The sky was clear, painted with a vibrant morning glow, and the golden sunlight draped the village of Konoha in warmth and vitality. Villagers went about their tasks, contributing to the construction and upkeep of the village, while Konoha's ninja were already deep into their training or heading out on missions.
Yet, in a shadowed corner of the village, far from the sun's reach, a stone gate stood concealed. A masked ninja approached and pushed it open, revealing a passage that led to an underground fortress—Root's headquarters. This was the domain of Danzo, and only his most trusted operatives could enter and exit this space freely.
In the dim bunker, the ninja knelt on one knee before a high platform, where a shadowy figure sat upon a stone chair. The light streaming from narrow wells above failed to illuminate the figure fully, adding to the ominous atmosphere.
"Danzo-sama," the masked ninja began, bowing his head, "two members of the Uzumaki clan arrived at Mito-sama's estate yesterday. The girl was seen exploring the village under Tsunade's supervision, but the infant has not left the estate."
"I've also confirmed that Mito-sama intends to enroll the girl in the ninja academy. Hokage-sama dispatched someone to complete the enrollment this morning."
From the shadows, Danzo stepped forward, leaning on a long blade he used as a cane. Half of his face was obscured by bandages, his single visible eye sharp with calculation.
"Hiruzen went to Mito's house yesterday and didn't even meet her? Is that true?" Danzo's tone was measured, though he already knew the answer. Verifying the information was part of his meticulous nature—intelligence errors could ruin entire plans.
"Yes, Danzo-sama," the ninja replied, lowering his head further. "Mito-sama sent a message telling Hokage-sama that she would personally oversee the Uzumaki siblings and asked him to leave."
Danzo's expression darkened, though he remained composed. "The second Jinchuriki being under Mito's care was expected. But I hadn't anticipated that Konoha would gain not one, but two Uzumaki clan members."
He pondered silently for a moment before continuing. "The girl is being prepared for integration into the village, and Hiruzen will undoubtedly try to exert influence over her through the academy. As for the infant… this presents an opportunity."
Danzo dismissed the kneeling operative with a wave, retreating into the shadows as he began planning his next move. For him, the Jinchuriki was a weapon—a tool to be controlled. It would be far easier to manipulate a newborn than an independent eight-year-old.
Unaware of the shadowy machinations surrounding him, Raiden lay contentedly in Mito's arms, immersed in the simple joys of infancy. His days were filled with Mito's warm care and the occasional visit from Kushina, who was now exploring the village under Tsunade's watchful eye.
Kushina had fully embraced her new surroundings, the bustling streets of Konoha a stark contrast to the simplicity of Uzushio. Her excitement bubbled over as she darted from shop to shop, her childlike wonder shining through.
"Tsunade-nee, I want to try the three-colored dango!" Kushina exclaimed, pointing eagerly at a snack stall.
Tsunade chuckled, taking the girl's hand. "Alright, let's go. I was craving some too."
As Kushina raced ahead to the stall, Tsunade's sharp senses detected a faint presence. She glanced over her shoulder at a street corner, narrowing her eyes. Though someone was watching them, she remained unfazed. Konoha was the safest place for Kushina, and with Mito's chakra subtly protecting them both, any threat would be dealt with long before it could materialize.
"Whoever it is, they're wasting their time," Tsunade muttered to herself before following Kushina inside.
Back at the estate, Mito sat cross-legged on a tatami mat, cradling Raiden in her arms. Her hands played gently with the baby's tiny fingers, a soft smile gracing her face. For Mito, who had endured the loss of her husband and children, the arrival of Kushina and Raiden brought a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
"Such a lively little one," Mito mused, watching Raiden reach for her hand. His red hair and spirited demeanor reminded her of her own clan, stirring a deep sense of kinship.
Standing nearby, Senju Akemi, the siblings' newly appointed caretaker, observed the scene with a smile. "Mito-sama, he's quite the energetic child. It's no wonder you enjoy his company."
Mito nodded but remained thoughtful. She had sensed something unusual about Raiden's chakra—it carried a natural suppressive effect on the Nine-Tails, even more so than Kushina's. The boy's potential was extraordinary, and his chakra continued to grow at an alarming rate.
Despite this, Mito felt conflicted. Kushina's resilience and strong will made her a clear candidate for the Nine-Tails' Jinchuriki. Raiden, on the other hand, was an unknown—too young to gauge his character or mental fortitude. Trusting the immense responsibility of being a Jinchuriki to an infant felt like an impossible gamble.
"If only I could live long enough to see them grow up," Mito thought, her heart heavy. "If Raiden proves capable, the Nine-Tails could become a powerful ally instead of a burden. But if not… the weight of this responsibility will crush Kushina."
Her gaze softened as Raiden gripped her finger, his wide eyes shining with innocence. "Grow strong, my little one," she whispered. "The future of the Uzumaki clan may depend on you."
(End of Chapter)
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