Team Formation

Rimi was surprised to learn that Fumori Masaki would be heading to the Land of Lightning for the mission. Her displeasure was not because Masaki was selected for such a perilous task, but rather because she wasn't included in the team.

Rimi's feelings for Fumori Masaki were undeniable. She couldn't bear the thought of him undertaking such a dangerous mission alone. She wanted to be by his side, facing the danger with him. Her discontent stemmed from her inability to accompany him.

"I want to ask Tobirama-sama to reconsider," Rimi said after a moment of silence.

"Rimi, Tobirama-sama has considered this carefully. He believes you're not suited for this mission. It's futile to argue about it," Fumori Masaki said quickly.

"But—" Rimi's protest was cut short as Fumori Masaki embraced her tightly.

"Rimi, I'm well-suited for this mission. Among everyone, I have the highest chance of survival. I'm fast. Although it is risky, I promise I will complete the mission and return safely. Please wait for me here," Fumori whispered.

Despite his assurances, Rimi remained unconvinced. She pulled away from his embrace, her eyes fixed on him. "I don't want to stay here, worrying and not knowing anything. Instead of being in the dark, why don't you let me join you? If danger arises, I can share the burden with you. If we come back, we return together; if we die, we die together!"

Fumori Masaki sighed, knowing that Rimi's stubbornness and self-esteem would not easily be swayed. Before he could find a solution, the curtain rustled as Senju Tōka entered.

"What's going on here? Preparing for a mission and still arguing?" Tōka said with a hint of irritation.

"No, it's not a quarrel," Fumori Masaki explained. "Rimi wants to be part of the mission."

Senju Tōka looked at Rimi, surprised. "Really?"

"Yes, Tōka-sama. Please talk to  Tobirama-sama and include me in the team," Rimi said firmly.

Tōka didn't want Rimi on the mission, not merely because she viewed Rimi as a daughter. The real reason was that Rimi's skills, while strong, did not fit the specific needs of this task. "Rimi, your abilities are not suited for this mission. We need someone who can move quickly, strike decisively, and handle the immediate threats. Your participation could hinder the mission."

"But Masaki…" Rimi's voice faltered, a mixture of uncertainty and frustration evident.

Tōka glanced at Fumori Masaki, then placed a comforting hand on Rimi's shoulder. "Don't worry. Masaki is strong and capable. Trust in him. If you're really worried, I'll make a promise to ensure his safe return."

Rimi looked up at Tōka, her eyes filled with hope. Tōka's reassurance seemed to ease her tension. "I trust you, Tōka-sama."

"Good. Just wait here while this kid goes on his mission," Tōka said, turning to Fumori Masaki with a smile. She then guided him out of the camp.

Fumori Masaki sighed in relief. "Thank you very much Captain Tōka. I'm not sure how I would have convinced Rimi otherwise."

"She's stubborn, but it's not a bad trait. If it becomes a real problem, I'll step in," Tōka said.

Fumori Masaki nodded. "It seems that getting Rimi to accept this needed the intervention of the elders."

Tōka brought Fumori Masaki to the meeting place where the rest of the team had yet to arrive. "I came to find you early. I wanted to talk to Rimi, but I ended up bringing you here."

"Is that a problem?" Fumori Masaki asked.

"No, it's just that Rimi's situation was a bit complex. She's still young and will learn in time," Tōka said, glancing at Fumori Masaki. "By the way, when will you two start a family?"

"Huh?" Fumori Masaki was taken aback. "I don't have time to think about that now."

"I'm looking forward to seeing your children," Tōka said wistfully. "It would be a shame if I didn't see them before I die."

"You'll definitely see them," Fumori Masaki said, suddenly feeling uneasy about his own words. "I just have a feeling that I might have jinxed it."

"Huh? What was that?" Tōka asked, her keen hearing catching his mumbling.

"Nothing!" Fumori Masaki quickly changed the subject, pointing out the approaching members of the team. "Captain Tōka, the others have arrived."

Tōka dismissed the matter and, once everyone had gathered, she said, "Since everyone is here, let's begin. First, we'll do some introductions. Fumori, you go first."

"Me?" Fumori Masaki asked, surprised.

"Yes, as a disciple of the second Hokage, you should set an example," Tōka said.

"Understood," Fumori Masaki said, addressing the team. "My name is Fumori Masaki. I specialize in high-speed combat using wind ninjutsu and swordsmanship. I'll be handling the main fighting responsibilities. I look forward to working with all of you."

The team responded positively. As a second Hokage disciple, Fumori Masaki's demeanor was humble, which helped ease any initial reservations they might have had.

"My name is Hyūga Kei. I'll handle reconnaissance and intelligence, and can also assist in combat if needed," Hyūga Kei said.

"I'm Inuzuka Shigeru. I specialize in high-speed combat with my partner," said a tall man with wild marks on his face and a ninja dog at his side. "Don't let my size fool you—I'm fast."

"My name is Yamanaka Takuma. I'm skilled in mind techniques and will assist with intelligence gathering alongside Hyūga-kun,"  Yamanaka Takuma introduced himself.

"I'm Sarutobi Konosuke. I excel in fire and earth jutsu, and will provide remote support with ninjutsu," said another young man.

Lastly, a young girl stepped forward and introduced herself, "I'm Senju Risa. I specialize in medical ninjutsu and will be responsible for your medical care."

Tōka clapped her hands together and said, "Now that we know each other, let's set off. We'll get to know one another better on the way."

With that, the seven of them left the Konoha camp, heading towards the Land of Lightning while strategizing to divert enemy attention and prepare for their mission.