- Seven Years Later - The Sparring of Prodigies -
In a secluded training ground, one of many scattered like hidden gems throughout the revitalized village of Uzushiogakure, the air crackled with focused energy. Two figures moved with a practiced intensity that belied their youthful appearance. One, his back bearing a large, intricately sealed jug, wielded the iron-rich water of the training ground as if it were an extension of his very will, each ripple and surge a testament to years of dedicated refinement. His opponent, with striking crimson hair that seemed to catch the sunlight and piercing eyes that tracked every minute movement, danced around the aqueous assaults with an almost preternatural grace.
These were Akashi Uzumaki and Oyashiro Chinoike, two of the academy's most promising graduates, now newly minted Genin, their potential a palpable force in the village.
Akashi's movements were a study in calculated precision. Whether employing the fluid strikes of his Taijutsu or the focused bursts of his burgeoning Ninjutsu, every action was deliberate, every step measured. With unwavering focus, he surged towards Oyashiro, a Gale Palm (旋風掌, Senpūshō) preceding him, the compressed burst of wind aimed to disrupt his opponent's control. Simultaneously, tendrils of electric blue energy crackled around his limbs, the Lightning Enhancement (雷遁強化, Raiton Kyōka) amplifying his speed and reaction time to near-superhuman levels.
Oyashiro responded with a fluid grace of his own. The iron-laden water, guided by his unique Kekkei Genkai, now dubbed "Bending" at Akashi's suggestion, swirled and contorted around him, forming an impenetrable shield against Akashi's relentless assault. Over the years, under Akashi's insightful guidance, Oyashiro had transformed his innate abilities into a distinct and formidable fighting style. The term "Bending" resonated with the fluid manipulation he now commanded, a perfect descriptor for his almost telekinetic control over the magnetized water.
The intensity of Akashi's attack escalated, his hands weaving through a rapid series of hand seals, a blur too fast for the unaided human eye to follow. With a final surge of chakra, he exploded forward, a crimson streak against the training ground's dusty earth, and delivered a sharp slap to Oyashiro's arm. A complex Chakra Sealing Technique (チャクラ封印術, Chakura Fūinjutsu), a fundamental yet potent application of Fuinjutsu Akashi had diligently practiced, momentarily disrupted the flow of Oyashiro's chakra in that limb.
For most, having their chakra sealed in the midst of a spar would induce panic. But Oyashiro was not most. Years of rigorous training against Akashi's diverse sealing arts had conditioned him. Ignoring the temporary disruption, he swiftly produced several Kunai, each connected to a primed Explosive Tag (起爆札, Kibaku Fuda).
Akashi's Kagura Eye (神楽眼), his ever-active sensory Dojutsu, registered the subtle shift in Oyashiro's chakra and the tell-tale flicker of the explosive tags. He executed a swift Body Flicker Technique (瞬身の術, Shunshin no Jutsu), vanishing in a swirl of leaves only to reappear a short distance away. However, his enhanced senses immediately registered the ominous presence of more explosive tags, strategically placed to intercept his new location. It would have been a clever trap had Akashi not already foreseen it. With a swift slap of his hands against the ground, he erected a shimmering Barrier Seal (結界封印, Kekkai Fūin), a complex web of inscribed symbols that flared with protective energy, intercepting the ensuing flames.
But even as the barrier held, a sudden, sharp pain lanced through Akashi's side.
Oyashiro had moved with blinding speed, his kunai finding its mark!
POOF!
Oyashiro's eyes widened as his kunai dissolved into a puff of smoke. The Substitution Jutsu (変わり身の術, Kawarimi no Jutsu). Too late, his instincts screamed. He whirled around to face Akashi, only to find the tip of a kunai pressed firmly against his throat.
"Haha, guess that makes 32 wins and zero losses, right, Oyashiro?" Akashi chuckled, a hint of playful pride in his voice.
"Tch," Oyashiro sighed, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow. "That's only because the Kagura Eye is practically cheating. How am I supposed to trick or sneak up on you when you see through everything? And can you please stop sealing my chakra in these fights? It's wildly uncomfortable."
"Hai, hai, don't worry," Akashi grinned. "Next time, no chakra seals. Instead, I'll use some delightful body or movement seals." He knew those particular seals, which temporarily restricted physical movement, irritated his friend even more.
Unbeknownst to the sparring Genin, their intense exchange was being observed from the Kage building. Grandfather Ashina, the current Uzukage, was utilizing a ninjutsu akin to the Third Hokage's Crystal Ball Jutsu, projecting a clear image of their grandson's progress to the assembled council of elders.
"So tell me, fellow elders," Ashina began, his gaze never leaving the projected image,
"what are your impressions of the two greatest prodigies of this new generation?"
A murmur of impressed agreement filled the room.
"They are remarkably skilled, Lord Kage," one elder remarked, stroking his long white beard.
"I couldn't have moved with half that speed or precision at their age," another added, his eyes wide with admiration.
"Surely these two are the future of Uzushiogakure, especially Akashi, Lord Kage," a third elder asserted, his voice filled with conviction.
"Agreed! And he still possesses such untapped potential!"
"Haha," an older woman chuckled, a hint of lingering resentment in her voice, "when he comes into his full power, Konoha will surely regret their betrayal."
"Mmm," another elder mused, his gaze sharp, "perhaps these two will be the instruments of our village long-awaited vengeance against the Konohagakure?"
The fervent discussion continued for some time, the elders' spirits lifted by the evident promise of their village's next generation.
Ashina watched them, a quiet smile gracing his lips before he glanced back at the projected image of his grandson. "Truly," he murmured, almost to himself, "the young shall surpass the old and breathe new life into our village."
Several elders overheard Ashina's quiet pronouncement and nodded in agreement. The academy, established years prior, had implemented a comprehensive system of classes and specialized divisions, ensuring that each student received tailored instruction in ninjutsu and chakra control. This inclusive approach had benefited not only the clan children but also the burgeoning population of civilian shinobi. The consistent production of skilled shinobi, without sacrificing quality for quantity, was a testament to the academy's success.
While still a relatively new institution, the academy's impact was already being felt throughout Uzushiogakure. When news of Uzushio's decision to extend shinobi training to civilians reached other nations, it was met with astonishment and skepticism. They were branded as naive fools, risking the defection and betrayal of those who would sell guarded clan secrets. Ashina had considered the potential risks, but the early benefits, particularly in a world teetering on the brink of war, far outweighed the perceived dangers. Quality over sheer numbers was a lesson etched in the scars of their past.
Regaining the attention of his council, Ashina shifted the focus of the meeting. "Now, for the primary purpose of our gathering. As you all know, the integration of the Chinoike clan into our village has been a resounding success, a testament to our adaptability and open-mindedness. Even intermarriages between our clans have become commonplace." A murmur of agreement rippled through the room as several elders exchanged knowing glances, their own families having recently forged such unions. "My friends, I believe the time is ripe to invite another clan into our fold. Are there any suggestions?"
The question hung in the air, igniting a flurry of animated discussion. Eventually, the elders began to circulate a piece of parchment, each inscribing their recommendations before it was returned to Ashina.
Turning his attention to the list, Ashina scanned the names of numerous formidable clans, some familiar, others entirely unknown to him. After careful consideration, he narrowed down the options to what he believed were the most promising potential allies:
* Iburi Clan – The Phantom Mist Clan: Originating from the underground of the Land of Fire, the Iburi Clan possessed the rare Smoke Release (煙遁, Enton) Kekkei Genkai, granting them the ability to transform their bodies into smoke, rendering them nearly intangible. Their mastery of stealth and espionage would have been invaluable for ANBU Black Ops and reconnaissance missions. However, their unstable transformations often led to fatal consequences if not meticulously controlled.
* Kagasei Clan – The Curse-Born Clan: Hailing from the isolated Land of Valleys, the Kagasei Clan was feared for their cursed bloodline: Cursed Flesh (禍肉, Wajiku). This Kekkei Genkai allowed for the passive absorption of natural energy, leading to berserk transformations with monstrous features, immense strength, rapid regeneration, and shapeshifting into weapons. However, prolonged transformations often resulted in mental instability. (Author's Note: To mitigate this instability, the Kagasei Elders developed sealing rituals, later refined by Orochimaru into his infamous Cursed Seals.)
* Kesshōgawa Clan – The Crystal River Clan: From the Land of Waterfalls, the Kesshōgawa Clan wielded the exquisite Crystal Release (晶遁, Shōton), enabling them to crystallize any substance, including water, earth, and even chakra-based attacks. Their abilities included matter crystallization for barriers and weapons, chakra absorption and reflection through crystal mirrors, the creation of diamond-hard crystal clones and armor, and the terrifying petrification of enemies. Once master fortress builders, their numbers had dwindled to a mere handful of survivors.
* Tsuchigumo Clan: An independent shinobi clan from the Land of Fire, known for their isolationist nature and the development of forbidden and powerful jutsu for self-defense. Their Tsuchigumo Style: Forbidden Jutsu was rumored to be capable of destroying an entire country, drawing upon immense natural energy. They also utilized spider-based techniques, including chakra webs, threads, and barriers.
* Kurokiba Clan – The Fangs That Devour Light: Once mercenaries from the Land of Rivers, the Kurokiba Clan possessed the dangerous Dark Release (冥遁, Meiton), allowing them to absorb and manipulate enemy chakra, convert stolen energy into devastating counterattacks, and employ forbidden sealing techniques that drained life force. Their fearsome abilities had led to their near annihilation.
* Umikage Clan – The Clan of the Ocean's Shadow: From the Land of the Sea, the Umikage Clan possessed the Abyssal Transformation (深淵の変化, Shin'en no Henka) Kekkei Genkai, granting them advanced aquatic physiology, hydrokinesis, the ability to develop aquatic mutations for deep-sea combat, echo sense for underwater detection, and a Silent Hunter Technique for seamless blending with water currents. They were highly adaptable, resilient, and known for their mastery of naval warfare.
* Fūma Clan: A once-great, now scattered mercenary clan primarily associated with the Land of Sound, though historically linked to the Land of Fire. While lacking a specific Kekkei Genkai, they were renowned for their unique and deadly Fūma Ninkenjutsu (Wind Demon Ninja Arts), including deceptive techniques, binding abilities, and weaponized transformations. Their survivalist mentality often led to ruthless tactics.
As Ashina reviewed the list, one particular clan name stood out, recommended by Chinoike Elder Tomo: the Hagaromo Clan. He had no prior knowledge of them. "Hagaromo Clan? Clan Head Tomo, you directly recommended them. Can you tell us a bit more about them?"
With all eyes turning towards him, Elder Tomo stepped forward. "Of course, Lord Uzukage. The Hagaromo Clan was quite prominent during the Warring States period, actively engaging both the Uchiha and Senju clans. They resided in the Land of Fire at that time, but when the Senju and Uchiha formed their alliance, the Hagaromo perceived it as a significant threat and relocated to the Land of Lightning, eventually aligning themselves with Kumogakure."
"Kumogakure, you say?" an elder interjected, his voice laced with suspicion. "Doesn't that make them an enemy clan?"
"Mm, under normal circumstances, that would be the case," Tomo conceded. "However, like us, they suffered banishment. Two of their members, the infamous Gold and Silver Brothers, attacked both the Second Raikage and Hokage, leading to the tragic death of Tobirama Senju. This act shattered the fragile peace talks and brought dishonor upon the entire Hagaromo Clan, despite the majority having no involvement in Ginkaku and Kinkaku's actions.
Consequently, they were ostracized and forced to wander, much like we once did."
"The clan of the Gold and Silver Brothers, huh?" Ashina mused, a thoughtful expression on his face. "They must possess considerable power, especially considering those two were able to consume the flesh of the Nine-Tails. Tell us more about their character, Elder Tomo, for in the end, that is what matters most. We seek allies, not merely weapons."
"They are a clan that deeply values strength and honor, Lord Uzukage," Tomo explained. "Weakness in comrades is seen as an offense, and weakness in leadership is intolerable. However, those who demonstrate strength and consistently strive for improvement are embraced and treated like family. When our clan last encountered them, they extended us respect and dignity. I have no doubt they would afford the Uzumaki the same courtesy, especially considering they have likely heard of the humiliating defeat the Great Nations suffered when they dared to invade Uzushiogakure."
The elders engaged in a spirited debate regarding the merits and risks of inviting the Hagaromo Clan. Some of the more conservative members voiced concerns about their past association with Kumogakure and the treacherous actions of the Gold and Silver Brothers. Others argued that their shared history of banishment and their emphasis on strength and honor made them potentially valuable allies. Ultimately, the decision rested with Ashina.
"Fellow elders," Ashina declared, his voice carrying the weight of leadership, "I believe it is too soon to make a definitive choice. However, I propose we dispatch messengers to the Iburi clan , Kagasei Clan Hagaromo clan, Kesshōgawa Clan, Tsuchigumo Clan,Kurokiba Clan,Fūma Clan, and Umikage Clan, inviting them to send representatives to our village. Only through a face-to-face meeting can we truly assess their character and determine whether they would be a suitable addition to our people."
"Agreed, Lord Uzukage," the elders responded in unison.
As the meeting was about to conclude, Kuroko stepped forward, drawing the attention of the council. "Lord Kage," he began, his voice respectful yet firm.
"Regarding the dispatching of messengers, this task would naturally fall to the Anbu. For one of the clans, the Hagaromo, I was wondering if it would be permissible for me to take my two students, Akashi and Oyashiro, on this mission. I believe it would be an invaluable experience for them." Over the years, Kuroko had also taken Oyashiro under his wing, recognizing the young Chinoike's exceptional potential.
Ashina considered the request, his gaze softening as he thought of his grandson. "Those two, you say? Hmm, that may indeed be a wise decision, Kuroko. With both Akashi and Oyashiro destined to become future leaders of our village, gaining early exposure to diplomatic endeavors could prove beneficial."
"I concur with your assessment," another elder added. "However, Kuroko, I insist you take an additional Anbu operative to accompany them. Akashi is, after all, our Jinchuriki. We cannot afford to take any unnecessary risks."
"Understood, Lord Kage!" Kuroko affirmed, a sense of purpose settling within him. The next chapter in Uzushiogakure's rise was about to be written, carried on the young shoulders of its brightest prospects.
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End of 21st chapter
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Author's Note:
Were you guys surprised to see the Hagoromo Clan make an appearance? Don't tell me it's not canon—because technically, it is for like a second in the anime! Since there wasn't much official info about them, I decided to get creative and merge their lineage with the infamous Gold and Silver Brothers. After all, their clan origins were never clearly revealed, so why not?
Also, I hope you all enjoyed the sneak peek at the future clans of Uzushiogakure. There's a lot more coming, so stay tuned!