The tent looked much as Fugaku remembered, though there were now new markers on the map of the Land of Rain.
“Squad 009, led by Fugaku Uchiha, reporting for mission debrief,” Fugaku announced, meeting Sakumo’s gaze. “The mission led to the deaths of 47 Iwa ninjas and 21 Ame ninjas—a total of 68 enemies taken down.”
Hatake Sakumo’s eyes flashed with approval. “You’ve done outstanding work. Your squad has achieved the highest success rate with zero casualties.” He paused, allowing the weight of his praise to sink in before continuing, “Fugaku, you’ve truly proven your skill. Your team’s mission is complete. You’re cleared to return to Konoha for a break until your next assignment.”
Shinji glanced at Fugaku, his tone hopeful as he asked, “Do you think our next mission will keep all twelve of us together?”
Sakumo shook his head, his expression softening as he addressed Shinji. “That depends on Konoha’s decisions. Some of you are ready for promotion to Jonin, so it’s unlikely you’ll all be grouped together again. After two days’ rest, a few of you will return to Konoha, and replacements will arrive.”
Shinji’s hopeful expression faded a bit, but he gave a small nod, understanding the reality of their situation.
Fugaku understood right away—Konoha was using the Land of Rain battlefield as a training ground, sending in wave after wave of ninjas to gain experience. It was an efficient but harsh approach. Those who didn’t make the cut wouldn’t return at all.
‘This is both a test and a trial by fire,’ he thought, realizing that other villages were likely using similar tactics to prepare their own young ninjas for the inevitable full-scale war.
After leaving Sakumo’s tent, Fugaku’s team felt a wave of relief. For the first time in months, they allowed themselves to relax, sharing rare smiles and jokes in the brutal world of constant combat.
“Captain,” Shinji said, “what do you plan to do when we’re back in Konoha? Going from life-or-death battles to village life… it’s going to feel strange.”
“Don’t get too comfortable,” Sato replied with a smirk. “We’ll be bored for a day, then the missions will start again.”
Fugaku listened to his team’s lighthearted talk, letting them unwind. He knew moments like these were needed to ease the tension and keep spirits high. But he also understood the reality—Sakumo had hinted they might not fight together again. Their time as a unit was likely coming to an end.
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“There’s no such thing as an endless banquet,” Fugaku said to his team. “We may go separate ways, but we’ll see each other again in Konoha. Just remember to stay cautious and safe on every mission. Dismissed.”
Despite their short time together—some for only three months, others for half a year—Fugaku felt reluctant to part. War had forged them into a close-knit group, and every life-and-death moment had left its mark on him.
After a few days’ rest, Fugaku joined the returning team, stepping out of his tent to take in the cool morning air. Reflecting on their time in the Land of Rain, he felt a deep appreciation for the peace back in Konoha. Still, as a rising star of the Uchiha clan, he knew his every move was being closely watched, and he’d need to stay vigilant—some in the village might see his growing reputation as a threat.
Returning to Konoha with Jin and other clan members was bittersweet. Only half of the Uchiha who had left with him had survived the brutal missions. The others had returned ahead of them, in coffins.
‘The Uchiha always carry their honor, even in death,’ Fugaku thought, glancing at his remaining comrades. ‘Better to die with honor than to return in disgrace.’
In Konoha, Fugaku noticed the Uchiha emblem prominently displayed as clan members patrolled the village streets. The clan’s security efforts had intensified since two elders had been killed, and their vigilance had led to the capture of numerous enemy spies. This increased presence kept Konoha safe but also heightened some families’ mistrust toward the Uchiha.
When he arrived home, Fugaku found his father, Kogaku Uchiha, seated calmly, as if he’d been waiting for him.
“Father,” Fugaku greeted him respectfully. “I’ve returned. The mission went well.”
Kogaku nodded, pride flickering in his eyes. He’d followed Fugaku’s progress in the Land of Rain closely and was clearly pleased with his son’s performance.
“I spoke with Lord Hokage yesterday,” Kogaku said. “Ninjas returning from the Land of Rain will have a two-month leave. After that, you’ll be given new tasks. For now, I don’t want you joining the village police force. I want you in active duty as a ninja. Build connections with other clans, face real battles, and make a name for yourself. When your strength is known across the ninja world, the Uchiha will rise.”
Fugaku understood his father’s reasoning. While the police force kept Konoha safe, it didn’t provide the challenges or battles that kept a ninja sharp. Even the most skilled could become complacent if they stayed in a safe environment too long.
“I’ll follow your advice,” Fugaku replied thoughtfully. “By the way, does the family have any scrolls on sealing techniques? I’d like to spend the next couple of months studying them.”
During his missions in the Land of Rain, he’d witnessed the power of sealing techniques firsthand. He remembered Dayo using them to hide the trap. Fascinated by their versatility and strength, Fugaku now wanted to learn the techniques himself.
“We do have some sealing scrolls,” Kogaku answered, nodding in approval of his son’s ambition. “You can start studying them tomorrow. But for anything we don’t have, you’ll have to find a way to get it on your own.”
Fugaku nodded, already planning his studies. A dedicated ninja could earn rewards or access valuable techniques through hard work and achievements.
The two talked for hours, discussing everything from techniques to the future of the clan. By evening, they’d covered all they needed, and Fugaku retired for the night, ready for the days to come.