superior naruto

The answer is yes!

Only by learning the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique can I bypass the Nine-Tails' interference and overcome my inability to precisely control chakra. This will help me narrow the gap between myself and the others.

From the very beginning, Sasuke had the advantage of changing the nature of his chakra to fire, inheriting the Uchiha clan's Great Fireball Technique. After graduating from the Ninja Academy, it took him only one day to learn Kakashi's Chidori.

Sakura was a little worse off initially, but she gradually grew stronger after joining the team. Her natural talent for chakra control, combined with her terrifying strength after mastering her strange powers, made her formidable.

Everyone has a family heritage.

Ino, Shikamaru, and Choji have their clan techniques. Hyuga Neji and Hinata possess the Byakugan and Gentle Fist. Tenten excels in weapon-based ninjutsu and scroll techniques. And Rock Lee, despite being unable to use ninjutsu or genjutsu, became a powerhouse after mastering the Eight Gates.

In this context, if I don't have the Multiple Shadow Clone Technique, I might as well give up on being a ninja. After graduation, I'll just go work at Ichiraku Ramen...

However, the details of stealing the Forbidden Scroll need to be carefully planned.

In the original timeline, Mizuki manipulated Naruto into stealing the Forbidden Scroll (Book of Seals). After Naruto stole it, Mizuki planned to take it for himself while everyone was distracted by Naruto's actions.

Although Mizuki's scheme was eventually exposed, Iruka was seriously injured by Mizuki's giant shuriken during the confrontation.

I need to find a way to get the Forbidden Scroll and expose Mizuki's plan without letting Iruka get hurt.

Iruka-sensei has always treated me well, and I have no way to repay him yet. The least I can do is ensure his safety in this situation.

---

"Naruto? Naruto!" Iruka's voice snapped Naruto out of his thoughts.

Naruto blinked, realizing he was still standing at the door of Iruka's house. "Oh, sorry! I was just thinking about something…"

Iruka looked at him with concern. "Are you still feeling unwell? Should we go back to the hospital?"

Naruto shook his head. "No, no, I'm fine. I was just lost in thought."

Iruka sighed. "Alright, but let's get to bed early tonight. You're not in the best condition right now."

Naruto nodded. "Thank you, Iruka-sensei."

Iruka was relieved. He was worried Naruto might stay up all night practicing the Clone Technique, which would only worsen his current state.

As for the graduation exam…

In Iruka's eyes, Naruto's health was far more important than passing the test. If Naruto failed this year, there was always next year.

Iruka showed Naruto to his room. "If you need anything or feel unwell, just call me. I'll be right next door."

Naruto smiled. "Got it. Goodnight, Iruka-sensei."

"Goodnight," Iruka replied, closing the door behind him.

---

Naruto looked around the room. Iruka's home was simple but cozy.

*Click.*

He turned off the light and lay down, closing his eyes.

He tried to communicate with the Nine-Tails.

"Nine-Tails! I know you're inside me. Answer me!"

But there was no response.

He tried several times, but eventually gave up.

His thoughts turned to the Forbidden Scroll, also known as the Book of Seals. It contained more than just the Shadow Clone Technique.

*Should I try to learn other techniques as well?*

That might be too ambitious, but what about memorizing them?

*How's my memory?*

Naruto found a book in the room and tested himself. His memory was average—no photographic memory or instant recall. Memorizing the scroll by sight alone would be nearly impossible.

*What about copying it?*

Naruto doubted he'd have enough time for that.

As his eyes wandered, he noticed a photo on Iruka's desk. It was a colorful picture.

*Wait… does this world have cameras?*

If cameras existed, he could use one to photograph the scroll.

But given the technological level of this world, advanced electronic devices were unlikely. Any cameras would probably be old-fashioned and unsuitable for espionage.

However, Naruto remembered a type of scroll in this world that could quickly record information, perfect for spying or transmitting important data.

The problem? They were expensive.

Naruto checked his pockets and pulled out a few coins and a crumpled note.

*Definitely not enough…*

According to his memories, he didn't have much money at home either.

*Sigh… I'm the son of the Fourth Hokage, yet I'm this poor. I guess my dad's wealth was absorbed into public funds. I survive on a monthly stipend from the village, and I'm supposed to be grateful for it. Meanwhile, the villagers who don't know the truth still look at me with disdain. How messed up is that?*

*What about the other techniques on the Forbidden Scroll?*

Naruto wasn't sure if he could learn them. For example, the Flying Thunder God Technique—his father's signature move—seemed out of reach.

*Didn't I inherit any of my parents' talents?*

*What if I borrow money?*

But who would lend it to him?

Iruka-sensei? No, he couldn't ask Iruka for money without a good reason.

Others? His relationships with them were practically nonexistent.

Wait… there was one person—Hinata.

As the heiress of the Hyuga clan, she definitely had money.

But after what he did yesterday…

*What if she already hates me?*

This night was destined to be a sleepless one for Naruto.

---

The next morning, Iruka came to wake Naruto early. In truth, Iruka had checked on him several times during the night.

Naruto was touched. Having someone who cared about him felt incredibly comforting.

When they arrived at the school gate, Naruto spotted Hinata walking ahead.

*Should I talk to her?*

"Iruka-sensei," Naruto said, "I want to speak with Hinata."

Iruka's eyebrow twitched. "What are you planning?"

Naruto scratched his head. "I thought about it, and I realized I went too far yesterday. I want to apologize."

Iruka was surprised. It seemed Naruto's head wasn't just fine—it was working better than ever.

"Alright," Iruka said. "But don't take too long. You have an exam today."

As Iruka walked away, he couldn't help but worry. *Today's written test might be manageable, but tomorrow's practical exam… Naruto…*

---

After Iruka left, Naruto took a deep breath and approached Hinata. "Uh… Hinata… I need to tell you something…"

Hinata turned around, her face lighting up with relief. She had been worried sick after Naruto collapsed yesterday.

But as soon as she remembered his confession, her cheeks turned bright red.

*So embarrassing…*

"Naruto-kun…" she stammered.

The two spoke at the same time, their voices overlapping.