I'M NARUTO UZUMAKI

The next morning, after a quick wash, Naruto prepared to head out for a stroll through the streets of Konoha. However, he suddenly remembered the Third Hokage's decision yesterday to confine him to his room. With a disappointed sigh, he returned to his small, sparsely furnished apartment. Looking out at the fresh layer of snow coating the streets, Naruto decided to pass the time with some morning exercises.

Being only a child, Naruto's routine consisted of simple stretches and light movements rather than intense physical training. He lacked proper guidance and effective training techniques, and attempting anything advanced could harm his future physical growth.

After what felt like hours, a faint sound of stones tapping against his door broke the monotony. Curious, Naruto opened the door to find several boxes neatly stacked in the corridor. Remembering the Hokage's promise from the previous day, he realized these must be the reading materials and supplies sent by the Anbu to keep him occupied during his confinement.

Eagerly, Naruto dragged the boxes into his room and opened the one filled with books. Inside were about a dozen volumes, their titles boldly printed on the covers. Among them were "Ninja Geography," "Konoha History," and "The Will of Fire." Naruto ignored the latter two without hesitation, instead reaching for "Ninja Geography."

Though familiar with the overarching plot of his world, Naruto realized he knew very little about the cultural and geographical nuances of the ninja lands. He hoped the book would bridge that gap. Its content wasn't extensive, and in about an hour, Naruto finished reading it. The peculiar geography of the ninja world left him intrigued.

For instance, the Land of Rain, known for its constant downpours, and the arid Land of Wind existed on the same latitude. Yet, their climates were starkly different—a phenomenon that he guessed might be influenced by chakra. After musing over the oddities, Naruto set the book aside and reluctantly picked up "Konoha History," his curiosity piqued.

Naruto quickly noticed that the book's narrative was heavily biased. While the contributions of the Senju Clan were portrayed with relative objectivity, the roles of Sarutobi, Shimura, and the Ino-Shika-Cho trio were glorified. Conversely, the Uchiha Clan's achievements were deliberately minimized, leaving Naruto unimpressed. He set the book aside, muttering to himself about the village's one-sided version of history.

Finally, Naruto turned to "The Will of Fire," though not out of genuine interest. The Third Hokage had clearly emphasized its importance by including it in the selection, and Naruto decided it was better to humor him. He began flipping through its pages, noting its central idea: the village's future lay with the younger generation, while the older generation should protect and inspire them. Though the sentiment was noble, Naruto viewed it as an empty slogan—more of a tool for uniting people than a guiding principle.

Meanwhile, in the Hokage's office, the Third Hokage leaned back in his chair, puffing on his tobacco pipe as his crystal ball displayed Naruto reading the book. A warm smile spread across his face when he saw the boy holding "The Will of Fire." For Sarutobi, ensuring Naruto grew up with strong values was essential to maintaining Konoha's stability.

Just then, an Anbu agent appeared, kneeling before the Hokage. "Lord Third, the investigation into the rumors about the demon fox has yielded results," the agent reported hesitantly.

The Hokage's expression turned stern. "Speak."

The Anbu explained that while spies from outside the village were responsible for spreading some of the rumors, certain high-ranking figures within Konoha were also involved. The mention of internal involvement made the Hokage narrow his eyes. Though the agent refrained from naming names, the Third Hokage knew all too well who might be responsible—his old comrade Danzo.

After dismissing the Anbu, the Hokage returned to his crystal ball, watching Naruto with a contemplative expression. He knew that clearing up the rumors about Naruto's Jinchuriki status could backfire by confirming the truth. For now, he chose to maintain the status quo, though he resolved to find companions for Naruto to ease his isolation.

Back in his room, Naruto finished reading "The Will of Fire" and tossed it aside with a yawn. Though unimpressed with the book's contents, he saw no reason to oppose its ideas publicly. He stretched out on the sofa, ready for a nap.

As Naruto drifted off to sleep, a faint red chakra seeped from the seal on his stomach, pulsing faintly in the quiet room.