Naruto boasts an array of compelling side characters, each with a rich backstory that adds depth to the series. From their unique personalities to the reasons they chose the path of a shinobi, these characters contribute to the tapestry of the Naruto universe.
Among the most beloved is Rock Lee, whose determination and perseverance allowed him to excel as a shinobi despite lacking innate chakra abilities.
Then there’s Itachi Uchiha, whose tragic decision to sacrifice his clan for the greater good of the Hidden Leaf Village left a lasting impact. Kakashi Hatake, with his stoic demeanor and hidden pain, undertook the task of mentoring a new generation of ninjas while grappling with his own past.
However, today’s focus is on Asuma Sarutobi, the mentor of Team 10, comprised of the Ino-Shika-Cho trio. Asuma met his demise in a battle against the Akatsuki, but not before imparting words of wisdom to his students.
These words, whispered in his final moments, held profound significance that would unfold later in the series, yet remain unknown to many fans.
Asuma Sarutobi’s Last Message To Shikamaru
Asuma Sarutobi, a seasoned jounin hailing from the Hidden Leaf Village, made his debut in episode 3 of Naruto as the mentor of Team 10. This legendary trio, known as Ino-Shika-Cho, consisted of Ino Yamanaka, Shikamaru Nara, and Choji Akimichi.
Not only was Asuma a respected ninja, but he also carried the weight of lineage as the son of the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi. Seven years prior to the current timeline, he served among the Twelve Guardian Ninja. During the Third Ninja War, the loss of comrades Obito and Rin deeply affected him.
Asuma was part of the group that persuaded Hiruzen to remove Kakashi from the Anbu ranks and assign him as a teacher alongside them.
Despite his formidable skills, Asuma was known for his kindness, treating his students with the affection of a parent. Among them, Shikamaru held a special place in his heart, and the two bonded over games of shogi during their downtime.
In these matches, they often personified the shogi pieces with fellow villagers, sparking debates over who would assume the role of the Black King.
During the Akatsuki Suppression Mission, Asuma Sarutobi faced a fatal confrontation with Hidan, an Akatsuki member whose immortality posed a formidable challenge.
Despite the valiant efforts of his team to rescue him, it was too late. In his final moments, Asuma imparted parting words to Ino and Choji and whispered a significant revelation to Shikamaru—the identity of the “Black King” in their shogi games.
In the aftermath of Asuma’s death, Shikamaru’s determination to avenge his mentor drove him to devise a cunning strategy against Hidan. Utilizing his intellect and resourcefulness, Shikamaru orchestrated a plan to incapacitate the immortal foe.
By burying Hidan underground, Shikamaru ensured he would be rendered immobile, thus neutralizing the threat he posed.
In a poignant moment, Asuma’s spirit appeared before Shikamaru, passing on his will and guidance to his grieving student. This encounter marked a crucial turning point for Shikamaru as he grappled with the weight of his mentor’s legacy and the responsibility it entailed.
Upon his return to the Hidden Leaf Village, Shikamaru engaged in a game of shogi with his father, who inquired about the identity of the Black King. Reflecting on Asuma’s words, Shikamaru offered a profound revelation:
“It is the children of the Hidden Leaf who carry the village on their shoulders.”
This poignant statement encapsulated Asuma’s teachings and the significance of nurturing the future generation.
Remarkably, Asuma’s legacy extended beyond his final moments, as evidenced by the naming of his child, Mirai Sarutobi, symbolizing hope and the promise of tomorrow. In this way, Asuma’s influence continued to resonate, shaping the destiny of those he left behind.