Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

The first floor of the Hokage Building was bustling with activity, with people constantly coming and going. On the second floor, however, there were fewer people, and the corridors were quieter. Uzumaki Raiden walked through the long hallway and arrived at the door to the Hokage's office. Without knocking, he pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The Anbu stationed on either side of the door didn't stop him and allowed him to enter without any inspection.

"Teacher Sarutobi, I'm here."

As Raiden entered the office, all eyes turned to him. Sarutobi Hiruzen wasn't alone—Uchiha Fugaku and Hyuga Hiashi were also present, having received the same summons. Standing behind the Third Hokage was an Anbu wearing a death mask, who was also focused on Raiden.

"Everyone's here. Let's settle down and make introductions," Sarutobi said. The Anbu behind him reached up and removed his mask, revealing a handsome young man beneath the grim visage.

"Uchiha Shisui? No… who is this guy?" Raiden's pupils narrowed as he stared at the man. The resemblance to Shisui was uncanny, as if the two were carved from the same mold. But unlike Shisui's calm demeanor, this man radiated a distinct and palpable menace.

"My name is Uchiha Shinki. I was previously an Anbu under Lord Hokage, but from today onward, I'll be your captain," the man introduced himself with a composed air. Fugaku's face lit up with admiration as he gazed at Shinki, clearly recognizing him.

"Uchiha Shinki is one of the finest in the Uchiha clan, known for his mastery in kenjutsu, taijutsu, Fire Release, Lightning Release, and genjutsu. He'll be leading this mission," Sarutobi Hiruzen explained. "Under Shinki's command, I expect you to do your best. That's all for now. I'll leave the rest to him."

With that, Sarutobi returned his attention to the piles of scrolls on his desk. The ongoing war had burdened him with a mountain of responsibilities, leaving him with little time for rest.

"Is the Third Hokage an NPC? He explains everything and then tunes out completely," Raiden thought, glancing at the seemingly indifferent Sarutobi. Turning his attention back to Shinki, Raiden found himself curious about this unusual Uchiha captain.

"This is the first time I've seen a Jonin from the Uchiha clan leading a team," Raiden mused internally. The presence of an Uchiha captain was unprecedented in his knowledge of Konoha's history. Members of the Uchiha clan typically served in the Konoha Police Force and were rarely seen on the battlefield, even during the current war. The lack of wartime experience was one reason the clan had fewer Sharingan awakenings in recent years, let alone the evolution to the Mangekyo Sharingan.

"Let's get to know each other first," Shinki said with a gentle smile. He led the group out of the Hokage's office and to Training Ground One on the village's outskirts.

At the training ground, Shinki reintroduced himself. "My name is Uchiha Shinki. My specialties are genjutsu and Fire Release. As for Lightning Release, I've only dabbled in it, so it's just average. From today, I'm your captain. By the way, I'm 20 years old. You can call me 'teacher' or 'big brother.' Just don't call me 'captain'—it sounds weird."

Raiden raised an eyebrow. "Uncle, my name is Uzumaki Raiden. I'm seven years old and specialize in sealing techniques. I think you already know me."

Shinki's expression faltered slightly at being called "uncle." "Uncle is too much," he muttered, covering his face in mock despair. "I'm only 20! Call me 'teacher' if you must."

Raiden's confusion deepened. For someone who exuded an air of menace, Shinki's behavior was unexpectedly lighthearted.

Fugaku, unable to contain his excitement, chimed in. "Raiden, don't be rude to Brother Shinki! Brother Shinki, I can't believe you're our new captain. This is amazing!"

Shinki chuckled. "Fugaku, now that you're on my team, I won't lower my expectations of you just because of your family connections."

Hiashi introduced himself next. "I'm Hyuga Hiashi. I specialize in Gentle Fist. Please guide me."

After the introductions, Shinki pulled out a scroll and handed it to Raiden. "This is our mission: we'll be transporting a large quantity of military rations, ninja tools, medical supplies, and equipment to the battlefield. The scroll contains the planned route, which is top-secret. Along the way, Konoha ninjas will rendezvous with us."

Raiden unrolled the scroll and examined the details. "This route is unusually long and remote," he said, raising an eyebrow. "If these supplies are so important, why isn't there a larger escort team? It seems strange to entrust such a critical mission to just us."

Fugaku immediately protested. "Hey, don't lump me in with the 'big cats and kittens' you mentioned. I'm the most promising genius of the Uchiha clan!"

"Sure, sure, the kitten is only you," Raiden retorted dryly, before turning back to Shinki. "You understand what I'm getting at, right?"

Shinki nodded thoughtfully. "You're right. This is a top-secret mission. To avoid drawing attention, only Lord Hokage and I know the exact route. Publicly, it's been announced that a large reserve force of thousands will be escorting supplies along a different route."

Raiden nodded in understanding. "Ah, a classic diversion. I see. So when do we leave?"

"Tomorrow afternoon," Shinki replied. "We'll disguise ourselves as merchants and head towards the Land of Rain. Make your final preparations tonight."

That evening, while Raiden was preparing in his study, the door burst open, and Uzumaki Kushina stormed in.

"Raiden! Grandma told me you're going to the front lines. Is this true?!"

The room's sealing barrier activated immediately, black runes flying toward Kushina. Raiden quickly dispelled the seal, embarrassed. "Sister, it's true. I wanted to tell you earlier, but you were too busy."

Kushina's chakra flared violently. "Are you kidding me? How can they send a child like you to the battlefield? I'm going to give the Third Hokage a piece of my mind!"

Raiden grabbed her arm before she could leave. "Sister, calm down. I know what I'm doing. This is my decision as much as it is a mission order."

"But why? You just told Nawaki not to go to the battlefield, and now you're going yourself? Did you even think about how I'd feel?"

Raiden sighed. "I want to become stronger, Sister. The battlefield is the fastest way to grow. I'm not content with my current strength."

"But why the rush?" Kushina asked, tears welling up in her eyes. "You're already ahead of your peers. Can't you take your time?"

Raiden's expression softened. "I need to be ready for what's coming. Grandma Mito won't be here forever. If we don't prepare, we'll be swept away by the waves."

Kushina fell silent, her fists clenched tightly. Finally, she hugged Raiden, trembling. "Promise me you'll come back alive."

Raiden smiled and hugged her back. "I promise. I'll come back stronger than ever. The whole ninja world will know my name."

(End of Chapter 48)

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