Uchiha Seiryu [181-186] (Patreon)

Chapter 181: Deidara: "Konoha is Full of Talented People, and They're All So Pleasant"

“Mr. Iwata from Takigakure is currently in Konoha.”

“Oh? How much support is Konoha planning to give them this time?” Onoki sneered.

“Tsuchikage, you jest. Since your special military operation began, we haven’t provided any military aid to the Land of Waterfall. All we’ve given were humanitarian supplies for the civilian population.” Seiryu replied evenly.

“Then how do you explain the explosive tags in Takigakure’s camps, all bearing the symbol of your Fire Country ninja tool factories? Did those just appear out of thin air?” Onoki pressed, gritting his teeth.

“We've explained this before — it’s all legitimate business transactions.” Seiryu replied.

“Enough. Did the Hokage contact us just to quibble about these details?” Onoki demanded.

“Of course not,” Seiryu said calmly. “This war has displaced countless innocent civilians. It’s about time it ended.”

“Konoha would like to act as a mediator between your village and Takigakure. What do you think, Tsuchikage?”

“Are you joking, Hokage?” Onoki scoffed. “This war has lasted two years. It’s not as simple as just stopping it.”

“If that’s how you feel, then Konoha can be your opponent instead. How about that?” Seiryu said without missing a beat. “You can fight as long as you like.”

Onoki’s face grew solemn. Two years ago, if Seiryu had taken this stance, he wouldn’t have tolerated it — war would’ve been inevitable. But after two years of conflict, even though Iwagakure maintained an overall advantage, they’d gained little of real value. The territory seized in the northwest of Takigakure was barren and nearly worthless, while the mineral-rich lands in the southeast were beyond their reach.

Moreover, the war had drained the Land of Earth’s finances, and anti-war sentiments were rising. Even some Iwagakure shinobi were secretly muttering that perhaps this war should never have started.

If Konoha entered the war, the Land of Earth might not be able to extricate itself unscathed.

Onoki took a deep breath. “What are you suggesting, Hokage? Have you forgotten the non-aggression pact between our villages? Are you planning to break it?”

“Of course not. Everyone in the shinobi world knows Konoha keep our words,” Seiryu replied. “But I suggest you consider my proposal carefully. The mainstream voice in the shinobi world is peace. Many things can be resolved at the negotiating table.”

After a pause, Onoki finally asked, “When do you want to negotiate?”

“In a week. I’ll be waiting for you both in Konoha,” Seiryu replied. “But Tsuchikage, could you perhaps show some good faith first?”

“I’ll order our border troops to temporarily cease attacks.” Onoki stared at Seiryu.

“Thank you for your efforts for peace,” Seiryu said. “We’ll ensure Takigakure’s forces also show restraint.”

“I hope so,” Onoki said, then ended the call.

…

Two weeks later, Onoki arrived in Konoha as promised and met with Iwata Zeki for the first time since the outbreak of war, under Seiryu’s mediation.

Both sides exchanged opinions, improved their mutual understanding, and made some progress, though they remained cautious about the results.

The main dispute was the loss of the Five-Tails and its jinchuriki, who had been captured by the Akatsuki. Onoki insisted Takigakure must take responsibility, but Iwata Zeki refused, angrily calling Onoki a butcher and blaming Iwagakure for their own loss.

Due to his outburst, the Konoha hosts politely asked Iwata to leave the negotiation room. Onoki made it clear: if the issue of the Five-Tails wasn’t resolved, the war could not end.

Essentially, he wanted Takigakure to hand over their own tailed beast as compensation, but Seiryu would never agree — the Seven-Tails was now essentially Konoha’s asset.

To keep negotiations going, Seiryu promised to help Iwagakure recover the Five-Tails from the Akatsuki in the future. After much haggling, Onoki reluctantly agreed.

Once Onoki and a pressured Iwata Zeki signed the ceasefire agreement, the nearly three-year war finally ended.

As Seiryu had said at the start, the glory of this war belonged to Takigakure. Who owned the land or minerals? That didn’t matter. What mattered was that Takigakure showed its strength to the shinobi world and claimed a unique honor.

After the agreement, Onoki had no intention of lingering in Konoha and planned to return to the Land of Earth that night. But before leaving, he remembered his student was still studying in Konoha.

“Hokage, have Deidara come here. I’ll take him home myself,” Onoki said, sipping Seiryu’s tea in the Hokage’s office.

“Of course,” Seiryu smiled. “The war is over, and it’s time for Deidara to go home. I’ll call him right away.”

Seiryu summoned an Anbu to fetch Deidara.

“He must have caused you some trouble over the past two years,” Onoki said after the Anbu left.

“Not at all. Deidara is a very thoughtful kid,” Seiryu replied.

“No need to be polite, Hokage. I know my own student is a handful,” Onoki waved it off. Though he’d originally sent Deidara to Konoha to annoy Seiryu, after not seeing him for over two years, Onoki actually missed his student.

However, the Anbu quickly returned with Deidara’s message:

[“Let that old man go home by himself. I’m not interested in going back to Iwagakure. Life in Konoha is way better — everyone here is talented and pleasant to talk to.”]

Hearing this, Onoki’s forehead veins bulged. He glanced at Seiryu, then at the Anbu. “Did that brat really say that?”

“Please don’t be angry, Tsuchikage. Kids are rebellious sometimes,” Seiryu chuckled. “Shall we go and convince him together?”

“I haven’t disciplined him in ages! He’s out of control!” Onoki slammed the table and stood up. “Where is he now?”

Seiryu had no choice but to bring Onoki to the construction site currently managed by the Yamato Construction Group.

But before they arrived, a massive explosion erupted in the sky, with a giant mushroom cloud rising high. Onoki twitched at the familiar sound, glancing at Seiryu for any sign of annoyance.

But Seiryu continued forward, unbothered.

“Haha, sorry for the trouble my student’s caused you,” Onoki said, though his expression was more like a parent helplessly indulging a naughty child.

But when they reached the site, the scene surprised even Onoki.

“Boss, that was amazing! This blast was even bigger than last time!” a man in a safety helmet handed Deidara some water.

As the dust settled, a few more men came to measure the crater, then returned to Deidara, marveling, “Your technique is getting better and better! The data matches the blueprints exactly. I thought we’d have to fix things manually after the blast, but it’s perfect.”

“Of course!” Deidara laughed, surrounded by admirers. “I’ve been carefully studying precision control lately. As Hokage says, the difference between precision and carelessness is the difference between surgery and butchery!”

“Get back to work, everyone,” Deidara said cheerfully to the workers. “I have another site to visit — Mr. Yamato is waiting.”

With that, he molded a clay bird, jumped onto its back, and took off.

“Take care, Boss!” the workers called respectfully.

At that moment, Onoki’s voice echoed in Deidara’s ears.

“Deidara!”

Deidara blinked, then turned to see Onoki glaring at him, standing next to Seiryu. Deidara frowned, “Old man? Didn’t I say you could go back by yourself?”

“What were you just doing?” Onoki demanded.

“Didn’t you see? I was practicing my art!” Deidara said impatiently. But when he saw Seiryu, he changed expressions, flying over and beaming, “Hokage-uncle, did you see my perfect control over the explosion?”

“Amazing!” Seiryu applauded. “When it comes to the art of explosion, I, Uchiha Seiryu, call you the strongest.”

“Hahaha! I knew it!” Deidara laughed heartily.

“What on earth have you done with him these past two years?” Onoki felt a strange emotion as he watched the harmonious pair. Wasn’t he supposed to be Deidara’s teacher? Deidara never spoke to him so politely.

“As you can see, Deidara is now the chief demolition expert for Konoha’s largest construction group, Yamato Construction,” Seiryu said. “Our village’s rapid development owes a lot to him; he’s much beloved here.”

Indeed, besides his job as chief demolitionist, Deidara also moonlighted as Konoha’s fireworks master. His fireworks show at the New Year’s festival was a hit, and even on weekends, people would come to his worksites just to watch his displays.

Onoki’s expression soured. So his problematic student was an idol here?

Thinking of the strange new buildings he’d seen in Konoha, Onoki realized Deidara was responsible for some of them, too. Wasn’t this aiding the enemy?

“Deidara, get down here and come back with me!” Onoki yelled.

“No!” Deidara turned his head and tried to fly off.

“Come back! Is there nowhere in Iwagakure for you to practice your art? I’ll set aside a special area just for you to blow up, okay?”

“Those old-timers in Iwagakure don’t appreciate my art,” Deidara scoffed at the offer.

“Only Konoha and the Hokage truly understand my art!” Deidara declared.

“Don’t you see he’s just humoring you?” Onoki snapped, forgetting Seiryu was right there.

“I won’t let you talk about Hokage-uncle like that!” Deidara shot back.

In the end, Onoki managed to drag Deidara home, but the screams heard at the site that day were reportedly louder than any of Deidara’s explosions.

With the conflict between the Land of Waterfall and the Land of Earth over, peace returned — but in the already divided Mist Village, conflict continued.

Chapter 182: The Twelve New Stars Graduate

Over the past two years, Ryuunosuke Takagi—though repeatedly defeated by Mei Terumi and the Cloud ninja—could only rely on Uchiha Fugaku, for external threats. But internally, his iron-fisted rule made even Seiryu nod in reluctant approval.

Fugaku once thought Danzo was the most cunning manipulator he’d ever seen, but compared to Takagi’s schemes in Mist, Danzo seemed almost virtuous.

Since becoming Mizukage, Takagi’s purges never ceased. Two elite jonin who once competed for the Mizukage title were disposed of—one imprisoned and executed, and the other fleeing to the northern Mist.

Takagi strictly controlled public speech, punishing any criticism of himself or the Konoha garrison. He even showcased his math skills when distributing the remaining four legendary swords of the Mist. According to tradition, inheriting one of the Seven Swords requires approval from a majority of the jonin. But Takagi’s most trusted follower only got 46% of the vote. Undeterred, he rounded it up—claiming it was over half and assigned the swords regardless.

As for Uchiha Fugaku, now a Konoha Five-Star General personally decorated by Seiryu, Takagi went out of his way to show deference—building Fugaku a mansion in the Mist more luxurious than the Mizukage’s own, and treating him with filial piety. Takagi even hinted at wanting to become Fugaku’s adopted son, but Fugaku refused—he felt it would tarnish the Uchiha name.

While the southern Mist prospered with Konoha’s support, the northern Mist under Mei Terumi was burdened by massive debt to the Cloud. Life was tough for both civilians and ninja, prompting many to sneak south. Meanwhile, some in the south, tired of the Konoha garrison’s presence, defected north.

Both sides saw people crossing the border, creating a constant back-and-forth.

Seeing Mei Terumi struggle, Seiryu quietly sent White Zetsu to offer guidance. Soon, a story titled “Lady Mei Terumi Shatters Fugaku’s Susano’o with a Kunai” spread through the northern Mist. Thanks to White Zetsu’s handiwork, a wave of personal worship swept the north, and Mei Terumi became a beacon of hope. As a result, the number of defectors dropped.

In two years, the Mist’s two factions skirmished along the border, but neither dared start a full war, and an uneasy stability settled.

In the Land of Lightning, the seeds of division planted by Seiryu and fanned by White Zetsu only deepened. When a White Zetsu disguised as a white samurai killed a black locals, massive riots erupted. Crowds took to the streets chanting slogans for equality and justice, and the protests turned violent, with people brawling over differences.

The Cloud eventually restored order by dispatching a unit of ninja, but the unrest had already reached the Raikage, A. Now, the two sides accused A of favoritism—one side claiming he sided with the dark-skinned, the other saying he neglected his own. A himself didn’t care, but this division eroded morale, and Cloud ninja began refusing to work with those of different backgrounds.

Meanwhile, the Land of Earth, devastated by war and left with only barren land, would need years to recover.

Among the Five Great Nations, only the poorest, the Wind Country, was free of turmoil. But the Fourth Kazekage, Rasa, was far from content. Over the past two years he considered joining the Takigakure war to claim some mineral resources. But Seiryu quickly put a stop to it.

As soon as Rasa rallied his army and contacted Iwata Zeki, Seiryu, as Grand Minister, passed new laws protecting Fire Country and its allies’ mineral interests—slapping a 20% tariff on Wind Country’s metal exports. Since Wind’s main income was mining, and their biggest customer was the Fire Country, this move crippled their economy.

Wind’s daimyo tried to retaliate with his own tariffs, but Seiryu simply raised his to 300%. At that point, the difference between 300% and 3,000% was meaningless. Wind Country’s trade was heavily dependent on Fire, especially after Seiryu secured the big mines in Takigakure. Within two months, the Wind daimyo had to surrender.

After a stern conversation with Seiryu, Wind’s daimyo returned home and threatened to cut Rasa’s funding unless he stood down. Still reliant on government money, Suna had no choice but to obey.

After the war ended between the Lands of Earth and Waterfall, the shinobi world entered a period of peace. Onoki pressured the Land of Rain to return the tailed beast, but Akatsuki ignored him. Only Hanzo, controlled by Nagato, replied that there were no terrorist groups in Rain, and the country remained closed off.

Ever since Nagato suffered at Seiryu’s hands, Akatsuki had gone underground, and the black market hadn’t heard from them in a long time.

Jiraiya learned that Nagato was alive and requested permission to go to the Rain. Seiryu didn’t object, confident that, under his deterrence, Nagato wouldn't dare kill Jiraiya.

…

A year passed quickly. Naruto and Sasuke’s generation—the most talented ninja academy class in a decade—was about to graduate.

On graduation day, as agreed, Kakashi went to the Nara, Akimichi, and Yamanaka clan compounds to witness the “Ino-Shika-Cho” earring oath. He would personally lead Shikamaru, Choji, and Ino.

Kiba, Shino, and Hinata—who had already decided not to inherit the Hyuga clan headship—formed the reconnaissance team, with Uchiha Shisui forcibly recruited from the Uchiha compound as their sensei.

No one objected to Shisui as their leader; among the Uchiha, he was second only to Seiryu and Fugaku, and his skills and sense of duty were top-tier.

As for the two unrivaled prodigies, Naruto and Sasuke, Seiryu assigned them to a squad with Neji, who had already spent a year in the Anbu. Seiryu himself would be their squad leader.

No one was surprised. Since fifth grade, Naruto and Sasuke had stopped sparring with classmates; even teachers couldn’t safely referee their battles. Sasuke’s fighting style now mirrored Seiryu’s own, while Naruto—having made peace with the Nine-Tails—could borrow some of its power, combining that with mass shadow clones for overwhelming attacks.

In the Hokage’s office, Seiryu personally tied their headbands and smiled, “Time flies. You two are officially ninja now.”

“I’ve waited so long for this day, dattebayo!” Naruto said excitedly. “Sensei, what’s our first mission?”

“Normally, fresh genin handle D-rank missions like finding lost cats and dogs or picking up trash. In recent years, we’ve added helping on construction sites.” Seiryu grinned.

“Huh? Ninja have to pick up trash?” Naruto exclaimed.

Sasuke sighed. Despite his physical prowess, Naruto’s sense of ninja etiquette was still lacking. He didn’t even know basic pre-mission intelligence gathering.

“Of course. It’s a rite of passage for every genin,” Neji explained.

“But Neji, you graduated a year ago. I never saw you pick up trash,” Naruto asked curiously.

“I was assigned to the Anbu under Sensei’s orders, waiting for you two to graduate,” Neji said.

“Want to skip trash duty and jump straight to tougher missions?” Seiryu smiled at Naruto.

“Really?” Naruto’s eyes lit up.

“Of course. With your skills, D-rank missions would be a waste. But to skip them, you need to prove yourselves to me.”

“Tomorrow morning, 8 o’clock, Training Field Three. Make sure you eat a good breakfast.” Seiryu smiled meaningfully.

Chapter 183: The Essential Bell Test

“Alright!” Naruto said eagerly. “Sensei, just watch, dattebayo!”

“Don’t get too excited,” Seiryu laughed. “If you pass the test, you can skip the beginner missions. But if you fail, there will be a punishment.”

“Punishment?” Naruto blinked.

“Of course. You don’t get special treatment for nothing. Each of your punishments will be tailor-made—something you’ll never forget. Still want to take the test?”

Sasuke and Neji exchanged glances, swallowed, but didn’t back down.

“Sensei, can I get help from Tenten?” Neji asked.

“Of course. That’s part of your strength. Just know, you’ll have to attack me with the intent to kill. Otherwise, you’ll never pass.”

“Sensei, just wait, dattebayo!” Naruto said confidently.

…

The three left for Ichiraku Ramen to discuss tactics.

“Are you three nuts? Challenging the Hokage? If you’re bored, why not come help us with tests at the Ninja Tools Research Department?” Tenten said, joining them.

Naruto shrank at the mention. The research department had been testing all sorts of bizarre ninja tools, and as Neji’s junior, Naruto sometimes helped out—usually ending up as a guinea pig for strenuous new devices.

“Beating Sensei will be tough,” Neji said. “But maybe we just need to show our current abilities.”

“I doubt it’s that simple,” Sasuke replied. “If it were, Sensei would have sent us right to the field instead of scheduling it for tomorrow. This is as much a test of our planning and prep as our combat skills.”

“Good point!” Naruto nodded.

“Right. Otherwise, Sensei wouldn’t have told us the location in advance,” Neji agreed.

“So, Neji, you gather intel with your Byakugan, and I’ll take Naruto to set traps at the training ground,” Sasuke decided.

“Let’s do it!” Naruto said.

“Can’t you suggest anything yourself?” Tenten teased Naruto.

“They’ve already said it all—what else can I add?” Naruto replied.

“At least try. Any ideas?” Tenten asked.

Naruto pondered. “Maybe… we could slip some laxatives into Sensei’s food?”

Sasuke: …

Neji: …

Tenten: “You’re going to get yourself killed one day.”

“Let’s stick to the plan,” Sasuke sighed, figuring Naruto was more likely to get lucky in battle than in planning.

“I’ll pick up some new traps from the research department, then I’ll help you set up,” Tenten said.

Neji, in disguise, began surveillance near the Hokage Tower—his year in Anbu had taught him all the weak points in its security.

Seiryu sensed someone watching him and smiled knowingly, pretending not to notice. Meanwhile, Sasuke and Naruto, after Tenten brought the traps, began setting up the training ground.

“Don’t get distracted! Memorize the trap locations, or you’ll trigger them yourself,” Sasuke warned Naruto.

“Okay!” Naruto replied, though he mumbled, “Still think the laxatives idea could work…”

“No way,” Sasuke said. “Sensei’s food is always prepared by family staff and delivered. There’s no good chance to tamper with it.”

“But Kakashi said Sensei’s having a banquet tonight…”

“So you want to poison the entire council? If you do, Sensei will definitely make you pay,” Sasuke said, exasperated.

“Fine,” Naruto said, and helped set the traps.

When they finished, it was late. After Neji rejoined them, Sasuke handed him a map of the trap locations.

…

Next morning, Seiryu arrived at the training ground after breakfast. Sasuke’s team was already waiting.

“Early birds, huh?” Seiryu said, scanning the woods and mentally noting the traps.

“Sensei, what’s the test?” Sasuke asked, not wanting to give Seiryu more time to analyze their setup.

“It’s simple—a Konoha tradition.” Seiryu pulled out a bell. “You have two hours. If even one of you can touch this bell, you pass.”

“That’s it?” Naruto asked in disbelief.

“Try it and see,” Seiryu replied casually, kicking away a blond clone that had tried to ambush him.

With the clone gone, Seiryu turned back. Neji and Naruto had vanished; only Sasuke remained.

“You’re planning to hold me here while the others try for the bell, right?” Seiryu smiled.

“Exactly.” Sasuke drew his sword—gifted by Fugaku for his graduation, forged from the best chakra metal in the Water Country.

“My lightning jutsu is useless against you, Sensei, so all I can do is fight you with my sword,” Sasuke said.

“Let’s see if you’ve kept up your practice,” Seiryu nodded.

“Aren’t you going to draw your sword?” Sasuke asked.

“Getting me to draw is part of your test,” Seiryu replied.

Sasuke charged, splitting into three with Lightning Clones. Seiryu calmly brought down two bolts of lightning, scattering the clones, then blocked Sasuke’s blade with the sheath of his own sword, disrupting Sasuke’s balance.

Sasuke quickly recovered and resumed his attack. Seiryu countered easily but then sensed danger—just in time to see Naruto dropping from above with a giant Rasengan.

“Super Big Ball Rasengan!” Naruto shouted.

Seiryu tried to dodge, but the ground beneath his feet suddenly turned to mud—one of the new traps.

“Interesting. None of you know this water-style jutsu, so this must be from the research department,” Seiryu observed. “Well, show me what you’ve got.”

He pulled out a blank scroll, drew a seal in the air, and as the Rasengan hit, its chakra was instantly absorbed.

“How can you do that?” Naruto gawked as his attack vanished.

Seiryu knocked Naruto aside. “That’s what happens when you skip learning sealing jutsu—you can’t even spot the weak points.”

But just then, a beam of compressed chakra struck Seiryu’s back, exploding with immense force.

In the corner, Neji lowered a sniper rifle. “Did we get him?” Naruto asked, appearing beside him.

“Maybe…” Neji activated his Byakugan, scanning the smoke.

“Well done—you’ve forced me to use stage one of Susano’o,” Seiryu’s voice sounded behind them. They froze.

Neji dropped the rifle, grabbed Naruto and threw him aside, then spun, releasing chakra from his tenketsu.

“Rotation!”

The swirling chakra forced Seiryu back half a step, but he simply snapped his fingers. A blue lightning bird materialized and circled Neji.

Through his Byakugan, Neji saw the bird moving faster and faster, tracking his spin.

Neji called out, “Tenten!” and stopped spinning, crossing his arms.

A space-time fluctuation appeared, and a shield inscribed with jutsu formulas materialized in his hands. Channeling chakra into it, a violent wind barrier formed, shredding the lightning bird.

But as the bird dissipated, Seiryu appeared behind Neji, hand raised for a chop.

“Neji, behind you!” Tenten, sharing Neji’s vision, shouted, sending over a new ninja tool.

Neji snatched up a dark gold staff. Using Hyuga footwork, he attacked Seiryu with a series of precise strikes.

Seiryu parried and nodded approvingly. “Impressive—combining Hyuga striking techniques with staff combat.”

Without having to master Rotation, Neji’s true talent in taijutsu shone through. His fusion of Hyuga moves with staff fighting was still rough, but the potential was clear.

Soon, Sasuke joined in with his sword.

As Seiryu fought both at once, he remarked, “So you’re counting on Naruto to grab the bell while you keep me busy?”

“Exactly,” Sasuke replied, pushing himself to the limit.

“I’m looking forward to what Naruto comes up with!” Seiryu grinned. “What will he try this time?”

“Super Sexy Jutsu!”

Chapter 184: Father and Son Reunion

As Naruto finished speaking, dozens of blond-haired clones dropped from the sky, engulfing the area in a huge cloud of smoke. As it cleared, what appeared was a sea of beautiful “girls,” their white skin like petals of cherry blossoms, their clothes disheveled and their eyes sparkling.

“Seiryu-sensei~!” a chorus of sweet voices assaulted Seiryu’s ears from all directions.

Sasuke and Neji were left stunned.

Naruto had bragged about his secret technique—one that had defeated even Kakashi, the legendary Jiraiya, and even the retired Third Hokage. Sasuke and Neji had pinned their hopes on this move, otherwise they wouldn’t have struggled to hold Seiryu off for so long. But they never expected this.

Seiryu smiled helplessly, but didn’t go easy. Bolts of lightning rained down, dispersing the transformed clones in puffs of smoke, and then he smacked the real Naruto sneaking up for the bell with the sheath of his sword.

“Why did it fail?” Naruto groaned, holding his forehead. “Kakashi and the Pervy Sage always fall for this, and Grandpa Third even got a nosebleed and fainted!”

“That only works on those old perverts who can’t put down their dirty books!” Tenten’s voice came through their comms from her support position. “The Hokage has never shown any interest in that stuff!”

“Darn it!” Naruto gritted his teeth, ignored the pain, and tried another transformation.

“Idiot, that won’t work!” Sasuke and Neji rushed over to try to stop him.

But when the smoke cleared, there was a naked man with a fit build, posing seductively—in Kakashi’s face.

Seiryu: ???

Sasuke: ???

Neji: ???

Tenten: ???

Everyone froze, stunned by the disturbing sight.

“Now’s my chance!” A Naruto clone, hiding nearby, charged for the bell. Just as his hand was about to touch Seiryu’s waist, Seiryu snapped out of it and dispersed the clone with a single swing. In a flash, he appeared behind Naked Kakashi, performed a rapid hand seal, and a long lightning rope appeared, binding and electrocuting the transformed Naruto.

Naruto, shocked silly, dropped his transformation.

The electric punishment continued, Naruto’s screams now coming with a staticky reverb.

Seiryu gave Naruto a few whacks with his sword sheath, glanced down, then put the sheath away and took off his belt.

The electric screams only got louder.

“I’ll beat some sense into you today!” Seiryu’s face was visibly red as he laid into Naruto.

“Sometimes I really don’t know what’s going on in that kid’s head,” Tenten muttered in the comms.

“I just thought, since Sensei always hangs out with Kakashi, maybe—OW! Stop, Sensei! I’m sorry!”

Naruto’s apologies were useless. Seiryu continued his lesson.

“Nine-Tails, help me!” Naruto cried out, hoping for rescue.

Over the past two years, Naruto’s relationship with Kurama had improved a lot, especially after Seiryu honored his promise and let the Six-Tails live in a protected forest rather than sealing it in another host. Kurama realized Seiryu wasn’t lying about freeing him after Naruto’s death, and started opening up.

But right now, Kurama just lazily rolled over in the seal space, ignoring Naruto’s plea. Why stick his neck out to get beat up too?

As Naruto was being punished, Sasuke and Neji looked at each other, then shrugged.

“Aren’t you going to help him?” Tenten asked.

“If we go now, Sensei will probably beat us too,” Sasuke replied, mouth twitching. Honestly, after seeing Naked Kakashi, he wanted to hit Naruto himself. So, with Seiryu in a rage, both decided to wait it out.

But Neji kept his Byakugan on Seiryu.

After a while, Neji whispered, “Tenten, send me a silent grappling hook.”

A Flying Thunder God seal flashed on his wrist, and a mechanical device appeared. Neji took aim at the bell on Seiryu’s waist and silently launched a tiny grappling hook, which snagged the bell perfectly.

Seiryu glanced down, followed the string to Neji, considered for a moment, and then just gave Naruto another swat. The test didn’t matter anymore; what mattered was teaching Naruto a lesson.

The grappling hook reeled in the bell to Neji’s hand. He and Sasuke looked at each other in disbelief—had they really passed?

“Ha... well, in a way, I guess Naruto’s plan worked,” Tenten said with an awkward laugh.

Even though the test was over, Neji and Sasuke stood quietly by while Seiryu finished his lesson. Naruto’s electrified cries echoed across the training field all morning, until Seiryu’s expensive crocodile belt finally snapped.

“Will you mess around like that again?” Seiryu demanded.

“No, never! I’m sorry, Sensei!” Naruto whimpered.

Seiryu had controlled his strength, so Naruto wasn’t actually injured; his enhanced healing erased any red marks in seconds, but it still hurt a lot.

Finally, Sasuke and Neji dared to approach. Neji held up the bell. “Sensei, did we pass?”

“You did,” Seiryu said. “Starting tomorrow, you’ll be taking actual missions. But as Hokage, I can’t always be with you. Neji, you have a year of Anbu experience. You’ll be team captain.”

“Yes, Sensei,” Neji nodded.

“You two head home. I need to talk to Naruto,” Seiryu said, grabbing Naruto by the collar.

“No, Sensei, I’m really sorry!” Naruto struggled. “Sasuke! Neji! Don’t leave me!”

Sasuke and Neji just gave him a look of sympathy and left.

Seiryu dragged Naruto toward the office, passing Kakashi, who was only now heading to his own team’s training session.

Kakashi grinned at the sight. “What did he do this time?”

“You don’t want to know,” Seiryu replied, suddenly finding it hard to look directly at Kakashi’s face after Naruto’s stunt.

“Whatever, I’d better head to the field. My cute students are probably waiting,” Kakashi said, strolling away.

Both Seiryu and Naruto sighed in relief.

Suppressing the urge to discipline Naruto again, Seiryu brought him back to the Hokage’s office, told Uchiha Inaho not to let anyone in, then set up a barrier.

“Really, Sensei, isn’t this a bit much?” Naruto tried to run.

“Shut it!” Seiryu activated his Mangekyo Sharingan and brought Naruto into the seal space.

Kurama, who had been dozing, jumped awake at Seiryu’s arrival, fur bristling.

“Uchiha Seiryu! What are you doing here?” Kurama growled.

“Not your concern,” Seiryu said. Then, turning to Naruto: “Now that you’re a real ninja, it’s time you learned the truth.”

“Huh?” Naruto blinked.

“Remember what Kakashi once told you?” Seiryu said.

Naruto thought, then froze. “Wait… you mean…”

“Yes. It’s time you learned about your parents,” Seiryu said. “Sasuke and Neji have already chosen their paths, but you just seem to drift along. I hope meeting them will help you decide what you want to be.”

“I—I can really meet my parents?” Naruto said in disbelief.

Even Kurama was surprised—weren’t his parents dead?

“Go ahead, remove the seal tag on the gate. Then you can meet them,” Seiryu said.

Naruto looked at the tag.

Kurama bared his teeth. “Aren’t you worried I’ll escape if he opens that? If I get out, the kid dies, and you can’t stop me.”

“You can try,” Seiryu said with a smile. “Let’s see if you’re faster, or if my blade is.”

Kurama glared, then huffed and lay back down. “Fine. I’m comfy here. I’ll get out after the kid dies. Not that I’m scared of you!”

Seiryu ignored the fox. Naruto reached for the seal tag—only for a gentle hand to stop him.

“Not so fast, Naruto. That’s not something you can open lightly.”

Naruto turned in shock to see a smiling man in a Hokage cloak—blond, familiar.

“You’re… the Fourth Hokage?” Naruto stammered.

“Yes. And I’m your father. You’ve grown so much,” Minato said, ruffling Naruto’s hair.

Naruto’s response was to punch Minato in the stomach.

Chapter 185: Team 7’s Wave Mission—But Gato Is the Client

Minato doubled over, stunned by the punch, looking at Naruto in disbelief.

But Naruto was already crying.

“Why did you seal the Nine-Tails in me? Do you know what my childhood was like? Everyone in the village hated me,” Naruto sobbed. “If it weren’t for Kakashi and Seiryu-sensei, it would still be like that.”

“I’m sorry, Naruto,” Minato said, pulling Naruto into a gentle hug.

It might have been the first time Naruto ever felt a father’s embrace; he froze in surprise.

“During the Nine-Tails attack, someone manipulated the beast to attack the village. He was so strong—there was no other way to resist him,” Minato explained.

“The masked man who controlled the Nine-Tails is dead,” Seiryu added.

Minato looked over, met Seiryu’s eyes, and smiled.

“Seiryu, it’s been a long time—you’re the Fifth Hokage now?”

“The village put their trust in me,” Seiryu nodded.

“Thank you for looking after Naruto. I’ve seen everything from inside the seal,” Minato said.

“It’s my duty—as Hokage, I look after all the village’s children.”

“And the masked man who caused the disaster—he’s dead?” Minato confirmed.

“Yes. Sorry that the traitor was from my clan.”

“Then I can rest easy.” Minato nodded, relieved.

“Fourth, why not let your wife out too?” Seiryu suggested.

“Now?” Minato glanced at Kurama, a bit hesitant. Originally, Kushina’s chakra was meant to help Naruto tame the Nine-Tails later.

“I brought Naruto here so he could meet you both, and maybe find his own path. He’s a ninja now, but he doesn’t even have a real goal,” Seiryu said.

“I do!” Naruto protested.

“Sasuke wants to be Hokage. Neji wants to lead the Hyuga to a new future. They both work for their dreams. What about you? Ever thought what you want to do as a ninja?” Seiryu pressed.

“I… I want to be Hokage too!” Naruto blurted, but it didn’t sound convincing.

In the original timeline, Naruto wanted to be Hokage for recognition. But now, with everyone’s acceptance—he was already the Uzumaki clan head, one of the class’s prodigies, and future pillar of Konoha. The stigma of being a jinchuriki was nearly gone.

So, while Sasuke and Neji pondered their futures, Naruto spent his days thinking about where to find the best ramen.

Minato looked worried. For a ninja, not having a guiding goal was dangerous.

“You see?” Seiryu sighed. “What he needs now is guidance from his parents. As for the Nine-Tails…”

Seiryu glanced at Kurama, who bristled but backed up a step.

“I’ll make sure nothing goes wrong.” Seiryu deactivated his Mangekyo.

“Alright, I get it.” Minato nodded, then performed a hand seal.

Another burst of chakra, and a red-haired woman appeared before Naruto.

At once, chains shot out from her back, binding Kurama tightly.

“Naruto! Take the Nine-Tails’ chakra now!” Kushina shouted—but then, seeing the situation, she hesitated. “Wait, aren’t you supposed to be fighting Kurama?”

“Mmmph!” Kurama struggled, clearly cursing under the chains.

“Haha…” Kushina laughed awkwardly, then looked at Naruto. Her eyes lit up. “You’re Naruto? You’ve grown so big!”

She rushed over and hugged him, ruffling his hair.

“So handsome. Come, let Mom hug you.”

Kushina’s overwhelming affection nearly suffocated Naruto.

“M-mom…” he gasped, giving up on struggling.

“Kushina, let him go,” Minato said gently.

“Minato?” Kushina let go, confused. “I thought my chakra only appeared when Naruto fought Kurama?”

“Right now, Naruto’s trouble is more severe than that,” Minato explained, and told her about Naruto’s situation.

“Is it really that bad?” Kushina mused. She’d never really been trained as a ninja, so didn’t understand how dangerous it was for a ninja to lack a guiding principle.

“Kushina, Naruto is a ninja now. He’ll have blood on his hands. If he doesn’t have a ninja way, he could be lost to killing—and worse…” Minato glanced at the bound Kurama. “He holds a power no one else has.”

Kushina fell silent, thinking about Naruto’s blank look.

Then she smiled, ruffling Naruto’s hair. “Don’t worry. Naruto is a good kid. I believe in him.”

Minato, too, smiled after a moment.

Hearing them, Naruto was stunned, then his eyes filled with tears. No one had ever believed in him so unconditionally.

“Naruto, do what you want, boldly,” Minato said. “We believe you’ll be a great ninja.”

“Think before you act, remember the three ninja taboos,” Kushina said. “And if you can, I hope you’ll always stay this happy.”

“Dad… Mom…”

“Seiryu,” Minato turned to Seiryu. “Sorry, we can’t really give Naruto much advice. As parents, we just believe in his choices.”

“That’s enough,” Seiryu smiled. “I believe he won’t let you down.”

“Please look after him,” Kushina said, bowing to Seiryu.

“Of course. He’s my student—I won’t let him go astray.”

The couple’s figures began to fade.

“Our time is short,” Minato sighed.

“Dad? Mom?” Naruto panicked, not wanting them to go.

Kushina hugged him again. “Seeing you grow up healthy makes me so happy. I regret not seeing it myself, but now you’re a ninja. Your teacher will teach you the three ninja taboos, but remember—stay away from a man named Jiraiya!”

As Kushina’s reminders continued, their figures faded.

“Naruto, Mom and Dad will always love you.”

Their chakra vanished in a swirl of light, and Kurama, freed, thudded to the ground.

He wanted to curse, but seeing Naruto’s devastated face, he stayed silent.

“Naruto, don’t let your parents down,” Seiryu said, patting his head.

“Sensei, I want to be alone for a while,” Naruto said quietly.

“Alright—when you’re ready, I’ll send you back,” Seiryu smiled gently.

“Thank you, Sensei.”

“Think hard about your goals. Whatever your ninja way, I’ll support you—and so will your friends.”

“Yes!” Naruto nodded, a little stronger.

Seiryu smiled and left the seal space, leaving Naruto alone.

Naruto sat down, looking at Kurama.

“Kurama…”

“What?” Kurama grumbled, still embarrassed from being tied up.

“My mom was a bit rough. I apologize for her,” Naruto said sincerely.

Kurama: …

No one had ever apologized to Kurama before. Seeing Naruto bow sincerely, Kurama felt something strange—maybe for the first time, a human had treated him with respect.

“Hmph.” Kurama flicked his tail, sending Naruto tumbling.

“What was that for?” Naruto complained.

“From now on, call me Lord Kurama. Got it?” Kurama said, closing his eyes.

…

The next morning, Team 7 assembled at Seiryu’s office for their first mission.

Seiryu scanned the mission roster. With their strength, even C-rank missions were too easy, but there weren’t many B-rank missions available.

He was about to send them on a bandit-clearing task when the door knocked.

“Come in,” Seiryu called.

Gato entered.

“Lord Hokage,” Kado greeted, then smiled at the three. “Sasuke, Neji, Naruto—you’ve all become ninja? Congratulations!”

“What brings you here?” Seiryu asked.

“It’s like this,” Gato said, “My business in the Land of Waves has been sabotaged by northern Mist ninja. I was hoping you could send a strong team to help.”

“Are you still up to your old tricks there?” Seiryu frowned.

“No, Lord Hokage, I’m just making normal investments now. I even built them a bridge!”

Chapter 186: “Konoha Knows We’re Not in Charge”

“But even so, the locals in Wave still aren’t satisfied. Just because I charge a toll on the bridge to recoup costs, they want to blow it up and build their own!” Gato complained. “Compared to the Fire Country, the people of Wave have far lower standards of conduct.”

Seiryu nearly laughed. Since when did Konoha get to judge others’ standards? But he realized Gato was just comparing himself to Tazuna—the original’s manipulative client—so Seiryu let it slide.

“Fine, I’ll have these three go with you,” Seiryu decided, assigning the mission to his students.

“Lord Hokage…” Gato hesitated, sizing up the teens. “I don’t doubt their talent, but my intel says the enemy is a northern Mist elite jonin—Zabuza Momochi. The three may be gifted, but facing a veteran like him might be dangerous.”

“Oh? He’s involved?” Seiryu nearly laughed. Zabuza, once again, the starter boss. But with their current skills, even a weaker Kage-level enemy wouldn’t be a threat—they could escape unharmed, and Zabuza wouldn’t be able to dominate as in the original.

Hearing Zabuza’s name, Sasuke and Neji grew excited.

“Zabuza Momochi? The one my father drove off in disgrace? I’ll use him to test my sword!” Sasuke grinned. “If Sensei’s sword can defeat a whole village, mine can at least outshine half of Mist.”

“A northern Mist ninja, and a prominent one?” Neji turned to Seiryu. “If we capture him alive, can the village help us trade him for the Byakugan our clan lost?”

“Catch him first, then we’ll see. Taking him alive will be much harder than just defeating him,” Seiryu said.

“We’ll do it!” Naruto declared.

“All right, go prepare. Neji, you’ll lead the mission,” Seiryu said.

“Of course,” Neji nodded.

“Anything I can prepare for you, gentlemen? Any requests?” Gato asked.

“Uh, Uncle Gato, can we stop in Clear Spring Town for ramen?” Naruto asked.

“Of course! I’ll arrange the best ramen in town for you,” Gato said.

“Don’t trouble the client, Naruto,” Neji warned.

“It’s no trouble,” Gato said. “You help me with my problem, I’ll help you with yours.”

“In that case, I’d like shuriken and explosive tags,” Sasuke added.

“No problem. Neji, do you need anything?” Gato asked.

“No, let’s just get going,” Neji replied.

“Alright. Let’s meet at the south gate in three hours?” Gato suggested.

“Sounds good,” Neji agreed.

After they left, Uchiha Inaho entered, placing an invitation on Seiryu’s desk.

“What’s this?” Seiryu asked.

“An invitation from the Fifth Mizukage. Next week marks the third anniversary of his ascension. He’s holding a military parade and wants to invite you,” Inaho explained.

“Can’t Elder Fugaku handle it? I said he has full authority over the Konoha garrison in Water Country,” Seiryu frowned.

“Commander Fugaku needs to organize the Konoha garrison’s participation in the parade.”

Seiryu: ???

“Our ninja army… in Mist’s parade? Under what title—special guests?”

“No, as the official garrison. In fact, they’re the grand finale,” Inaho said, exasperated by Takagi’s shamelessness.

“Has Takagi lost his mind? Since when do parades include occupying troops?” Seiryu said in disbelief.

“He says it’s a sign of friendship between nations,” Inaho said.

“Tell Elder Fugaku to go as my representative. And send him a Hokage t-shirt,” Seiryu said, shaking his head. Even as Hokage, he found such a parade embarrassing.

…

Meanwhile, in the southern Mist’s office:

“Is it really necessary to invite the Konoha garrison to our parade?” an aide asked.

“If the villagers complain, do they know who they’re talking to?” Takagi snapped. “Increase security—I don’t want our honored guests to hear any discord!”

“Yes, sir,” the aide replied.

“And have our ninja look sharp! Let the world see the true face of Mist!”

“Yes, sir. Is this to show Konoha we can defend Water Country too?”

“No—it’s to show the Water Country citizens we’re protecting them! Konoha already knows we’re not!” Takagi said.

…

As this farcical parade was being planned, Naruto’s team arrived in Wave with Gato.

“This is the bridge?” Neji asked, looking at the massive structure connecting Fire and Wave.

“Yes,” Gatoo said. “I funded the whole thing. Now travel time between the countries is down from three hours by boat to twenty minutes—great for trade.”

“That should help everyone, right? Why would people want to destroy it?” Neji asked.

“What’s the toll?” Sasuke asked, noticing that all the fee-collecting booths were on the Fire Country side.

“It’s reasonable—based on traffic and costs, it’ll take fifteen years to recoup the investment,” Gato said.

Gato, now a business tycoon, wasn’t focused on the money; it was about reputation.

“So the people in Wave just think you’re taking their profits,” Sasuke observed. “And all your bridge workers are from the Fire Country, right?”

“Of course. Any jobs should go to our people. The folks in Wave already make more from trade than ever before—they should be satisfied,” Gato said.

“It’s not about poverty, but fairness,” Sasuke said. “Not everyone in Wave profits from trade, but they all see our side getting rich. Of course they’re unhappy.”

“Exactly. The ones hiring ninja are probably the coastal villagers,” Neji said.

“What are you talking about?” Naruto asked, lost.

Sasuke and Neji ignored him, turning to Gato. “Still, for them to hire an elite jonin… Has Mist’s price dropped that much?”

“In the north, all income is from ninja missions, and they owe a huge debt to the Cloud. They’ll take any job,” Gato explained.

“No wonder. Oversupply drives down prices,” Sasuke said. “Even sword wielders are taking low-paying jobs. I guess my father’s pressure is working.”

“You know economics?” Gato asked, surprised.

“Just a little, from Sensei,” Sasuke said.

“No wonder,” Gato mused. “Even I can’t match Lord Hokage’s economic insights.”

Gato’s estimation of Sasuke rose again—he could see Sasuke one day succeeding Seiryu, and he wanted to stay on his good side.

“So what now? Wait for the saboteurs to show up?” Naruto asked.

“No need,” Sasuke said. “Gato, spread the word: you’ll hire some locals for bridge jobs, but only if they give us info on the ninja saboteurs and those who hired them.”

“I bet someone will come forward soon,” Sasuke said, glancing at the far shore.

“Very good. I’ll handle it,” Gato said, giving Sasuke a meaningful look. Sasuke was already showing Seiryu’s shadow.

…

Meanwhile, at Tazuna’s house in Wave, Zabuza sat at the head of the table, eating quietly.

“Try this, Mr. Zabuza,” Tazuna offered.

Tazuna ate in silence.

“Sir, when will your village send reinforcements?” Tazuna asked.

“What’s the rush?” Zabuza snapped. “Remember, after we destroy the Konoha bridge, Mist gets forty percent of your new bridge.”

“Of course,” Tazuna agreed quickly.

Just then, a teenager burst in, breathless. “Gato just announced he’ll hire local workers for the bridge—but only if they reveal the ninja saboteurs! Some folks are already heading to the bridge!”