In the heart of the clan's territory, Kakashi and Tsukirai called a grand three-story house their home. In the backyard, Tsukirai diligently practiced kenjutsu.
Nearly a year had passed since Harry awoke in this strange world, finding himself inside Tsukirai Hatake's body.
As the war reached its climax, Kakashi had spent over two months on the frontlines. Today marked his return to the village, where he'd report on the ongoing conflict with Sunagakure.
Based on Tsukirai's memories from his previous life, the series skimmed over the details of the second great ninja war. It highlighted moments like Sakumo Hatake and Tsunade's outstanding performance on the Suna frontlines.
The three legendary Sannin had battled against Hanzo the Salamander, while the Third Raikage valiantly confronted nearly half of Iwagakure's shinobi, ensuring their safe retreat.
Amidst these extraordinary events, Tsukirai sensed his fate was intertwined with the unfolding story. His clan, comprising only a hundred members with just a few shinobi, aspired to regain their lost prestige. To achieve this, Tsukirai knew he'd need to navigate the complex village politics and excel as a shinobi.
In a week, he would begin his academy training, a year later than his peers due to his recent recovery. Armed with only a basic understanding of kenjutsu and taijutsu, and no knowledge of ninjutsu, Tsukirai embarked on a path of learning, determined to surpass his current limitations.
Another somber note in history was Dan Kato's passing, and the Senju clan faced dire straits due to the war's toll.
With the second great ninja war drawing to a close, Kumo boldly declared war on Konoha once more. They believed they had bounced back from their prior defeat and the loss of their Raikage.
As Tsukirai pondered these developments, one thing was crystal clear: he'd inevitably find himself tangled in the upcoming third great ninja war, whether he wanted it or not.
To maintain the Hatake clan's relevance in village affairs, every Hatake member had to actively participate in the war, aiming to establish both personal renown and enhance the clan's reputation.
As Tsukirai surveyed the clan's current plight, a sense of sorrow washed over him. Despite hailing from another world, he felt an inexplicable connection to his fellow clan members.
The Hatake clan numbered just a hundred individuals, with only fifteen to twenty among them practicing the shinobi arts, leaving the majority as civilians.
Deep within, Tsukirai harbored a fervent desire for change. Acknowledging that he wasn't a prodigy or genius, he recognized the need for a cautious approach to village politics to restore the clan's former glory.
In the weeks ahead, as Tsukirai prepared to enter the academy, he embraced the hope of personal growth and untapped potential. He understood that this journey held the promise not only of personal growth but also the opportunity to rejuvenate the Hatake clan's reputation.
With unwavering resolve, Tsukirai anticipated the challenges that lay ahead. The path ahead might be challenging, but he remained eager to grasp every chance to uplift the Hatake clan's status and secure their place in the village's political arena.
His journey into the academy was set to commence the following week. Typically, all children entered the academy at the age of five, but Tsukirai's two-month-long unconsciousness had caused a one-year delay. Consequently, he would embark on this educational path at the age of six.
A full year had elapsed since he arrived in this unfamiliar world, and during this time, he initiated his training in kenjutsu. It was a starting point for him, given his unfamiliarity with ninjutsu and taijutsu techniques.
Tsukirai approached this new chapter with a sense of anticipation and apprehension. Joining the academy a year later than his peers meant he had ground to make up, especially considering the impending war. Yet, his determination to excel and contribute to his clan's resurgence spurred him on.
As he prepared for the academy, Tsukirai held on to the belief that his dedication to kenjutsu, coupled with future training in ninjutsu and taijutsu, would equip him to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With each day, he inched closer to the academy's doors, eager to embark on a path that would shape his destiny as a shinobi.
Two months ago ,
Tsukirai shared a quiet dinner with Kakashi, their meal consumed in silence. Seeking to break the hush that enveloped them, Tsukirai gathered the courage to inquire about taijutsu techniques.
Upon Tsukirai's request for taijutsu instruction, Kakashi's response was straightforward, "The academy will cover the basics of taijutsu and introductory ninjutsu."
Kakashi elaborated, advising Tsukirai to explore and identify his strengths. "Once you discover your aptitude," he added, "you can specialize. For now, focus on mastering the fundamentals. If you ever need guidance on Hatake-style kenjutsu, you know where to find it."
Grasping Kakashi's guidance, Tsukirai acknowledged, "I understand, but I'm not familiar with accessing the basement."
Kakashi emitted a resigned sigh and offered, "Follow me; I'll demonstrate the process."
Following Kakashi's lead, they unlocked the basement door, revealing an extensive collection. Large bookshelves adorned the space, each bearing a unique assortment of texts.
Kakashi continued, gesturing toward the vast collection. "Here, you'll find manuals and books dedicated to Hatake-style kenjutsu. Additionally, in the corner where we turned, you'll locate materials related to taijutsu. You can explore various styles, and once you've joined the academy, you're free to master the one that resonates with you the most."
With this newfound access to knowledge and training resources, Tsukirai felt a sense of empowerment as he anticipated his impending journey into the world of shinobi.
Tsukirai absorbed Kakashi's information with solemnity, his curiosity urging him to pose a question he anticipated would yield a familiar response. "Brother, how do you approach combat? Do you favor kenjutsu, ninjutsu, or taijutsu?"
Kakashi responded decisively, providing a glimpse into his multifaceted combat methodology. "I've employed a combination of ninjutsu, taijutsu, and kenjutsu," he revealed. "However, my primary focus has consistently gravitated toward the realm of ninjutsu."
Tsukirai, despite being the younger sibling, held a unique insight into Kakashi's fighting style, an understanding gleaned from witnessing him in action during countless anime episodes.
Kakashi, in a twist of fate, was poised to streamline his combat approach in the future. He intended to streamline his techniques, primarily incorporating ninjutsu and taijutsu into his arsenal. This strategic shift reflected the wisdom of a seasoned shinobi, adapting his tactics to optimize effectiveness while minimizing exposure.
As Tsukirai contemplated this revelation, he recognized that the evolving dynamics of the shinobi world demanded adaptability and growth. In the coming days at the academy, he would set his sights on mastering the fundamentals and honing his skills in pursuit of a path that would eventually see him contribute to his clan's legacy and the village's defense.
Kakashi extended the conversation, elaborating on his imminent departure from the village. "I'll be absent for approximately two months," he disclosed. "I've been assigned to join Minato sensei on the frontlines. If you require any assistance during my absence, don't hesitate to seek support from our fellow Hatake clan members."
Intrigued by the ongoing war's progress, Tsukirai sought insights from Kakashi. "Could you provide an update on the war's status, brother?" he inquired. "Has Sunagakure decided to retreat?"
Kakashi's response was tinged with regret as he conveyed the latest developments. "Unfortunately, no," he conveyed somberly. "It appears that Sunagakure is grappling with internal discord. Certain factions advocate for continued combat, while others advocate for a strategic retreat. However, my estimation is that they'll ultimately acknowledge their defeat and opt for a retreat, likely within the next month or two."
Kakashi, cognizant of the gravity of the situation, tactfully steered the conversation away from the war. "I'm going to retire for the night," he announced. "Tomorrow morning, I embark on my mission. Regrettably, I won't have the opportunity to see you before my departure."
As the night enveloped the household, Tsukirai was left with a mixture of emotions. He understood that the days ahead would bring both challenges and revelations as he navigated the complexities of the shinob world.
In the present day, Tsukirai found himself in a peculiar situation. While he lacked an extensive understanding of chakra's intricate power dynamics, he possessed a rudimentary grasp of its functioning. Determined to broaden his knowledge, he dedicated the majority of his waking hours to the clan's library, immersing himself in the study of this fundamental element.
With his future as a shinobi in mind, Tsukirai strategically chose to prioritize his training regimen. His current focus centered on the arts of kenjutsu and taijutsu. The absence of proficiency in ninjutsu motivated him to channel his efforts into mastering these physical combat techniques.
When contemplating the prospect of delving into fuinjutsu and genjutsu, Tsukirai weighed the potential advantages and drawbacks. He mused that individuals blessed with dojutsu possessed an inherent advantage over regular shinobi, making it seem somewhat unfair. In addition, he harbored reservations about fuinjutsu, deeming it an area not inherently aligned with his strengths. Nevertheless, he remained open to the idea of acquiring a fundamental understanding of both fuinjutsu and genjutsu at some point in the future.
For the time being, Tsukirai was acutely aware of the impending challenges of the brewing war. His unwavering dedication compelled him to forego unnecessary diversions and instead focus his unwavering attention on kenjutsu and taijutsu. With the commencement of his academy training looming just a week away, he aspired to lay a solid foundation in these martial disciplines, readying himself for the tumultuous path that lay ahead.
As Tsukirai immersed himself in his training, a subtle presence intruded upon his focus. Swiftly turning around, he discovered his elder brother Kakashi, his demeanor characterized by composure, standing near the room's entrance. With a glance filled with curiosity, Kakashi broke the silence, "I've noticed your dedication to kenjutsu. How's your progress coming along?"
Drawing nearer to Kakashi, Tsukirai perched himself on the threshold of the room and replied thoughtfully, "I believe I've begun to grasp some of the techniques inherent to the Hatake style kenjutsu. However, I've yet to master their execution."
Kakashi, ever the sagacious mentor, acknowledged Tsukirai's concerns with a reassuring hum. "You've yet to delve into chakra manipulation and enhancing your physical capabilities," he explained. "But rest assured, you'll likely conquer these aspects swiftly during your academy training, probably within three or four days."
Tsukirai seized the opportunity to share his multifaceted approach to growth. "In addition to kenjutsu, I've been dedicating time to taijutsu as well," he disclosed. "My focus is on mastering the fundamentals of Leaf Style taijutsu, as I believe it will establish a solid groundwork for my skills."
Their exchange marked a crucial moment of mentorship, as Tsukirai's commitment to his training and the support of his seasoned brother paved the way for a promising journey ahead in the world of shinobi.
Kakashi, appreciating Tsukirai's dedication, offered measured praise, "You're certainly making commendable progress, but I must be honest with you. Your current level won't suffice on the battlefield. The war has escalated, and there's a chance that the village higher-ups will expedite the graduation of this year's students, compressing it into a single year. You'll need to push yourself even harder."
Tsukirai's initial shock transformed into a palpable sense of dread as he inquired, his voice heavy with concern, "So, you mean I may have just a year before the war doesn't conclude?"
Continuing, Tsukirai expressed his confusion, "But you mentioned we were winning the war, and that Sunagakure would eventually surrender and retreat. Additionally, five years ago, the Kumo's jinchuriki perished during a rampage in their village."
As he mulled over these perplexing developments, he added, "None of this adds up. If both nations are suffering heavy losses, why is the war intensifying?" The mysteries and uncertainties of the situation weighed heavily on his young shoulders.
As Tsukirai posed these questions to Kakashi, the older brother couldn't help but be impressed by his sibling's analytical prowess. To deduce so much from the limited information he'd provided at such a young age hinted at a level of genius uncommon in most children.
However, Kakashi remained composed and proceeded to address Tsukirai's queries, "You're absolutely right. Sunagakure has indeed admitted defeat and retreated. Yet, despite suffering significant losses, Kumo hasn't yielded."
Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Kakashi inhaled deeply and elaborated further, "With Sunagakure out of the picture, Kumo felt isolated. At that point, Kirigakure, Iwagakure, and several other smaller nations joined forces with Kumo, forming a formidable alliance. This new alliance has collectively declared war on Konoha."
Continuing, Kakashi emphasized the gravity of the situation, "This means that the war could drag on for quite some time, and Konoha needs a substantial number of shinobi to contend with this alliance. Hence, the option of early graduation from the academy is now under consideration as a necessity." The realization of the impending challenges weighed heavily on their conversation.
Tsukirai found himself in a whirlwind of emotions, unsure of how to process this sudden turn of events. Fear coursed through him, a reminder of the inevitable dangers he knew came with becoming a shinobi. However, he had never expected to be thrust into a full-scale war so soon.
Recognizing his younger brother's distress, Kakashi sought to offer some solace, speaking with a reassuring tone, "Don't be too concerned. They won't deploy you to the frontlines immediately. You'll likely start with porter tasks, gaining experience gradually."
With this information, Tsukirai felt a slight sense of relief, though the weight of his impending academy life still loomed. Kakashi continued, informing him of his own imminent departure, "I won't be here for your first day at the academy, unfortunately. I'm being dispatched with Minato-sensei to the frontlines."
Tsukirai nodded, silently urging Kakashi to continue his explanation.
Seeing his brother's curiosity, Kakashi retrieved a piece of paper from his pocket, holding it up for Tsukirai to see. The younger Hatake watched with intrigue, unsure of what this object signified.
Kakashi began to clarify, "This is called chakra paper. It helps us identify our innate chakra nature, revealing our compatibility with specific elemental affinities."
Handing the chakra paper to Tsukirai, Kakashi instructed him on its usage, "Now, channel your chakra into this paper, and we'll discover your chakra nature. Though, given our family's history, it's likely to be lightning. Hatakes are renowned for their lightning-natured ninjutsu."
Tsukirai, now filled with a mixture of apprehension and intrigue, contemplated his first step into the world of shinobi and the mysteries of chakra.
Following Kakashi's guidance, Tsukirai channeled his chakra into the chakra paper, a sense of anticipation building within him. After a brief moment, the paper split in two, a clear indication that his innate chakra nature was aligned with the wind element.
Kakashi's response to this revelation was a thoughtful hum, and he commented, "Wind elemental it is then. Good choice. Wind nature chakra is relatively rare in our village. Minato-sensei also possesses wind nature, and it seems you've inherited Mother's chakra nature."
As Tsukirai absorbed this information, Kakashi proceeded to offer more valuable advice, "With your chakra nature, you're in a good position. Make the most of it during your time at the academy. I'll provide you with some ninjutsu techniques, ranging from D to B rank. While you may not be able to master B rank jutsu right away, keep studying them. They will serve you well in the future."
Tsukirai listened with rapt attention, recognizing the significance of this advice. It echoed the teachings he'd received from Kakashi's sensei, the future Fourth Hokage, and he considered it a priceless gift.
After further elaborating on the intricacies of wind nature chakra, Kakashi turned to his brother, inquiring, "Do you have any other questions?"
Tsukirai shook his head, gratitude shining in his eyes as he expressed his heartfelt thanks to his brother for the invaluable insights and guidance he had received. It was a moment of bonding and preparation, marking Tsukirai's journey into the world of shinobi with newfound determination and knowledge.
As Kakashi rose from the backyard and made his way into the house, he announced, "I'm going to rest for a bit. We're on high alert now, and I might be summoned to the Hokage Tower and dispatched to the front lines at any time."
Tsukirai acknowledged his brother's need for rest, saying, "Alright, have a good rest. When you wake up, call me, and we'll have dinner together."
With a nod, Kakashi proceeded to his room, settling in for a short nap. Meanwhile, in the backyard of their home, Tsukirai remained dedicated to his kenjutsu practice. He had recognized that if he were to survive and thrive in this world, he could not afford to remain weak.
With unwavering determination, Tsukirai contemplated, 'The academy is set to start in just a week. Before that, I should aim to learn at least one D-rank jutsu. If Kakashi could graduate at the age of five and become a Chunin at six, then with my somewhat increased intellect compared to my peers, I believe I can achieve the same.'
He continued his rigorous training regimen well into the night, focusing on honing his skills. It was only when the call for dinner echoed through the house that Tsukirai finally took a well-deserved break from his relentless pursuit of strength.