reborn as Sakumo Hatake

The early morning light filtered through the cracks in Konoha's makeshift shelters, painting the streets in soft gold. The village was awake, buzzing with activity as workers, shinobi, and villagers alike prepared for another day of rebuilding. 

Sakumo Hatake stood on a high ledge overlooking the village, his sharp eyes scanning the progress below. New roofs were being erected, streets cleared of debris, and defenses fortified. Yet, for all the physical repairs, Sakumo knew the emotional scars would take longer to heal. 

"Hatake-sama." 

He turned to find Shikaku Nara approaching, his expression as calm and calculating as ever. 

"Good morning, Shikaku," Sakumo greeted. 

Shikaku inclined his head slightly. "Tsunade-sama asked me to brief you on the progress with the defensive seals." 

Sakumo nodded, folding his arms across his chest. "Go on." 

"We've managed to restore about 60% of the barrier network," Shikaku began. "The Uzumaki scrolls were invaluable for repairing the more complex arrays. However, the southern quadrant is still vulnerable. Without additional sealing specialists, it could take weeks to fully secure." 

Sakumo frowned thoughtfully. "What about Jiraiya? Has anyone contacted him?" 

"He's still tracking Akatsuki movements," Shikaku replied. "But he sent word through a toad summon—he'll return as soon as he can." 

Sakumo sighed. "We'll have to make do for now. Assign additional patrols to the southern quadrant until the seals are complete." 

Shikaku nodded. "Understood." 

As the Nara strategist turned to leave, Sakumo's gaze lingered on the horizon. He couldn't shake the feeling that the calm was only temporary. 

---

Later that day, Sakumo found himself back in the training grounds, this time observing a group of young genin. They were running drills under the watchful eye of Kurenai Yuhi, her crimson eyes sharp as she corrected their stances and techniques. 

"Focus, Haruto!" she called to one boy struggling with his kunai throw. "Your wrist is too stiff. Relax and let the motion flow naturally." 

The boy nodded, gritting his teeth as he tried again. 

Sakumo watched quietly for a moment before stepping forward. "Mind if I join?" he asked. 

Kurenai turned, surprised but not displeased. "Of course, Hatake-sama. Your insight would be valuable." 

The genin perked up at the sight of the legendary White Fang, their eyes wide with both awe and nervousness. 

Sakumo approached Haruto, crouching slightly to meet the boy's gaze. "You're overthinking it," he said gently. "Throwing a kunai isn't just about strength; it's about precision. Watch." 

He picked up a kunai, holding it loosely in his hand. With a flick of his wrist, he sent it sailing toward the target, where it landed dead center with a satisfying *thunk*. 

"See how the motion flows?" Sakumo continued. "Now, you try. Don't think—just feel." 

Haruto hesitated but nodded, mimicking the older man's movements. This time, his kunai hit closer to the center. 

"Better," Sakumo said with an approving nod. "Keep practicing, and you'll get it." 

The boy beamed, his earlier frustration melting away. 

---

By mid-afternoon, Sakumo was called to the Hokage's office for a briefing with Tsunade and the other senior leaders. 

"We've received intelligence that rogue factions are gathering in the outskirts of the Land of Fire," Tsunade began, her tone grim. "With Konoha still recovering, they see us as an easy target." 

Sakumo leaned forward, his brow furrowing. "Do we know their numbers or intentions?" 

"Small groups, mostly," Tsunade replied. "But their goal is clear—destabilize us further and claim territory while we're weak." 

Shikaku chimed in. "It's nothing we can't handle, but we need to send a message. If we let even one group slip through, others will follow." 

Tsunade's gaze settled on Sakumo. "I want you to lead a small team to deal with the largest group. Neutralize the threat and make it clear that Konoha is far from defenseless." 

Sakumo nodded without hesitation. "Consider it done. I'll assemble a team and leave by dawn." 

---

Later that evening, Sakumo sought out Kakashi, finding him perched on the roof of their temporary quarters. 

"I need you for a mission," Sakumo said, getting straight to the point. 

Kakashi glanced at him, his eye narrowing slightly. "You're taking me along? That's rare." 

"It's an important mission," Sakumo replied. "And I trust your skills more than most." 

Kakashi smirked faintly. "Flattery will get you everywhere, old man. What's the objective?" 

Sakumo explained the situation, his voice steady and calm. When he finished, Kakashi nodded. 

"Sounds straightforward," Kakashi said. "Who else are we bringing?" 

"Shikamaru Nara and Anko Mitarashi," Sakumo answered. "Their abilities complement ours, and I want a versatile team." 

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "It's a solid lineup. We'll handle it." 

Sakumo clapped a hand on his son's shoulder. "Get some rest, Kakashi. Tomorrow will be a long day." 

---

As the stars emerged in the night sky, Sakumo found himself alone, sharpening his blade by the dim light of a lantern. Each stroke of the whetstone against steel was methodical, a ritual that calmed his mind. 

The mission ahead was clear, but Sakumo knew the real battle wasn't just with outside forces. Konoha's strength lay in its people, in their will to rise above tragedy and rebuild stronger than before. 

And as long as he could fight, he would ensure that strength endured.