The Third Hokage sat behind his desk, listening carefully as Renji explained his new ninjutsu. When he finished, the Hokage rose, formed a shadow clone, and said to Uchiha Nobunaga, "Let the boy and my clone head to the training grounds to test the technique's power. We'll use that to rate its level."
Nobunaga immediately understood that the Hokage wanted to speak with him privately. He looked at Renji and said, "Go with the Hokage's clone to the training field and show your strength. After that, you can return to the Guard Division."
After Renji left, the Hokage spoke. "This series of jutsu can be considered a secret art, one worthy of being passed down as a family treasure. For the Uchiha to make such a sacrifice for Konoha… on behalf of the village, I thank you. Since the Uchiha have offered us this gift, Konoha will repay them with sincerity."
"Lord Hokage," Nobunaga replied, "the Uchiha are Konoha's Uchiha, that much is undeniable. Misunderstandings may have existed in the past, but we believe they can one day be resolved.
Because of this, I have one request. My son, Fugaku, is about to graduate. I heard that your brilliant student, Jiraiya, will be leading a squad this year. I wish for my son to join his team. If the young clan leader of the Uchiha can become the student of your student, it would truly be a fine story."
The Third Hokage took a long puff from his pipe, exhaling slowly. "Of course, there's no problem. For Jiraiya to teach an Uchiha prodigy would be an honor. You can rest assured, I'll speak with him. And about Renji, I've heard he's awakened the three-tomoe Sharingan. I hereby promote him to the rank of Tokubetsu Jōnin."
The two men were both satisfied, exchanging pleasantries and praise until the meeting ended.
When Nobunaga left, the Hokage said, "Call for Elder Mitokado and Jiraiya."
An ANBU operative vanished into the corner, and soon Mitokado Homura arrived. As he stepped through the door, a trace of sorrow showed on his face, one that the Hokage shared. The room grew heavy with unspoken feelings.
Jiraiya suddenly leapt in through the window, breaking the silence. One look was enough, old teammates could read each other perfectly. With Danzō still lurking, they knew the real enemy was yet to be exposed.
Hiruzen spoke directly. "The Uchiha clan head just visited. He offered up a set of secret techniques, the Chidori series. I tested them myself. Each one is at least A-rank, with enormous potential.
He made a request connected to you. He wants his son, Fugaku, the young heir of the Uchiha, to join your team as your student.
I know you've already taken Minato Namikaze as your disciple. Then take one more. This is a clear sign of goodwill from the Uchiha. They haven't given up on integrating into Konoha. Teach him well, Jiraiya. If this works, the influence will reach the next generation and beyond."
Homura nodded. "This is an opportunity. Perhaps we can complete what the Second Hokage never could. For years we've held on, both sides unwilling to let go, yet weighed down by distrust.
But with the young ones, there's room to build something new. If it succeeds, it could become a powerful bridge. Jiraiya, don't waste this chance, it's Hiruzen's goodwill."
For once, Jiraiya grew serious. He wasn't ignorant of the tension between the Uchiha and the village. Left unresolved, it could turn disastrous. Many Uchiha had tried to integrate, but the mistrust of the leadership always stopped it. If bonds of mentorship could bridge that gap and untie the knots left by the older generation, it would be something both sides wanted.
He took a deep breath, then nodded. "Don't worry, sensei. I'll teach him well. I won't let him stray."
When graduation came, the teacher read the team assignments aloud.
"Team 7: Minato Namikaze, Fugaku Uchiha, Shibi Aburame." The instructor paused, thinking to himself, This year's strongest team. I just hope they survive.
"Team 8: Shikaku Nara, Inoichi Yamanaka, Chōza Akimichi."
"Team 7, follow me."
A white-haired young man in a jōnin's uniform entered, beaming.
He led the three of them to Training Ground 7. "Alright, introductions first. I'm Jiraiya. I like beautiful women. Favorite foods: perilla garlic and fried chicken. Least favorite: kiwifruit and baked pasta. Hobbies: gathering material for my writing. I'm also a part-time author. My dream is to teach the Child of Prophecy, someone who can guide the shinobi world to peace."
Fugaku nearly rolled his eyes. If big brother hadn't told him Jiraiya was a monster of strength, he'd have thought the guy was an idiot. Child of Prophecy? Looks like writing novels has rotted his brain.
Minato spoke next, his blond hair glowing in the sun. "I'm Minato Namikaze. Favorite food: Ichiraku ramen. Least favorite: broccoli. Hobby: training in ninjutsu. My dream is to become Hokage."
"Not a bad dream," Jiraiya praised. Minato scratched the back of his head shyly, smiling.
"I am Shibi Aburame. I like insects. I like eating vegetables. I dislike birds and anything that eats bugs. My dream is to raise the finest insects in the world," said the quiet boy behind dark sunglasses, who most people forgot was even there.
Then Fugaku stepped up. "I'm Fugaku Uchiha. I like training in ninjutsu with my brother. Favorite food: grilled meat. I can't stand dango, it makes me feel sick just being near it. My hobby is practicing lightning release and kenjutsu. My dream is to restore the glory of the Uchiha clan."
"Alright," Jiraiya clapped happily, "then I announce Team 7 officially formed. Let's go eat to celebrate!"
Just then, another jōnin in uniform walked over, the Uchiha fan emblazoned on his back.
Fugaku's face lit up. "That's my big brother! He's a jōnin too. Just promoted to Deputy Captain of the Guard's 4th Division. He's a genius in ninjutsu and kenjutsu, the strongest of our generation!"
The man smiled warmly. "Hello everyone, I'm Renji Uchiha, Fugaku's elder brother. You can just call me Renji. Sorry for the trouble my little brother might cause. To celebrate your new team, I've brought gifts."
He handed a scroll to Minato. "We've met before. I know you're lacking a truly decisive attack. Inside this scroll is a jutsu I created Rasengan. If you don't understand it, ask your teacher, or ask me anytime. You're welcome in our home."
He passed another scroll to Shibi. "I didn't know who Fugaku's teammates would be. Since you're from the Aburame clan, I prepared some of my taijutsu notes. No matter what kind of shinobi you are, taijutsu is the foundation. Even your clan's secret techniques depend on physical strength. This will help you."
Finally, he unbuckled the blade at his waist and handed it to Fugaku. "This sword was once given to me by Master Kenshi for my birthday. Today, I pass it on to you. Let it protect you in my place. Treat it well, it's our most important companion." He reached out and gave Fugaku a gentle pat on the head.
"Forgive me, Jiraiya-senpai. I have a long mission ahead, so I came to see my brother off. I'll leave him in your care." He bowed.
Jiraiya quickly waved his hands. "No need for that. I'll look after him. Why not join us for the meal?"
Renji shook his head with a smile. "No, I've still got business. Don't let me intrude." He gave Fugaku a final smile before vanishing with a body-flicker.
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