Naruto: The Sarutobi Who Can't Spark

The midday sun streamed through the wooden beams of the house, casting soft shadows on the tatami mats. A low table sat in the center of the room, where an eight-year-old child and a man, likely in his 30s, were seated across from each other.

Elder Sohei sat beside Raijin quietly, his calm presence contrasting with the child's focused gaze. Raijin was counting the number of items/objects in that single room that had the Clan symbol etched or stamped like a seal.

Thirty-two.

Approximately thirty-two items with visible Clan symbols are scattered across the main hall.

The peaceful silence was broken as the doors slid open with a soft whisper, signaling the arrival of Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage. As he entered the room, his presence was commanding, a blend of authority and warmth that filled the space.

Behind Hiruzen, a group of Elderly figures entered, including Elder Haruko. Raijin presumed them to be the Clan Elders of Sarutobi Clan from their presence and air around them. Elder Haruko quietly nodded in acknowledgment to both him and Elder Sohei.

"Lord Hokage," Raijin quickly stood, bowing deeply as Elder Sohei did the same. But Hiruzen waved it off with a gentle smile, his voice warm and comforting. "No need for formalities," he said kindly. "It's a special occasion, after all."

Elder Haruko and Elder Sohei had already expressed their pride in the child, having witnessed his growth.

But today was different. This was an invitation to Raijin from Hiruzen himself for something more personal, a chance to connect and offer encouragement as the Hokage or as a fellow member of the Sarutobi Clan.

It might have been because Elder Haruko and Elder Sohei had insisted on his presence for Raijin's graduation celebration. Or perhaps Hiruzen had thought of this—arrangement—by himself.

Whatever the reason, Raijin felt a sense of satisfaction.

…

Hiruzen settled himself across from the child at the table, his aged eyes twinkling despite the visible weight of leadership and incompetence etched in his features. "You've grown so much," he remarked softly, meeting the child's gaze. "I still remember our first meeting."

The child beamed, a shy but proud smile appearing. "I worked hard, Lord Hokage."

Hiruzen nodded, his expression turning contemplative as he voiced a gentle regret. "I should have been more present and watched your progress more closely. It's not often we see such promising talent in one so young."

Raijin blinked, caught off guard by the unexpected words from the village's leader.

"Well then," Hiruzen continued, his gaze steady and warm, "we're here to acknowledge an important milestone, aren't we?"

"…Yes?" Raijin blurted out.

Hiruzen smiled, "You are the future of Konoha." He spoke.

"Yes, Hokage!" The child's response came with eager determination. "I won't let you down."

A soft chuckle escaped from him. "I have no doubts about that. But remember – graduation is merely the beginning. Your first mission, your first real challenge... these will teach you what it truly means to be a protector of Konoha."

The child's eyes widened with determination. "I understand. I'll do my best."

Elder Sohei, sitting close to the child, spoke. "You've always had that determination, even from the start."

Hiruzen smiled at the Elder's words before turning back to Raijin. "While strength is important, it's your heart that will light the way forward. Protect those who cannot defend themselves. Stay wise, even when emotions run high. And never forget the power of bonds – both village and friends. They'll calm you when the world feels uncertain."

The room fell silent for a moment before Hiruzen spoke again. "But for now, a celebration is in order, wouldn't you agree?" He looked toward the table, where a traditional meal was laid out.

"Raijin would be honored to have this meal with you, Lord Third," Elder Haruko offered formally, playing the part of his guardian.

"The honor would be mine," he replied warmly. "It's not every day I dine with one of Konoha's future protectors."

The other elders exchanged meaningful glances—a silent communication that spoke volumes. They arranged themselves around the table with practiced precision, creating a space of honor that centered on Lord Hokage and the young graduate.

…

Raijin's observant mind began to catalog the individuals around him. He noted with curiosity that there were four elders in total, including Haruko and Elder Sohei. The two newest additions personally seemed different from the 'younger' elders he already knew—both with their own distinctive presence and apparent role within the Sarutobi clan.

Hiroshi Sarutobi stood out immediately. Dressed in pristine white garments that seemed almost ceremonial. He carried himself with an air of profound wisdom.

His face was a roadmap of wrinkles, far more weathered than Hiruzen's, suggesting an age closer to 66. The elder's eyes held a depth of knowledge that seemed to transcend generations.

Beside Hiroshi sat Katsuro Sarutobi, a man who appeared to be in his early fifties. His white hair was meticulously slicked back, giving him an air of sharp awareness and control. Where Hiroshi seemed contemplative, Katsuro radiated a sense of active management—the type of elder who maintained the clan's day-to-day operations and strategic positioning.

The dynamic between these two elders fascinated Raijin. They seemed to complement each other—Hiroshi's wisdom balanced by Katsuro's pragmatism. Their presence suggested a deep-rooted system of clan governance that had likely been in place for generations.

As the meal began, Raijin remained attentive and not overtly tense.

…

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, studied Raijin by sensing his chakra and its signature. The boy's chakra was remarkably far larger and more developed than typical for his age though it was as weird and unique as when he first met him. The uncertain child he'd first encountered had completely transformed, now brimming with almost palpable potential.

With subtle fascination, Hiruzen recognized Raijin's nascent attempts at sensing. The boy was practicing the foundational techniques of a sensor ninja, his sense reaching out like delicate tendrils of awareness.

Not long ago, Elders Haruko and Sohei had discussed Raijin's advancement. At the time, Hiruzen had dismissed their observations casually, a decision he now recognized as a mistake.

His mind wandered, haunted by a painful realization—how many children with extraordinary potential had been overlooked, their talents left undiscovered and unnurtured?

The thought was a subtle torment. Each missed opportunity represented a potential guardian, a potential protector of the village. Each unrecognized talent was a chance lost to strengthen Konoha's future.

Fortunately, the kid worked hard to get where he is now.

The village's recent trials weighed heavily on his mind. The catastrophic Nine-Tails attack had torn through Konoha's heart, leaving deep scars. Orochimaru's devastating betrayal had shaken the very foundations of trust within the village. The tense diplomatic situation with Kumogakure following the Hyūga incident added another layer of complexity to an already fragile peace.

Throughout their meal, Hiruzen carefully balanced his approach. He engaged attentively, offering wisdom when appropriate, yet maintaining a light, celebratory atmosphere.

…

Raijin, meanwhile, was completely absorbed in his Sensory Mode. The sensations were fleeting, demanding absolute concentration to interpret. Haruko had encouraged him to maintain a constant Sensory Mode. Each subtle fluctuation of chakra and unique chakra signature became a lesson.

"Raijin," Hiruzen said finally, breaking the introspective silence "I'd like to grant you one wish... What would you like to learn from me?"

From Raijin's perspective, the moment was almost comically predictable. 'So predictable,' he thought, carefully maintaining an expression of innocent eagerness. 'Here comes the play of the generous leader.' But he was no fool—this was an opportunity not to be squandered.

Simultaneously, Raijin appreciated the underlying sincerity of the gesture. 'This is how a true apology should be expressed,' he reflected, recognizing the Hokage's attempt at earlier redemption.

"If you're offering, Lord Hokage," Raijin replied with practiced politeness, "I would be grateful to learn the Summoning Jutsu."

"An interesting choice," he said carefully, studying Raijin with renewed attention.

Elder Haruko shifted almost imperceptibly. But before she could speak, Hiruzen continued, his voice carrying a new weight of genuine curiosity rather than merely benevolent authority. "The Summoning Jutsu requires not just chakra and skill, but character. The summoned creatures choose their partners as much as we choose them." He paused meaningfully. "They value honesty above flattery, and strength of will above mere obedience."

The Third Hokage nodded sagely to Elder Haruko. "The Sarutobi Clan has long held contracts with various summons, most notably the monkeys of the Monkey King Enma. While I cannot offer you this particular contract..." He unrolled a different scroll, revealing intricate calligraphy and symbolic patterns. "I have something else in mind."

Hiruzen quickly disappeared to appear in an instant.

Elder Haruko leaned forward slightly, noticing the scrolls in Hiruzen's hand. "Lord Third, Are you really?"

"Yes," Hiruzen confirmed, "This is the Eagle Contract, one that hasn't been signed in three generations. Eagles are proud, fierce, and loyal. They serve not just as combatants, but as messengers and scouts. Their keen eyes can spot details from heights that even the Byakugan would struggle to reach."

"Lord Hokage," Raijin replied with practiced politeness, "I would be grateful to learn the Summoning Jutsu for Eagles." A careful pause followed. "However, I also wish to learn the technique itself—to form a contract with a summon of my own, without relying on a pre-existing contract."

The elders exchanged glances, but Hiruzen's expression remained thoughtful. He set the Eagle Contract aside, studying Raijin.

Hiruzen took a long draw from his pipe, exhaling thoughtfully. "You realize that finding your natural summons could take months, even years? And the process itself will be exhausting, possibly dangerous?"

"I do, Lord Hokage," Raijin replied without hesitation, "I believe the result will be worth it."

"And you believe you can form a contract with the natural summons leaned to your affinity?"

"I believe I should try, Lord Hokage. Even if I fail to form a contract."

Hiruzen set his pipe aside, exhaling a quiet breath before leaning forward. His sharp eyes, wise with decades of experience, met Raijin's with a steady gaze.

"Let me share something with you," he began, his tone measured, carrying the weight of both knowledge and caution. "The summoning realm isn't a single place—it is a vast network of realms, each existing at different distances from our world. Some are close, others are far beyond our reach, scattered like islands across an unseen ocean."

He allowed a moment of silence, watching as Raijin absorbed his words. The young Sarutobi's face remained serious, his mind already working through the implications.

"When we perform the Summoning Jutsu," Hiruzen continued, "our chakra acts like a ripple in that vast ocean. Imagine dropping a stone into still water—the waves spread outward, touching everything in their path. However, without a contract to anchor it, that ripple reaches further and further, searching for a response in unpredictable places."

Raijin's brows furrowed slightly as he considered the analogy.

"Which is why it's more dangerous," he acknowledged at last, his voice steady.

Hiruzen nodded, a small smile of approval tugging at the corners of his lips. "Indeed. Without a proper contract, you cannot control where your summons originates from… nor can you be certain of what will answer your call."

The room fell silent.

Hiruzen's gaze lingered on Raijin, his expression unreadable. Finally, he broke the silence.

"Dangerous beings are lurking in the deeper realms of the summoning world—beasts, entities, and ancient forces beyond human comprehension. And not all of them are willing to serve." His voice was steady, but there was an edge to it—a quiet warning.

Then, Hiruzen smiled, the sharpness in his eyes softening just a fraction.

"I will provide you with the Summoning Jutsu," he said at last. "But you must not perform it yet."

"You must be confident," Hiruzen continued his tone firm yet guiding, "not only in your chakra reserves but in your will. Your will and the summon's will must align. If they do not, you may find yourself at the mercy of something you cannot control."

Raijin nodded slowly. He understood.

Hiruzen stepped forward, moving to a clear space in the room. His movements were both fluid and controlled. "The technique itself requires five hand signs: Boar, Dog, Bird, Monkey, Ram. But the true art lies in how you mold your chakra during each sign."

His hands moved deliberately, demonstrating each sign with precision.

"Boar grounds you, connecting your chakra to the earth."

"Dog sharpens your intent."

"Bird elevates your spiritual energy."

"Monkey harmonizes your physical and spiritual chakra."

Then, as his fingers wove into the final sign, he paused.

"And Ram… Ram sends your essence across the world."

Raijin observed, committing each detail to memory. It wasn't just about performing the signs—it was about feeling the flow of chakra in each movement.

"Without a contract, you must maintain perfect clarity of mind during the jutsu," Haruko continued. "Your chakra needs to carry not just power but your very essence—your nature, your elements, your spirit, your intent. It must reach the summoning realm like a beacon, calling out to those who resonate with you."

Raijin frowned slightly. "And if I attract something hostile?"

Hiruzen's lips twitched into the smallest smirk. "Then you must be prepared to either fight or sever the connection instantly. This is why most shinobi prefer contracts—they provide safety and certainty."

Hiruzen exhaled a plume of smoke from his pipe, his eyes twinkling with a knowing amusement. "But contracts also limit possibility."

He leaned back in his chair. "The chakra cost will be far higher without a contract. Each attempt will drain you significantly because your energy will spread through multiple dimensional layers instead of following a predetermined path. You'll need to build up your reserves before making any attempts."

"I understand, Lord Hokage."

Hiruzen studied him for a long moment before speaking again. "Do you?" he asked, his voice softer now, yet still carrying the same authority. "Even if you succeed in forming contracts with a summon that match your nature, establishing trust—proving your worth—will take time. They won't be bound to help you. Each summoning will be a negotiation."

Hiruzen smirked and reached into his robe, pulling out three scrolls. With a flick of his wrist, he tossed them to Raijin, who caught them deftly.

"The contracts for the Eagle Summon and the Summoning Jutsu itself," the Hokage said. Then, his smirk widened just a fraction. "Let's have you sign the eagle contract first, shall we?"

…

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows through the wooden beams, Raijin bowed deeply to the Third Hokage. "Thank you for this valuable lesson, Lord Hokage. I will honor your teachings and the contracts. I promise to perform the Summoning Technique for new summons only when I am ready."

Hiruzen rose from his seated position, his weathered face carrying a satisfied smile. "Remember – patience in this journey will be as important as power." He placed a gentle hand on Raijin's shoulder. "The path you've chosen is admirable, and I believe this will lead you to extraordinary summon."

The other elders, who had remained largely silent during the technical discussion, now stepped forward. Elder Hiroshi spoke first. "To seek one's true nature rather than accept convenience – it speaks well of your character, young one."

"The village will watch your progress with great interest. It has been many years since Asuma and Rou became pillars of the village." Elder Katsuro added.

They offered their congratulations and words of wisdom, each adding to the weight of the moment. Their words carried the formal tone of ceremony yet held genuine approval. Throughout the procession of well-wishes, Elder Haruko and Elder Sohei remained silent. Haruko had supported Raijin's development from the beginning, and this moment felt like a validation of her support.

As the gathering began to disperse, Hiruzen paused while setting Raijin off. "Raijin," he called back, his voice carrying a hint of amusement, "Do try to avoid summoning anything larger than the academy building during your initial attempts. I'd rather not have to explain to the council why there's a giant creature in the training grounds."

Raijin's eyes widened slightly before catching the humor in the Hokage's words. "I'll do my best, Lord Hokage."

The other elders also filtered out, each offering final nods of acknowledgment. Soon, only Elder Haruko remained with Raijin as the formal atmosphere of the gathering dissolved.

"Well," Elder Haruko said, adjusting her clothes with practiced grace, "Shall we head home?"

As they walked through the evening streets of Konoha, Elder Haruko spoke quietly. "You know, Raijin, what you did today– it reminded me of Takeshi"

Raijin looked up, surprised. This was the first time Elder Haruko spoke of his father.

"He, too, was eager like you—" Elder Haruko paused mid-sentence as if carefully choosing her words. Her expression softened, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Always pushing himself to be better. He had that same fire in his eyes."

"The path you've chosen won't be an easy one," Elder Haruko continued, her voice steady and reassuring. "But you won't walk it alone. Elder Sohei and I will be here to support you, just as we always have."

Raijin nodded and hesitated momentarily before asking, "Elder Haruko, when will I be able to start training with weights?"

Elder Haruko gave him a thoughtful look before answering, "Ah, the weights... they're being made as we speak. I'll bring them to you soon."

As they arrived at Raijin's home, Elder Haruko stopped, and Raijin bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Elder Haruko," he said, his voice softening. He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "For everything."

###

Bloopers

~~~

Naruto: TSWCS's Lore:

Haruko focused entirely on the dramatic display of lightning nature. Her attention was fixed on the pronounced wrinkles that indicated lightning affinity.

She let out a laugh, though it carried a note of disbelief. "A Sarutobi whose primary affinity is not fire," she said, shaking her head. "Now that's something a Naruto fanfiction should have."

~~~

Small Request:

"Honorable elders," he began tentatively, his eyes respectfully lowered. "Since you've been so gracious with your time and wisdom today... might I make a small request?"

Elder Sohei raised an eyebrow.

Raijin straightened his back, maintaining an innocent expression. "Since I'm to spend this year preparing myself, I was wondering if you might consider teaching me…"

"The Edo Tensei."

~~~

Death Spark:

"Hahaha... This is incredible!" Raijin's laughter echoed through the quiet storeroom, drunk on the success of his experiment.

His fingers crackled with small arcs of electricity as a grin spread across his face.

"I will now spark everyone to their death."

~~~

The Death Inhalation:

"Are you sure you should be walking around?" my friend – or rather, my caretaker – hovered nearby, hands outstretched as if expecting me to collapse at any moment.

"Fresh air won't kill me," I replied, "Besides, it's not like I'll—oh, wait…"

In the next moment, Wixx dropped dead, just from inhaling fresh air.

It was unexpected, truly shocking—and somehow, even more shocking was that his friend also died, overcome by the sheer horror of seeing him collapse. All because of something as simple as breathing in fresh air.

Absurd.

But in their final moments, both Wixx and his friend shared the same thought:

Am I dead from inhaling fresh air?

Wixx died from inhaling fresh air?

~~~

Raijin's Compensation:

"Takeshi and Mikako had also contributed a lot to the Sarutobi Clan. How can we compensate their child?" Katsuro asked, skimming through the file of Sarutobi clan members.

"Well, the child is... 3—no, 4 years old. I don't think money would interest him," Hiroshi suggested.

"Then, how should we proceed with the compensation?" Sohei asked, looking concerned.

"How about a lifetime supply of ramen? I mean, every child loves ramen, right?" Haruko proposed, her eyes gleaming.

"Or... we could get him a golden sword that doesn't do anything but shine really brightly," Katsuro added, stroking his chin thoughtfully.

"A golden sword? What's the point?" Hiroshi asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Obviously, to dazzle enemies! Imagine their faces when they see it sparkling in the sunlight," Haruko said, practically bouncing with excitement.

"Wait, wait—what if we give him a giant inflatable dragon? It could be both a pet and a training tool!" Sohei grinned.

"A dragon? Are we training him to become a circus performer or a shinobi?" Hiroshi asked, utterly baffled.

"Well, he'll need something to distract the enemy, right? The dragon could also do magic tricks, maybe a little sleight of hand," Sohei said seriously.

~~~

Your Grandmother:

"Umm… who are you looking for, ma'am?" Raijin asked, sweat pouring down his face.

'Has he been training?' Haruko looked over at the small child and asked, "Are you Takeshi's kid?"

'Oh, she knows my father.' Raijin said internally.

"Yes…I am Raijin Sarutobi, his son," he replied, confused, hoping to know who the person in front of his house was.

"I am Haruko Sarutobi…Won't you let me in?" Haruko asked. "I am your father's mother. Your grandmother."

~~~

JJK:

"Kaide!?" Satoru called him from across the dispersion of students.

As Kaide traced back to the voice, he saw a fair, white-skinned kid with messy white hair and bright blue eyes that had an ethereal glow. The white-haired boy was waving to him with two hands in the air.

"Child Gojo? Jujutsu Kaisen? Did I transmigrate from to Jujutsu Kaisen?"

~~~

Extreme Morning Routine:

"U-Uh… Okay, Kaiyo-sensei." Satoru lit up with excitement, like a kid who just found out his cereal comes with a prize. He blurted out, "Will you also give me special training early in the morning? Like, can I practice my karate chops while trying to find matching socks? Or do some lunges while pretending I'm being chased by an angry goose?"

Kaiyo stayed silent, staring at him.

"I apologize again," Satoru stammered, his cheeks growing even redder. He looked almost as pretty as a girl with his blue eyes as he said in a girly voice, "I mean, it's not like you'd want to watch that... unless you're into 'extreme morning routines' or something?"

~~~

Domain Jutsu:

Satoru hesitated before accepting, his reluctance evident but polite. As they settled at the table, Kaiyo observed his student's thoughtful expression. "What's in your mind?"

"Excuse me?"

"What were you thinking during today's training?" Kaiyo clarified, overseeing his student.

A bitter smile crossed Satoru's face as he replied, "Guess I can't hide my emotions..." He met Kaiyo's gaze. "I was thinking about creating my own space where I would easily clobber any enemy. Like you know, make my own domain and become absolute beast."

~~~

Stay Professional:

Finishing ahead of schedule, Raijin reviewed his answers one final time, checking for any mistakes or missed details. Satisfied with his work, he raised his hand, signaling the invigilator.

The kunoichi approached with a graceful smile, gathering his paper without a word. She gestured for him to follow her, and as they walked toward another room, she glanced over at him.

"You seem to be the youngest among the examinees," she remarked, her smile warm and friendly.

Raijin glanced at her, a mischievous thought crossing his mind. 'Is she hitting on me?' He quickly shook it off, trying to stay focused. 'Focus, Raijin. Stay professional.'

"I am?" Raijin asked, his expression remaining neutral, though his curiosity was piqued.

"Yeah!" she responded with a bright smile. "Best of luck on the next exam. I really hope you pass."

Raijin gave her a smirk and leaned in slightly. "No, I'll Smash," he said, his tone suggesting something much less innocent than the exam.

The kunoichi blinked at him, clearly caught off guard, her eyes widening slightly.

"I mean—uh, I meant pass!" he stammered, trying to backpedal as quickly as possible.

The kunoichi gave him a slow, knowing smile. "Uh-huh," she said, her voice dripping with amusement as she raised an eyebrow. "Sure, you will."

###