Chapter 58 59 60 61 Hatake Tatsuya in Naruto (Patreon)

Ten days had elapsed. Tatsuya, as was his routine, emerged from a day's worth of training, his body bespeaking the traces of dust and sweat. He was navigating a forest path, dragging a wild boar behind him.

"Uncle!"

Abruptly, a little figure possessing the same shade of white hair as Tatsuya's called out.

"Yes?"

Tatsuya turned to face the source of the voice.

In the ensuing scene, Namikaze Minato emerged from the woods, accompanied by Kakshi and Obito. An air of chagrin enveloped them.

"Need another one?" Tatsuya queried.

"Asuma had an unfortunate run-in," Namikaze Minato admitted with a tinge of guilt.

"You lost to Orochimaru?" Tatsuya found it somewhat incredulous.

Namikaze Minato was currently leading the Minato class on an S-level mission. In an official capacity, he had inked an alliance accord with Sunagakure. Although classified as an S-level task, it essentially entailed delivering the treaty document to Sunagakure, securing their signature, and retrieving it—a glorified errand.

The rank of a ninja mission was contingent not just on its difficulty but also on the significance it held. A mission of this ilk, involving a pact between nations, warranted its S-level classification.

Of course, Sarutobi Hiruzen was driven by personal motivations—to bestow a resplendent feather in his son's and Minato's bag. "Behold! My son embarked on an S-level mission at the tender age of 10. Marvel at my prowess!"

As Tatsuya mentioned the name Orochimaru, a shadow of apprehension flashed across the countenances of Namikaze Minato, Kakashi, and Obito.

Indeed, they had been ambushed by Orochimaru upon their return from the Suna. Yet, how did Tatsuya come to know of this?

"No need for such astonishment. He informed me before his departure that he would request Master Hokage's involvement in this matter. He predicted you would be the one handling it," Tatsuya explained matter-of-factly.

Namikaze Minato regarded this explanation with skepticism. On the surface, it seemed tenable. However, on closer examination, certain inconsistencies emerged.

"And then? How did he defeat you?" Tatsuya was genuinely intrigued.

The precision with which Orochimaru had executed the ambush was partly attributed to Tatsuya's briefing. Yet, Tatsuya hadn't actually anticipated the outcome.

Namikaze Minato offered a wry smile as he replied, "Orochimaru-sama knew about all my moves and Orochimaru's experience far outstrips mine."

He gave a brief account, attributing the defeat to a disparity in combat experience. Orochimaru initially targeted Asuma, though he feigned a focus on Namikaze Minato. Consequently, Minato instructed his three disciples to proceed ahead.

Unbeknownst to him, Orochimaru had already stationed his subordinates along their escape route, effortlessly abducting Asuma. Once the deed was done, Orochimaru retreated, leaving Minato in his wake.

Regarding the art of escape, Orochimaru believed he was unmatched within the realm of ninjas—a sentiment not entirely unfounded.

"Kakashi, Obito, return and rest. I'll inform Master Hokage of the situation," Namikaze Minato declared, his demeanor fraught with tension.

Given the loss of the Hokage's son, Minato bore a profound sense of responsibility, one he wasn't entirely confident in handling.

"Don't worry, you'll manage," Tatsuya offered a reassuring pat on Namikaze Minato's shoulder.

Namikaze Minato's smiles outnumbered her tears, mostly when she sought solace in Tatsuya's comforting words. However, her next statement sent shivers down his spine:

"The Third Ninja World War is on the horizon. Master Hokage, who cannot venture onto the battlefield, will have to rely on you."

In an instant, the trio of Namikaze Minato and his apprentices were stunned yet again. How did he possess knowledge of the impending Third Ninja War?

"Is Akasano no Sasori prepared as well?" Tatsuya wondered.

With the formal alliance between the Land of Fire and the Land of Wind in place, the shinobi of Konoha and Suna wouldn't be engaging in combat in the immediate future. Under these circumstances, vengeance for White Fang would likely be elusive. Consequently, the ire might shift to the Third Kazekage, a proponent of the Konoha alliance.

...

...

The forging of an alliance between the Land of Fire and the Land of Wind was undoubtedly a boon for Konoha. Yet, promptly followed another piece of news:

Hokage's second son, Sarutobi Asuma, had been seized by Orochimaru.

Having already lost his eldest son in the prior war, and now with the second abducted by a renegade disciple, the over-50-year-old Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, was increasingly met with sympathy.

Whether Sarutobi Hiruzen held Namikaze Minato responsible remained unknown to Tatsuya. However, it could be surmised that, unlike White Fang's fate in the original narrative, he dared not take the same disciplinary measures against Namikaze Minato. This constituted his sole bargaining chip at present.

"Say, can old man Sarutobi, and Biwako have another child?" Tatsuya asked mischievously of Tsunade below, overcome by an inexplicable nocturnal restlessness.

...

...

"Kazekage-sama has vanished."

"Is this an urgent situation, causing his temporary absence? Given Kazekage-sama's prowess, it's unlikely that he'd encounter any threats."

The Land of Wind.

Sunagakure, having just inked an alliance pact with Konoha, was thrown into turmoil. Even Chiyo, who had opted for retirement, was compelled to resurface.

While harboring resentment toward the Third Kazekage for forming an alliance with Konoha, she was unable to exact vengeance for her son and daughter-in-law. However, the current Sunagakure demanded the leadership of the mightiest Kazekage to oversee matters.

"The Third Kazekage is the most formidable in history; an unexpected accident won't topple him so easily," Ebizo, a seasoned figure, consoled, striving to placate everyone. "Nevertheless, we mustn't let this news trickle down, especially to other nations, to forestall unnecessary panic. Understand?"

The absence of the Third Kazekage signified that the official outbreak of the Third Ninja World War was imminent.

In an underground stronghold located in the northern border region of the Country of Fire, Asuma caught sight of Sakumo and Orochimaru as they approached. He rushed forward instantly, his anger evident as he shouted through the cage enclosing him.

"This is one of Orochimaru's covert bases," Asuma thought to himself, frustration growing.

"Hokage-sama's son... it truly was you," murmured White Fang, observing the tense encounter, his nervousness palpable.

"Asuma-kun, I'd suggest conserving your energy," Orochimaru advised coolly, his gaze fixed on Asuma within the cell. After a brisk reminder, he turned to Sakumo with a smile.

"What have you got for me, Mr. Sakumo? Tatsuya-kun mentioned you might have something to deliver."

After a brief pause, Sakumo handed a small scroll to Orochimaru. As Orochimaru unfurled the scroll, his eyes skimmed the content, a smile playing on his lips.

"Mr. Sarutobi was so furious that he sent Anbu to track me down. It appears the prior agreement is null and void."

Originally, Sarutobi Hiruzen and Orochimaru had a pact for his defection. Despite Konoha's proclamation of his rebellion, Orochimaru didn't anticipate a real pursuit force.

However, his abduction of Asuma had infuriated Sarutobi Hiruzen, leading him to now consider Orochimaru a true traitor, warranting the dispatch of elite Anbu troops for capture.

The scroll from Tatsuya reminded Orochimaru to stay cautious.

"It's nearly time to relocate the base," Orochimaru mused, placing the scroll under the light of an oil lamp, and setting it ablaze.

In the flickering light, Orochimaru turned his gaze towards Sakumo, his eyes harboring malice.

"But I didn't anticipate Tatsuya-kun would send you with a message. It suggests a major move is afoot."

"Tatsuya plans to exploit the impending Ninja World War to undermine Third Hokage's authority. Tsunade will be poised to take over the Fourth Generation's mantle," Sakumo responded, his brow furrowed.

From his prison, Asuma's eyes widened in disbelief at the revelation, unable to process the enormity of what he was hearing.

"That sounds incredibly challenging," Orochimaru mused after the scroll had turned to ashes, resting his chin on his hand.

"You think Sarutobi-sensei would willingly relinquish his Hokage status? He'd rather die."

"Just wait for the news," Sakumo replied.

"Ah, Sakumo-san won't struggle against Teacher Sarutobi for the position of Hokage, will you? Do you still hold any hope?" Orochimaru taunted, observing the conflict in Sakumo's eyes.

"The intricacies of Konoha run deeper than expected," Sakumo's tone turned somber.

Especially after Tatsuya requested help relaying this message to Orochimaru, Sakumo felt his fundamental beliefs unraveling.

Orochimaru's smile widened, recognizing that White Fang's mental turmoil was even more potent than his physical strength.

"You won't succeed!" Asuma erupted in his cell.

Orochimaru raised his hand irritably, and Asuma's demeanor shifted abruptly, writhing on the floor in agony.

The bizarre, black curse, resembling intricate tadpole script, rapidly spread across his body...

...

The news of the Third Kazekage's sudden disappearance spread like wildfire throughout the Ninja world in an astonishingly short span of time. It was an event impossible to conceal, a vanishing act that cast a shadow too large to go unnoticed. In response, numerous prominent Ninja villages swiftly sprang into action, stirred by this revelation.

Among these villages, Cloud Shinobi Village, nestled in the northernmost reaches of the Ninja World within the Thunder Country, was quick to react.

"Seize the opportunity and deploy our forces to the neighboring nation!" The resonating voice of the Third Raikage, widely recognized as "The Strongest Raikage," boomed through the room, the force of his words nearly shattering the entire desk before him.

For some inexplicable reason, it seemed that each Third Generation leader of these villages aspired to be deemed "the strongest." The Third Hokage was hailed as the most formidable Hokage to date, while the Third Kazekage was celebrated as history's most potent wielder of Magnet Style. Likewise, the mantle of the third Raikage also boasted this distinction.

Yet the Third Raikage, often hailed as the mightiest, undeniably lived up to this prestigious moniker. His Offence stood as the perfect counterpart to his indomitable shield, a pinnacle of Kage-level mastery. Under his guidance, Cloud Shinobi Village had undeniably achieved its zenith, a testament to his leadership.

Apart from himself, his two sons, A, and Killer Bee, also radiated Kage-level prowess. Notably, Killer Bee had mastered the Eight-Tails' formidable power with astonishing proficiency. The only lamentable aspect lay in Yugito being too young, whose potential remained untapped due to her tender age. Despite her harmonious integration with the Tailed Beast, the battlefield was a realm still premature for her participation.

"Dad, must we engage with the Sand Shinobi? What gains could possibly justify such a conflict?" The puzzled query of his son, the future Fourth Hokage, A, resonated through the room.

A was not averse to combat, but if war were to ignite, shouldn't their focus be directed at the prosperous Konoha or the stalwart Rock Shinobi?

Was it truly imperative to clash with the Sand Shinobi, a region deemed inconsequential?

"After all, Sand Shinobi is currently aligned with Konoha. If we were to assail them, do you believe Konoha wouldn't rally to their aid?" The Third Raikage countered, addressing his son's concerns.

"Perhaps... there's a decent chance they'd intervene," A conceded after contemplating for a brief moment.

Just then, the Raikage's aide, stationed nearby, interjected, "Raikage-sama, you could lead a raid on the Wind Kingdom, explicitly indicating that Cloud Shinobi Village intends to confront the Sand Shinobi. In response, Konoha, bound by their alliance, would undoubtedly rush to reinforce their Sand counterparts."

With this maneuver, the northwestern region of the nation would be left relatively unguarded. That would be the opportune moment for A, his brother, and himself to act.

A spark of realization ignited in the Fourth Raikage's eyes as he exclaimed, "Ah, I see it now. On the surface, it seems an assault on Sand Shinobi, but in reality, it's a ruse to divert Konoha's attention, granting us the opening to strike at the Fire Country!"

"Exactly," the Third Raikage affirmed with a satisfied nod, a grin stretching across his face.

"Suna is but a barren expanse of sand—there's little allure in its conquest. However, the Fire Country, rich with valuable resources, is precisely what we need!"

Though Konoha's leadership loomed large, what did the Strongest Raikage have to fear? Under his stewardship, Cloud Shinobi Village harbored a newfound confidence, one that brought them tantalizingly close to the might of Konoha.

Location: Hokage Administration Building, High-level Conference Room

At this moment, the meeting room gathered all of Konoha's high-ranking representatives. With the exception of the F4 elders group, which had held the reins of Konoha's highest authority for nearly three decades, the heads of major ninja clans were also summoned, including figures like Uchiha Fugaku, Hyuga Hiashi, and Nara Shikaku.

"Each of you is likely aware of the Third Kazekage's sudden disappearance."

Uncharacteristically, Sarutobi Hiruzen refrained from lighting a cigarette, opting instead for a somber demeanor as he addressed the assembly, "The pressing matter at hand is that the Third Raikage of Cloud Shinobi Village has personally led an assault on the Sand Shinobi. As you all know, our Konoha has only recently formed an alliance with the Suna, home to the Sand Shinobi."

"In such dire circumstances, reinforcement is imperative."

The anger within Sarutobi Hiruzen burned intensely.

Orochimaru, the traitor, had abducted his son!

Clearly, this was a retaliatory move directed at him.

With his own flesh and blood held captive, Sarutobi Hiruzen found it impossible to uphold his vow of not pursuing him earnestly. He promptly ordered the Anbu to launch an investigation into Orochimaru's whereabouts.

However, before the Anbu operatives could take a single step, information arrived that changed the tide.

News arrived that the Third Kazekage of the Sand Shinobi had vanished.

Furthermore, reports streamed in of Cloud Shinobi Village's Third Raikage personally leading forces to breach the borders of the Wind Nation.

It was palpable to all present that the inception of the Third Ninja World War had metamorphosed into reality.

Amid such a tumultuous landscape, Sarutobi Hiruzen found himself without the luxury of focusing on Orochimaru.

He could only allocate a small team to continue pursuing Orochimaru's trail, while the majority were redirected back to Konoha.

The primary agenda: strategize how to reinforce the Sand Shinobi.

"The Shinobi of the Hatake and Ino-Shika-Cho clans... I fear we might not be the best choice," Nara Shikau, the group's intellectual cornerstone, was the first to interject:

"Reinforcing Suna will inevitably involve engagement with Sand Shinobi's ninja. These two clans, through various interactions in the previous Ninja World War, have established numerous connections with Sand Shinobi. I recommend avoiding their participation as much as possible."

"Sakumo, known as the White Fang, slew the son and daughter-in-law of Sand Shinobi elder Chiyo," Shikaku continued. "Tatsuya carved his way through the defenses of Sand Gate, the first line of defense held by the Second Kazekage."

"The individuals who directly confronted Sand Shinobi in the last war are indeed less suitable candidates," agreed Yamanaka Inoichi.

This declaration shifted the room's focus toward clans like Uchiha and Inuzuka, both of which abstained from direct confrontation with Sand Shinobi in the prior conflict.

"In that case, Minato shall assume command, with Fugaku as his deputy. Our reinforcements should lead the Sand Shinobi," Sarutobi Hiruzen declared, casting his gaze toward Uchiha Fugaku.

Fugaku's countenance, however, remained far from agreeable.

Following the apparent "death" of Uchiha Shisui, the strained relationship between the Uchiha clan and the Hokage faction had only intensified.

Hence, when news arrived that Sarutobi Hiruzen's son Asuma had been abducted by Orochimaru, Fugaku's already strained composure lessened abit.

But now, being subordinate to a young genius who's barely 20, how could he find any joy in this situation?

However, regardless of his inner sentiments, Uchiha Fugaku dared not openly defy Sarutobi Hiruzen's intentions; he could only offer a reluctant nod.

"Is it possible for Tsunade-sama to accompany us?" Despite following orders, Uchiha Fugaku still had to advocate for his family's interests.

Having Tsunade around could elevate the soldiers' chances of victory on the battlefield by at least 50%.

"Well... If you can convince her, then sure," Sarutobi Hiruzen hesitated for a moment before finally agreeing.

Honestly, he wanted to leverage this war to prompt Namikaze Minato to rein in the arrogance of Tatsuya and others.

Deploying Tsunade to the battlefield presented an opportunity for her to achieve notable feats.

However, Tsunade's medical skills were exceptional, even Uchiha and Senju's historical enmity was overshadowed by her abilities. Sarutobi Hiruzen was now unwilling, and indeed unable, to find a legitimate reason to exclude Tsunade from the frontlines.

...

...

"On the battlefield? No interest whatsoever!"

Two hours elapsed after the meeting.

Uchiha Mikoto, wife of the Uchiha patriarch and currently expecting a child, sought out Tsunade, imploring her for participation.

What she received, however, was a rather irritable response from Tsunade.

After the Senju clan's hardships during the Second Ninja War, she had contemplated leaving altogether.

Staying until the last war ended was already an act of immense compassion. Was she ready to exert herself this time? Not a chance! Beside her, Nawaki remained silent, scratching his head.

As Mikoto, who used to share a class with him, attempted to connect with him, he kept mum.

"Master Tsunade, please, listen..."

Uchiha Mikoto's expression carried an air of impatience. Unable to persuade Tsunade on her own, she turned her beseeching gaze toward Tatsuya.

Seeing Mikoto's imploring look, Tatsuya felt that she, a pregnant woman, was thinking too much about herself.

However, upon learning of Mikoto and Nawaki's connection as classmates, Tatsuya's thoughts became a bit more intricate. He mused about the dynamics between the Senju and Uchiha.

According to the norms of light novels, why hadn't this pairing succeeded?

"No, Tsunade, you should go," Tatsuya approached.

Tsunade's lovely eyes fixated on him, a look that seemed to ask, "Are you talking to other women, behind my back?"

Interpreting her gaze, Tatsuya guessed that jealousy was at play again.

He quickly explained, "If you don't go, Minato will get all the credit for the start of this war. Remember, I intend to make you the Fourth Hokage after this conflict."

Uchiha Mikoto looked taken aback; Tatsuya and the others actually harbored this plan.

"Haven't I done enough in the previous war?" Tsunade pouted, her voice tinged with reluctance.

"People are like fish—they remember the most recent events. Otherwise, how could the title 'Strongest Hokage' be attributed to the Third Generation?" Tatsuya's words left Tsunade utterly speechless.

After all, when tracing back, the title of "the strongest" shouldn't have belonged to Sarutobi Hiruzen.

So why did it fall to him?

Aside from the elders' intentional propaganda, it was because most people in the village could no longer remember the strength of Senju Hashirama and Senju Tobirama's time.

Memories of the past had faded, and everyone's focus had shifted to the present.

"Aren't you coming?" Tsunade couldn't hold back from asking again.

This guy wasn't content being a homebody.

"Of course not. I'll be dealing with the Cloud Shinobi army that will attack the northern part of the Fire Country later on," Tatsuya responded.

"What do you mean by this, Master Tatsuya?"

"Cloud Shinobi attacking Sunagakure? How could they orchestrate a sneak attack on the Land of Fire?"

The words Tatsuya had just spoken left the three significant figures, utterly incredulous.

Was Cloud Shinobi really planning to launch a covert assault on the Land of Fire?

Weren't they en route to the Kingdom of Wind?

"Use your brain for a moment—think about it. Would Cloud Shinobi's fearsome fighters, third Raikage fit into the desolate domain of the Sand Shinobi?" Tatsuya explained, lightly tapping the heads of the three girls' figures in succession.

Cloud Shinobi Village, having abstained from the Second Ninja War, was currently at the height of its strength. It wasn't unexpected for them to initiate the war.

However, their choice of the Wind Country as their target was audacious, to say the least.

A little consideration would suffice to deduce the motives. The Land of Fire, closer and abundant in resources, was not a suitable battlefield. On the other hand, the Land of Wind is barren and full of sand...

Although the previous generations of Raikage were often depicted as brawns over brains, they weren't entirely foolish.

"In simpler terms, Cloud Shinobi's public attack is directed at Sunagakure, yet as soon as Konoha's forces are relocated to the Kingdom of Wind, Cloud Shinobi intends to launch a surprise offensive from the north!"

Kurenai suddenly grasped the situation, exclaiming, "We have to inform the Hokage right away!"

"No need for that," Tatsuya interjected, placing a hand on Kureani's head to stop her.

"Why? Why not?" Kurenai's large crimson eyes were brimming with puzzlement.

"If Hokage-sama's doesn't make more errors. How can you, Tsunade-sama, sit idly in the Hokage's seat?"

Tatsuya wore a mischievous smile.

Ensuring Konoha's victory in the Third Ninja World War was a rather straightforward task.

He, Sakumo, and Tsunade, all of whom didn't actively participate in the original war, could collectively alter the course of the conflict once they entered the fray.

However, mere victory wasn't enough; a resounding triumph would suffice. That outcome would surely echo the events of the prior Ninja World War.

Tatsuya needed to devise a means of tripping up Sarutobi Hiruzen.

It was time for him to step down. At present, his inability to discern Cloud Shinobi's covert attack strategy marked his first blunder.

Uchiha Mikoto listened with sheer bewilderment. Her husband had long coveted the position of Hokage, but his lack of strength had rendered him impotent.

However, Tatsuya's plan had illuminated the path for her. She comprehended it entirely now. Her husband's deficiency wasn't limited to strength alone; he lacked strategic acumen.

With Tatsuya's cunning, Sarutobi Hiruzen could be overwhelmed. Power alone was insufficient to evoke fear; it needed to be accompanied by a tactical spine.

Their only recourse was to tread cautiously.

"Mikoto, when you return, remember what to share and what to withhold," Nawaki advised, addressing his old classmate.

"I won't divulge a thing!" Uchiha Mikoto responded, her voice trembling.

With a final nod, she hastened away, a sense of fear palpable. Hopefully, her actions hadn't adversely affected her unborn child...

"Finally setting off!"

On the second day, at the main entrance of Konoha Village,

Obito, who was following his teacher Namikaze Minato, exclaimed excitedly,

"It's a miracle that we're not running late."

Kakashi squinted at Obito with a hint of disdain in his eyes.

Of course, he understood very well why Obito, who was usually not known for punctuality, had managed to arrive so early today.

It was because Tsunade-sama, the head of the medical department, was leading them to the battlefield in the Kingdom of Wind.

And naturally, her three disciples, including Rin, were to accompany her.

At last, I'll get to go on a mission with my goddess, Obito thought with bubbling excitement. He hadn't been able to sleep all night, unaware that this was not some leisure outing.

"Oh, here they come!"

Suddenly, Obito's eyes lit up, and he waved his arm while shouting,

"Rin! Over here! Come this way!"

Four figures approached slowly, including Rin, Obito's beloved goddess.

"Master Tsunade, I'm relying on you once again this time," Namikaze Minato said, bowing his head and saluting.

"It'd be better if I didn't come. I wouldn't have to share the credit with you," Tsunade retorted with her characteristic sharpness.

"No, no, I've never thought of it that way," Namikaze Minato hurriedly reassured.

Tsunade chose not to continue the banter. Her less-than-friendly attitude toward Namikaze Minato was primarily due to his close association with the elderly Sarutobi, which often left her feeling displeased.

"Hey, Rin, we're going to be on a mission together this time," Obito exclaimed, a playful smirk on his face.

Rin responded with her usual gentle smile.

"Disgusting," Kakashi muttered under his breath on the side.

"Here, Obito," Rin said, producing a white medical kit from behind and handing it to Obito.

"You're giving this to me?" Obito's cheeks flushed slightly.

After a moment's hesitation, Rin nodded slightly.

Just as Obito's heart was soaring like a breeze, Rin's next words hit him like a lightning bolt from a clear sky,

"Well, it's for you and Kakashi. Please take it."

"Master Tatsuya."

At that moment, Namikaze Minato and the others spotted Tatsuya, leisurely strolling with a hip flask, and called out to him.

"No need to be so formal; I'm just a Genin, here to bid you farewell."

As soon as the word "Genin" escaped Tatsuya's lips, a palpable chill seemed to sweep over everyone present.

The dissatisfaction was becoming evident...

"Well, Rin, what do you mean by saying you want to offer support?" Obito asked, his brows knitted in confusion.

"I'm sorry, Obito, but I won't be joining you on this mission. I'll remain in the village with Master Tatsuya," Rin explained apologetically, clasping her hands together.

Obito's expression froze instantly.

So, it had been a miscalculation after all!

"Uncle, what's going on?" Kakashi's brows furrowed in confusion as well, as he looked at Tatsuya.

"It's a bit complicated to explain right now. I'll share the details when the opportunity arises," Tatsuya replied vaguely.

He couldn't reveal that he was doing this to prevent Uchiha Madara from using Rin as a pawn. The true reason was too complex and unbelievable.

For Rin, a gentle and kind-hearted girl, the idea of becoming a tool of Uchiha Madara was too agonizing.

That's why Tatsuya had chosen this path. Yet, he couldn't help but be curious.

If Rin was no longer in danger, what would happen to Obito and Kakashi?