the library. I returned them

and got more books to read, this time two more fantasy stories along

with a book about muscle training and one about cooking, you know,

just for fun.

And boy did I get a shock when I took up the book about cooking.

Apparently it was a skill book and could teach me how to cook

instantly, but in the process I would end up destroying the book, I

cannot afford that right now, so I had to learn it the old fashioned way.

And what a surprise, it seemed if I read a skill book instead of

absorbing the knowledge, I would still gain the knowledge and the book

would remain intact!

Chapter 20

But since I didn't want any physical proof of my powers I couldn't afford

to keep the scroll about the Disturbance style just lying around. Either

way, I got another skill;

Cooking, Lv- 1 (0%)

You can cook and make something to eat. It may not be edible.

Bonus- 2% to all food items you make

The book didn't give me any recipes, I'm guessing I need to absorb a

book in order for that to happen. But this was enough, for now.

At the end of class Naruto and I went back to the park, laughing and

playing as usual. Naruto suggested we play hide and seek and I

agreed. He was it and I took this time to train my stealth skills.

Which...well, really wasn't all that great.

But I lasted ten minutes before he found me, so I'll take that as a win.

We played for an hour or so before his stomach began to growl.

Naruto's eyes light up, "hey I know! Let's go to Ichiraku's!"

And my eyes widened as well, 'of course! If any place has a golden leaf

it should be that one! Oh why didn't I think of it before! Screw me and

my stupid tunnel vision!' I was about to say yes before stopping myself,

"ah sorry Naruto, I can't."

"Eh? Why not?" he asked.

I shrugged, "I don't have a no money, sorry."

Naruto snorted, "is that all? No problem I can pay for you this time!"

"Naruto please it's really not needed, I don't like it when people pay for

me by taking pity on me," I huffed, I really didn't like being a charity

case.

"Oh shut up! Come on! It's my treat and when you start making money

being a ninja you can treat me!" he cried out dragging us out of the

park. I tried to argue, but I knew it would be pointless.

We walked around the village before arriving at a small ramen stand

around a street corner. We walked in and immediately Naruto ran up

and jumped onto the stool, "heya Ayame! One Miso ramen and one

pork ramen please!"

I sat down next to him and saw the two chefs on the other side of the

table. An older man;

Teuchi Yagu, Ramen Chief master

Lv- 18

REP- 0

Ayame Yagyuu, Chief apprentice

Lv- 12

REP- 0

"Hey Naruto, you're looking chipper today," Teuchi smiled, "your order's

coming right up!"

"Thanks uncle chief!" Naruto grinned.

"Who's your friend Naruto?" Ayame asked with a smile.

"This is Yami! The guy I told you about," Naruto turned to me, "this big

sister Ayame, she works here with her dad! Old man Teuchi!"

"Hey! I'm not that old!" Teuchi yelled back.

"Hehe, sorry," Naruto said scratching his head.

"Ah, so you're this Yami Naruto keeps talking about," Ayame turned to

me and bowe, "thank you for taking care of him, I know he's a pain

sometimes, but please be patient."

Oh she's cute, deciding to have a little fun I smiled and spoke in a clear

tone of voice, "if a beautiful girl like you asks me that of course I would

agree."

Ayame blushed, "well aren't you a charmer."

I shrugged, "not really, but when I see something I like I tend to make

your opinion known. Say how old are you?"

Ayame blinked, "16 why do you ask?"

I smirked, "I like my women older. Eight years isn't that big a difference

right? Do you want to go out on a date when I become a ninja? I know

this great ramen place a friend told me about, best place in town, plus

it has a cute waitress."

Ping!

You have created a new skill!

Flirting, Lv- 1 (0%)

Your ability to charm your target to drop their gaurd, confuse

them or getting them to like you.

2% chance of it working

+5 REP bonus if works

Teuchi and Ayame blinked at me, looked at each other before bursting

into laughter. Naruto blinked, "what's so funny?"

"Kid you're much too young to be flirting with older women!" Teuchi

laughed as he went back to his boiler.

"Well can't blame me for trying," I shrugged, "so what do you say

Ayame? Want to go out with me?"

Ayame chuckled, "sorry Yami, but you're much too young for me." I

saw her REP score go from 0 to 5, not bad. It worked on her, but not in

the extreme way I expected.

I shrugged, "that's fine, besides, I said after I become a ninja, I'm sure

by then I'll look so much hotter and you'll be kicking yourself in the

back wondering why you didn't say yes sooner."

"Well, let's see shall we," Ayame winked as she went to her station.

"Hey Yami, what's flirting?" Naruto asked.

I blinked, "ah...it's complicated. I'll tell you when you're older."

Naruto grumbled, "but I want to know now!"

I sighed, "fine," I leaned in and whispered into his ear, "it's what you do

when you want a girl to like you."

Naruto moved back and blinked, "huh...so you like Ayame?"

I shrugged, "I thought she looks cute."

Naruto's eyes started to fog up, clearly his brain was thinking about

something really really hard. I shrugged and decided to let him do it.

Right now I need to find that golden leaf. I looked on the counter and

didn't find anything. I sighed, with my luck it's under a stool.