Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

The latest order from Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Third Hokage, reached the Uchiha clan at the same time. Uchiha Fugaku, upon receiving the order, personally selected ten elite members of the Uchiha clan and quickly proceeded to the residence of Uzumaki Raiden.

Including Fugaku himself, the group consisted of eleven individuals. Although Fugaku brought more people than the Third Hokage's directive specified, the guards at the village gate did not question this and allowed them to pass without issue.

When Uchiha Fugaku arrived at Uzumaki Raiden's house, he encountered Raiden just as he was about to leave. From Raiden's demeanor, it was evident that he had anticipated Fugaku's arrival.

"Raiden, I've brought the team. Shall we head out directly?" Fugaku asked as he landed lightly in front of Raiden.

"No rush. Let's get acquainted first," Raiden replied. "It's fine if the mission goes smoothly, but if we face combat, the enemy might prove to be very challenging. Introduce me to your clan members first."

Raiden observed the group of Uchiha members behind Fugaku, who were all young, between 20 to 30 years old, exuding a formidable presence. They stood silently, awaiting orders.

"Alright," Fugaku said. "These are all Jonin from the Uchiha clan. Due to their duties as part of the security force, they have been operating within the village. Though they have rarely undertaken missions outside the village, their strength is exceptional. Every one of them has unlocked the Three-Tomoe Sharingan."

Fugaku opted not to introduce each member individually, instead emphasizing the collective strength of the group. Raiden quickly grasped Fugaku's point, discreetly nodding in acknowledgment.

In the Uchiha clan, any member who unlocked the Three-Tomoe Sharingan was considered an elite. Their versatility was unparalleled—each was a master of Fire Release, with enhanced physical and genjutsu abilities due to the Sharingan. Their sensory and reconnaissance capabilities were also superior. Although the team did not include ninjas from other clans, their well-rounded skills made them formidable against any enemy. A squadron of such elites dedicated to protecting Raiden signified a significant investment in his safety.

After brief introductions facilitated by Fugaku, the group set out toward the Land of Rain.

After several days of travel, the peace delegation led by Uzumaki Raiden reached the border of the Land of Fire. Observing the rain-covered terrain ahead, Raiden signaled the group to halt.

"Raiden, is something wrong?" Fugaku asked in a low voice as he approached Raiden.

"Let's rest here for the night and proceed into the Land of Rain tomorrow," Raiden said, his gaze fixed on the dark clouds overhead. The team had maintained a steady pace, prioritizing Raiden's safety with ample rest. Ensuring the group's readiness was crucial in case of an ambush.

"That sounds reasonable. It seems like it'll rain soon. We can afford to take it slow," Fugaku agreed. "With the current ceasefire between Iwa and Konoha, there's no urgency."

The team set up camp, and the Uchiha members, though new to such missions, worked efficiently, showcasing a growing camaraderie. A bonfire soon illuminated the camp, warding off the gathering gloom. However, as rain began to drizzle, the atmosphere grew tense.

"Raiden, do you think the peace talks will go smoothly?" Fugaku asked, staring at the bonfire. "I can't shake off a bad feeling. The closer we get to the Land of Rain, the stronger this unease becomes."

Raiden frowned. "It should be fine. Still, such premonitions shouldn't be ignored. Double the number of guards tonight. We'll rotate shifts."

As Raiden spoke, the tension in the group was palpable. Their shared experience heightened their sensitivity to potential danger. Suddenly, Raiden stood abruptly, his expression grave.

"Extinguish the fire. Someone is approaching quickly," he commanded.

The team moved swiftly, snuffing the fire and dispersing into the surrounding forest to hide. Raiden's instincts had been correct. In the distance, a dozen white specks appeared in the darkened sky, growing larger as they approached. Soon, the forms of giant clay birds emerged, carrying Iwa ninjas. From one of the birds, a small figure descended—it was the Third Tsuchikage, Ōnoki of Both Scales.

"So, you're Konoha's Uzumaki Raiden," Onoki said as he landed. Though he appeared frail, his presence was intimidating, rivaling that of Sarutobi Hiruzen.

"Ōnoki of Both Scales," Raiden said calmly. "I didn't expect to meet you here, Lord Tsuchikage. Isn't the agreed location for the peace talks in the Land of Rain? Why are you here?"

Raiden spoke casually, but chakra had already begun gathering within him as he prepared to enter Sage Mode. However, Onoki's forces had already surrounded them. Among the Iwa ninjas, Raiden recognized two familiar faces: Kurotsuchi and Atsuchi, both formidable warriors.

"Do you think we came all this way for peace?" Atsuchi sneered. "You killed Han, Roshi, and countless Iwa ninjas. This is revenge!"

Before Raiden could react, Atsuchi launched an attack, sending a swarm of clay insects toward him. Raiden drew the Sakegari no Tachi and yelled, "Engage! Break through! Fugaku, take the team and retreat!"

Onoki smirked, ascending into the air as he began gathering chakra for a Dust Release technique. Raiden realized the grave danger and prepared to counter, but rocky hands emerged from the ground, pinning his ankles.

"When did this happen?!" Raiden exclaimed.

(End of Chapter)

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