Konoha.
News of Tsunade-hime from the Land of Fire seemingly taking in a man from the Uchiha clan spread through the village like wildfire. For a while, it became the hottest topic of gossip. More importantly, it marked the Uchiha clan stepping back into the spotlight.
Although Shirou's actions were seen as disgraceful by some within his clan, they couldn't deny the benefits it brought—a signal of change. Tsunade's status was no small matter. By aligning with her, the Uchiha sent a clear message to all of Konoha: the once-strained relationship between the Uchiha and Senju clans might be thawing.
This prompted other clans within the village to cautiously reach out to the Uchiha. The Uchiha had been isolated, not just because of their pride, but also due to their history. They were burdened with the blame for the First Hokage's death and, during the Second Hokage's reign, had even attempted a rebellion. No one wanted to risk being burned by the volatile Uchiha.
However, things had now changed. Even if Tsunade truly wanted to keep a Uchiha as her man, why make it so public? No clan leader was foolish enough to overlook the deliberate intent behind this move. Clans that had previously been on good terms with the Senju naturally picked up on the subtext and began building bridges with the Uchiha.
At the Uchiha Compound.
"Shirou-kun, the sacrifices you've made for the clan will not be forgotten!"
Fugaku's expression was brimming with approval as he addressed Shirou, even smiling warmly.
"Did you know? The clan has already initiated contact with the Aburame clan. We've even allocated a forest on the outskirts of the village for their use..."
Hearing Fugaku's words, Shirou's eye twitched slightly, feeling a mix of amusement and helplessness.
This... it almost sounded like he had sold his body for the clan's sake.
"Captain Fugaku, it's all for the restoration of the Uchiha's honor!"
Though he was inwardly scoffing, Shirou outwardly adopted a solemn and steadfast demeanor, declaring his loyalty with fervor.
Fugaku, taken aback by Shirou's sincerity, awkwardly coughed to mask his discomfort.
Indeed, this was a significant step for the clan—a positive beginning, at least.
But for Shirou, this wasn't exactly great news.
"Shirou..."
Fugaku hesitated, as though trying to offer words of encouragement, but seemed at a loss for how to proceed. Eventually, he shifted topics to avoid the awkwardness.
"Shirou-kun, the situation on the frontlines is looking grim. There are signs of activity from Iwagakure's forces. The village has decided to send a ninja corps to fortify the Kusagakure (Grass Country)."
The Kusagakure, located between the Land of Fire and the Land of Earth, also bordered the Amegakure. Strategically, any movements by Iwagakure warranted caution. If war broke out, the Kusagakure would inevitably become a battlefield. This was the harsh reality of ninja wars—small countries were often the first to suffer.
"Is war about to begin?"
Hearing this, Shirou's expression turned grim.
This was the real ninja world, not the simplified version from the Naruto series. His knowledge of the Three Great Ninja Wars was limited and fragmented.
While Shirou pondered, Fugaku misinterpreted his concern as worry over the looming conflict.
"The true battlefield will be in the Amegakure. In the Kusagakure, any confrontations will likely be covert. Still, this time, the ninja corps includes some exceptional leaders."
Noticing Shirou's curious glance, Fugaku continued, his tone serious:
"The commanders this time are Tsunade, Jiraiya, and Orochimaru. Among the ninja corps are representatives from the Hyuga, Nara..."
As Fugaku listed the prominent participants, Shirou quickly pieced things together.
Ah, this was a gilding mission.
The younger generation of Konoha's clans needed battlefield experience to grow, and the Kusagakure, given its current conditions, was a relatively safer stage for that.
"I see," Shirou nodded.
But something felt off.
The Kusagakure was on Iwagakure's front...
A thought struck Shirou, his brows furrowing.
"Captain Fugaku, while I understand using the Kusagakure as a buffer, are you saying Iwagakure's forces near the border only number around 500?"
"That's correct. According to our intelligence, the ninja corps stationed at the border is relatively small. By comparison, the Amegakure warrants much more attention."
Shirou exhaled sharply.
In wars between great nations, smaller countries were often drawn in as pawns. If they resisted, they were swiftly crushed.
"I'll personally lead the clan's forces this time."
Fugaku's words revealed the significance of the operation. The mission was not only to defend the Kusagakure but also to provide Konoha's younger generation with vital combat experience.
And Shirou? His involvement was another step in solidifying the clan's reputation.
"Understood. When do we depart?"
"Three days from now. Assemble outside the village gates. The clan will ensure you're equipped with adequate supplies."
After Fugaku left, Shirou stood outside his home, gazing at the monumental Hokage Rock in the distance.
"This uncertainty... this lack of control over my fate—it's intolerable. But passively enduring isn't my style."
His gaze shifted toward a particular part of the Uchiha compound, a smirk forming on his lips.
"Since I'm the bridge between the clan and the village, they'd better protect me well."
In a world where power dictated survival, Shirou knew one thing: when you couldn't push the world forward, you had to become part of its current, using every available resource to rise.