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---__---
Time always seemed to slip by unnoticed—and before they knew it, the New Year had arrived.
The brutal, life-or-death battle with the Missing-nin from the Hidden Mist still lingered in their minds, as vivid as if it had happened just yesterday. But in truth, a full week had passed since that mission.
With the Special Jonin slain by Renjiro, the rest of the enemy forces were little more than disorganized thugs—lambs led to the slaughter. Maemon, Meri, Tsugami, and even Domaru unleashed the fury and frustration that had been boiling within them.
The gang was crushed with brutal efficiency—then handed over to the Genki Clan, who would sentence the survivors to forced labor as atonement for their crimes.
Renjiro, meanwhile, had one more duty to fulfill. He returned the Hardened Flesh Technique to Itai, the leader of the Genki Clan—and quietly led him to the grave where they had buried his nephew.
The boy had made grave mistakes—perhaps even unforgivable ones. But in Renjiro's eyes, it wasn't his place to judge him. He wasn't the one to hate him. Nor to forgive.
In truth, without the boy's contribution, Renjiro might have lost that fight. If not for the Hardened Flesh scroll, he would never have deduced and completed Tekkai.
And without Tekkai… victory would have been impossible.
---
Upon returning to the village, Team Renjiro was temporarily disbanded.
The first reason was simple: Renjiro needed time to recover. Although the wound on his chest had healed, the injury to his shoulder was still lingering—deep tissue damage that required rest and therapy.
Naturally, he also reported to Hiruzen—but not before cleaning up and changing into fresh clothes.
When Hiruzen heard the full account of what had happened, including the near-fatal battle against a Genjutsu-specialist Special Jonin, he was deeply impressed.
The fact that Renjiro had returned with his entire team alive, despite the overwhelming odds, was an outstanding accomplishment. In Hiruzen's eyes, Renjiro had practically completed the mission alone, killing the enemy commander himself while protecting his teammates.
The Hokage couldn't help but feel relieved that it had been Team Renjiro assigned to this task. Had it been an ordinary Chunin squad, there was a real chance the entire team might have been wiped out.
What stood out most was Renjiro's performance—his composure, intelligence, leadership, and combat skill. All of it made Hiruzen regard him even more highly.
To reflect the true danger of the assignment, Hiruzen upgraded the mission's rank from C-rank to B-rank—a decision that brought a sense of satisfaction to the team.
After all, a single B-rank mission on their record was far more valuable than a handful of low-tier assignments—and it would certainly benefit their future advancement.
Secondly, the mission had done more than just exhaust them physically. It had sparked something deeper in each of them—a drive to grow stronger, each in their own way.
With that, they agreed to pause joint training for now. Everyone would pursue their own personal regimens for the time being.
---
Bored and restless, Renjiro decided to take a walk through the village streets.
To his surprise, Konoha was alive with celebration. Lanterns hung from every roof and window, casting warm glows over the roads. Laughter and chatter echoed from every direction. Villagers wore joyful expressions, and many had already changed into new clothes, eager to welcome the coming day.
Today marked the final day of Year 46 in the Konoha calendar. Tomorrow would bring the New Year—and with it, a long-awaited sense of peace.
Even in the shinobi world, the Spring Festival existed. But due to the relentless pressure of the Third Shinobi World War, Konoha hadn't truly celebrated it in years.
Now, with the war finally nearing its end, the people were ready to breathe again—to smile, to live.
Caught up in the festive spirit, Renjiro wandered from stall to stall, quickly finding himself caught in a spontaneous shopping spree. By the time he realized what had happened, his arms were overflowing with bags and boxes.
There was no way he could keep strolling like this—he'd need to drop everything off at home first.
But just as he turned to leave, something—or rather, someone—caught his eye.
A striking woman stood by a vendor, chatting brightly. She had a curvaceous figure, long flowing crimson hair, and a presence that drew attention effortlessly.
Her identity was unmistakable.
Uzumaki Kushina—Jinchūriki of the Nine-Tails, wife of the Fourth Hokage, Namikaze Minato… and future mother of Naruto Uzumaki.
"That's... Naruto's mother. Uzumaki Kushina."
Renjiro's thoughts paused, a faint awe rose in his chest.
Although Renjiro wanted to talk with her, he was no fool. This woman wasn't just a civilian. She was the host of the Kyuubi, and undoubtedly under constant surveillance. Approaching her without cause or connection would only invite suspicion—and trouble.
"Ahh!"
With a sigh and a subtle shake of his head, Renjiro turned away, vanishing back into the crowd.
---
"Fweeet! Fweeet!"
Whistling to himself, Renjiro strolled home in high spirits.
"Captain?"
A familiar voice called out behind him.
Turning, Renjiro spotted Tsugami walking toward him—hugging a squirming ball of black fur. The tiny dog was aggressively gnawing on Tsugami's sleeve.
Renjiro raised an eyebrow: "Tsugami… what's with the puppy?"
It was odd. The Inuzuka clan typically chose their ninken companions at birth. Mid-training acquisitions were almost unheard of.
Tsugami gave a half-shrug, looking slightly exasperated: "Don't ask. I'm just taking this little demon out for a walk."
Renjiro eyed the pup more closely, noting its thick fur, strong build, and fiery eyes. He narrowed his gaze: "Arkain—identify species. This dog… it's a Tibetan Mastiff, right?"
[Beep! Mission Established! Data Extraction in Progress… Classification: Canidae – Lupus Line – Super-large Mammal – Tibetan Mastiff.]
"Just as I thought." Renjiro muttered.
Back in his previous life, he'd once raised a Tibetan Mastiff. Once considered a noble, rare breed, they had become common by his time.
He had found one—a freezing, abandoned pup—during a supply run in the dead of night.
He had raised it until the day it died peacefully of old age.
Now, in this new world, he lived alone, with no family or real bonds. He was even spending the New Year by himself.
The realization hit suddenly—and stuck. Why not raise a dog again?
Here, in the Naruto world, ninken could live nearly as long as humans. That meant less risk of losing another companion so soon. The thought filled him with a strange warmth.
Without hesitation, Renjiro shared his idea with Tsugami.
Tsugami's brow furrowed slightly as he listened: "I'm all for you raising a dog. But… maybe pick a different one?"
Renjiro blinked confused: "Why?"
Tsugami sighed and lifted the puppy, who was now biting his sleeve with renewed vengeance: "This guy? One of our clan members found him by accident. He's got amazing physical traits, sure—but he's completely wild. Hostile to strangers. Nearly impossible to train as a ninja dog."
That came as no surprise. This was a Tibetan Mastiff—especially a wild one. Naturally, it would resist domestication.
But Renjiro was resolute. He insisted on keeping this specific puppy.
Seeing that Renjiro wouldn't budge, Tsugami stopped trying to talk him out of it. In his eyes, Renjiro was probably just picking a pet on a whim. And for a dog unlikely to become a proper ninken, that outcome was harmless enough.
Renjiro gently took the puppy from Tsugami's arms. The little furball didn't care who held him—he immediately resumed chewing on Renjiro's sleeve.
"He's definitely a handful." Tsugami said, flashing a wry smile.
But Renjiro didn't mind at all. His only concern now was choosing a name. He stared at the squirming pup and murmured: "What should I call you? Hmm… Alright—your name is Inmaru."
---
[A/N: "Inmaru" (å› ä¸¸) can be interpreted as "Loyal Dog" in Japanese.]
---
Tsugami shrugged from the side: "Guess it's official—you're really keeping him."
He then accompanied Renjiro back home so he could drop off his shopping. Afterward, they made their way to the Inuzuka Clan compound, where the adoption process began.
There, they took photos, signed forms, and completed everything needed, ownership papers, care contracts, and agreements allowing the Inuzuka Clan to assist in training, provide support during missions, and offer medical care for the pup.
---
By the end of the day, everything was finalized. Renjiro said goodbye to Tsugami and left the compound with Inmaru nestled comfortably in his arms.
Fushhh!
A gentle breeze swept through the avenue.
Renjiro held Inmaru up to eye level, smiling warmly: "From today on… we're a family."
"Woof!"
Inmaru tilted his tiny head, blinking with shiny black eyes. Then, with a casual stretch of his paw, he booped Renjiro on the nose.
---
The Next Morning…
"Woof!"
Inmaru barked loudly the moment Renjiro stirred awake. Then, with the swagger of a tiny king, he let out a low commanding howl.
The message was clear:
"You're awake? Good. Now prepare my breakfast, peasant."
Renjiro chuckled, sitting up: "Good morning, Inmaru."
Without warning, he scooped up the puppy and pulled him into a long, affectionate hug.
"Woof! Woof!"
Inmaru flailed wildly in protest, his dignity under siege. But no matter how fiercely he barked or bit, the self-declared canine king had no minions to save him from the tyranny of his master.
And so—he endured. Yet in his shiny black eyes, a spark of rebellion flared.
"I'll bide my time… I'll get you one day, chef! Just you wait!" —This, no doubt, was Inmaru's vow.
Oblivious to the grand vengeance silently brewing at his feet, Renjiro eventually set the pup down and began getting dressed for the day.
After spending a while fussing over Inmaru and making sure the little guy was okay, Renjiro took him out for food. He had never cooked in his life, and adopting a dog wasn't about to change that. Mealtime, as always, would be handled by cheap restaurants.
"What should we eat today?" Renjiro mused aloud.
Inmaru, wasn't leashed—this was the Shinobi World, after all—strutted confidently ahead, tail raised high, like a tiny king inspecting his domain. Animals here were smarter than average, and Renjiro wasn't worried about him wandering off.
Unsurprisingly, the little show-off drew every pair of eyes on the street. But Inmaru, ever full of himself, interpreted the stares as adoring praise for his royal presence. He basked in the attention, puffing up and marching with even more pride.
Screeee!
A sharp cry pierced the sky.
Renjiro looked up only to see a gray hawk was circling high above the village—an emergency messenger bird.
"Emergency call…" His expression shifted immediately. That was a squad leader's call-to-arms.
Without a second thought, he scooped up the wriggling Inmaru and rushed to the Inuzuka Clan compound, where he handed the pup over for temporary boarding. Only then did he ran to the Hokage Residence.
---
By the time he arrived, more than thirty shinobi had already gathered outside—all squad captains or higher. Renjiro, still a relatively new and young team leader, was among the lowest-ranked present.
His heart sank: "What's going on…?"
To summon this many captains at once—and at this hour—it had to be serious. Whispers filled the air.
"What happened?"
"Do you know what's going on?"
"Why summon everyone like this?"
"Let's see what this is about first…" Renjiro didn't speak. He thought as he silently blended into the crowd, trying not to draw attention.
Creeaak!
Moments later, once over forty captains had gathered, the main doors of the Hokage Residence finally swung open. Out stepped the Third Hokage, followed by his two senior advisors.
Instantly, the crowd fell silent. All eyes turned to Hiruzen Sarutobi.
Though age had bent his back and age spots marked his skin, his presence remained unshaken. He was still the Third Hokage of Konoha, revered across the ninja world as "The Professor."
Even now, in his twilight years, his gaze commanded respect. And under that steady, wise gaze, every captain present stood a little straighter, watching him with quiet admiration.
Looking at the captains, Hiruzen finally spoke: "Moments ago, we received urgent intelligence. Iwagakure has deployed a force into the Land of Waterfall. Their objective is clear—they're preparing to invade the Land of Fire."
A stunned silence gripped the crowd—then gasps erupted. They had just begun to believe the Third Great Ninja War was finally over.
But now—it felt like that fragile peace had shattered right before their eyes.
"Iwagakure has sent over a thousand shinobi. They've already entered the Land of Waterfall and initiated their assault." Add the Hokage.
"What?!"
"No way!"
"A thousand?! That's a full battalion!"
"I thought the war was over!"
"Silence!"
Hiruzen's voice cracked like thunder, echoing through the crowd like a sudden lightning strike.
Instantly, the murmurs ceased. The entire courtyard went dead quiet. So silent, in fact, Renjiro could swear he'd hear a needle drop if one fell to the ground.
Only when absolute stillness returned did the Third Hokage speak again—his voice was low, steady, and chillingly resolute: "No matter who they are... if they dare to attack our land, we will strike them down with everything we've got. Whether it's a thousand... or ten thousand…"
He paused, letting the weight of his words hang in the air like a drawn blade, then continued in a loud voice like thunder: "I, as the Third Hokage, now order you—cleanse the Land of Waterfall of every last invading enemy!"
"Long live the Hokage!"
A roar exploded from the crowd.
When the leader of the Hidden Leaf calls for war—Konoha answers without hesitation.
Even Renjiro, still processing the shock of it all, couldn't help but feel his blood stir at the roar of the captains around him.
Still, his brows furrowed, because this didn't happen in the original timeline.
"Arkain." He called inwardly: "Search for any records related to this battle in the database."
[Processing request... Scanning historical archives... No match found.]
[Beep! Results: No records of this battle exist within the known timeline of the Third Great Ninja War.]
"Tch… So this really wasn't in the anime I remember." Renjiro's expression darkened: "Either it was never mentioned... or this is a butterfly effect caused by my arrival."
The term "butterfly effect" sent a chill down his spine. But he took a deep breath and steadied himself.
"However, this doesn't make sense..." He muttered under his breath.
The Battle of Kikyo Pass—he remembered every detail from the anime. It was the climax.
The war should have ended there. He closed his eyes and spoke silently to Arkain again:
"Why didn't the Third Great Ninja War end after the Battle of Kikyo Pass?"
A soft hum answered him, then came Arkain's mechanical voice—precise and clinical.
[Beep! The Battle of Kikyo Pass marked the final major strategic offensive of the Third Great Ninja War. Political agreements between the Five Great Nations followed, initiating formal de-escalation.]
[Clarification: "End of war" refers to political conclusion—not immediate or universal ceasefire.]
[Historical precedent: In Host's original world, e.g., World War II, hostilities often persisted in fragmented form even after official surrender.]
[Conclusion: 80% probability that Iwagakure will retreat after this campaign, in accordance with the original Naruto timeline—thus ending the Third Great Ninja War both politically and militarily.]
Renjiro clenched his fists and said to himself bitterly: "Living in this world is nothing like watching it on a screen… there's no excitement out here—just danger. Death on the battlefield is more common than breathing."
Then, he exhaled slowly, his eyes narrowed with resolve: "I have to be more careful from now on... much more careful."