Compared to the systems in other transmigration novels Xingliu had read, this one was perfect. No demands, just AFK slots to use.
Now, he just needed to figure out the AFK speed to fully understand the system.
With only two initial slots, he had to plan wisely.
Some skills might start low-level but have untapped potential.
The cooking skill intrigued him. Cooking ingredients was one thing, but cooking rules was another.
Who knew? Maybe the system would turn this white-ranked skill into a game-breaking ability.
But compared to the Sharingan and Uchiha bloodline, which directly boosted combat power, cooking was unstable and uncertain.
It might slow down his growth, wasting the system's greatest advantage.
With that in mind, Xingliu decided to focus on leveling up the Sharingan and bloodline first.
After sorting out the system, he grabbed some money and stepped outside, ready to explore and grab a bite.
When he first arrived, dealing with his parents' funeral and worrying about the future left him no time for sightseeing.
Now, with the system easing his anxiety and giving him confidence, he could finally enjoy the world he'd loved from afar.
With mixed emotions, Xingliu strolled down the street.
The scene before him was a bit disappointing, but the familiar sights made him pause.
The layout was similar to the anime, but everything was more rundown.
It was the end of the First Shinobi World War. Though the fighting was nearly over, those who had died would never return.
Uchiha Xingliu strolled down the worn-out streets of Konoha. The familiar shops were few, with only the future-famous BBQ Q in sight. There was no sign of the legendary Ichiraku Ramen.
Business in the small eateries was slow, a clear reflection of Konoha's current state. Compared to its future prosperity, the village was still rebuilding.
As Xingliu walked, the Uchiha Clan Emblem on his back drew frowns from passersby.
*Even this early, the Uchiha name's already tarnished. Must be Uncle Tobirama's policies.*
The Uchiha were a clan of love and obsession. Lose love, and their innate talent could awaken the Sharingan. The most gifted could even unlock the Mangekyou Sharingan.
But that power came with a price. It trapped them in their own world. Uchiha Obito and Uchiha Itachi were prime examples.
Obito, after witnessing Rin's death, became obsessed with the Infinite Tsukuyomi, believing it would bring happiness. He even killed his own teacher's wife without remorse.
Itachi, after enduring war and brainwashing, witnessed Shisui's death and became convinced the Uchiha would cause irreparable harm, leading him to annihilate his clan.
To prevent such tragedies, Tobirama established the Police Force. It was a double-edged sword—keeping the Uchiha busy with peacekeeping, reducing their fighting spirit, and limiting the awakening of their eyes. But it also played into their obsessive nature, tarnishing their reputation.
"To be Hokage, you need everyone's approval." It had its flaws, but there was truth in it. Without grassroots support, the Uchiha could never produce a Hokage.
*If only the Uchiha could curb their obsession and use the Police Force to build a good reputation...*
But they remained blind to their own limitations, trapped in their pride.
Xingliu stopped, the villagers' wary glances sapping his desire to explore further. He turned towards BBQ Q, a well-known spot in the ninja world, owned by the Akimichi clan.
As he entered, the aroma of grilled meat hit him, igniting his appetite. The place was bustling with ninjas, unlike the empty streets outside.
Among them, a little blonde girl caught his eye. Xingliu squinted, taking a seat nearby. As he ordered, he couldn't help but glance at the familiar figure.
"Mom, Dad, do you have to leave so soon? The war's over, isn't it?"
The girl's parents smiled wryly, their voices gentle. "Little Tsunade, we're Senju. We have to set an example..."
Before they could finish, Tsunade's eyes welled up. "No, I don't want you to go! Grandpa said the same, and he never came back! I hate you!"
With that, she ran out, tears streaming down her face. Her parents were caught off guard but quickly followed. The father moved to comfort her, but the mother stopped him.
"Let her vent. Uncle Tobirama's death hit her hard. We'll follow from a distance."
The father nodded, trailing behind his daughter. Watching Tsunade run, tears in their eyes, they knew they had to be strong for her.
*So that's young Tsunade,* Xingliu mused. *Even as a child, she wasn't as strong as she seemed.*
He recalled her future—how tragedy would harden her, turning her into the fierce woman he knew. But beneath it all, she was still that vulnerable girl.