Chapter 31: The Next Destination
The Kamizuru clan's efficiency was impressive. Just five days later, a familiar figure arrived at their new settlement.
"Master! What are you doing here?" Uchiha Raizen asked, surprised to see Uchiha Oki.
"The Patriarch assigned me to oversee the relocation and settlement here," Uchiha Oki explained. "Also, this is for you—one hundred thousand ryo, your reward for a successful negotiation." He handed over a heavy pouch.
"Master, you know I don't need much for myself. Keep ten thousand for my expenses and deliver the rest to my mother. Please ensure she and my sisters are comfortable." Uchiha Raizen counted out ten thousand ryo and handed the bulk of the money back.
"Understood. I will see to it." Uchiha Oki accepted the money, his expression then turning stern. "Now, onto more important matters. It has been over half a month since you left the clan. Have you neglected your training?"
"I have lived up to your expectations, Master," Uchiha Raizen reported proudly. "Without relying on my stored techniques, my base strength has reached the level of a Chunin."
Uchiha Oki's eyes widened slightly. This boy, who wasn't even a proper Genin a month ago, was now a Chunin? His growth was terrifying. If he continued at this rate, he would surpass his teacher soon. The thought stirred something complex in Uchiha Oki's heart, a mixture of pride and a heavy, unspoken burden.
"Good. Do not become complacent. As your teacher, I have a gift for you. Consider it a belated acknowledgment of our master-student bond." Uchiha Oki produced five scrolls from his robe. "Five A-Rank ninjutsu scrolls. Study them."
"Thank you, Master!" Uchiha Raizen accepted the scrolls, genuinely touched. In the Warring States Period, ninjutsu scrolls, especially A-Rank ones, were priceless treasures. For Uchiha Oki to part with them was a significant sacrifice, and it solidified the bond Uchiha Raizen felt with his teacher, his family, and his friends. He was building a life here, with real connections.
"Now, prepare for your next journey. The Patriarch has approved the Kamizuru's request, and I will handle their relocation. I may not enjoy administrative duties, but I look forward to hearing more good news from you." Uchiha Oki's tone was gruff but held a note of encouragement.
"Master, one more thing," Uchiha Raizen said, gesturing to Haruka. "This is Haruka Ozawa, my fiancée. It's not practical for her to travel with us. Could you please take her back to the clan with you?" Having Uchiha Oki escort her would ensure her safety and smooth her introduction into the Uchiha household.
"Agreed."
"Then we will take our leave." With Uchiha Oki's confirmation, Uchiha Raizen felt ready to depart. They needed to move quickly and discreetly. If the Senju caught wind of their mission to recruit minor clans, Patriarch Senju Butsuma would not hesitate to destroy what he couldn't control. Uchiha Raizen found himself eagerly awaiting the day Hashirama would take over, hoping the future First Hokage's ideals would bring some semblance of peace.
As they set out, Uchiha Natsume, who was leading the way, suddenly stopped and turned with a blank look. "Second Brother, where are we going next?"
Thump!
Distracted by the question, Uchiha Raizen walked straight into a tree.
"Uchiha Natsume! What do you mean?!" he exclaimed, rubbing his forehead. "You're the guide! You're asking me where we're going? How should I know?"
"Well," Uchiha Natsume stammered, "from our current location, it's about a five-day journey to the next clan. But... this one is a bit... troublesome."
"Troublesome? What clan worries you so much?" Uchiha Raizen asked, stopping to give the fat boy his full attention.
"The Fūma Clan."
"The Fūma Clan?!" Uchiha Raizen repeated, his mind racing. The name was familiar, but he couldn't immediately place it. He remembered the Fūma clan from the original story being minor allies of the Uchiha, but he couldn't recall any significant details about them. What's so special about them?