Chapter 329 Befriending the Uchiha

Moonlight Night, a ghostly swordsman in the darkness, rose to the rank of Jonin at a young age and earned the title of "Moonlight Dancer." His talent is absolutely no less than that of the heads of the major clans, and he can even be compared with Kato Dan.

In specific nighttime environments, it is not an exaggeration to say that one can become a "weak shadow" like Dan Kato, possessing a special domain and combat power far exceeding that of ordinary elite Jonin.

Tetsu Umino also has this potential!

Just as he was feeling this way, Sasuke Umino was quickly replaced by a sense of helplessness.

"Among the vast Umino clan, with nearly a thousand members, the only true 'genius' is probably Kotetsu. Moreover, his talent mainly lies in the swordsmanship skills brought by his samurai bloodline, rather than pure ninja talent."

Sasuke Umino's thoughts drifted to Tobirama and Kaoru. To outsiders, the two of them were also geniuses of the Umino family, possessing remarkable strength at a young age.

But he knew very well that this "genius" was largely based on the physical leap brought about by the transplant of bone marrow cells. Their own ninja talent, not to mention compared with those geniuses, could easily defeat even ordinary small ninja clans.

The fifth generation ancestor of the Umino clan was merely a minor samurai with extremely thin ninja blood. The true ninja foundation of the Umino clan was pitifully shallow.

Those clansmen with closer blood ties might be able to receive bone marrow transplants to improve their physical condition, but most ordinary clansmen's ninja talent is far inferior to the average level of minor ninja clans.

If it weren't for the Umino clan possessing the secret medicine "Life Star II," which rapidly unlocks potential, the Umino clan would never have been able to cultivate so many ninjas.

"The difference in ninja talent is even greater than the difference between a human and a dog!"

As Sasuke Umino watched Kakashina's nimble figure practicing the "Heart-Slaying Technique" with practiced ease under the setting sun, and then compared it to Tetsuna Umino's complete ignorance of ninjutsu, a complex and indescribable emotion welled up in his heart.

Nearly a thousand members of the Umino clan, despite expending enormous resources, could hardly find a single true ninja genius. Yet, in Konoha Village, among those commoners with no background, geniuses and monsters like Minato Namikaze and Jiraiya always emerged.

The Umino clan's gene pool of nearly a thousand people failed to produce a single decent genius through "mutation." So where do the bloodlines of those "Kage-level geniuses" scattered among Konoha's vast civilian population originate? Is it truly just pure luck and mutation? The probability seems far too unscientific! Did their ancestors also possess a glorious past? Are they also hiding unknown secrets?
A sense of curiosity quietly grew in Umino Sasuke's heart. Perhaps, in the future, it would be necessary to delve deeper into the backgrounds of those "commoner geniuses" in Konoha.

The golden rays of the setting sun shone on the Hatake family's training ground, casting a warm glow on both Umino Tetsuya, who was sweating profusely, and Kakashi, who was struggling with a clod of earth.

Seeing that Umino Tetsuo had grasped the basic stance and all that remained was to practice diligently, Hatake Sagumo indicated that today's swordsmanship training would end here.

On the other side, Kakashi had also mastered the decapitation technique in his mind. Although his infiltration and movement were far from being completely silent, he had grasped the basic principles. He truly deserved to be called a super genius of Konoha.

The little guy was patting the dirt off his body, his face showing a hint of fatigue, but even more so, excitement at mastering a new ninjutsu.

Seeing this, Sasuke Unno knew it was time to say goodbye. He walked over to Kakashi and ruffled the silver hair covered in grass clippings.

"Kakashi, you've mastered Earth Release quite well!" Sasuke Umino smiled mysteriously. "Before I leave, I'll give you a little gift."

Before he finished speaking, he formed a hand seal, gathering lightning chakra in his right hand.

sizzle-

It was as if a thousand birds were singing at the same time, and suddenly the sound rang out!

Blinding blue-white lightning flashed wildly in his right palm, converging, compressing, and leaping, forming a highly concentrated ball of lightning that exuded a destructive aura!

"Thunder Release Chidori!"

The violent lightning illuminated Kakashi's wide-eyed eyes, and the piercing bird cry made him clearly feel the terrifying penetrating power and speed contained in this ball of lightning!

This perfectly matches his fighting philosophy of pursuing "fast, accurate, and ruthless"!

"Amazing!" Kakashi couldn't help but exclaim, his small hands unconsciously clenching into fists, his eyes blazing with an unprecedented intensity.

He fell in love with the ninjutsu almost immediately!
Hatake Sagumo also cast a surprised glance. This A-rank Lightning Release ninjutsu was quite powerful, and more importantly, its nature transformation and chakra gathering method were very unique, requiring extremely high chakra control, which was perfect for a genius like Kakashi to conduct high-intensity chakra control training.

Moreover, judging from its characteristics, it seems to have a very strong speed-boosting effect.

Sasuke Umino dispersed the lightning in his palm, and the piercing bird cry disappeared as well. Looking at Kakashi's longing eyes, he took out a small scroll that he had prepared beforehand from his pocket and tossed it over.

"Here, take this. This is the training method and hand seal instructions for 'Chidori'." Umino Sasuke said casually, as if he wasn't giving away any precious A-rank ninjutsu.

"However, I must remind you that although this move is very powerful, the noise it generates when activated will reveal your position. Moreover, at high speed, you need extremely strong dynamic vision to accurately hit the target, otherwise you may easily injure innocent people or run into enemy traps."

"You're still young, and your chakra and perception aren't fully developed yet. Don't try training for now. Wait until your foundation is more solid, at least until you graduate from the Ninja Academy, then have your father supervise your training."

Kakashi clutched the scroll tightly, overjoyed, and nodded vigorously: "Yes! Thank you, Uncle Sasuke! I will definitely work hard and graduate from the Ninja Academy as soon as possible!"

Umino Sasuke turned his gaze to Hatake Sakumo and smiled, "Sakumo-senpai, besides 'Chidori,' this scroll also contains some of my experiences and insights on 'Lightning Release Activation,' which I've summarized by combining my own Lightning Release Chakra Mode and Yang Release Activation. The Hatake-ryu swordsmanship is known for its speed and penetrating power, and Lightning Release Activation is its core. These insights might provide you with some supplementary ideas for your training in combining Yang Release and Lightning Release."

Upon hearing this, Hatake Sakumo's expression immediately became serious!
He took the scroll from Kakashi and immediately opened it. Even a cursory glance was enough to stir his emotions. While the A-rank ninjutsu "Chidori" was indeed precious, it was not essential for the Hatake clan. What truly moved him was the experience and insights into the activation of Lightning Release summarized by Umino Sasuke.

In particular, how to perfectly integrate Yang Release life energy into Lightning Release stimulation, while maintaining explosive power and minimizing damage to body cells, is one of the key bottlenecks in the Hatake family's pursuit of ultimate speed!

Sasuke Umino is a medical genius on par with Tsunade, and he is also proficient in Lightning Release chakra modes. The Yang Release experience he has summarized is far more valuable than an A-rank ninjutsu. This is clearly Sasuke Umino's way of giving Umino Tetsu an equivalent compensation because he was afraid that Umino would suffer a loss by letting him learn the White Fang Sword Technique!

"Sasuke-kun!" A warm feeling welled up in Hatake Sakumo's heart; he was deeply moved by this thoughtfulness and kindness.

He wanted to decline, but this training experience was indeed crucial to the Hatake family, to Kakashi's training in the future, and even to himself.

He gave Umino Sasuke a deep look, making sure he remembered this favor, and said in a deep voice, "The Hatake family will remember this generous gift. If needed in the future, please feel free to use our services."

Umino Sasuke smiled and waved his hand: "Senior, you flatter me. It is a great blessing for Kotetsu to be taught by you. My insights are nothing to mention. Kotetsu, say goodbye to your teacher and junior brother. We should go."

Umino Tetsu immediately bowed respectfully to Hatake Sagumo and Kakashi to say goodbye. Kakashi also returned the bow solemnly, his eyes still fixed on the scroll.

With Umino Tetsu in tow, they cast long shadows in the setting sun as they left the simple yet fiercely imbued Hatake clan territory.

As Hatake Sakumo watched their departing figures, he looked down at the scroll in his hand, then glanced at his son beside him, who was holding the "White Fang No. 2" short sword with shining eyes, and felt a surge of emotions.

……

Having just returned home after leaving the Hatake clan, Umino Sasuke summoned Umino Kenjiro, the clan's chief of external affairs, and handed him a pre-prepared gold-embossed visiting card bearing the Umino clan's ice crystal crest. He solemnly instructed, "Take this card to the Uchiha clan's territory and deliver it to the clan head, Hino, explaining that I will be paying a visit tomorrow with my younger sister, Umino Kaoru. The etiquette must be impeccable; there must be no slightest negligence." "Yes, Clan Head!" Kenjiro bowed and carefully tucked the visiting card into his robes.

This visit is not as casual as a visit to the Hatake clan. Visiting a powerful Konoha clan like the Uchiha, which has a thousand-year-old heritage, profound foundation, and some past conflicts, requires meticulous etiquette, representing the attitude and respect of the Umino clan.

The next day, morning.

In front of the vermilion gate of the Uchiha clan compound, which carries a sense of historical weight.

Sasuke Umino changed into a dark, well-tailored casual outfit, exuding a calm and reserved demeanor. Beside him stood Umino Koko, who was dressed up in a delicate light blue kimono. The girl was graceful and intelligent, with a gentle temperament and bright eyes curiously surveying the renowned noble family in the ninja world.

Uchiha Hikko truly gave Umino Sasuke, the "Konoha demigod," a lot of face. Not only did he not make them wait outside the door, but he also personally led several Uchiha elders and core members to open the main gate to welcome them!

"Hahaha! It's an honor to have Class Leader Umino here!"

Uchiha Kano laughed loudly, his voice booming. Dressed in the robes of a clan leader, he exuded an extraordinary aura. He took a step forward, his attitude quite warm.

Sasuke Umino immediately put on an impeccable, gentle smile, and took a few steps forward with Koko Umino, his posture perfectly respectful yet maintaining the demeanor of a clan leader.

"Clan Chief Fire Core is too kind! Sasuke is unworthy of such a favor, troubling the clan chief to personally greet him. I am truly humbled. Xiao Xin, quickly greet Clan Chief Fire Core."

Haiye Xiaoxin stepped forward obediently, gave a graceful bow, and said in a clear and melodious voice: "Junior Haiye Xiaoxin greets Chief Huohe and all the elders."

"No need for formalities." Uchiha Hikone smiled broadly and offered a gesture of support, his gaze sweeping over Umino Koko with a hint of scrutiny, before warmly stepping aside to lead the way, "Class President Umino, please come in!"

Upon entering the Uchiha clan's territory, we walked along a wide, clean road lined with large trees that had been trained to use Wood Release techniques.

Sasuke Umino's gaze held just the right amount of appreciation and amazement as he praised, "Clan Chief Fire Core, your clan's territory is truly profound and magnificent! Every brick and tile seems to tell the story of the Uchiha's thousand-year glory and heritage. Compared to this, the little place my Umino clan has newly built is like a firefly compared to the bright moon. I am ashamed, truly ashamed!"

This compliment hit the Uchiha clan where it hurt.

Uchiha Hiko's smile widened, a hint of smugness flashing in his eyes, but he humbly replied, "Class Advisor Umino, you flatter me! I've heard of the noble clan's estate; it blends the essence of gardens with ingenious craftsmanship, understated yet luxurious. Even the craftsmen of the Fire Country's daimyo's mansions have praised it highly, saying it's an artistic masterpiece that surpasses the aesthetics of the ninja world! Although my Uchiha clan has a larger area, it's just some old houses, nothing compared to the novelty and elegance of Umino's estate!"

"Clan leader, you flatter me." Umino Sasuke waved his hands repeatedly, his tone sincere. "The Umino clan is newly established and has a shallow foundation. We have only put some thought into the architecture to make it comfortable. How can we compare with the Uchiha clan, an ancient ninja sect with a thousand-year history and bloodline originating from the Sage of Six Paths?"
I've heard that the Uchiha are descendants of the Sage of Six Paths, with noble blood and a long and distinguished lineage.

The end of the Warring States period and the founding of Konoha Village were achievements created by Madara Uchiha and Hashirama Senju, the First Hokage!

Lord Ban is a man of extraordinary talent and ambition, with a spirit that can shake mountains and rivers; he is truly a peerless hero who will end this chaotic era!

boom!
Umino Sasuke's words were like a nuclear bomb dropped on a calm lake!
Uchiha Kaku's smile froze instantly, his pupils contracted sharply, and he stared at Umino Sasuke in utter shock. The Uchiha elders behind him also changed color and gasped.

Descendant of the Sage of Six Paths!

The Uchiha and Senju clans joined forces to create Konoha!
Madara Uchiha ends the chaotic world!

The secret of being a descendant of the Sage of Six Paths is a top secret even within the Uchiha clan, known only to the core leadership. Most of the younger generation in the clan only know that Madara Uchiha was a powerful figure who betrayed the village, and they keep his achievements a closely guarded secret!

How did Umino Sasuke, a commoner ninja and the head of a newly emerging ninja clan, know about this secret of the Six Paths? It seems that the rumors that the Umino clan is an ancient and declining ninja clan are not unfounded!

Such secrets of the Six Paths could only be known by ancient ninja clans or nobles with long-standing traditions.

Of course, the reason the Uchiha Fire Core reacted so strongly is also because Sasuke Umino actually gave Madara Uchiha such a high evaluation!
This completely overturns the mainstream view in Konoha regarding Madara Uchiha!
The core of Uchiha's emotions surged violently. He was a person who had lived through that era and one of Madara Uchiha's die-hard followers. He was an absolute hawk in the Uchiha clan. Deep down, he always believed that Madara Uchiha was the pride of the Uchiha clan and a true hero!

However, his ideals later diverged from those of Hashirama Senju, leading to his quiet departure and subsequent deliberate downplaying or even stigmatization by the village.

Now, to hear such a fair and even admiring evaluation from an outsider, how could he not be extremely excited?
The way he looked at Umino Sasuke had completely changed. His previous enthusiasm was tinged with politeness and scrutiny, but now it was filled with genuine recognition and closeness!
He took a deep breath, trying to calm his turbulent emotions, his voice trembling slightly: "Class Leader Umino, you are so knowledgeable, knowing these long-forgotten events. What's even more commendable is your fair assessment of Lord Madara! On behalf of the Uchiha clan, I thank you!"

He bowed slightly to Umino Sasuke with a solemn expression, a gesture that moved the Uchiha elders behind him once again.

"Chief Huo He" is too kind.

Umino Sasuke quickly returned the greeting, his tone sincere, "The truth of history should not be buried by prejudice. Lord Madara's achievements deserve the title of 'hero'."

In fact, if the Uchiha and Senju hadn't put aside their long-standing feud and joined forces to build the village, how could Konoha have achieved its current prosperity?

Both clans are the cornerstones of Konoha's foundation; neither can be missing!

The minor misunderstandings between my Umino clan and the nobles were probably caused by the treacherous Mitokado Homura.

This person is now dead; let the past fade away with the wind. My Umino clan is willing to renew our old friendship with the Uchiha clan and help each other!

"Well said!" Uchiha Hikaru clapped his hands and laughed, but his eyes gleamed. "It was all Mitomon Homura who caused all this trouble. He deserves to die! Sasuke-sensei is a man of great principle. How could I, the Uchiha, be so petty? From now on, the Umino clan are my friends!"

For a time, both host and guests enjoyed themselves immensely, and the atmosphere was harmonious and warm.

The previous estrangement and conflict between the two sides seemed to have truly vanished with the understanding of historical background and the high regard for Uchiha Madara. The relationship warmed up rapidly, even surpassing the simple attempts by the Hyuga clan to win them over.

Umino Sasuke has gone from actively turning the Uchiha clan into political enemies to maintaining a close relationship with them. Although they haven't formed an alliance, given the Uchiha's pride, they certainly won't let the Umino clan suffer any losses.

However, in this harmonious atmosphere, a slightly abrupt voice rang out.

“Father, Class Leader Umino.” Sitting below Uchiha Kaku, Uchiha Fugaku stood up. He wore a formulaic smile, but a hint of barely perceptible resentment lurked deep in his eyes.

"It is a great blessing that the two clans have become friends today. To celebrate, why not let the young members of our clans have a friendly spar, make friends through martial arts, and strengthen our bond? Let everyone also witness the talent of the young heroes of the Umino clan."

His gaze, intentionally or unintentionally, fell on Umino Kaoru, who was sitting quietly next to Umino Sasuke.

Uchiha Hiko frowned almost imperceptibly. Fugaku's actions seemed somewhat hasty and impolite.

However, he did not immediately reprimand them. The Uchiha clan reveres the strong, and using sparring as a pretext to demonstrate their strength is indeed in line with their tradition.

Moreover, he also wanted to see just how capable this young lady from the Umino family, who had become Tsunade's disciple, really was.
(End of this chapter)

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