Chapter 47

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In his previous life, as a member of a powerful, integrated clan, Toki understood that a nation's true strength did not rely solely on force. For the Uchiha clan to truly prosper, it would require the assimilation of their bloodline and culture into the entire ninja world. Only by weaving the Uchiha legacy into every corner of society could they create an enduring dynasty.

Imagining this glorious future for the Uchiha, a slight smile crossed Toki's face. For the next three years, he wouldn't rush into a full-scale war with Kumogakure. Instead, his goal was to gradually convert the 5,000 jōnin who enlisted into die-hard supporters of the Uchiha, ideally changing their surnames to Uchiha. Of course, he knew this wasn't fully realistic, given the limited population of the current Uchiha clan.

Thinking of possible solutions, Toki couldn't help but note the influence of noble families who practiced polygamy, with commoners fighting their wars while the nobility enjoyed a life of luxury. As clan leader, perhaps he too could set an example for his clan by marrying multiple times to expand the Uchiha's lineage and influence.

Toki even imagined a future slogan emblazoned across the clan walls: "For a prosperous Uchiha—have more children, plant fewer trees!"

Just as he entertained this thought, he was interrupted by the sight of a black-haired girl supporting a tall, voluptuous blonde woman who was clearly intoxicated.

"Tsunade?" he said, recognizing her.

The two women were indeed Tsunade and her young apprentice, Shizune. Shizune looked up nervously but was surprised to see Shi Yu.

"Lord Toki?!" Shizune said, startled.

Upon hearing his name, Tsunade's eyes lit up, albeit drowsily, and she slurred, "Where's that bastard Toki? I'm gonna punch him!"

Toki rubbed his temples, bracing himself. As expected, Tsunade stumbled over and threw a punch in his direction. He dodged, and her fist slammed into the inn's tatami floor, leaving a sizeable dent. Falling back, Tsunade began to cry drunkenly, "You heartless scoundrel!"

At that moment, Shisui, who had heard the commotion, appeared. He took one look at Tsunade, then at Toki, and hastily saluted, "Um, Lord Toki, I'll be heading back to Konoha to organize the first wave of Defense Force reinforcements." Not waiting for a reply, he immediately vanished, leaving only an afterimage—a testament to Shisui's unparalleled speed.

Toki let out a resigned sigh, lowered his defenses, and slowly approached Tsunade. "Tsunade, relax. I'm here."

Tsunade struggled to focus on him, but the effects of alcohol overcame her, and she passed out. Toki exhaled in relief, stepping forward to catch her before she hit the floor. Shizune, her eyes glowing with curiosity, couldn't help but watch intently.

Toki shot her a stern look and scolded, "Hurry up and help me move her!"

"Oh! Sorry!" Shizune said, pouting slightly. "It's not my fault Tsunade-sama didn't hold on properly!"

At only 16, Shizune was still playful and carefree, showing none of the reserved nature she would later develop. Looking down, Toki saw that Tsunade had somehow wrapped her arms tightly around him. He sighed, holding her securely.

"Where's your room?" he asked.

With a smile, Shizune led him to their quarters. Once they reached the bedroom, Shizune discreetly excused herself, leaving Toki alone with Tsunade.

Looking down at her, he couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia. Tsunade had been his first love, a woman who held a unique place in his heart. Toki, now 28, had grown up alongside peers like Fugaku, who already had children. As a reincarnated soul, Toki had never considered refraining from romance for the sake of clan duty. Quite the opposite—he had been popular in the Uchiha clan for both his strength and his looks, rivaling the admiration that Uchiha Itachi and Sasuke would one day receive.

With the knowledge and strategic insight from his previous life, Toki had lived through both the Second and Third Shinobi World Wars, forming many bonds in the face of life's uncertainties. His years had been filled with relationships, each one bringing him closer to the goal of preserving his clan. For Toki, love and duty intertwined seamlessly. But Tsunade had always been special.

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