"The Incompetent Squad? Genma, you don't need to belittle yourself like that."
Even though it had been a while since they last saw each other, Koshino still remembered Genma Shiranui's prideful nature. While he might not be as arrogant as Kakashi, Genma still had a deep-seated sense of pride.
After all, in Konoha, aside from geniuses like Kakashi, Shisui, and Itachi, Genma was considered one of the top talents. His future role as a pillar of Konoha in the original story is evidence of how exceptional he truly was.
Moreover, to become part of the ANBU under the Fourth Hokage at such a young age and later serve as his personal guard during the Third Shinobi World War, it's understandable that Genma would look down on other ninjas who weren't as talented or accomplished. After all, it's hard to respect others when the circles you move in are vastly different.
For instance, if all of Koshino's comrades had been the lowest-ranking students during their academy days, even if he didn't say anything aloud, it would be hard not to feel some frustration if those comrades constantly held his back during missions.
But now, seeing the proud Genma Shiranui describe himself in such a self-deprecating way, Koshino couldn't help but feel his eye twitch slightly.
Especially since the word "incompetent" coming from Genma's mouth had likely been softened a great deal.
Koshino could easily imagine that other squads' evaluations of Genma, Ebisu, and Guy's team were probably much harsher than just calling them "incompetent." he could sense just how bitter Genma must feel, being labeled part of a "worthless" squad.
So, Koshino made sure to engage in some light-hearted conversation with Genma, trying to lift his spirits.
As they chatted, Koshino couldn't help but think to himself:
"Genma, Guy... both of them become pillars of Konoha in the original story. Even Ebisu, who didn't stand out much in the original narrative, becomes the teacher of the Third Hokage's grandson, which suggests he has some real skills."
"How could a team composed of future powerhouses like them earn such a terrible reputation?"
"Could it be that their reputation as 'incompetent' and 'worthless' is because of their Genin squad leader?"
"Judging by Genma's frustration, it seems likely."
"My Uncle Shikaku's decision to place me in this squad must have a deeper purpose. I need to figure out what it is."
It's clear that the person Koshino trusts the most is his uncle, Nara Shikaku.
So, even though his friend Genma had no confidence in the squad's potential, Koshino still believed that this mysterious Genin squad leader must have some hidden abilities that even Shikaku recognized. Otherwise, with Koshino's impressive track record in recent battles, Shikaku wouldn't have transferred his to a relatively safer squad just to protect his from harm, right?
As Koshino and Genma continued their conversation, with Koshino subtly comforting his frustrated friend, the figures of Guy and Ebisu soon appeared in the distance, entering their field of vision.
There might have been some misunderstanding between Koshino and Ebisu, but Ebisu's personality was actually quite amiable. Especially after hearing about the dangers Koshino faced on his recent mission, the same Ebisu who, in the original story, looked down on Naruto Uzumaki had no hard feelings about being knocked out by Koshino. In fact, during their brief exchange, he maintained a humble attitude, hoping to learn more from Koshino.
Within just a few minutes, Koshino had seamlessly integrated into the so-called "Incompetent Squad" and even established a budding friendship with Ebisu, earning the acceptance of everyone in the team—a new beginning, so to speak.
However, just as the "Incompetent Squad" was bonding and enjoying some friendly banter, two figures approached, causing Genma's face to darken once more.
"Koshino, you've been in the ANBU for a while, so you might not be aware of some of the dirty politics in the camp."
"If any trouble arises, leave it to Ebisu and me to handle."
"Hmph!"
"The Uchiha and Hyuga clans are getting more arrogant by the day!"
As Genma finished speaking, Koshino turned to look at the two approaching figures and quickly noticed that they were from the Uchiha and Hyuga clans.
Observing the disdainful looks the two were giving each other, Koshino couldn't help but smirk internally, thinking, "How ridiculous. Even in the middle of a war, these clan conflicts can't be avoided?"
"In a situation where we're supposed to be fighting a common enemy, it's absurd that the Uchiha and Hyuga clans are still focused on their internal disputes, as if the honor of their clans was built solely by them."
"Fine! If you want to play your little clan games, let's see what you've got!"
"If your petty feud ends up causing unnecessary casualties, don't expect me to hold back, even if it means offending Shisui or Lord Hizashi."
Keeping a close eye on the approaching Uchiha and Hyuga ninjas, Koshino subtly moved behind Guy, giving the appearance of staying out of it while secretly preparing to counter any aggression.
However, the Uchiha and Hyuga ninjas seemed to completely ignore Koshino's presence as they walked up to Guy, Genma, and the others, their faces full of disdain. The Uchiha ninja, in particular, looked down at them and arrogantly said, "Hey, you bunch of losers! We've got supplies arriving at the camp, so get off your lazy asses and help out. If you screw up this task, you'll have me to answer to!"
"Uchiha Rei, these 'incompetents' may be idle, but why should they take orders from your Uchiha clan? Listen up, 'Incompetent Squad'—I'm giving you a chance to prove yourselves. Follow the Hyuga clan's orders and complete this mission, and there might be some reward for you. But only if you know what's good for you!"
"Oh, Hyuga Hinoe, what's this? Trying to pick a fight?"
"You think I'm picking a fight? Uchiha Rei, I think you're just looking for trouble."
As the two bickered, Hyuga Hinoe turned his disdainful gaze toward Genma, sneering, "Hey, you seem to be the one in charge of this useless squad. So tell me, are you going to follow the Hyuga clan's lead or the Uchiha's? Choose wisely, because if you pick the wrong side, you'll have a world of trouble coming your way!"
"Hah, and what's this trouble you Hyuga are threatening? What are you going to do if we don't pick you?"
"You better watch it! If the Uchiha clan decides to make you a target, you won't stand a chance!"
In the face of Guy, Genma, and the others remaining silent, Uchiha Rei and Hyuga Hinoe had effectively dragged their clan conflict into the "Incompetent Squad," causing them unnecessary grief.
However, while Koshino might not be fully acquainted with Ebisu's personality, he understood Genma and Guy very well.
In the past, neither of them would have cared about facing off against the Uchiha or Hyuga clans. Genma, in particular, being from the prestigious Shiranui clan and a rising star among the new generation, would have had no problem standing up to their arrogance.
But to Koshino's surprise, as he waited for the situation to escalate, both Genma and Ebisu remained silent, clenching their fists and biting their lips in frustration, clearly angry but unable to speak up. Even Guy, who Koshino had expected to be the most defiant in the face of the Uchiha and Hyuga's clan pride, was quick to adopt a submissive attitude.
"Uh... our squad has plenty of hands on deck!" Guy said with a forced smile.
"I think it would be best if we took on both of your tasks ourselves!"