NOVEL NEXT WORLD Chapter 5: Teams and Plans
Chapter 5: Teams and Plans
Shin finished his early morning practice, invigorated and prepared for the day. Meanwhile, an urgent meeting was convened in the Hattori clan's council chamber.
Inside the room, Kenshin sat at the head of the table, surrounded by the four elders: Rizo, Kenji, Hozi, and Asahi.
Kenshin began, "You all know why I called this meeting."
Hozi, the eldest, nodded gravely. "It's about the clan's secret scroll, isn't it?"
Kenshin confirmed, "Yes. The scroll recognized Shin. But there's more."
The elders exchanged puzzled looks. Asahi, impatient, asked sharply, "What more could there be? The scroll itself is a mystery. And why hasn't Shin mentioned this until now?"
Kenshin raised a calming hand. "Asahi, Shin is just a child. He likely didn't fully understand what he had. The important thing is that he didn't flaunt his abilities, which has bought us time to help him grow."
The others murmured in agreement.
Kenshin continued, "Shin has a unique power tied to the scroll. He calls it 'Djinn.' On his tenth birthday, he dreamed of a figure connected to this symbol here—Dantalion." Kenshin pointed to the ornate depiction on the scroll. "The next morning, Shin received the Book of Dantalion. It's not a ninja tool, but it functions like one, granting him incredible abilities. During a demonstration, Shin showed that he can teleport objects and people, so long as his chakra allows it."
The elders gasped. "A space-time jutsu?" Rizo exclaimed.
Kenshin nodded. "Yes, but it's far more complex. Shin can also transform using what he calls 'Djinn Equip.' In this form, his strength reaches almost Jonin levels."
Rizo leaned forward. "This is a power unlike any other. It could elevate the Hattori clan's standing significantly."
Hozi interjected, "But it could also make us a target. We must be cautious."
Kenshin agreed. "I plan to inform Lord Third, but only with limited details. We need Hiruzen's support to protect Shin from threats like Danzo."
The room fell silent as they considered the risks and rewards. After further discussions on logistics and clan strategies, the meeting adjourned.
At the academy, Shin joined his fellow graduates in the assembly hall. Himeno Jize, their instructor, stood at the podium.
"Congratulations, everyone. You've officially become Genin. Starting today, you'll be assigned to teams led by Jonin instructors."
One by one, the teams were announced:
Team 1: Aburame Fo, Inuzuka Kobi, Haruno Ken — Jonin: Shinku Yuhi
Team 2: Yamanaka Gen, Nara Shikakichi, Akimichi Chojuro — Jonin: Sarutobi Shinnosuke
Team 4: Hyuga Hikari, Hattori Shin — Jonin: Hatake Sakumo
Whispers broke out in the room. "Sakumo Hatake? The Anbu Captain?"
Even Shin was surprised. Why would someone as prestigious as Sakumo take on a Genin team? Himeno quickly silenced the murmurs. "This assignment comes directly from the Third Hokage."
Shin filed out with Hyuga Hikari and Sakumo, heading to Training Ground 3. When they arrived, they saw Kakashi training alone. The young prodigy paused, acknowledging his father and nodding politely to Shin and Hikari.
Sakumo began, "Team 4. That's what we'll call ourselves. My son Kakashi will occasionally train with us, though he's already far advanced for his age. Today, I want to understand your strengths and weaknesses to ensure we work effectively as a team."
Shin's system lit up with a new notification:
Mission: Impress Sakumo and Retrieve the BellsReward: 500 Rukh
Sakumo continued, his gaze shifting to Shin. "I know about your kekkei genkai. Your father informed me, and Lord Third approved my request to oversee your development. There's no need to hide it."
Shin's eyes widened, though he quickly masked his surprise. He nodded, determination flickering in his gaze.
"Your first task is to retrieve these bells from me," Sakumo announced, holding up two silver bells. "Whoever doesn't get a bell will be sent back to the academy."
Shin and Hikari exchanged a glance. Hikari activated her Byakugan, scanning their surroundings. Shin prepared himself, his hand brushing the Book of Dantalion at his side.
"Begin," Sakumo commanded, vanishing in a blur of speed.
Shin grinned. Time to impress.