After the Uchiha clan members left, Sarutobi Hiruzen led the Anbu back to the Hokage Building.
Without delay, he summoned Shimura Danzo to his office.
The two engaged in a heated argument, and in the end, they parted on bad terms.
Uchiha Tunan never expected Sarutobi Hiruzen to truly punish Shimura Danzo on his behalf.
At most, Hiruzen would issue a warning, subtly reminding Danzo to refrain from further reckless actions—at least for the time being.
"No one is truly reliable."
Lying in his spacious new bedroom, Uchiha Tunan stared at the ceiling.
Just when he had started to feel a sense of security from his increasing strength, it was stripped away once more.
The enemy this time was merely an Aburame clan shinobi, a standard Root operative.
If not for his Sharingan's dynamic vision and his Byakugan's insight—both coincidentally countering his opponent—victory wouldn't have been guaranteed.
"I'm still not strong enough."
By his estimation, there was about a year before the Uchiha Massacre.
"I can't afford to wait."
Currently, the only targets he had left—people he had ingratiated himself with—were Umino Naoto, Kakashi Hatake, Tenzo (Yamato), and three ordinary female classmates.
Among them, Umino Naoto seemed like the most suitable choice.
Though not particularly valuable, he was at least a Chunin. Killing him would provide an increase in chakra and mental fortitude.
But after further consideration, Uchiha Tunan frowned.
"His skills are mediocre. He's a civilian-born ninja, lacks combat experience, and knows only a few basic jutsu."
More importantly, attacking him directly posed unnecessary risk.
Acting impulsively could expose him. If anyone discovered that he was responsible for Umino Naoto's death, it would ruin everything.
A skilled hunter lurks in the shadows, waiting for the prey to expose its weakness.
Konoha is a vast hunting ground—there will always be a more suitable target.
With that thought, Uchiha Tunan exhaled softly, closed his eyes, and drifted to sleep.
---
The Next Morning
As dawn broke, sunlight spilled over Konoha, stirring the village awake.
Today marked the official day Uchiha Tunan would graduate as a Genin.
Rising early, he went through his morning routine, packed his ninja tools, and left his home.
Despite his residence being at the heart of the Uchiha district, the house arranged for him by the Great Elder was no smaller than his previous one.
The moment he stepped outside, murmurs followed him.
People whispered as he walked past, casting pointed glances in his direction.
Clearly, last night's events had already spread throughout the clan.
Some didn't even bother lowering their voices, and Uchiha Tunan could faintly make out the insults.
But he didn't feel anger.
These people would one day serve their purpose—they were merely future sustenance, stepping stones for his evolution.
What did a few harsh words matter?
"Tunan, off to report so early?"
A familiar voice called out from a nearby courtyard.
The Great Elder stood there, watering his plants, smiling as he acknowledged Tunan's presence.
Uchiha Tunan paused momentarily, having not realized before just how close their homes were.
He quickly bowed. "Good morning, Great Elder."
The elder nodded approvingly. "When you return, come see me first."
"Of course."
Uchiha Tunan quickened his pace, wanting to put some distance between himself and the elder.
Being around him was suffocating—at least Sarutobi was easier to manipulate.
---
Ninja Academy
Upon arriving at the classroom, Uchiha Tunan quietly took a seat near the window.
Before long, Kakashi Hatake entered.
His gaze swept the room before he made his way over to Tunan.
"Why haven't you been around these past few days?" Kakashi asked, his tone neutral.
"Had some matters to take care of."
Kakashi nodded, not pressing further.
At around nine o'clock, their instructor entered the classroom, clearing his throat before addressing the students.
"Congratulations. You have all passed your exams and are now officially ninjas."
"With the exception of special assignments, Genin squads will be formed in teams of three, each led by a Jōnin instructor."
"I will now read the team assignments. When your name is called, come forward to receive your headband."
One by one, the names were called.
"Team 9: Kakashi Hatake. Uchiha Tunan."
Uchiha Tunan's expression remained unchanged, but inwardly, he was intrigued.
Soon after, their instructor finished his announcements and left the room.
Moments later, a group of Jōnin arrived, each calling for their respective teams.
"Team 9, come with me."
A young man with bright yellow hair and a warm demeanor waved them over.
Uchiha Tunan's eyes narrowed slightly.
Ah, so it's him.
A naturally kind-looking man, radiating warmth—yellow hair—there was no doubt.
Hokage's disciple, master of the Flying Thunder God technique, the future Yellow Flash of Konoha…
Minato Namikaze.
An excellent opportunity.
---
Team Meeting
On the rooftop, Minato Namikaze casually perched on the railing, spinning a kunai between his fingers as he studied his new students.
Kakashi leaned against the railing on the opposite side, his posture indifferent.
His sharp eyes scrutinized Minato, as if questioning his qualifications.
After all, Minato looked young—too young. He lacked the air of a seasoned instructor.
Meanwhile, Uchiha Tunan stood straight, hands neatly folded in front of him, a soft smile on his face.
Time passed in silence, but Tunan's expression remained patient and composed.
"Coo~"
Several white doves fluttered down from the sky, perching on his shoulder.
They nuzzled against him affectionately, their feathers ruffling in contentment.
Uchiha Tunan gently stroked one of their heads. "I'm busy right now."
As if understanding, the doves cooed once more before taking flight.
Minato smiled. "They seem to like you a lot."
"Yes," Tunan replied, his tone warm. "They always do."
Minato nodded. "Alright, let's introduce ourselves. I'll go first."
"My name is Minato Namikaze. I'm a Jōnin of Konoha, and your instructor. I like eating ramen, and my dream is to become Hokage."
"What about you?"
He turned to Kakashi.
Kakashi barely hesitated. "Kakashi Hatake. I don't have anything I particularly like. My dream is to become a powerful ninja."
For a brief moment, an image of his father, Sakumo Hatake, flashed through Kakashi's mind.
He clenched his fists slightly.
Father… one day, I'll become as strong as you.
Minato smiled. "That's a great goal. I believe you'll achieve it."
Finally, he looked at Uchiha Tunan.
Uchiha Tunan adjusted his glasses slightly.
"My name is Uchiha Tunan. I enjoy reading, drinking tea, and taking care of small animals."
"As for my dream…"
A soft, warm smile spread across his face.
"I want to earn the recognition of as many people as possible."
Minato's eyes softened.
For a moment, he saw a bit of himself in the young Uchiha.
"That's a wonderful dream. I believe the entire village will acknowledge you one day."
Uchiha Tunan's eyes shimmered with apparent gratitude.
"If that happens… I would be so happy."
Minato reached out, patting his shoulder gently.
"Alright, introductions are done. Now, let's begin your first lesson."