Naruto: Fate System

After Hiruko was captured, the first research institute in Ame quickly got on track. Shin stood at the entrance of the converted estate, surveying the transformation.

The site had been reserved long ago by him. After clearing out Hanzō's luxurious estate, it had remained unoccupied, specifically earmarked for the research institute.

This prime location, equipped with a spacious training ground, was perfect for an open-air experimental base for future research.

Kakuzu had voiced numerous objections. "This property could fetch millions on the market! Are you deliberately trying to bankrupt us?" he had protested.

However, Shin dismissed all these protests.

In his view, the worth of a personal residence could never compare to that of a research facility. Even his own home didn't deserve such a prime spot.

Shortly after the institute was established, Hiruko brought good news. He stood in Shin's office, surrounded by blueprints and research notes.

"The initial projects are proceeding faster than expected," he reported, spreading out his latest findings. "We might see preliminary results in one or two months. While not groundbreaking innovations, our systematic compilation of existing technologies is creating a solid foundation."

"Focus on practical applications first," Shin nodded. "Theory can wait."

The technological development of the shinobi world has always been bizarre.

Some regions had long entered the electrical age—like in the original story, where Naruto's house had a refrigerator, and the village featured utility poles.

Yet, other regions seemed backward by comparison, such as when the Land of Waves relied on manual labor by local villagers to build a bridge.

The shinobi world did possess a 'tech tree', but the disparities between regions are so significant that they feel like different eras entirely.

While this inconsistency had been noted before, few were motivated to change it. In a world with chakra, technological advantages didn't guarantee military superiority.

It was akin to playing a Civilization game, where an ancient-era unique unit could defeat modern infantry. If brute force sufficed, there was little incentive to invest resources in technological advancement.

The ninja world mirrored this scenario.

However, as a transmigrator, Shin's perspective differed greatly from most people here. He placed immense importance on the establishment of the research institute.

Even Hiruko, who had become the first director of the institute, didn't fully comprehend his vision. But time would eventually reveal everything.

Once the initial tasks of setting up the institute were done, Shin finally found time to meet Nonō. He watched her approach from his office window, noting how confidently she walked through the streets of Ame.

He was genuinely surprised to find that within just over a week, she had already settled into tthe village and adapted well to her new life.

She's more capable than even I expected. Danzō was a fool to let such talent slip away.

Since Nonō had never been directly hostile to Ame, she wasn't subjected to strict surveillance or restrictions upon her arrival—her treatment was even better than that of Rai, who had defected earlier.

As a result, she had managed to find a job, complete her identification process, register as a ninja, and even arrange for Kabuto to enroll in a new school during this period.

The Land of Rain was changing, becoming more welcoming to outsiders—exactly as Shin had planned.

He half-joked to himself that if he delayed meeting her any longer, she might even figure out a way to join Akatsuki on her own.

This made him chuckle, but he also felt genuine satisfaction. Nonō's actions were an affirmation of his recent reforms in the Land of Rain.

Standing in his office, he prepared for their meeting.

The original story often portrayed Konoha as the 'warmest village', yet it was that very village that caused the tragedies of Nonō and Kabuto.

Unlike Konoha's manufactured image, Ame had naturally drawn in those who had wandered the shinobi world seeking refuge.

Still, while he was pleased, Shin wasn't about to let emotions cloud his judgment. He straightened his posture as Nonō entered his office, Kabuto trailing nervously behind her.

"You've settled in well, I see," Shin began casually, noting how Nonō positioned herself slightly in front of Kabuto—still protective, despite their relatively safe surroundings.

"Ame has been... surprisingly accommodating," Nonō replied.

"You've probably guessed why you're here. I'll need your skills for the next few years, Nonō. You're far too young to retire just yet."

Noticing her fearful expression, likely stirred by unpleasant memories, he raised a hand to reassure her gently.

"But don't worry. We operate on the principle of equivalent exchange here. No Will of Ame ideology or Will of Akatsuki nonsense to bind you." He pulled out a contract, sliding it across the desk. "You work for me, and I'll pay you accordingly. It's all fair."

"You can even designate someone to collect your salary while you're away."

Rai, who had been standing quietly by the wall, immediately perked up. But Shin pointed decisively at Kabuto. Rai froze, turning into a gray statue with a crackling sound of heartbreak.

"You don't have to worry. We won't force a child to work," Shin continued, ignoring Rai's dramatic display of disappointment.

He pulled out another document, this one detailing educational programs. "Kabuto can continue his schooling and use your earnings to live comfortably. If he shows talent, he can even exchange your points for jutsu—his choice entirely. You have the same freedom too."

"You won't have to serve Ame forever. At most, you'll handle fieldwork for three years. After that, you can return here to either oversee intelligence operations or train recruits. The choice will be yours."

"We also guarantee your safety." He tapped a section of the contract highlighting compensation details. "If you were to fall during a mission, for any reason, Akatsuki would provide significant compensation to a beneficiary you name. Even if you doubt us, you can trust the money."

Kakuzu nodded in agreement from his corner of the room. "Indeed. People may betray, but money never does. Money is the most reliable bond."

At least he's consistent in his obsession, Shin thought.

Kabuto looked on anxiously, his small hands clutching the hem of his shirt. Having finally reunited with Nonō—whom he could to call Mom—he didn't want her to leave again.

But this time, Nonō stroked Kabuto's head gently and smiled. "You don't need to explain so much. I trust you."

"I trust someone willing to dismantle a luxurious estate to rebuild this vilalge rationally. Such a leader cannot be selfish. I'll gladly serve you. Please, tell me my next mission."

She understands more than I expected. This might be even easier than planned. Shin kept his expression neutral despite his satisfaction.

Over a year ago, Kabuto had eavesdropped on Danzō coercing Nonō to return to service.

At that time, Nonō had been reluctant, deeply resistant to the idea.

He didn't understand why her attitude had changed so drastically. He was too young to grasp the difference in circumstances.

But the seed of understanding was planted in his heart: Akatsuki and the Land of Rain were leagues ahead of Root. The proof was in every detail—from the clear terms of the contract to the way Shin spoke to them as people, not tools.

And for now, that understanding was enough.

Shin was deeply satisfied. He watched as Nonō signed the contract.

He gestured to Kakuzu, who promptly led Rai and Kabuto out of the room, leaving only Shin and Nonō. Rai still looked dejected, but he guided Kabuto with surprising gentleness.

Even Kakuzu was adapting remarkably well to his role, perhaps due to the regular paychecks.

Once alone, Shin interlocked his fingers in front of his lips and said, "Given your extensive experience in the Land of Earth, no one is more suited for this mission than you."

He pulled out a map, spreading it across his desk. "I need you to infiltrate Iwa, identify their supply lines in Kusa, and locate the exact position of a place called the Kannabi Bridge."

Nonō's eyes sharpened at the mention of Iwa, her expression shifting from civilian to spy in an instant. She leaned forward to study the map, her fingers tracing potential routes. Yes, this is the operative Danzō feared so much. The one who could change the course of a war.

"The Kannabi Bridge," she repeated softly, testing the name. "A strategic target?"

"More than you know," Shin replied, marking several points on the map. "This mission requires your particular expertise. Complete discretion, no combat engagement, pure intelligence gathering."

Nonō nodded, already analyzing the challenge. This wasn't the reluctant spy Danzō had tried to force back into service. This was a professional choosing her next mission.

"Timeline?" she asked, all business now.

"Take what time you need for proper preparation. But once you're in, I want detailed reports every two weeks through our established channels." Shin rolled up the map, handing it to her. "Kabuto will be well cared for. You have my word."

"I know," Nonō said simply. "That's why I accepted. I'll begin preparations immediately."

---

The Kannabi Bridge—this name was undoubtedly familiar to any avid fan of Naruto.

But as for its exact location? Even Shin had no idea.

In fact, he has always wondered: given a ninja's incredible mobility, how could a single bridge become such a critical supply line?

Such questions require more intelligence to answer.

However, the Kannabi Bridge was situated in Kusa—a location that's no longer accessible.

Life rarely aligned perfectly. When Kusa was freely open for travel, Shin was preoccupied with Root and engaging in a game of deceit and deadly feints with Hanzō.

By the time he finally managed to secure his survival and free up his schedule, Kusa had already fallen under Iwa's control. The map before him showed the new borders, marked in fresh ink that had barely dried.

With Iwa ninjas fully occupying the region, conducting any reconnaissance became exceedingly difficult.

Initially, before acquiring Nonō, Shin had planned to wait until Nagato perfected the 'Pain project' and then send one or two bodies for an armed reconnaissance mission.

But with Nonō infiltrating the area, a more subtle and safer option has presented itself.

Just then, Nagato himself came to see him. The door burst open, letting in a gust of rain-cooled air that scattered papers across the room.

After his long seclusion, Nagato had finally emerged, his divine power beginning to show results.

"Shin! I've completed the first stage of the project!" He was like a kid, eager to show off a freshly assembled model kit.

This change in Nagato's demeanor warmed Shin's heart. This was how youth should be lived—free from the dark shadows that had claimed so many before. 

Yet nothing of true value comes without sacrifice. Everything worthwhile demands its price. Shin studied him carefully, looking for signs of strain or exhaustion.

The cost of Nagato's healthier approach was a significantly scaled-down Six Paths of Pain. 

In the original series, he completed them by utterly exhausting himself, pushing his body to the brink of destruction. 

He naturally refrained from such extreme measures. This time, Nagato had managed to create only three bodies of Pain in one go.

He gestured excitedly as he explained each one's abilities, like a craftsman proud of his work:

The Preta Path could absorb chakra with great efficiency, while the Human Path possessed the ability to extract and read memories. Finally, there was the Naraka Path, which served a vital support role by repairing damaged Paths when needed.

The Animal Path and Asura Path from the original series were omitted.

Nagato no longer saw summoning jutsu as indispensable; Ajisai was alive and well, and he could entrust her with taming and contracting summoned beasts.

He learned to trust the power of his allies.

As for the Asura Path, which relied on advanced weaponry, the Land of Rain's current technological capabilities were still insufficient.

In the original series, this body wasn't completed until years later when technology had advanced. Nagato simply crossed it off his to-do list.

He had come to Shin not only to share his joy over completing the Pain but also to request additional resources. His expression turned more serious as he broached the subject.

"Can I have Hanzō's corpse? I want to create a core puppet capable of fully utilizing the Rinnegan's abilities. I plan to name it Tendō."

Since Yahiko was still alive, Nagato naturally wouldn't consider using him to create Tendō.

Thus, Hanzō became the first choice.

The Salamander was still proving useful even in death.

Shin's first concern was Nagato's health. He stepped closer. "Is your body holding up?"

Nagato nodded and assured him, "Don't worry. I've already come to terms with things. I won't push myself too far. I can handle the burden of four Pains."

Shin scrutinized him for a moment to ensure he wasn't overexerting himself before agreeing.

"Hanzō's body is yours, but be cautious with the poison sac. Additionally, you'll need to come to me for a full-body checkup every day during the creation process. I'll monitor your condition with medical ninjutsu."

"If I determine your body has reached its limit, you must stop working on Tendō immediately."

Nagato was Akatsuki's most reliable combat asset.

Rather than focusing on replicating the Six Paths of Pain, Shin prioritized ensuring Nagato's health and longevity—at least long enough to see the next decade.

Seeing Shin's uncharacteristic sternness, Nagato nodded with a smile. "Understood."

"Here, take this sword—it's for Tendō."

With that, Shin handed the Kusanagi to Nagato. He already had Hanzō's signature blade, which he found perfectly suited for his use.

Nagato was stunned by the gift. "Where'd you get such an incredible sword? You went looting without me?"

Shin bonked him on the head with his knuckles. "Don't make it sound like we're bandits. We're a legitimate organization."

Nagato dodged, laughing.

In the following days, while Nagato worked on completing Tendō and refining his mastery over the Rinnegan, Shin didn't idle either.

He focused on reforming the Land of Rain, laying traps for Konoha, and maintaining his rigorous personal training.

Even with Nagato's extended lifespan, he believed that survival ultimately depended on his own efforts.

One day, after finishing his daily research, Hiruko approached him with a proposal.

"Your chakra nature transformations are already highly advanced—more so than even I can claim. Why not attempt to combine two elements to create a bloodline limit?"

"A bloodline limit? Is that achievable through training?" Shin asked, wiping sweat from his brow.

Hiruko's expression turned wistful, as if recalling a bitter memory.

"In theory, yes. I've summarized all the theoretical steps and key points, but I've never succeeded in practice," he said, shoulders slumping as his eyes fixed on the training ground's scarred surface. "Perhaps it's because of my talent."

"That's why I devised the Chimera Jutsu!"

Shin gave him a sideways glance, unsure how to respond.

On one hand, Hiruko saw himself as untalented, incapable of creating a bloodline limit. Yet he had developed a forbidden jutsu allowing him to steal others' bloodline limits—a feat arguably more extraordinary.

Perhaps Hiruko's Chimera Jutsu was far more outrageous than any bloodline limit?

As Hiruko's footsteps faded away, Shin turned back to his training. Wind Release had become almost second nature to him now—like breathing. The real challenge would be finding a complementary element to blend with it, as Hiruko had suggested.

A sudden gust made him shiver slightly. The evening wind had grown unusually cold for this time of year, and he pulled his collar higher.

He dismissed the thought for now. There would be time for experimentation tomorrow.

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