Chapter 26: Gimme a suggestion!
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It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good
- Nina Simone
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[POV: Narrator]
[Location: Outside of Konoha]
[Date: Six hours after the attack on the Shimura Clan]
As dawn broke, a procession of shadows emerged outside the borders of Konohagakure, each halting gracefully within the depths of the surrounding forest. Among them were Fugaku Uchiha and a contingent of Uchiha clansmen, their presence adding to the growing assembly.
The forest teemed with a multitude of skilled shinobi, both from Konoha and the esteemed clans within. Notably, the Hyūga, Inuzuka, and Aburame clans took the forefront, their members mainly present for their investigative abilities.
Fugaku couldn't help but release a sigh, his thoughts echoing within. "Encountering Father was undoubtedly an anxiety-inducing experience, but fortunately, everything fell into place," he reflected.
In the midst of the intense battle raging across the Land of Rain, three Countries are currently involved, namely the Rain, the Wind, and the Earth, as such the significance of Shinobi investigations becomes evident, it plays a crucial role in proactively identifying adversaries and minimizing future losses.
Within the depths of the forest, a steady stream of silhouettes continuously appeared. These figures, even the least experienced among them, were elite Chūnin displaying remarkable skill and expertise. Notably, the Uchiha clan, known for their pride, exhibited a composed demeanor, embodying the epitome of excellence within Konoha.
Fugaku attentively soaked in Uchiha Kon's observation, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Our Vanguard forces have amassed significantly this time. It seems that the Land of Rain's circumstances are far more dire than we initially estimated."
In agreement, Fugaku nodded solemnly. "Hanzō, revered as the Demi-God, commands immense influence within the ninja world. The Land of Rain holds a strategic position among our three Nations. If we do not deploy our most exceptional elites, we will fall short in comparison to the might of either the Wind or Earth countries. Undoubtedly, they have already seized control of parts of the Land of Rain as their troops possess considerable strength, otherwise, Hanzō would have ousted them."
Kon's voice dripped with a twisted sense of delight as he leaned closer to Fugaku. "Have you heard the delicious news about the turmoil within the Shimura clan?" he whispered, his excitement palpable. "Rumor has it that one of their own was meant to lead our mission, but alas, fate had a different plan. A brutal attack unfolded under the cover of darkness, leaving the unfortunate soul incapacitated and in desperate need of medical attention."
A wicked grin etched across Kon's face, reveling in the schadenfreude of the situation. "Oh, the irony," he chuckled darkly. "Sarutobi and his loyal lapdog thought they were untouchable, but now they're forced to contend with the consequences of their own treachery. It seems they underestimated the depths to which some would sink to seize power and control."
Fugaku's eyes gleamed with a mix of curiosity and satisfaction. "Tell me more," he urged, his voice laced with a touch of wicked anticipation.
But before Kon can dive deeper into the topic of the happenings within the Shimura clan almost abruptly, a solitary figure materializes from the depths of the forest, an embodiment of sheer ferocity and unyielding determination. Every step reverberated with a potent and unrestrained aura of lethal intent, commanding unwavering attention. Adorned with cascading, snowy-white hair and a compact blade secured upon his back, this enigmatic presence exuded an undeniable air of authority and prowess. The collective gaze of all who stood witness was instinctively drawn to this formidable individual, captivated by their imposing presence.
Fugaku's keen eyes swiftly identified the newcomer as none other than Hatake Sakumo, the renowned White Fang of Konoha. In a silent acknowledgment of Sakumo's formidable reputation, the assembled shinobi instinctively reorganized themselves into cohesive units, seamlessly aligning into disciplined formations.
Hatake Sakumo's reputation within the village of Konoha is far from insignificant. Renowned for his mastery of Hatake Kenjutsu, he had carved his name into the annals of the ninja world since the Sengoku Period. In Konoha, his fame surpassed even that of the Third Hokage's legendary Three Disciples.
Irrespective of their personal affiliations or inclinations, the shinobi present held a profound reverence for the formidable figure before them. Within the ranks of the Vanguard Troops, Hatake Sakumo commanded an ardent following, his magnetic charisma captivating the hearts and minds of those who aspired to greatness. His unrivaled presence inspired unwavering loyalty and eager anticipation among the assembled shinobi, who eagerly awaited the opportunity to serve under his esteemed leadership.
Hatake Sakumo's voice, brimming with authority, reverberated through the air, signaling the initiation of team assignments. "Time is of the essence for effective teamwork," he proclaimed. "You have a mere six days to establish seamless cooperation. Once the allotted time elapses, we shall regroup at the predetermined location marked on the map. However, in addition to your mission, I have devised a small test to gauge your suitability to serve under my command. Let the task distribution begin!"
In swift succession, numerous shadows materialized, revealing the presence of Shinobi within the forest. Each Shinobi received a comprehensive task list tailored to their individual capabilities and assigned responsibilities.
Fugaku firmly held the task list he was handed, studying the assigned number and the names of his two 'dependable' teammates, Aburame Nozawa and Satōmaru Fuma.
[Mission Briefing - Task No. 013]
Unit Captain: Uchiha Fugaku
Team Members: Aburame Nozawa, Satōmaru Fuma
Mission Objective: Deploy to the Land of Rain and neutralize three enemy Shinobi operatives from opposing nations.
Operational Directive: Execute a targeted elimination operation with precision and efficiency. Engage and eliminate the designated targets, ensuring minimal collateral damage.
Location: Forest Area, Land of Rain
Timeline: Immediate deployment. Complete the mission within the specified time frame of six days.
Intel: Enemy Shinobi are highly skilled at least Chunin Rank and may possess advanced techniques. Exercise caution and exploit their weaknesses.
Success Criteria: The successful elimination of at least three targets without compromise. Return to base with vital intelligence, if possible if not, then return alive.
This military mission demanded utmost discipline, strategic prowess, and a relentless commitment to the mission objective.
Fugaku contemplated the mission assigned by Hatake Sakumo, realizing the true purpose behind the tasks. As he perused the task list, he recognized the absence of explicit instructions regarding the rank or affiliation of the targeted Shinōbi.
Understanding the vital role of team battles, Fugaku realized that without a well-established understanding and synergy among the team members, progress would be impeded. While the mission list lacked specific details, it hinted at the necessity for combat-oriented teamwork, he comprehended the underlying significance of team dynamics and the importance of seamless cooperation.
Fugaku resolved to foster cohesion within his team, regardless of their respective ranks or titles. By cultivating a strong rapport among his teammates, Fugaku aimed to maximize their collective potential and ensure their success in the face of adversity.
As Uchiha Fugaku delved deeper into the mission's implications, a secondary perspective unfolded within his thoughts. He discerned that Hatake Sakumo's test was strategically crafted to evaluate not only the skills of each Jōnin team but also their mindset.
Would they settle for eliminating three Chūnin, simply fulfilling the task at hand? Or would they strive to target Jōnin, showcasing their ability to excel even in the face of heightened challenges? Fugaku pondered this critical decision, realizing that it held the key to proving their worth and surpassing expectations.
Fugaku felt burdened with the responsibility of upholding the honor of the Uchiha Clan and felt a deep-seated frustration. Mere elimination of three Chūnin would not be enough to satisfy the demands of his clan's reputation. It was imperative to engage and confront a Jōnin squad, to showcase a true testament to the unwavering strength and prowess of the Uchiha Clan.
Furthermore, the recent undercover activities and the resulting consequences only further fueled Fugaku's annoyance towards the higher-ups. It is essential to showcase the true potential of the Uchiha Clan, not only to prove their worth but also to counteract the troubles and repercussions that will be imposed upon them because of Fugaku's revenge.
Fugaku is determined to use this mission as an opportunity to demonstrate that the Uchiha Clan is far from disposable and to challenge the dismissive attitudes of those in power.
Fugaku's unwavering resolve compelled him to strive for the highest level of challenge and distinction. With all of this in mind, Fugaku embraced the mission, eagerly anticipating the encounter with formidable Jōnin adversaries, ready to demonstrate the true might of the Uchiha lineage.
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