Chapter 50 Mangekyo and War(1)
"Each year brought change, as if many things underwent some form of transformation.
For instance, in terms of age, one certainly had to grow more mature compared to the previous year. Then there were the tales of men... and women.
When Chiba Shiroshi woke up in the morning, he felt a slight itch in his nose, and the room seemed a bit colder.
He glanced outside to see something delicate falling in the outside world; it turned out to be light snow.
Although he didn't feel like getting out of bed, he endured the icy breath and went to open the fireplace in the room, then returned to the warmth of his blankets.
Just like the previous night, Shiroshi's hands began to wander, gently caressing her.
Lying there in a deep slumber, Rui let out a dissatisfied, soft hum, as if she didn't quite enjoy being handled by a man. She curled her body like a cat, protesting.
Rui probably hadn't had enough sleep; Shiroshi teased her for a while and then gave up.
For some reason, whenever he held the warm body of the woman in his arms, his inner turmoil and anxiety would suddenly dissipate.
Any restlessness and fear that existed in his heart would disperse.
His chest pressed firmly against Rui's back, his hands tightly on her chest and abdomen.
Under no circumstances could he allow the body of this woman, which provided him with warmth, to become cold.
Shiroshi had told himself this more than once, and then he fell asleep with Rui again.
When he woke up again, it was already noon.
Shiroshi noticed that Rui had left his embrace and was sitting beside the pillow.
"It's snowing."
"Yes."
Outside, the sound of the wind and snow lightly hitting things could be heard.
Rui was wearing the light blue kimono jacket she had worn to the festival last night, with no other clothes on her body. The kimono was also loosely tied, casually draped over her. Facing Shiroshi, it revealed her rosy-white skin.
Feeling that the room was a bit dim, Rui walked to the balcony and pulled back the curtains, allowing the outside light to shine in.
In Rui's view, delicate white snowflakes were swirling and falling outside like white arrows, disappearing as they passed through.
Outside was a world covered in silver and white.
The trees in the courtyard and the lanterns were all covered in white snow.
There were frost droplets on the edges of the window, but the room had a supply of warmth, making the cold outside imperceptible.
Shiroshi stared at all of this in a daze— the northern wind, the white snow, the girl in light clothing. Everything seemed so natural, so dreamlike to the point of suffocation.
It was a kind of ultimate allure.
Shiroshi's heart stirred, and suddenly, he said, "Want some wine?"
"It must be very cold."
"It may be a bit cold at first when it reaches your mouth, but it warms up nicely in your belly."
Since arriving in this world, Shiroshi rarely drank alcohol.
Even when he did, it was in moderation.
But for some reason, at this moment, he felt a sudden urge to drink.
Rui didn't answer, so Shiroshi took it as a yes.
He took out a well-aged bottle of wine from the nearby cabinet and fetched some glasses.
As if trying to tempt Shiroshi, Rui still hadn't fastened her kimono with any ties. Perhaps she hadn't realized how fatally attractive she had become to men in her current state.
They clinked their glasses and enjoyed their drinks, their moods lightening. The fireplace maintained a comfortable room temperature, enhancing the warm atmosphere.
With a slight flush on her cheeks and a fiery glint in her eyes, Rui appeared slightly tipsy, exuding a gentle aura.
As Shiroshi had said, the wine felt a bit cold at first, considering it hadn't been warmed, but after a few sips, the warmth set in.
Afterward, everything fell into place.
...
After the New Year holiday, everything returned to normal.
The idle ninja who had celebrated the New Year started their work for the new year.
Late January was the coldest time of the year, marked on the calendar as the chilliest period.
The snow hadn't stopped.
Walking into the ninja school, which was covered in snow, it was the first day of class for the year after the New Year holidays.
Before reaching the office, Shiroshi saw Shizune standing in the corridor.
"Good afternoon, Shizune."
"Hmm."
Seeing Shiroshi greet her, Shizune let out a soft hum, turned her face away, and seemed to want to avoid him.
Shiroshi chuckled awkwardly, understanding why Shizune was upset with him. After all, he had completely forgotten her existence on the night of the New Year's festival, leaving her waiting until midnight before she could leave. Her resentment was entirely justified.
"I'm really sorry about last time. Here, this is my apology."
Shiroshi presented a prepared gift to Shizune. It was an exquisite box containing the gift he wanted to give her.
Shizune's expression improved slightly as she accepted the peace offering without hesitation.
"If you do this again next time, I'll really be angry, Shiroshi-senpai."
After receiving the apology, Shizune's tone still carried a hint of dissatisfaction.
"Haha, I'll be more careful next time."
Shiroshi scratched his head and smiled.
If there really was a next time, that would be great. If there wasn't, breaking a promise wouldn't matter either.
He truly was a genius.
"Is Tsunade-sensei in her office?"
"She'll be here soon."
"Where did she go?"
"Because at the end of last year, the village had some discussions with the Violet Orchid Company from the Land of Demons about collaboration. They want to arrange for some students interested in medical ninjutsu to come to our Konoha Ninja School to study it."
"But, isn't that something for April?"
This matter received Tsunade's approval, and there naturally wouldn't be any objections from the Leaf Village higher-ups. After all, the Land of Demons was a neutral country that didn't participate in the Ninja World War. Moreover, the atmosphere of their commercial dealings was quite harmonious. The medicines and medical supplies produced by the Violet Orchid Company had relieved a lot of pressure on the Leaf Village Hospital.
However, the decision to allow people from the Land of Demons to come to Leaf Village to study medical ninjutsu should begin in April.
"Just preparing in advance, anyway, there are many empty classrooms in the school. Lady Tsunade, when she has nothing to do, she arranges things."
"It seems that Tsunade-sensei values it quite a bit."
Shiroshi asked, intentionally or unintentionally.
"Yes, because Lady Tsunade said that the research data on medicines exchanged by Violet Orchid is of significant benefit to the Leaf Village. This is a normal way to reciprocate."
Shizune recalled and answered Shiroshi's question.
Before long, similar to what Shizune had said, Tsunade arrived from the other side of the corridor.
"You're on time again today."
"After all, it's the first day after the New Year holiday."
"Is that so? Let me see."
Tsunade looked at Shiroshi with interest, as if she had discovered something interesting.
"What's the matter, Tsunade-sensei?"
Shiroshi couldn't help but ask as he felt a little uneasy under her gaze.
"The scent of a woman."
Tsunade said with certainty.
"..."
Is she like a bloodhound? Shiroshi couldn't help but comment in his mind.
During the New Year holiday, he had been with Rui every day, and even at noon today, they were so engrossed that they were like glue.
And after young men and women let go, naturally...
Ahem.
"There's no need to talk about this, right?"
"It looks like you're quite a daring young man." Tsunade had a teasing smile on her face as she nudged Shiroshi's body with her elbow. "So, when are you planning to treat me to dinner?"
"This is a bit far off, because Rui's parents aren't home."
"Is that so? That's a bit of a shame."
"Tsunade-sama, Shiroshi-senpai, what are you talking about? I can't understand anything."
Shizune asked with a bewildered expression.
"You'll understand when the time comes, Shizune."
"Oh."
Shizune thought for a moment but still didn't quite understand. She followed Tsunade into the office, still holding the apology gift Shiroshi had given her.
"Getting back to the point, the delegation from the Land of Ghosts will arrive in Konoha in April. To maintain the friendship between the two countries, I have already recommended you to Asuma-sensei as the dedicated teacher for the second Medical Ninja Training Class. Do you have any requirements to mention?"
Tsunade sat down and her expression turned serious.
"I'm very grateful for Tsunade-sensei's trust in me. Just arrange an assistant for me when the time comes."
"That's no problem; I'll have Shizune assist you."
Both Shiroshi and Shizune had no objections.
"Speaking of which, you're quite daring, aren't you? Last time, you left Shizune alone at the barbecue stand until midnight..."
Tsunade remembered something and her face showed a mischievous smile.
"I've already bought valuable items as an apology. It's just that what happened last time was a bit sudden..."
Shiroshi couldn't meet Tsunade's eyes and his explanation gradually became quieter.
"Never mind, since you've recognized your mistake, I'll forgive you generously this time. But, do you need to come to class today?"
"Huh? Are you firing me?"
Shiroshi was taken aback.
"It's not firing; it's just that you don't need to teach today."
"What's going on?"
Shiroshi didn't quite understand.
This didn't seem like a punishment, did it? It seemed more like a reward, but it was a bit strange.
"When I came earlier, I met Minato on the way, and he said he wants to talk to you about something. He's waiting for you at the school gate. You should go and see what he wants."
"Minato?"
Shiroshi was even more surprised.
Minato Namikaze? Why would he come looking for him?
Because of following Tsunade and working for achievements, Shiroshi had met the other two Sannin, and although they weren't familiar with each other, they would greet each other when they met. Shiroshi had a good relationship with Minato, and when they occasionally met, they could have a pleasant conversation.
However, these conversations were all trivial small talk, not deep discussions of any profound topics.
"I don't know why he's looking for you. You'll find out when you go."
"That's right."
Shiroshi nodded.
In that case, it seemed that he really didn't need to teach class with Tsunade today.
After saying goodbye to Tsunade and Shizune, Shiroshi walked towards the school gate of the ninja school, and indeed, he saw Minato waiting for him there.
Wearing the attire of a Leaf Village Jonin ninja, with bright yellow hair that shone like the sun and a friendly smile, Minato Namikaze was the embodiment of a perfect man in the eyes of many women.
In comparison, Shiroshi couldn't help but feel plain and ordinary.
Minato became a Jonin almost at the same time as Rui and Ayane, and with a nearly 100% mission success rate, he was considered one of the outstanding ninja of his generation. Even many senior Jonin admired him and didn't feel jealous of his exceptional talents. Just by standing there, he exuded a natural charisma that could unite people to the fullest.
On the other hand, Shiroshi, who had barely become a Chunin at the age of sixteen, fell short in many aspects. When people mentioned him, they only knew that he had a talented Jonin girlfriend. Apart from that, he was known to be decent in medical ninjutsu and got along well in the ninja school. It seemed like those were the only achievements worth talking about. It was rather embarrassing.
Seeing Shiroshi approaching him, Minato waved first and greeted him with a smile.
Shiroshi also greeted him and approached, saying, "Tsunade-sensei mentioned that you were looking for me earlier, Minato."
"It's mainly because I have something important I wanted to discuss with you. Otherwise, I wouldn't have come to you at this time."
Minato smiled apologetically.
"No problem, Tsunade-sensei is supporting the class anyway, and I'm at most just a helper. So, what important matter made you seek me out at this time?"
"Let's find a place to talk."
Minato suggested.
Shiroshi nodded, agreeing.
Minato led Shiroshi to a nearby dango shop next to the school. Minato treated and ordered some dango. After they had eaten for a bit, Minato began discussing the real issue, "I want to learn more about Kakashi Hatake."
"Kakashi? What's going on with him?"
Shiroshi's face showed a slight reaction.
Minato looked around to ensure no one was eavesdropping, then lowered his voice and said, "Over a year ago, I regret the incident involving Jonin Sakumo. Perhaps Jonin Sakumo did cause the village some loss, but the extent to which the villagers were swayed by that level of rumors was something I didn't expect."
Shiroshi remained silent.
"I'm saying this not to prove anything. It's just that this matter is in the past, but its aftermath hasn't been fully resolved. Kakashi Hatake is one of the individuals most affected by the aftermath. The Hokage recently changed the members of my team, and at the graduation ceremony this year, in addition to two graduates joining my team, Kakashi Hatake will also be one of them."
"Minato, are you worried about something?"
Shiroshi asked.
Minato nodded seriously. "Possibly due to the influence of Jonin Sakumo's suicide, many people have said that Kakashi Hatake has changed since then. Even in my department, I've heard many unfavorable rumors about him. I think, since he's about to become my subordinate, I have a responsibility to guide and protect him."
"I see. You have my appreciation for having such intentions. In fact, Rui, Ayane, and I don't know what to do with Kakashi. After Jonin Sakumo's death, he closed himself off from others and wouldn't allow anyone to get close. If he continues like this, I'm genuinely worried about his future."
Shiroshi sighed.
"Yeah, so I wanted to ask you about Kakashi's specific situation to tailor my approach accordingly."
"You're giving me too much credit. Kakashi has always been an independent person from a young age. I'm not sure if the information I have will be of any use to you. But if it can help you, Minato, then that would be the best."
"I'm truly grateful."
Minato expressed his gratitude sincerely.
"No need to be like this; it's my duty."
Shiroshi smiled in response.
About half an hour later, after exchanging information about Kakashi with Shiroshi and discussing some other minor matters, Minato settled the bill and left the place.
Shiroshi sat in his seat, eating dango and watching Minato's departing figure.
Just as he had suspected, the Third Hokage still couldn't let go of a talented ninja like Kakashi.
Minato Namikaze... was indeed an interesting guy.
Although he knew Minato, their interactions were not deep. Shiroshi had heard from others that Minato was a Jonin with formidable skills in the Body Flicker Technique and Taijutsu. As for his Ninjutsu abilities, there weren't many rumors, possibly due to his secrecy. After all, many high-ranking ninja kept their abilities secret. Generally, Jonin didn't disclose their trump cards to others, even fellow villagers.
"However, if he solely relied on the Body Flicker Technique, handling it should be relatively straightforward, given his own capabilities and expertise, along with the support of the Shadow Dancer."
…
Wind Country, Hidden Sand Village.
While Konoha in the Fire Country celebrated a grand festival, the Hidden Sand Village held its own festival simultaneously. As the New Year holiday came to an end, the Sand Village's ninja resumed their work and took their positions.
Standing on the rooftop of the Kazekage's building, the Third Kazekage once again gazed at the panoramic view of the village, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction.
Compared to the time during the Second Ninja World War, there were now many important buildings and facilities in the Sand Village. The new generation of ninja had also increased in numbers. Through his relentless efforts, he had nurtured many talented ninja.
There was Rasa, who could use the Sand Manipulation Jutsu.
There was Pakura, a high-ranking ninja with the Bloodline Art Scorch Release: Halo of Blood.
And despite his young age, Sasori of the Red Sand was already one of the top puppeteers in the Sand Village.
Not to mention countless young, outstanding ninja who emerged like mushrooms after the rain.
The two advisors, Chiyo and Ebizo, who were both active during the Sand Village's early days, were his most capable assistants as Kazekage.
Chiyo's expert puppetry techniques had nurtured many puppeteer ninja in the village, forming the formidable puppeteer corps that was now feared by all nations.
Ebizo is responsible for the intelligence work of the Hidden Sand Village. He has trained spies who infiltrate the five great ninja villages, and many ninja villages have his deployed agents.
Although he occasionally has disputes with the current Kazekage, they always support each other in major matters for the prosperity and strength of the Hidden Sand Village.
For example, the upcoming plan to attack the Fire Country, initiated by the Hidden Sand, was a result of discussions between him, the Kazekage, and their two advisers.
Thinking about this, the Third Kazekage was filled with determination.
It is now the end of January, and in February, they will launch an attack on the Leaf Village of the Fire Country. They plan to swiftly and decisively seize the border of the Fire Country.
War is imminent, just a few days away.
The moment of the Hidden Sand's rise is approaching.
"Kazekage-sama."
A Hidden Sand ANBU ninja appeared behind him, kneeling down and showing the utmost respect to the Third Kazekage.
This was the Kazekage who had led them on the path to prosperity, an extraordinary and unique leader.
"Is there something you need?" the Third Kazekage asked, slightly turning his head.
"Sasori has something to report to you."
"That boy, I remember he was on a mission at the border. Is there something new happening there?" the Third Kazekage muttered to himself and then returned to the main building, with the ANBU ninja following closely behind.
…
The next day.
"The Third Kazekage has disappeared!?"
In the meeting room with a massive round table, the senior advisers of the Hidden Sand Village, including Chiyo, erupted in shock.
The senior ANBU responsible for communicating with the Third Kazekage had immediately convened this emergency meeting upon losing contact with their Kazekage.
It was crucial to note that a war with the Leaf Village was looming, and now their leader, the Kazekage, had disappeared!?
Such a ludicrous and unbelievable situation was unfolding within the Hidden Sand Village.
If they didn't know that the Third Kazekage was usually a very serious person, they would have thought this was some kind of joke by the Kazekage.
The calm senior ANBU responded, "Indeed, that's the case. Many high-ranking ninja didn't find the Kazekage in his office this morning. Before the meeting, I secretly sent people to search for him, but we found nothing. The Kazekage... has truly disappeared from the village."
The news weighed heavily on the minds of everyone present, leaving them bewildered and in despair.
This was the Kazekage, one of the five most powerful ninja leaders at the time.
He possessed incredibly fearsome abilities, such as the Iron Sand Jutsu, which allowed him to subdue even monsters like the One-Tail. How could he have disappeared from the village without a trace?
Was there really such a formidable assassin in the ninja world?
After all, crossing the Hidden Sand Village's defenses without a sound, engaging the Kazekage in combat, and leaving without a trace, all without making a single sound—how could anyone imagine such a skilled and stealthy ninja in the ninja world?
"Elder Chiyo, Elder Ebizo, what should we do now? Should we proceed with the plan to attack the Leaf Village?" another senior ninja hesitated.
Chiyo's expression fluctuated between gloom and thoughtfulness, and she remained silent, deep in contemplation.
Ebizo glanced at his sister Chiyo's expression and then spoke, "Continue with the plan, but keep this situation secret from the high-ranking ninja. Additionally, dispatch half of the ANBU to trace the Third Kazekage's whereabouts. We need to see him, dead or alive."
"Yes!" the assembled senior ninja responded solemnly.
However, some senior ninja had a glint of ambition in their eyes.
With the Third Kazekage missing, they saw an opportunity to accumulate significant achievements in the upcoming war. Perhaps they could even vie for the position of the Fourth Kazekage.
Having seen through the thoughts of these senior ninja, Ebizo, who had issued the orders, fell silent after they left, just like his sister Chiyo.
"Sorry, sister. It seems I acted on my own," Ebizo apologized.
Using external conflicts to divert internal conflicts was the decision made by Adviser Ebizo after the disappearance of their Kazekage.
And the external conflict was none other than the Leaf Village of Konoha.
This was the only way to avoid internal strife within the village.
Chiyo shook her head, understanding her younger brother Ebizo's intentions. She sighed, "It's alright. In any case, the plan to attack Konoha must not change. Even if the Third Kazekage is missing, we must focus on the war. As for who will become the Fourth Kazekage, let them decide based on the number of Konoha ninja casualties."
If only the Third Kazekage had designated his successor in advance.
However, none of them could have anticipated that the Third Kazekage, who was in the prime of his life, would mysteriously disappear from the village.
Although they still held a glimmer of hope, they also knew that the longer he remained missing without any word, the bleaker his chances of returning became.
…
The war came suddenly.
The Fire Country, near the borders of the Grass Country and the Rain Country, had its ninja forces stationed there almost completely wiped out. Only a small number of Leaf Village ninja managed to escape and relay the Hidden Sand's attack back to the Leaf Village.
Although they were furious at the Hidden Sand ninja for provoking a conflict with the Fire Country, the Leaf Village leadership, led by the Third Hokage, immediately made war preparations and dispatched teams of ninja from the village to provide support at the border.
At times like these, the peace treaties between nations were nothing but worthless pieces of paper.
Compared to the seasoned ninja who had experienced the Great Ninja War, the newly graduated genin had a less acute sense of danger. Despite knowing that a war would result in many casualties, they maintained a naive and optimistic attitude, completely unaware of the kind of hell they were about to face.
In the hell called war, even chuunin were in constant danger of losing their lives, and jounin faced the grim possibility of being surrounded and meeting a heroic death on the battlefield.
Whether it was shurikens and kunai flying from unknown directions or explosive tags reducing their bodies to ashes, in large-scale wars between ninja villages, even the strongest ninja could not guarantee their survival.
As a result, most Leaf Village ninja held a pessimistic outlook on the war.
Once the war broke out, it meant they would be separated from their loved ones—family, lovers, and friends.
But even in their pessimism, they would rush to the front lines, risking their lives for the village, the country, and the battle against their enemies.
…
The sudden outbreak of war cast a somber atmosphere over the streets of Konoha. People were praying for the safe return of their loved ones who were heading to the battlefield.
"Rui, are you going out now?" Shiroshi approached Rui, who was about to leave.
"Yes, I have a patrol mission, and it will be around the village perimeter."
"Will you be back in the evening?"
Shiroshi paused and continued, "Well, I wanted to talk to you about something, but if you have something to do right now, we can discuss it when you return."
"Alright, be careful," Rui replied.
Even though she knew Shiroshi was skilled and didn't need to worry about his safety, she couldn't help but remind him. After bidding farewell to Rui, Shiroshi lingered at the doorway for a moment before returning to his room to rest.
Around 1:00 PM, Shiroshi began to stroll around, choosing his path casually as if he were truly taking a leisurely walk with no specific destination. It's good; things haven't changed over here, he thought.
At each location he visited, he used his sensory jutsu to inspect the areas where troublemakers might attack or cause disturbances, checking for any potential vulnerabilities. He made sure the patrol teams at these locations were operating as usual, even the shift changes every half an hour.
However...
As Shiroshi glanced in a certain direction, he could clearly sense an increase in guards by four individuals.
A squad of ANBU.
Including the original squad of ANBU, there were now eight ANBU ninja in total. Due to the war, it seemed that the security measures for that area had been enhanced.
Shiroshi then roamed around in various directions, conducting a thorough inspection of potential trouble spots until around 3:30 PM when he headed towards the ninja academy.
The academy hadn't been affected much, and it seemed that the recent graduates had been unfortunate enough to enter a time of war right after becoming true ninja. Whether crying or smiling, from the day they became real ninja, they had the duty to go to the front lines.
However, all of this was irrelevant to Shiroshi, a chuunin working as a medical logistics ninja in Konoha. He hadn't received any orders from the village.
His current superior was Tsunade, and Tsunade was currently serving at the ninja academy, apparently with no intention of going to the front lines...
Although Shiroshi was puzzled by this, considering the war, he believed that Tsunade would likely be heading to the battlefield, as her medical ninjutsu skills would be highly valuable there.
Why was she staying in the village?
Furthermore, there were no orders from the village leadership. It was indeed strange.
Was there some special reason?
Even though he was quite curious about this, it was precisely because of this that he was able to rest easy in Konoha for now.
Otherwise, he would have needed to find excuses to stay in the village before.
He had already prepared his excuses but had not expected to use them at all.
"Sensei Shiroshi."
When he reached the academy's office, Shiroshi first saw Shizune and nodded in greeting.
"You're here," he said.
Entering the office, he found Tsunade sitting there with a slightly flushed face, most likely from drinking.
"Really, Tsunade-sensei, shouldn't you refrain from drinking at a time like this?"
"What's the big deal? It won't affect my teaching."
Tsunade waved her hand dismissively, indicating that Shiroshi didn't need to worry. She was only slightly tipsy, and her awareness was still very clear, not interfering with her lessons.
"I'm not concerned about that... Well, never mind. Since you're not going to the front lines with the rest of the medical team, is that really okay, Tsunade-sensei?"
Shiroshi's face showed concern.
Shizune hesitated for a moment on the side but decided not to speak up. After all, this was highly classified information within the village, and it shouldn't be casually revealed to unrelated individuals.
She only knew about it because she lived with Tsunade.
This was top-secret information in the village.
"We've been through this; you don't have to worry. With their abilities, they should be enough to handle the Hidden Sand ninja. Besides, I'm tired of fighting, and this teaching job was forced upon me by Sarutobi-sensei."
Tsunade cleverly changed the subject, gazing out of the window, lost in thought for a moment.
It was clear that even if she pretended to be calm and composed, she was still worried about Orochimaru and Jiraiya.
To avoid causing trouble and annoyance for Tsunade, Shiroshi dropped the topic and started preparing his lessons. Shizune went to make two cups of hot tea and placed them on the table in front of Tsunade and Shiroshi.
At 5:30 PM, the classes at the academy concluded. After answering some students' questions about medical matters, Shiroshi left the academy and continued his leisurely stroll around the village.
He wandered around until the sky was completely dark before finally heading back to the Uchiha Clan's territory.
His reconnaissance work for the day was done. As long as there were no major disruptions, there would be no need to adjust the plan. However, the biggest issue now was how to explain his departure to Rui.
Shiroshi didn't have much certainty about whether Rui would leave Konoha with him. The Uchiha Clan had deep ties to Konoha, and Rui, being an Uchiha clan member, had her own connections to the village.
Regardless of the outcome, he had to accept it. It was time to bid farewell to this village.
Shiroshi had arranged for the head of the Purple Orchid Corporation to train medical ninja for Konoha and deliver valuable medical research data to the village on behalf of the organization. This would be his final gift to Konoha.
He returned to his room, quietly awaiting Rui's return from her patrol mission, ready to confess his departure to her.
"It's already 7:30..."
Rui had mentioned that she would be on duty with another squad around 8:00, leaving only half an hour.
Shiroshi let out a wry smile. In reality, there was nothing significant about this matter, and all he needed to do was explain it clearly. Yet, he found himself surprisingly nervous, even before the principal character had returned.
What a hassle. Maybe I should wash my face and calm down a bit first, he thought. So, he headed towards the restroom.
The corridor was well-lit, so he could see everything clearly. Approaching him was a maid carrying a meal tray.
"Um, dinner is ready. Do you want it now?" the maid said.
"Put it in the dining room. Rui will be back soon," Shiroshi replied.
"Okay," the maid said, then suddenly lifted her head, and her eyes met Shiroshi's. In her eyes, a sharp crimson light flashed. Within the crimson glow, three black tomoe were spinning, releasing a powerful dōjutsu.
After the genjutsu was successful, the maid reached under the food tray and pulled out a short knife, mercilessly thrusting it toward Shiroshi's heart.
Shiroshi's expression remained unchanged.
The maid did indeed stab him with the knife. However, in an instant, the scene suddenly began to change. A massive water sphere enveloped the maid, containing a large amount of chakra, making the water pressure inside the sphere incredibly heavy. The maid felt immobilized, unable to move her body and limbs, struggling painfully inside the water sphere, and forming bubbles.
"That's enough," a cold voice came from directly behind Shiroshi.
If he didn't evade, he would have been killed for sure. The source of this murderous intent was far more terrifying than the maid who had attacked him suddenly.
Furthermore, it was evident that the maid attacking him had been manipulated by a genjutsu.
After manipulating the maid, a Sharingan genjutsu had been placed in her eyes.
This was a double genjutsu release.
Among the Uchiha clan, ninja capable of this were elite jōnin, few in number.
"!?"
The attacker's eyes widened. In an instant, black shadows, seemingly materializing out of nowhere, formed into peculiar and deadly shadow blades that were more than capable of taking a person's life, attacking him.
The attacker broke into a cold sweat and leaped backward, creating a safe distance from Shiroshi.
W-what was that?
Shadows?
He touched the cut on his face. He had been sliced open without even realizing it. If he had been a bit slower, his head might have already separated from his body.
There were no sounds, no weight, and if it weren't for his own sense of pain alerting him to the attack, he wouldn't even have known he was being targeted.
Wasn't this guy a medical ninja?
That's how the intelligence had recorded it, right?
Why was there no information on his shadow abilities?
Shiroshi turned around, and the swirling black shadows around him dissipated. In front of him stood a mysterious Uchiha ninja with a black mask and a pair of Sharingan eyes.
It was clear that this Uchiha jōnin was now filled with doubt and hesitation as he gazed at Shiroshi.
"Although I'm sorry, genjutsu tricks like that won't work on me. Also, who are you? I don't recall having offended anyone from the Uchiha," Shiroshi looked at the Uchiha ninja in front of him, puzzled.
He genuinely didn't understand why an Uchiha ninja would attempt to assassinate him.
The murderous intent earlier and the genjutsu he cast on the maid were clearly serious actions, not a joke.
"Fire Release: Great Fireball Jutsu!" Without answering Shiroshi, the Uchiha ninja attacked him with a Fire Release technique.
A massive fireball surged towards Shiroshi, heating the surrounding air intensely.
Shiroshi sighed and scratched his head. This was getting ridiculous.
While he scratched his head, shadows oozed from the darkness and formed a pitch-black shield in front of him, deflecting the fireball.
Behind Shiroshi, the Uchiha ninja with the black mask appeared using Body Flicker Technique.
The fireball jutsu was just a diversion. This was his real objective.
Although it seemed simple, in actual combat, it was a highly effective technique. Both the execution of the ninjutsu and the timing were perfect.
However—
"Ah!" he screamed in pain.
Blood sprayed.
In front of him awaited numerous shadow blades, and the shadow shield changed direction, transforming into shadow blades attacking him. All of this happened in an instant.
The terrifying speed of the attack, even with Sharingan predicting the patterns, was impossible to follow due to its speed surpassing human comprehension.
The Uchiha ninja was left battered and bruised, sent flying and rolling on the ground, leaving traces of bloodstains on the floor.
"You... did you go easy on me from the beginning?" The Shiroshi's speed in using shadow jutsu exceeded even his Sharingan's prediction felt that Shiroshi could have killed him from the very start.
"Take this as a all, this is an internal matter of your Uchiha clan, and I have no right to interfere," Shiroshi replied, looking troubled. He didn't want to get involved in this mess.
Hearing Shiroshi's response, the Uchiha ninja in the black mask went stiff. He knew who Shiroshi's words were directed at and turned around.
In his field of vision, there was a girl with long jet-black hair, her face as cold as frost, and her eyes filled with a bright crimson color.
It was none other than Rui, who had just returned home after her patrol mission.
She hadn't expected that an Uchiha ninja from her own clan would attempt to assassinate Shiroshi at this critical time.
If they had a problem with him, they should have voiced their concerns from the beginning. Attacking him now raised a bad feeling in Rui's heart.
The Uchiha ninja in the black mask stiffened as he looked at Rui's Sharingan, but then his legs gave way, and he knelt on the corridor floor.
Rui approached him slowly, crouching down to remove his black mask, revealing his expression.
"I hoped my perception was wrong, but I didn't expect it to be really you," Rui said.
Uchiha Fugate.
Uchiha Zane's personal advisor and bodyguard.
"Yes... I didn't expect your Sharingan genjutsu to be this terrifying... You incapacitated me in an instant..." Despite having Sharingan of equal level, he had no resistance against the intrusion of Rui's Sharingan's ocular power. He surrendered without a fight.
He had a feeling that there was a fundamental difference between Rui's Sharingan and his own Sharingan.
That kind of astonishing power, which surpassed another dimension, loomed over him.
Shiroshi didn't show any surprise; he knew from the beginning that this was Uchiha Fugate, the guard of the Uchiha Elder Zane.
Because he remembered the chakra of this Uchiha elite, even if he was wearing a mask, careful sensing could help identify who it was.
"Sure enough... what Elder Zane said was right. You are the future of the Uchiha. If you can use this power well... then go ahead and kill me."
With a resigned expression, Fugate smiled, his eyes filled with a sense of resignation, and he slowly uttered these words.
"I can't bear such praise. Can you tell me why you're doing this? Depending on your answer, I might spare your life."
Rui fell silent.
Fugate couldn't act on his own and come to assassinate Shiroshi. Only Elder Zane had the authority to command him.
"...For the future of our clan... and... for your future..."
Fugate's face contorted slightly in pain, as the genjutsu had invaded him to this extent, and he managed to speak these words with difficulty.
"Answer me. What is your purpose? Depending on your response, I might let you live."
"...No... can't say... I can't say... Kill me, Rui... Kill me..."
Fugate spoke intermittently, begging Rui to kill him.
Rui frowned, her expression ice-cold.
"Such a waste. I've put up with this for a long time. Whether it's about Konoha or the clan, these idiots have tested my patience. From the Root to the Hokage, and now even some members of the clan. There are hardly any sane people around me. I've had enough. Do you want to stop me?"
Seeing Rui's determined resolve, Shiroshi knew there was no way to dissuade her.
Fugate's body, which had been kneeling on the ground, slumped forward and fell heavily. He had lost consciousness.
"Get rid of this waste for me. I'll be right back."
Leaving these words behind, Rui's face was shrouded in frost as she used her Body Flicker Technique to leave.
"What the hell are you doing, causing such chaos..."
Shiroshi was puzzled. Why would they attempt to assassinate him at this time? It seemed very strange to him.
Looking in the direction Rui had left, Shiroshi let out a sigh.
Hopefully, nothing serious would happen.
But with Rui's aversion to being taken advantage of, he could only hope that she wouldn't stir up any trouble.
…
Naka Shrine.
As the war raged on, the Uchiha clan had an obligation to contribute their strength to Konoha. To decide who would be sent to the battlefield, numerous Uchiha elite gathered here for an urgent meeting held at night, following the orders of the radical leader of the clan, Uchiha Zane.
"The war has begun, and it has both advantages and disadvantages for us. While many will die, it also means that we, the Uchiha clan, are one step closer to the position of Hokage."
Seated on the frontmost cushion, Uchiha Zane, his face wrinkled with age, spoke with a steady demeanor.
"The Third Hokage is approaching the age of retirement. To accumulate enough prestige to become the Fourth Hokage, I hope that all of you will work together."
"Yes!"
"The era of the Senju leadership will eventually come to an end. The future of Konoha belongs to us, the Uchiha."
Uchiha Zane's gaze swept over the Uchiha elites who participated in the meeting, seemingly approving of their determination and strength, nodding in satisfaction.
All of these were the elite members of the clan, and this strength was also a powerful asset for protecting the clan and deterring outsiders.
"Save these dreams for when you wake up. Are you all so childish, talking about Hokage like this?"
An unexpected voice broke into the ears of all the Uchiha elites present, and many of them showed signs of anger, looking toward the source of the voice.
Rui emerged from the shadows, and amidst the puzzled and astonished gazes of everyone, she walked step by step towards the front, leaving them unsure of her intentions.
On the aged face of Uchiha Zane, there was a hint of movement.
Rui approached him without saying a word.
Boom!
Everyone's faces turned blank, their minds went blank, and the scene before them left their heads spinning.
They saw Rui swiftly grabbing Uchiha Zane's neck with her palm and pressing him against the wall, creating a dent.
Uchiha Zane's aged face immediately contorted in pain, wrinkled into a ball.
"Wait, Rui, what are you doing?"
"Don't interfere!"
"Release Elder Zane quickly!"
"Are you trying to rebel, Rui? Release him now!"
"The Uchiha Jonin in the room made their moves one after another, either rising to their feet, encircling Elder Zane, attempting to dissuade, or resorting to threats of force, in their efforts to make Rui release Elder Zane.
Elder Zane managed to utter, "...No...No..."
Rui responded, her tone laced with peril, "No? Are you implying that I falsely accused you?"
Rui paid little heed to the appeals and threats coming from her fellow clan members.
Elder Zane continued, "...Your eyes... are wrong..."
He gazed at Rui's Sharingan, the three-tomoe pattern spinning, and mumbled something cryptic.
"Eyes?" Rui raised an eyebrow, puzzled.
"What's wrong with my eyes?"
"So it's like this... even a medical ninja can't solve it, that trash... did the mission fail?"
Elder Zane suddenly seemed to have an epiphany, a look of realization dawning on his face, as if he had grasped something significant.
"Enough of your rambling," Rui declared, her voice carrying a menacing edge. "Don't Change the subject. You've thoroughly infuriated me, old man."
In response to Rui's threat, Elder Zane turned his head indifferently and addressed the Uchiha Jonin who were ready to step forward and subdue Liuli, saying, "All of you, leave."
The Uchiha Jonin exchanged puzzled glances, wondering why Elder Zane had issued such an order.
"Get out. I need to have a private conversation with Rui."
Those high-ranking Uchiha hesitated for a moment but those to obey Elder Zane's command. Before leaving, they cast threatening glances at Rui, warning her not to go too far.
Although they didn't know what conflict had occurred between Rui and Elder Zane, it wasn't a valid reason for her to attack him without cause.
After the Uchiha elites had left the meeting room, the empty room was left with only Rui and Elder Zane.
Cough, cough.
Rui released Elder Zane, leaving him gasping for air and coughing.
"Have you had enough?" Rui asked, seeing it as nothing more than a show for her.
Elder Zane glanced at Rui and suddenly sighed, saying, "It's a pity. If you had just come in and killed me earlier, that would have been better."
Rui looked at Elder Zane in confusion. "What do you mean by that?"
"It's because... you didn't awaken the Mangekyou Sharingan, Rui."
Elder Zane gazed deeply into Rui's eyes, his own were clouded but still sharp, filled with endless regret.
(Chapter End)