Chapter 19: Chapter 19
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C-rank missions typically involve tasks like escorting caravans, transporting materials and documents, or clearing out bandits. The enemies encountered are usually civilians without any ninjutsu skills, with perhaps a few strong guards or samurai.
If the opponent turns out to be a ninja skilled in using chakra, the mission level is immediately upgraded to B-rank.
Technically, Kato's squad had only been together for three months, which was still early for them to take on C-rank missions. If they were given any, it would usually involve simpler tasks like escorting supplies.
However, since most of Konoha's forces were tied up on the front lines, there was a manpower shortage. Additionally, Kato Dan believed his students were not ordinary genin. They had already developed significant strength and teamwork skills, and it was time for them to face real danger.
"Yes! A C-rank mission! Finally, no more weeding!" Inuzuka Ryo exclaimed, jumping to his feet with renewed energy. His dog, Tiewan, mirrored his excitement, leaping up in sync.
"Teacher Kato," Haruto said, glancing at the mission scroll before looking at Kato Dan.
"According to the mission intel, an elite team from the Sand Village attacked four months ago. Is there a chance they might still be around or return? If they managed to infiltrate deep into the Land of Fire past our front-line defenses, their strength is likely beyond what the three of us can handle."
"This isn't something to worry about," Kato Dan replied with a smile.
"First of all, the mines in Iron Stone Town are a key site for smelting ninja tools, so the village takes this area seriously. Three months ago, the youngest jonin, Minato Namikaze, led a team to defeat and eliminate the Sand Village forces. It should be relatively safe now."
"Even if we do encounter danger, I'll be backing you up. As long as we don't run into a ninja on the level of the Five Kage, I'm confident I can protect you."
The enemies this time were not highly skilled. They were simply bandits, former miners who might know a bit of martial arts but were no match for a ninja. This mission was ideal for fresh genin to gain experience.
Haruto nodded, indicating he had no more questions.
Kato Dan then turned to Inuzuka Ryo and Aburame Nami to make sure they had no concerns. Once satisfied with their responses, he announced they had two hours to prepare and would meet at the village gate before setting out.
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"Are you heading out on a mission?" Uchiha Retsu asked as he sat on a mat, polishing a well-maintained ninja sword. His gaze shifted to Haruto, who stood before him in full gear.
"Yes, Teacher Kato is leading us on a mission to eliminate some bandits," Haruto replied.
Uchiha Retsu stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I've heard of Kato Dan. Among the young jonin in Konoha, he's one of the few who can rival White Fang and the Third Hokage's three disciples. His mastery of perception ninjutsu and spiritual techniques is exceptional. If you have the chance to learn from him, it will greatly benefit your future use of the Sharingan."
"By the way, how is your progress with Uchiha-style swordsmanship?" Retsu asked.
"I've mastered the basic sword techniques, but I'm only halfway through learning how to combine them with Fire Release jutsu," Haruto reported honestly.
Uchiha-style swordsmanship is a technique passed down through the Uchiha clan for generations. Over hundreds of years, it had been refined into a flawless system that perfectly complemented the Sharingan and Fire Release techniques. It was divided into two sections, and Haruto was currently studying the first part.
Though he had only learned the basics, Uchiha Retsu often said that mastering the first section alone would be enough for Haruto to qualify as a special jonin with swordsmanship as his specialty, aided by his Sharingan.
However, Haruto had not yet completed his training, let alone mastered it.
"While your swordsmanship is still at a beginner level within the family, you've established a solid foundation. The combination of Uchiha-style swordsmanship and Fire Release is one of the clan's finest techniques. Even with only the basics, you're already ahead of most genin at your level," Retsu said with casual confidence.
His tone was calm, almost as if it were a given. As an Uchiha, Retsu naturally believed that the clan's ninjutsu, swordsmanship, and bloodline abilities were the best in the ninja world. Excelling in any one of them would make someone a renowned ninja.
This was the pride unique to the Uchiha clan. What others might see as arrogance, the Uchiha considered justified confidence. After all, for centuries, the Uchiha had stood at the pinnacle of the ninja world. Throughout the Warring States Period, the Uchiha were always counted among the strongest clans. In the Land of Fire, the enduring rivalry between the Uchiha and Senju had shaped history for generations.
"That said, it's still not enough—at least not by my standards for you," Retsu continued, pulling out a scroll from his sleeve and handing it to Haruto.
"After Fugaku, you're the most talented Uchiha we've had in a long time. You're also the one with the greatest potential to push the Sharingan to its highest form. Your teenage years are the most critical period for developing your strength, and also the time when the Sharingan is most likely to evolve. What the Uchiha clan lacks right now is a powerful figure capable of commanding respect across the ninja world. You need to become stronger as quickly as possible!"
Realizing he was getting carried away, Retsu shifted the conversation back to the scroll he had given Haruto.
"This scroll contains a few simple genjutsu techniques. Many ninjas in the village have learned them, but with your Sharingan, you can activate them instantly. In battle, especially when using Uchiha-style swordsmanship, combining the Sharingan with surprise genjutsu can often turn the tide of a fight."
"I've also included a few of my personal genjutsu techniques. Once you've mastered these and built a strong foundation, you'll be ready to learn the more advanced and unique illusions that only the Sharingan can perform."
Haruto accepted the scroll with deep respect.
"Thank you, Grandpa Retsu."
Uchiha Retsu waved a hand dismissively. "The best way to thank me is by growing stronger and becoming a powerful ninja capable of protecting the family and the village. Only then will I feel that my efforts weren't in vain. I just hope I live long enough to see that day."
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