🎉RADG: Chapter 56/58

Chapter 56: First Meeting With Konoha's Blue Beast

Hayama Shirakumo, one of Konoha's elite jōnin, is nearly 30 this year and considered a core figure of the middle generation in the village.

The reason he's not widely known is because a peer of his generation outshined everyone so dazzlingly that it eclipsed the rest of them.

That peer was Namikaze Minato.

Anyone who encountered Namikaze Minato back then could immediately abandon their mission and retreat to the village without punishment.

Looking at the entire shinobi world, he was the only one at that time who received such treatment.

In the future, Uchiha Shisui would also achieve this feat, but only the Land of Water would issue such an order.

With such a genius present, even someone as talented as Hayama Shirakumo seemed mediocre by comparison.

However, being chosen by the Sandaime and appointed as a frontline commander was already enough to prove his capability.

Not only was his individual strength excellent, but his use of Leaf Flash and swordsmanship was extraordinary. More importantly, Hayama Shirakumo had a strategic mind that many shinobi lacked. He was steady and served as one of Konoha's cornerstones.

He had been stationed at the frontline for the past two years, calmly responding to several covert attacks from Iwagakure.

Although Hizashi wasn't personally close to Hayama, they had worked together on multiple occasions.

After a brief greeting, Hizashi got straight to the point and detailed the entire ambush process.

The faint smile on Hayama's face quickly vanished, replaced with a solemn expression. The scar on the side of his face twisted slightly.

After Hizashi finished speaking, Hayama turned to the large map behind him, pacing as he analyzed the situation.

"According to our intel, the two Iwa jōnin, have retreated from the frontlines with their teams and returned to Iwagakure."

"This looks like a smokescreen, meant to distract us and launch a surprise attack from the rear."

Hizashi spoke in a deep tone, "Now they're dead, but we can't be certain that they were the only Iwa shinobi who infiltrated the Land of Fire. We still need to report the information back to Konoha as soon as possible and raise the alert level."

Hayama nodded. He understood.

He immediately summoned the intel team, relayed the information back to Konoha through summoning beast communication, and arranged several patrol squads. Their tasks were completed quickly.

They finally had time to talk casually.

"Those two jōnin were killed by Shimura Yami?" Hayama asked curiously. He'd spent little time in the village over the years and had never heard of such a group before.

"Strictly speaking, except for one special jōnin, all the other Iwa shinobi died at his hands." Hizashi sighed and shook his head. "With a grandson like that, Elder Danzō truly has a worthy successor."

Hearing that, Hayama grew even more interested in Yami. "Tell me about the fight. An eight-year-old child, and that strong? Did he awaken a kekkei genkai?"

"No." Hizashi shook his head slightly. "Yami's talent lies mainly in his ninjutsu and swordsmanship…"

As Hizashi described Yami's battle, Hayama's eyes lit up.

He specialized in Wind Release, swordsmanship, and the Body Flicker Technique—exactly like himself.

The only difference was that Yami was also proficient in other elemental releases, while Hayama focused solely on Wind Release combined with swordsmanship.

Meanwhile.

While Hizashi went to report, Yami and the others found themselves idle at the camp.

Soon enough, something caught their attention.

"This is passion! This is youth! I actually completed yesterday's goal! No, I'll train three more rounds!"

A "strange being" in a green jumpsuit with his forehead protector worn as a belt was bouncing around the camp on his hands, landing each time with a single finger touching the ground.

Sweat poured down his face, leaving a long trail behind him.

The other shinobi in the camp had long grown used to this sight. Only Yami and the two girls, being newcomers, were caught off guard.

Yugao winced, holding her forehead, muttering, "I don't know him, I don't know him…"

But fate has a way of doing the exact opposite of what you want.

The "oddball" noticed the trio.

"Hey! Kurenai! You've come to the front lines to protect Konoha?"

"I'm so moved and excited!"

After that, Might Guy seemed to be hit with a burst of energy and sped up his training even further.

It took him a full fifteen minutes to circle the camp three times. He ended with a series of backflips and landed in front of them, giving a thumbs-up.

Yami and Yugao felt dizzy. This guy's teeth were... glowing?

"Kurenai! It's been a while! Are these two... your new teammates?"

"Hello, I'm the Blue Beast of Konoha, Might Guy!"

"Uh... Hello, senior Guy, I'm Uzuki Yugao," Yugao replied, slightly dazed.

"I'm Shimura Yami." He blinked. Even though he'd seen Guy in the anime, seeing him in real life was even more overwhelming.

Especially that tight green jumpsuit... Only a Konoha acorn could pull that off.

[Host has formed a companion bond with Might Guy. Reward: Medium Physical Fitness Enhancement]

Yami was stunned.

This was the easiest bond he'd ever formed. They had only just met and exchanged names, yet Guy already considered him a companion?

Kurenai gave an awkward smile. "Guy, we're not here to reinforce the front lines. We're just completing a regular escort mission."

"Oh, I see." Guy looked disappointed but quickly regained his spirit.

"No problem! We'll definitely get a chance to fight together in the future. Kurenai, how's Kakashi doing?"

Kurenai shrugged. "He's joined Anbu and is rarely seen. I haven't run into him in a while."

"Anbu really is something to aspire to," Guy sighed, tears welling up. "It's a shame Elder Danzō didn't let me join Root, or I wouldn't have lost back then…"

Kurenai and Yugao glanced at Yami.

"Uh..." Yami was speechless. Not everyone wants to join Root.

"Huh?" Guy looked at him in confusion.

"Yami is Elder Danzō's grandson," Kurenai whispered. "He knows a lot about Root."

Whoosh!

In the blink of an eye, Might Guy was kneeling in front of Yami, trying to hug his leg, but Yami deftly dodged.

Guy didn't mind. He knelt on one knee, tears streaming down his face. "What are the conditions for joining Root? I'm sure I meet them!"

"There are a lot of requirements." Yami thought back to Danzō's usual standards.

"How did you do in stealth training back at the academy?"

"Never passed."

"What about assassination class?"

"A real man should beat his enemies head-on."

"Can you take off your... uh, training suit?"

"No! It's the symbol of my youth!"

Clap!

Yami clapped his hands and shrugged. "See? You don't meet the core requirements for Root. We can't accept you."

"I see..." Guy began crying again. "As expected, Kakashi is truly my eternal rival. He's achieved everything I couldn't. I'll train even harder tomorrow!"

Yami: …...

At first, he thought Guy would be an easy bond to grind, but now… forget it. This guy is too much. He might actually get infected with "youth."

Kurenai gave a wry smile and whispered, "Guy's always like this. You'll get used to it. But he's a good person."

Yugao subtly took a step back and nodded softly.

"Yami!"

Just then, Hizashi's voice rang out from behind.

Everyone turned to see Hizashi walking over with a scarred, high-ponytailed middle-aged man.

"Let me introduce you. This is Hayama Shirakumo, the commander of the front lines. These are my team members: Shimura Yami, Uzuki Yugao, and Yuhi Kurenai."

Kurenai and Yugao quickly bowed.

Yami simply nodded in acknowledgment.

[Host has formed a talent-cherishing bond with Hayama Shirakumo. Reward: Wind Release Nature Transformation (Mastery)]

Talent-cherishing?

Yami looked at Hayama in confusion. Feeling his gaze, Hayama smiled warmly.

"Hello. I heard from Hizashi that you performed admirably in the battle. This mission has been upgraded to A-rank. The village will compensate you accordingly."

"It's getting late. You can rest here for the night and set off again tomorrow."

"And..." Hayama paused, glancing at Might Guy.

"Guy, you'll return tomorrow with Hizashi, carrying my letter."

"Yes!" Guy responded loudly. "I'll rush back as fast as I can!"

"No need to rush."

Hayama waved his hand. "The battle has cooled down. We no longer need as many shinobi on the front line. After you return, Hokage-sama will assign you a new mission."

"Got it."

Guy seemed a bit down but cheered up thinking he'd see Kakashi again soon and could compete with him once more.

Late that night.

Yami lay in his tent, staring at the dark ceiling.

He was reviewing the earlier battle against Ishigaki.

Shigetsu and Ishigaki only had to die, but he had a lot to reflect on.

Every jōnin was no ordinary opponent. The reason he killed Shigetsu in one strike was that Hizashi had already blocked several of his tenketsu, disrupting his chakra flow.

Otherwise, it wouldn't have been that easy.

As for Ishigaki, the man was like a walking turtle shell. If he hadn't forced him out with Lightning Release, the fight would've dragged on.

In short, Yami found several weaknesses in himself during that battle.

His Nature Transformation skills were strong but hadn't yet reached the level of overwhelming everything. He couldn't achieve instant kills.

This was largely due to the level of his ninjutsu.

Though ninjutsu ranks mainly indicate learning difficulty rather than power, higher difficulty often equates to stronger effects—otherwise, why bother learning them?

His strongest technique was the S-rank Water Release: Hard Vortex Water Blade developed by Senju Tobirama. The rest were all A-rank.

But even S-rank jutsu had limitations depending on elemental affinities.

In the fight against Ishigaki, the water blade wouldn't have been very effective and would've only exposed one of his trump cards.

For most shinobi, improving combat potential was hard. Either they needed time or they had to go all-in on secret techniques to enhance specific strengths, like Minato's Flying Thunder God.

The fastest path was evolving one's dōjutsu (Mangekyō), or acquiring a cheat-level ability like Sage Mode.

Yami couldn't see either of those happening in the short term. So the only option left...

...was to attempt elemental fusion and awaken a kekkei genkai.

"I'll ask Pakura how to train Scorch Release when we get back."

Scorch Release was a combination of Fire and Wind—Yami's two strongest attributes.

Over the past six months, his relationship with Pakura had improved significantly. They had reached the second stage of their bond. It shouldn't be difficult for her to teach him.

Besides that, he couldn't neglect swordsmanship training. Against single targets, a blade was still more efficient than ninjutsu.

Just as Yami was laying out his training plans, he heard a rustle outside the tent. He quickly placed two fingers on the ground and sensed a familiar chakra signature.

He was puzzled for a moment.

Then came a soft whisper.

"Yami, are you asleep?"

"No. Come in, Yugao."

It was Yugao. She entered through a small gap in the tent and sat beside his mattress, whispering:

"I knew you wouldn't be asleep so early, so I came to check."

"What's up?" Yami sat up, curious.

"Nothing." Yugao shook her head. "I was just wondering about the sword techniques you used in the last battle. I've never seen them before... Did you develop them yourself?"

She had wanted to ask for a while, but they had been too tense during the journey to chat about side topics.

"You mean Flash and Disruption."

Yami understood. He patted the mattress beside him. "Come, I'll explain."

Yugao didn't hesitate. She got under the blanket and moved beside him.

Yami lay down again, turning slightly. "Those two techniques are indeed my own creations."

"Flash is a sword-draw slash. It's part of a series I've been developing, though it's not yet complete."

"Not even complete, and already that strong?"

Yugao was surprised.

She still remembered the brilliant blue slash—it was utterly overwhelming.

"Even if I'm a genius, I can't fully develop a set of S-rank swordsmanship in just three months," Yami rolled his eyes, though she couldn't see it in the dark.

"A whole set, all S-rank?"

Yugao was even more shocked.

Among Konoha-style sword techniques, only Dance of the Crescent Moon was A-rank.

She'd only heard rumors of another A-rank move in the Konoha style but had never seen it.

And Yami had created an entire series…

"More accurately, it's a series," Yami explained. "Each move in the Flash series corresponds to a specific type of sword-draw slash."

"There are different kinds?"

"Of course. Flash emphasizes ultimate speed, using Wind Release to create unparalleled cutting power. Disruption affects the enemy's perception by altering the attack rhythm, making them misjudge. There's also Power Slash, which focuses on raw force…"

As he inhaled the faint scent of her purple hair, Yami's eyelids began to feel heavy.

Mid-sentence, his words faded, replaced by steady breathing.

Yugao had been listening intently, but suddenly felt his weight lean against her. He had fallen asleep and was now resting against her shoulder. She couldn't help but smile softly.

She'd originally planned to return to her tent, but now she didn't dare move for fear of waking him.

Shinobi usually slept lightly when out on missions, always on alert.

So she lay there quietly.

Perhaps the blanket was too cozy, or perhaps it was the warmth beside her, but before long, Yugao also drifted off.

Morning came.

Yami woke and felt something soft beside him. He opened his eyes and found Yugao sleeping soundly next to him.

He couldn't help but sigh.

A beautiful girl pillow was definitely more comfortable than the ones at home.

(To be continued.)


Special thanks to Patrick Darmon for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 57: Danzō's Hunting Plan

Inside Konoha Village.

On the top floor of the Hokage Building, the Sandaime Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, silently held the battle report from the frontlines in the Land of Earth.

Bang!

Just as his pipe burned out and he took the final puff, the door was violently pushed open.

Danzō strode in with aggressive momentum, completely shedding his usual disguise of slow and measured movement.

At this moment, Danzō was like an enraged old lion. The cane that was usually by his side was nowhere to be seen as he walked directly up to Hiruzen.

Hiruzen was unsurprised by his arrival. After receiving the report, he had mentally prepared himself. In fact, he thought Danzō came later than expected.

"Hiruzen, I need an explanation."

Danzō stared coldly with his single eye. "You better not be behind this... or else…"

"What nonsense are you spouting?" Hiruzen interrupted, visibly annoyed. "Are you accusing me of plotting against Yami, that I leaked information to Iwa shinobi?"

Danzō chuckled. "You wouldn't do that, but do you think I don't know you? Standing by and doing nothing is also a form of enabling."

He knew Hiruzen too well.

Like during the fall of the former Land of Whirlpools or the death of White Fang, Hiruzen had never interfered. Sitting atop the Hokage throne, withholding his stance or opinion, and simply waiting for events to unfold had always been his strategy—and it had served him well.

"I knew nothing!"

Hiruzen's expression darkened. "Why would I harm Yami? He's your grandson and a future hope of the village. Danzō, am I that despicable in your eyes?"

"That mission was chosen by Hizashi on a whim. Intelligence on the Land of Earth is Root's jurisdiction. Danzō, I haven't even held you accountable yet!"

Hiruzen's voice grew stronger and sharper. "Two jōnin, three special jōnin, and a team of chūnin were nearly ambushed, and your Root didn't detect a thing. I gave you full authority to operate Root independently, and this is how you repay me?"

"If anything had happened to Yami and the village lost a genius, the fault would lie with you!"

"Blame me?"

Danzō's one eye widened, filled with disbelief. "You think I'd harm my own grandson?"

Hiruzen shouted, "It was your incompetence that put him in danger!"

"Fine, fine." Danzō laughed angrily. "I'm incompetent. I put Yami at risk. Then let me handle the investigation into the information leak to make up for it."

"No!" Hiruzen rejected flatly. "I've already sent Anbu to investigate. This isn't within your authority!"

"He's my grandson!"

"Danzō, I am—"

Bang!

Before Hiruzen could finish, Danzō had slammed the door and left.

After what had happened to Yami, he had no intention of continuing the argument. If Hiruzen wouldn't let him investigate, then fine, he'd do it his way.

No matter who was involved, no matter their clan or status, they would pay the price.

After Danzō left, Hiruzen remained half-angry, feeling caught in a situation where he couldn't move forward or retreat.

It took a long time for him to calm down and begin pondering the ambush again.

More specifically, he was thinking about Yami.

The strength Yami had displayed far exceeded expectations. He could now be considered the most promising talent in Konoha since Namikaze Minato.

Hiruzen wasn't afraid of Yami. After all, the boy came from a good background and had been evaluated by Jiraiya, who confirmed his character was solid.

But what Hiruzen wanted was a Shimura who would grow under his guidance—not another Root leader twisted by Danzō's extremism.

He couldn't push too hard, though, or he'd worsen his relationship with Danzō.

So far, Hiruzen had opted for a more subtle approach, nurturing connections through Uchiha Izumi at the academy, and through Uzuki Yugao and Yuhi Kurenai in Yami's team.

These three were Yami's emotional bonds in the village.

Originally, Hiruzen believed there was still time before Yami matured, allowing for gradual influence. But Yami's rate of growth was too fast. There was no time left to delay.

He needed a legitimate reason to bring Yami under his command and slowly steer him away from Danzō's influence.

Border of the Land of Fire.

After a night's rest, Hizashi's team prepared to leave the camp.

As the commander, Hayama Shirakumo came to see them off personally.

Ordinarily, teams would part ways at this point, since the escort mission was complete.

However, to ensure the safety of the three chūnin teams and to guard against any remaining Iwa shinobi in the Land of Fire, Hizashi decided they should travel together, which slowed their pace.

"Yami-kun."

Just before departure, Hayama stopped Yami.

Yami turned, a little puzzled. "Is something wrong, Hayama-jōnin?"

"This is for you."

Hayama smiled and handed him a scroll from his ninja pouch. "Hizashi told me about your outstanding performance. Although the village will raise the mission reward, you also helped the front lines tremendously. This is my personal gift to you."

"It contains my insights on combining swordsmanship with Wind Release, and techniques for the Body Flicker Technique. I believe it will be useful to you."

"Thank you, Hayama-jōnin. Then I'll accept it politely."

Yami smiled and took the scroll without hesitation.

Though Hayama only appeared once in the anime, he had left a strong impression on Yami.

The Body Flicker Technique and swordsmanship he displayed were definitely top-tier among jōnin. In an era when power levels hadn't inflated, Hayama's strength was on par with Kakashi's at the time.

But that wasn't the most important part.

The key was... Hayama was handsome.

Being strong is temporary. Being handsome is forever.

There were no incidents on the way back. The group returned to Konoha three days later.

"Kurenai, Yami-kun, I'm going to find Kakashi first!"

After handing in his report, Might Guy flashed his dazzling smile and teeth, gave them a thumbs-up, and disappeared in a few leaps.

As for calling Yami's name wrong, Yami didn't even want to complain. Arguing with Guy would only exhaust him.

Watching Guy leave with a blank expression, Yami narrowed his eyes at the two girls snickering beside him. "Is it funny?"

"Not funny at all, Yami-kun," Kurenai said, suppressing her laughter and teasing him again.

"Yugao, don't let Kurenai eat for free next week."

"Yugao, you're not actually going to listen to him, are you?"

"Sorry, Kurenai."

"No! Yugao! I thought we were sisters!"

"Sorry, we're not anymore."

While the three were messing around, an Anbu appeared and led them to the Hokage's office. Hiruzen looked at Yami and the others with a kind smile.

"Hizashi, you and your subordinates did an excellent job. If your team hadn't taken this mission, the front line's supplies would've been jeopardized, and there might have been casualties."

Hiruzen started by praising them, as if Yami and the others were the pillars holding Konoha together. Without them, the whole village would fall apart.

Hizashi and the others blushed.

Only Yami remained unfazed. He yawned out of boredom, interrupting Hiruzen.

"Old Third, you owe us an explanation." His voice was casual. "No one said anything about elite Iwa shinobi attacking during this mission, but more than twenty ambushed us."

"If I weren't so outrageously talented, we would've died."

Hiruzen's smile froze, and his heart sank.

Why is this brat so sly? He thought a few flattering words would do the trick, but it didn't work on him at all.

Helpless, Hiruzen sighed and said seriously, "Don't worry, Yami. I've already assigned Anbu to investigate. Don't act rashly. I promise you'll get an answer."

"Alright."

Yami replied half-heartedly. "Do what you want."

"But if you can't find the culprit, I'll just eliminate everyone in the Intelligence Department. No point paying people to be useless."

Cough!

Hiruzen nearly spat out his tea. "You, you've been influenced by Danzō too much! Don't mess around!"

"Ninjas are still people. Mistakes happen. Leave it to me. You go prepare instead. In one month, shinobi from the Land of Earth, the Land of Wind, and several smaller countries will be here for the Chūnin Exams."

"Konoha's reputation is in your hands. If anything happens, see how I punish you!"

With that, Hiruzen kicked them out.

He was afraid that if the conversation continued, Yami would say something even more outrageous.

After everyone left, Hiruzen wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.

No, this child is already walking down a dark path. He must be pulled out of Danzō's influence immediately.

After leaving the Hokage building and parting with Kurenai and Yugao, Yami headed for the Root base.

The more he thought about it, the angrier he became.

Usually, Danzō was the one ambushing people and scheming from the shadows. Why was he the one being ambushed this time?

Wasn't this an insult to the king of scapegoating?

Since birth, Yami had never been so wronged. He needed answers.

What he said in the Hokage's office wasn't a joke. If the true culprit wasn't found, then the Intelligence Department would have to be the scapegoat.

Root had taken the fall too many times. It was someone else's turn now.

He was certain Danzō thought the same.

Sure enough, when he arrived, there were noticeably fewer shinobi stationed at Root. The massive underground space felt deserted.

Yami met Danzō in the familiar office.

Seeing him return, Danzō nodded slightly.

"Good to see you back. Don't worry. Someone will definitely pay for this."

"Any leads?" Yami asked.

Danzō's voice was icy. "Three of our covert agents were sacrificed, but we uncovered some clues. It's linked to a grain merchant in the Land of Fire."

"On the surface, he sells grain. But he also sells intel."

"I haven't touched him yet. I want to see who feeds him the information."

Yami nodded. "Let me handle it when the time comes."

Danzō smiled faintly, admiring Yami's decisiveness.

A bit of ruthlessness is necessary in this world.

But the next second, that smile vanished.

Yami waved his hand and turned to leave. "I'm going to see Pakura. Let me know if there's anything."

"Wait. I still have something to tell you."

Danzō quickly stopped him.

Yami returned reluctantly and slumped onto the sofa. "Old man, what now?"

Danzō asked seriously. "Hmm…"

Yami glanced at his [Status Panel] and muttered, "I'm invincible below Kage-level? Above Kage-level... old man, don't tell me…"

He suddenly stood up. "You want me to assassinate Third Hokage? Not now! Wait a few more years!"

Danzō was speechless. "What nonsense. How could I let you kill Hiruzen? With that stain, how would you become Hokage?"

"Alright then."

Yami sighed in relief. "As long as it's not a Kage-level opponent, I'm confident."

"You're really that strong now?"

This time, Danzō was the one skeptical.

Since Shisui had stopped tutoring Yami, Danzō hadn't had a clear grasp of his growth. It wasn't until Yami killed two Iwa jōnin that he realized the boy had reached this level.

Yami scratched his head. "Isn't there an elite jōnin in Root? Just have him spar with me."

Danzō shook his head. "There are two, but their techniques are only suited for assassination, not sparring."

"Anyway, when I sparred with Shisui half a year ago, he couldn't beat me. Now, I'd win even easier. You don't believe me?" Yami smirked.

"In that case…" Danzō considered. "This mission is perfect for you."

"Yami, during the Chūnin Exams, I want you to kill as many shinobi from other villages as possible and crush their arrogance."

Danzō's eyes turned cold as he pressed his hand on the armrest. "Hiruzen is always too soft on outsiders. But he doesn't realize that only power earns respect. That's the key to peace."

"But if you accept this mission, your life will become more dangerous. The high-ranking officials from other villages will see you as a major threat."

"That's why I had to confirm whether your strength was enough. At the very least, you need to be elite jōnin level."

"Of course, if you don't want to accept it, I won't force you."

Danzō fell silent, giving Yami time to consider.

Yami didn't take it seriously at all. He waved lazily. "That's it? Just kill some enemies? Don't worry. If I run into them, none will leave alive."

"You're not concerned about your own safety?"

Danzō couldn't help asking.

Yami smiled. "Don't worry. My Body Flicker Technique is on par with Shisui's. If I don't want to fight, I can always escape."

"Unless the Fourth Raikage personally hunts me down, no one can catch me."

Yami's greatest advantage was his [Ninja World Darkness] talent. As long as he moved in the shadows, even the Fourth Raikage wouldn't be able to catch him.

"Well said. You're worthy of being my grandson!" Danzō slammed the table. "Then show them what you've got. Let the five great nations remember your name. I'd like to see who Hiruzen can pick to replace you as Hokage!"

Becoming Hokage had become Danzō's obsession. But he knew better than anyone that Hiruzen was a master manipulator. Removing him wouldn't be easy.

Last time, he got rid of Orochimaru, but Hiruzen simply sacrificed Jiraiya and resolved the crisis.

Yami had become Danzō's last hope. If Yami could surpass Hiruzen, then maybe...

Maybe the Second Hokage had chosen the wrong successor.

That moment from back then... kept replaying in his mind. Danzō had asked himself countless times—if he hadn't hesitated that day, would everything have turned out differently?

Unfortunately, there were no "ifs" in this world.

There was no medicine for regret.

As the old man sat lost in thought, Yami quietly slipped away and headed to Pakura's room.

Although she was free to move around, Pakura still kept herself locked in her room most of the time.

Today was no different.

Yami didn't even bother knocking. He just pushed the door open and shouted:

"Pakuraaaa, I was bullied! You have to take revenge for me!"

(To be continued.)

Special thanks to Patrick Darmon for sponsoring this extra chapter 🎉🎉🎉

Chapter 58: Pakura's Submission

Half a year may not seem like much, but it can change a lot.

At the very least, Pakura's home had changed significantly.

Previously, the room only had basic furnishings—a bed, a cabinet, a table, and a bench.

Now, the room was filled with various daily necessities, making it feel much warmer. It resembled a cozy nest for a single woman.

Seeing Yami burst in, Pakura didn't even lift her head. She continued knitting the sweater in her hands and said calmly, "Is there anyone in Konoha who could possibly bully you? You should be grateful you haven't bullied others instead."

Even icebergs eventually melt. Not to mention, Pakura had always been someone with a passionate nature.

After half a year of living together, at least when it came to Yami, her attitude had changed completely.

She had also learned quite a bit about Yami's background and personality.

He was a little devil, more arrogant than any of the heirs of the Kazekage she'd seen in the Land of Wind. Of course she wouldn't believe his excuses.

"It wasn't anyone from Konoha; it was an Iwa-nin." Yami picked up his cup and drained it in one gulp. Then he sighed. "Didn't I go on a mission a few days ago? It was supposed to be a simple supply escort, but we got ambushed by Iwa-nin along the way."

Pakura's hands finally stopped. She looked up at Yami with concern and carefully examined him. "Were you injured?"

"No."

Yami shook his head. "The team was ambushed by two jōnin. I killed them both, but it wasn't easy."

Pakura snorted coldly. "Always pretending to be upright while playing dirty behind the scenes. That's Ōnoki's style."

Yami's mouth twitched.

If she hadn't added the second part, he would've thought she was criticizing Hiruzen.

Still, there was nothing wrong with her description of Ōnoki.

He provoked the war with Konoha, led nearly ten thousand Iwa-nin to ambush the Third Raikage, then turned on Sunagakure when the tide turned. Now both sides were enemies.

Even during the relative peace of the future, he didn't behave. After Orochimaru's assault on Konoha, Iwagakure was the first to invade, only to be repelled by Hayama Shirakumo. Later, he frequently hired members of the Akatsuki to carry out shady missions.

Ōnoki had always been the troublemaker of the shinobi world. A perfect example of an old man who wouldn't die and just kept scheming.

"Pakura, I want to learn Scorch Release from you," Yami said, getting straight to the point. "I realized on this mission that ordinary elemental jutsu still have too many flaws. Only a kekkei genkai can overcome those limitations."

"Scorch Release…" Pakura's expression turned thoughtful. She remained silent for a while, then finally nodded.

"With your mastery of Fire and Wind Release, there's a strong chance you can learn it. I'll teach you."

"Hehe, you're so good to me." Yami cheered and threw himself into Pakura's arms, quickly finding a comfortable position.

Pakura couldn't help but smile.

This brat finally acted like a kid.

"Pakura."

Yami suddenly spoke. "You've been in Root for a long time now. Don't you want to leave?"

Pakura's expression turned complicated.

She understood what Yami meant by "leave"—a complete break from the past.

But…

After being betrayed, she no longer wanted to live as a shinobi.

As if sensing her inner conflict, Yami raised his head… though he couldn't see her face, it was blocked.

"Pakura, don't overthink it. I've already said, I'm not recruiting you for Konoha. I'm recruiting you for myself."

"I need your strength. I need your help in the future. But only for me, not for the village."

"But what if you become Hokage?" Pakura asked calmly. "Just like Rasa. We used to be comrades, but he didn't hesitate to betray me."

"You're comparing me to that kind of trash?" Yami frowned, clearly displeased. He sat up immediately.

"Nothing will change even if I become Hokage. And once I do, I'll be invincible in the shinobi world. Why would I need to sacrifice you to gain anything?"

"Who knows if the five great nations will even still exist by then?"

Pakura was surprised. "You want to destroy the other nations?"

Yami nodded calmly. "The existence of so many countries is a mistake. If I have the power, I won't be as indecisive as Senju Hashirama."

Pakura thought Yami's idea was crazy… but she also felt he was right.

If there weren't so many large and small nations, there wouldn't be so many shinobi wars.

The shinobi village system had only existed for fifty years, yet three world wars had already erupted. War had lasted longer than peace.

If Yami's vision came true, even if conflict remained, its scale would be far smaller.

It wouldn't be like the shinobi wars, where lives were treated like dirt.

She glanced around the small house. Every inch and every corner was familiar to her now.

In the end… Pakura nodded.

"Remember what you said. I'll only fight for you."

[Host and Pakura's bond has reached the third stage. Kekkei Genkai: Scorch Release unlocked]

Yami grinned. "Of course!"

Yami took Pakura out of the Root base. Danzō quickly received the news.

He understood that Yami's recruitment of Pakura had succeeded, at least for now.

After a brief hesitation, he chose not to interfere.

After the upcoming Chūnin Exams, Yami would be exposed to the eyes of every major power. Having more powerful allies around him was a good thing.

Even if Pakura was unreliable, she wouldn't pose a problem in the short term.

It was essentially added insurance for Yami's safety.

Danzō summoned Yamanaka Fū and forged a Root ninja profile for Pakura—codename: "Chi." It included fake mission records and fabricated family ties.

From then on, Pakura officially had Konoha citizenship and was no longer an illegal resident.

On the bustling commercial street, the crowds were lively. Every shop was doing great business. There were shinobi and civilians alike. Many smiled as they walked, relaxed and carefree.

Pakura stared at the scene, dazed.

Compared to Sunagakure and even the other nations, Konoha had a unique air of peace and prosperity.

Living here, one couldn't even feel the presence of war. Unlike other shinobi villages, the atmosphere wasn't heavy or oppressive. In Sunagakure, it was rare to see such harmony between shinobi and civilians, and the social hierarchy was strict.

Even a genin would be addressed as "sir" by regular people.

"…It's amazing," Pakura murmured subconsciously.

Yami nodded. "It really is."

Konoha was the friendliest and safest place for ordinary people.

Though he disliked Hiruzen, it was due to political conflict.

Yami didn't deny the man's achievements.

Under Hiruzen's decades of leadership, Konoha had never lacked young talent. And even if battles raged outside, he never allowed enemy forces to enter the Land of Fire. He had turned Konoha into a genuine paradise.

Hmm…

Though Yami felt others could've done the same.

Well, not his old man. He was a war hawk—not suited to lead a village. Far too extreme.

The two entered a clothing shop, picked out some new clothes for Pakura, and bought other daily items before heading back.

Once home, Yami handed the bags to a staff member and led Pakura upstairs to choose a room.

"This one is the biggest. That one's closest to my room. Don't pick the one at the end, it's the old man's. He doesn't come back often, but it's still his."

"This one's fine," Pakura said, pointing to the room closest to Yami.

"Alright. I'll have someone clean it up later."

Yami stroked his chin. "But I won't be living here for long. After I pass the Chūnin Exams, I'll move out."

"This place isn't good?" Pakura asked curiously.

The Shimura house was modest in style, but its décor was elegant and expensive. Just the furniture was worth more than Asuma.

"Well, this is still the old man's house." Yami shook his head. "I want a place of my own. Plus, I plan to live with Izumi. Staying here forever isn't an option."

Pakura immediately gave him a look of disdain.

She knew who Izumi was. Yami had even shown her a photo—a very cute little girl.

They were still just kids, and they were already thinking about living together?

No wonder Konoha had so many shinobi. It was because of early romance!

Yami noticed the judgment in her eyes and felt his integrity had been attacked. "What are you thinking?! I just want to live closer to Izumi. Her situation within the Uchiha clan isn't good. If she moves out early, she won't have to suffer."

He wasn't about to say he didn't want to live in Uchiha territory and get caught up in Itachi's drama.

"Alright, alright, I was wrong." Pakura realized she'd misunderstood and tried to pat Yami's head to comfort him, but he smacked her hand away.

"Come on, let's get inside. I'll remove the seal on your tongue."

Pakura was surprised. "You're going to remove the seal?"

Yami looked at her blankly. "Isn't that obvious? Your chakra's still sealed. Am I working for you, or are you working for me?"

"You're not afraid I'll betray you?"

Pakura was touched but still asked, "I'm Kage-level. Are you really okay leaving no backup plan?"

Yami glanced at her indifferently. "If I didn't trust you, I wouldn't have brought you out in the first place. Stop overthinking. Get in already."

Besides, words could lie, but the system's bond rewards couldn't.

If even someone at the third-stage bond couldn't be trusted, then no one in the world could be loyal.

"Okay."

Pakura smiled brightly.

She finally knew her choice was right.

Following Yami… even if she died, she wouldn't regret it.

At that moment, the village of Sunagakure, which had always occupied a corner of her heart, vanished completely.

All that remained was the image of one person.

At 5 PM, Yami picked up little Izumi as usual.

Her black hair had grown much longer, nearly to her waist. She had also grown taller.

Seeing Yami had come to get her, she was overjoyed and quickly followed.

"Yami, are you going to take part in this Chūnin Exam?" Izumi asked curiously along the way.

The village had been preparing for it recently, and Izumi had heard a bit.

"I heard Itachi will participate. The elders say he'll definitely make chūnin."

"He'll be there." Yami held her hand and said slowly, "I know. The Third Hokage wanted me to team up with him, but I turned it down."

"Izumi, I'll be moving out after the exam. Do you want to leave the Uchiha clan too?"

"…Huh?"

Izumi blushed and replied shyly, "Yami… we're still young… Isn't that inappropriate?"

Yami's face darkened.

Girls were supposed to mature earlier, right?

He hadn't even been thinking that far ahead.

"It's not cohabitation. Just living nearby," Yami explained. "That way we can train together. It's also close to the academy and the commercial district. It'll be more convenient for you and your aunt."

"I see…"

Izumi looked a little disappointed but soon focused on the idea.

She wanted to be closer to Yami.

She didn't have many friends in the Uchiha clan. The other clansmen looked down on her and her mother because of her father's status.

But there were still two problems.

First, she had to convince her mother to agree.

Second, could they afford to live near Yami?

Yami had already anticipated these issues.

"I've already found two side-by-side houses. Mine is bigger. The other one is smaller, but perfect for you and your aunt."

"You can rent it first, then buy it later once you've saved up from being a ninja."

"You can ask your aunt when you get home. I believe she'll agree if it's good for you."

Izumi nodded nervously. "I'll ask her tonight."

"Alright." Yami smiled.

As long as Izumi left the clan, no matter what happened to the Uchiha, she wouldn't be caught in it.

If Konoha could protect one Uchiha Sasuke, it could handle one more.

Soon, the two arrived home.

Seeing the mature woman in the house, Izumi was confused. "Yami… who is she?"

"Hello, Miss Izumi." Pakura smiled. "I'm a member of Root. Codename: Chi. I'm responsible for guarding Master Yami and handling some of his daily affairs."

It was the first time someone had called her "Miss." Izumi blushed. "Just call me Izumi! I'm starving, so I'll leave Yami's safety to you!"

Pakura's smile didn't fade. "I'll protect Master Yami with my life."

"Alright, enough chatter. Let's eat. I'm starving." Yami interrupted and rubbed his belly as he walked inside.

After dinner, Pakura and Izumi got along well.

No one could dislike such a gentle, lovable girl. And as Yami's childhood friend, Pakura made an effort to bond. Their relationship quickly warmed, and they dropped the formality.

After the meal, Yami checked Izumi's training progress.

A year ago, she already had the strength to graduate. Another year had passed, and her growth had been steady.

Once she awakened her Sharingan, her chakra would grow rapidly, and she could soon become a chūnin.

Yami planned for her to stay in the academy for one more year. Once she graduated, maybe he could even be her jōnin.

Hearing that there was a chance to be on the same team as Yami, Izumi eagerly agreed.

As night fell, Yami walked Izumi home to the Uchiha district. After returning, he took Pakura to the underground training chamber.

"Let's begin. I want to master Scorch Release before the Chūnin Exam."

Getting the third-stage bond reward had been a nice surprise. But he still needed Pakura's experience with Scorch Release to master it fully.

With her guidance, his progress would definitely accelerate.

Pakura didn't say much. She quickly entered teaching mode and began explaining her experience in training Scorch Release.

(To be continued.)