Naruto: Starting with Infinite Chakra

"We've already dispatched six ANBU squads to gather intelligence in the Land of Rain," a voice reported in the Hokage's office.

"That's not nearly enough," Danzo interrupted, his tone sharp. "From the reports we've gathered, it's clear the Land of Wind and the Land of Earth are set on making a move against the Land of Rain. We must send more shinobi to gather intelligence. Only by doing so can we seize the initiative when war breaks out."

Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, leaned back in his chair, listening intently.

"However," the ANBU officer continued, "we're already stretched thin. If we assign more ANBU to external missions, we won't have enough personnel to handle emergencies within the village."

Danzo's eyes narrowed. "Then we'll have to form new squads. I propose selecting elite members from the Uchiha clan under Fugaku's command. They can handle the mission to the Land of Rain."

Sarutobi glanced at Danzo but said nothing, letting the others speak first.

Homura Mitokado was the first to object. "I'm against this proposal. Allowing the Uchiha clan to gather intelligence would only strengthen them further, which goes against our goal of weakening their influence."

Koharu Utatane nodded in agreement. "The Land of Wind and the Land of Earth will inevitably attack the Land of Rain, and a war for territory is unavoidable. When that happens, we can use the opportunity to drain the Uchiha's resources. Sending them on missions now only lets them prepare in advance. That's the last thing we need."

Both advisors made their stance clear, their voices calm yet firm. Danzo scowled but didn't interrupt.

"The Uchiha's current strength is already a concern," Homura added, his tone grave. "If we give them access to sensitive information, it will only make it harder to keep their ambitions in check."

Koharu crossed her arms. "We mustn't let them act too early. They should remain in the dark until the war breaks out. Only then will they be forced into unfavorable situations that naturally reduce their numbers."

Hiruzen exhaled slowly, the smoke from his pipe curling around him.

"Enough, Danzo," he finally said. "I've made my decision. The Uchiha will not be involved in this mission."

Danzo's frustration boiled over. "You'll regret this, Sarutobi," he spat before storming out of the room.

As the door slammed shut, Homura turned to the Hokage.

"Lord Hokage, aren't you being too lenient with Danzo? Perhaps it's time to remind him who's in charge."

Koharu nodded in agreement. "He's grown too bold. A little discipline wouldn't hurt."

Hiruzen chuckled lightly. "Let him play his games. As long as I'm here, he can't make a move I can't counter. In the end, no amount of scheming can outmatch true strength."

Both advisors exchanged glances before bowing. "Understood."

As they left, Hiruzen tapped his desk with his pipe.

"Anything that threatens the stability of this village has no place here," he muttered, a steely glint in his eyes.

...

Elsewhere, in Jiraiya's training room, the sound of punches and kicks echoed through the air. He had been awake and training since dawn, sweat dripping down his brow.

"So, you've finally decided to drop by," he said, sensing Tsunade entering his home.

This time, there was no crashing sound of a kicked-in door. Instead, the door creaked open gently—something Jiraiya immediately noticed.

When he stepped out, he saw Tsunade holding a neatly folded garment.

"Here," she said, handing it to him. "Your clothes. I washed them for you."

Jiraiya raised an eyebrow, surprised.

"A girl being gentle? Now that's a rare sight," he teased, taking the clothes.

Tsunade's expression darkened, her eyebrow twitching. "Are you saying I wasn't gentle before?"

Jiraiya quickly backtracked. "Of course not! You've always been the epitome of grace and gentleness!"

Satisfied, Tsunade smirked. "Good. Now, want to come with me to buy some ninja tools and rations?"

Jiraiya's face lit up. "You know I can't say no to that."

As they walked through the village, Jiraiya carried several shopping bags, his hands and even his neck laden with Tsunade's purchases. He sighed.

"Tsunade, are you sure this is about buying ninja tools? Feels more like I'm your personal pack mule."

Tsunade chuckled, placing another bag in his hands.

"My father used to say that shopping with a woman is a form of training. So really, I'm helping you improve. You should thank me."

Jiraiya opened his mouth to protest, but Tsunade grabbed his arm and grinned.

"We're not done yet. I plan to shop until sunset!"

Dragged into yet another store, Jiraiya sighed inwardly.

I guess this is what married life might feel like, he thought, trying to console himself.

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