Arriving at the Uchiha Central Station, Raizen's eyes darted around the massive courtyard. Clans from all over the Warring States period had gathered—each with their own jutsus, traditions, and ambitions. Most of these families hadn't even heard of the Amamiya, but two names stood out: the Shimura clan and the Sarutobi clan, both already famous and respected.
If Uchiha, Senju, Hyuga, and Hakata were "super big" families, Shimura, Sarutobi, and Zhuluchou were just a step below—strong, prestigious, and feared. Amamiya? Small-fry. Barely a blip on this battlefield of clans.
"The Patriarch invites Jōnin from all families to discuss the upcoming battle!"
A sharp voice cut through the murmurs. One of the Uchiha clan members flung open a massive door and called out with authority.
The Shimura snorted in disdain. Others from various families exchanged tight-lipped glances. Uchiha might be powerful, but summoning everyone like court ministers? That was a bit much—even for the Warring States era. Still, this was the Uchiha's residence; no one dared speak out loud.
Arrogant bastards, Raizen thought, tugging at his sleeve. No wonder they're the first-class family everyone's scared of.
While waiting for the meeting to start, a clear, confident voice rang out. Raizen looked up to see a boy about his age striding forward, surrounded by a protective circle of Uchiha ninja. He carried himself like a second-generation prodigy, arrogance dripping from every move.
"This is how the Uchiha treat their guests!" muttered one of the other clan members under their breath.
"I may be young, but I'm stronger than you!" the boy shouted. He pointed at everyone who had dared look down on him.
Some scoffed. A five-year-old claiming superiority? Raizen raised an eyebrow. Well, he'd seen crazier.
"Don't believe me? Fight me, then!" the boy snapped, his eyes scanning for a worthy opponent. Finally, he fixed his gaze on Raizen.
"You. Same age. Let's see if Uchiha power is really better than you."
Raizen smirked. Cute little devil, he mused. Doesn't even know who he's talking to yet.
"Are you underestimating me?" the boy asked, his eyes blazing.
Amamiya's left-wing silently stepped forward, shielding Raizen. Better not let the brat get a free hit, he thought.
"Left-wing brother, let me test the Uchiha clan's strength." Raizen whispered, tugging at his comrade's sleeve.
Amamiya's left-wing sighed, seeing Raizen's determination. "Be careful. Don't hurt anyone—we're in their residence."
"Got it," Raizen replied, stepping forward with a polite bow. The Uchiha boy's eyes flared with irritation.
"You dare underestimate me? I'll teach you a lesson!"
"I am Uchiha Izuna!" the boy declared, pointing directly at Raizen. "And you, opponent, will reveal your name! I don't fight nameless weaklings!"
Raizen froze for a moment. Uchiha Izuna? Madara's younger brother? The future Mangekyō wielder? His eyes widened. So this is what he looks like as a kid… adorable and terrifying at once.
"Amamiya Raizen. And I'll defeat you!" he said, a glint of mischief in his eyes.
Izuna shrieked and charged, his small frame moving with blinding speed. Raizen grinned. So this is the Uchiha prodigy… perfect for training.
In the blink of an eye, Izuna threw a punch at Raizen's head. Raizen caught it with a bent forearm, the clash signaling the start of a real battle—speed, skill, and instinct colliding in a dance of chakra and steel.
Great. A five-year-old Uchiha, and he's already faster than most Genin I've seen. This is going to be fun.