Naruto's civilian cannon fodder starts with the three-body technique

Chapter 331 Open-crotch Pants Stop the Flood
"Strange power!"

Umino Xiaoxin gave a sweet shout.

Faced with the fist that was within reach, Uchiha Yakumi's eyes spun wildly with the two tomoe in them, and he finally unleashed the Sharingan genjutsu.

An invisible mental shock instantly enveloped Haiye Xiaoxin.

Umino Koko's forward momentum faltered slightly, a hint of confusion flashing in her eyes, but in an instant, her gaze cleared.

Sasuke Umino and Tsunade's mental resistance training for her was by no means a mere formality.

However, that momentary delay was enough for Uchiha Yakumi. Without hesitation, he retreated again. If it weren't for Umino Koko being covered in sticky armor for protection, she would probably have already been defeated.

As soon as the Uchiha clan member distanced himself, he formed hand seals: "Fire Release: Phoenix Flower Claw Red!"

He spewed out a large amount of scorching flames, which were also attached to spinning shurikens, forming a vast fire net that covered an area and caused both physical cutting and burning damage, engulfing Umino Koko.

Umino Kouko's eyes were serious as she manipulated the black rope in front of her to block the shuriken covered in flames, while simultaneously reinforcing the protection of her sticky armor.

puff!puff!puff……

The flaming shurikens kept striking the black rope and sticky armor.

The black rope is tough and can block physical attacks, but it is not very resistant to fire. The parts that are scorched by the fire begin to turn black and become brittle.

While the sticky canopy armor effectively insulates against flames and can even counter Itachi Uchiha's Amaterasu flames, each time it is hit by a shuriken or burned by flames, a portion of the sticky canopy is consumed. Umino Koko needs to constantly output chakra to maintain and replenish it.

Uchiha Yakumi abandoned his previous underestimation of his opponent and implemented a kite-flying tactic!

If Umino Koko tries to get close, he uses Sharingan genjutsu to interfere. Even if it only delays her for a fraction of a second, it's enough for her to create distance again. Then he uses a continuous stream of fire-style techniques combined with shuriken to wear her down.

The power of Fire Release should not be underestimated, as its coverage area is extremely wide.

Although Umino Koko was able to block with the black rope, defend with sticky candy, and dodge with her movements, her chakra consumption was increasing rapidly.

Her breathing became rapid, and sweat beaded on her forehead. The rate at which her sticky armor was replenished slowed significantly.

"Damn it!" Haiye Xiaoxin was seething with anger.

Watching Uchiha Yakumi skillfully wage a war of attrition, relying on his age and chakra reserves, she gritted her teeth.

If her brother hadn't strictly forbidden her from using Ice Release, she could have easily turned the tide of battle with it.

Ice walls are excellent for defending against fire-style attacks, while ice spikes can catch opponents off guard.

Just as she was filled with resentment, her chakra was about to run out, and a cold blue light flashed in her eyes as she prepared to activate the Ice Release Kekkei Genkai within her body.

"Alright! Let's stop here!"

Sasuke Umino's calm voice rang out, clearly resounding throughout the entire training ground.

Umino Koko paused, the icy blue in her eyes quickly disappearing. Although unwilling, she still obeyed and stopped attacking, retracted the black rope, and removed the sticky armor.

Uchiha Yakumi also breathed a sigh of relief, closed his Sharingan, and his chest rose and fell slightly, indicating that he had also expended a lot of energy.

Umino Sasuke stood up, a gentle yet slightly regretful smile on his face, and cupped his hands in a gesture of respect to Uchiha Hikko: "Chief Hikko, in this sparring match, my younger sister was outmatched and lost."

His tone was sincere, tinged with just the right amount of admiration: "The Uchiha clan truly deserves to be called the number one clan in the ninja world, with a thousand-year-old heritage and the ability to join forces with the Senju clan to end the chaos! Their profound heritage and exquisite battle tactics are truly admirable!"
Yakumi-kun has already awakened the two-tomoe Sharingan at a young age, and his ability to adapt to situations in battle is outstanding. His future is limitless!

"I still need to hone my skills more. Witnessing the talent of the younger generation of the Uchiha clan this time has been incredibly rewarding!"

Upon hearing this, Uchiha Kakuko revealed an extremely pleased smile, and the slight resentment he had felt due to the Uchiha's medicinal scent being suppressed in the early stages vanished.

Umino Sasuke's compliment not only elevated the historical status of the Uchiha clan but also highlighted Uchiha Yakumi's potential, which was quite a compliment.

"Class Representative Sasuke is too modest!"

Uchiha Kaku laughed loudly, his tone also filled with sincere admiration, "Nobles are truly unassuming! Miss Xiao Xin is so young, yet not only is her taijutsu incredibly strong, she is also proficient in various secret techniques such as the Black Rope Technique and the Sticky Candy Defense, and her sensory abilities are outstanding!"
With such talent and strength, he is among the best of Konoha's younger generation!
If it weren't for the fact that the medicine-like character had the advantage of age and chakra reserves, the outcome of this sparring match would have been uncertain!

The Umino clan truly lives up to its reputation as an ancient and hidden clan with a long history; their foundation is equally unfathomable!

"It is an honor for the Uchiha clan to witness the brilliance of this young noble genius today!"

Uchiha Hikaru's words were a complete acknowledgment of the Umino clan's strength and status.

A family that can cultivate geniuses like Umino Sasuke and Umino Kaoru, master a variety of unique secret techniques, and possess abundant wealth, is fully worthy of the Uchiha's respect and equal treatment.

The idea that the strong are respected is deeply ingrained in the Uchiha clan. Sasuke Umino's strength, demeanor, and understanding of the Uchiha clan won them their favor.

The atmosphere in the training ground became more harmonious and relaxed.

Although Umino Koko was defeated, her performance earned the respect of all the Uchiha clan members. After completing the reconciliation seal, she walked back to her brother's side, her little face showing a hint of fatigue, but her eyes were still bright, and she did not show much frustration.

Umino Sasuke exchanged pleasantries with Uchiha Hikko and the others for a while, the atmosphere was harmonious, and it seemed that the main purpose of the visit had been achieved.

Umino Sasuke changed the subject and smiled at Uchiha Hikko, "Clan Chief Hikko, I'd like to pay a visit to Uchiha Shun while I'm at it. Is that alright?"

Uchiha Kaku was well aware of the close relationship between Umino Sasuke and Uchiha Shun, and laughed, "Of course! Shun has grown so quickly under Umino-sensei's guidance, he should thank Umino-sensei for that. Someone, lead the way for Umino-sensei."

Soon, a member of the Uchiha clan respectfully led Umino Sasuke and Umino Kaoru away from the main residence area and headed towards the Uchiha Shun family's residence.

Watching the departing figures of Umino Sasuke and his sister led by their clansmen, Fugaku Uchiha's smile gradually faded, and a complex emotion flashed in his eyes.

There was surprise at Umino Koko's strength, and apprehension about the Umino clan's heritage. But deeper, there was an indescribable jealousy. He was jealous that Umino Sasuke had such strength and status at such a young age, and even more jealous that he had a pleasant conversation with his father and that his father had shown a long-lost sense of recognition.

"Fugaku." Uchiha Hikaru's deep voice rang out, pulling Fugaku back from his chaotic thoughts.

He didn't turn around, his gaze still fixed on the direction where the Haiye siblings had disappeared, but his tone carried an undeniable authority: "Your actions today were too hasty."

Fugaku Uchiha's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly lowered his head: "Father, I—"

"No need to explain."

Uchiha Kakuzu interrupted, turning around with his deep eyes that seemed to see right through people, and said in a deep voice:

"As the heir of the Uchiha clan, every action you take represents the clan."

Sasuke Umino is a man of unfathomable strength and an even more meticulous and unpredictable mind. His visit today, seemingly to show goodwill, is actually a calculated move. His evaluation of Madara and his knowledge of historical secrets are by no means accidental. There is much more hidden behind him than we can see.

When associating with him, one must prioritize the interests of the family; one should neither underestimate him nor act impulsively or based on personal likes or dislikes.

Fugaku took a deep breath, suppressing the resentment churning in his heart, and said in a deep voice, "Yes, Father, I understand. I was reckless before. From now on, I will definitely prioritize the family and be careful in my relationship with Umino Sasuke."

A barely perceptible hint of satisfaction flashed in Uchiha Kako's eyes, but it was quickly replaced by deeper contemplation. "It's best that you understand. However, now that you are the heir, you should also shoulder some responsibilities. After you and Mikoto get married, you will officially take over as the clan head."

"Marriage? Weiqin?" Uchiha Fugaku was struck dumb, and he suddenly raised his head, his eyes filled with astonishment and resistance.

The image of Uchiha Mikoto, gentle yet resilient, instantly flashed through his mind. His beloved was so close, yet his father wanted him to tie the position of clan leader to another woman!
“Father! The situation at the front is still unclear. As the heir, I should be at the forefront, accumulating merits and consolidating my prestige. Is it too hasty to discuss marriage at this time? Perhaps we should wait until the war is over…”

Fugaku Uchiha tried to struggle, suppressing his feelings for Mikoto deep in his heart and using the excuse of training to avoid it.

"Hmph! Training? To solidify my authority?" Uchiha Kakuzu sneered, his gaze sharp as a knife, as if he had already seen through his son's little scheme, and said bluntly:
"Marrying Weiqin is the most important step in consolidating your position! Do you think I don't know what you're thinking?"
Mikoto possesses exceptional talent and unwavering resolve. She has already distinguished herself on the front lines, and her future is limitless. She will undoubtedly become a vital pillar of the Uchiha clan in the village, a Jonin of Konoha. To confine her to the inner quarters as a wife and mother would be a waste of her talents and a weakening of the Uchiha clan's power!

Wei Qin is gentle and kind, and a good homemaker; she is the perfect match to assist you and stabilize the home front!

Fugaku's face paled, his lips moved, but he ultimately dared not utter his insistence on marrying Mikoto. Under his father's formidable authority, he felt a tremendous sense of powerlessness: "But, Father—"

"No buts!"

Uchiha Kakuzu said resolutely, his tone chilling, "This is my decision, and it's for the future of the Uchiha clan! Put away your unrealistic thoughts. As the clan leader, you must be able to let go of your personal feelings! This matter is settled, there's no need for further discussion!"

Looking at the suppressed resistance on his son's face and the struggle in his eyes, he felt an even deeper sense of disappointment.

If Fugaku could stand up firmly at this moment, argue for his beloved, and even defy his father, demonstrating the decisiveness and courage a clan leader should have, then perhaps he would change his mind and reconsider Mikoto's matter.

But Fugaku's silence and weakness at this moment prove that he lacks this crucial spirit. In order to prevent his son from making decisions based on emotions and ruining the family's affairs in the future, and to harden his heart, this marriage must be carried out!

"Fugaku understands." In the end, Uchiha Fugaku lowered his head, his voice hoarse.

His feelings for Mikoto seemed to have been abruptly severed by his father's cold command.

Seeing his son like this, Uchiha Kakuzu felt even more disappointed.

His expression remained unchanged, but his tone softened slightly as he said, "Since you're concerned about the front lines, that's fine. This time, Danzo Shimura is the commander-in-chief at the Takigawa front. That scoundrel has a deep prejudice against my Uchiha clan. Hiruzen Sarutobi sent us there, so he must have ulterior motives. The front lines are bound to be a den of dragons and tigers. I originally wanted Elder Setsuna to lead the team, but he... sigh, the last mission to the Land of Rivers almost resulted in the annihilation of our entire army, and he's still reflecting on his actions within the clan. Very well, you will lead the team yourself!"

Fugaku Uchiha suddenly looked up, a glint of light flashing in his eyes. This might be an opportunity to temporarily avoid the marriage and prove himself: "Yes! Father! I will do my best!"

"Hmm." Uchiha Hikaru nodded, looking at his son with a complicated expression. "The battlefield is dangerous, but it is also the best place to temper a person. The power of the Uchiha can only shine its brightest in the life-and-death struggle of blood and fire."

Confined to the corner of the garrison for years, the tribesmen have gradually lost their spirit and their strength has regressed instead of progressed, which is a waste of their talents!
"Now that you are personally leading the troops to the front lines, you must be extremely careful and seize the opportunity to lead the clan's elite forces, establish the Uchiha's reputation, and show the village, and Hiruzen Sarutobi, that the Uchiha have never been weak!"

He paused, then his tone returned to its unquestionable tone: "However, before you go to the front lines, you must first arrange a marriage with Weiqin. I will make the arrangements. Having a marriage agreement will also help to reassure the people of your tribe."

"Ah?" Fugaku felt bitter inside, but dared not refute further. "Yes, Father."

Just as Uchiha Kaku was deeply concerned about the future of his clan and his son's prospects.

Umino Sasuke and Umino Kaoru, led by the Uchiha clan members, have arrived at a relatively quiet area on the edge of the clan's territory.

Compared to the magnificent mansions with carved beams and painted rafters in the center of the clan's territory, Uchiha Shun's house appeared much simpler. The courtyard was not small, but the walls were slightly mottled, and the house also had a sense of old age that had not been repaired for many years.

Clearly, as the son of the prematurely deceased Uchiha Kagami, Uchiha Shun was not an absolute peripheral figure within the clan, but he was not considered a core member either, and the clan's allocated resources were very limited.

Uchiha Shun had been eagerly waiting at the street corner. Upon seeing Umino Sasuke and his sister, a genuine smile immediately spread across his face as he quickly stepped forward to greet them: "Class President Umino! Miss Kokoro! Please come in!"

"Shun, it's been a long time. No need to be so polite."

Umino Sasuke patted him on the shoulder with a smile, looking relaxed and natural, a stark contrast to his polite and reserved demeanor at the Uchiha main residence, even more casual than at the Hatake residence.

He pulled Xiao Xin along, walking inside as if they were at home, without even mentioning the gift.

Uchiha Shun didn't mind at all; on the contrary, he felt particularly close to them and quickly led the two into the courtyard.

As soon as I entered the foyer, I smelled the aroma of food.

There was a woman, somewhat thin and with a gentle but somewhat haggard face, busy in the kitchen while carefully looking after a little boy who had just learned to walk and was wobbling around on the tatami mat in open-crotch pants, exploring the world. She was Uchiha Shun's wife and his son, Shisui.

"Class President Umino, Miss Koko, this is my wife, Haruko."

Uchiha Shun quickly introduced, "Haruko, this is Umino, the class president I often mention to you, and his younger sister, Miss Kaoru."

Haruko quickly put down her work and bowed somewhat awkwardly: "Lord Umino, Miss Kokoro, I apologize for the neglect."

"Sister-in-law, you're too kind. Just call me Sasuke."

Sasuke Umino smiled and waved his hand, his gaze immediately drawn to the exquisitely beautiful little baby. The little one was staring at the two strangers with wide, dark eyes, showing no fear whatsoever.

"Is this the Little Shisui?"

Sasuke Umino's eyes lit up. He squatted down and teased the little guy with a smile, "Oh my, what a spirited little fellow! A full forehead, bright eyes, he's clearly a genius in the making! Shun, sister-in-law, you've raised a fine son!"

Uchiha Shun took it as a polite remark and replied with a smile, "Captain, you flatter me. How could such a young child possibly understand anything?"

Haruko smiled gently and said, "Kids are all like that, they're always mischievous."

Umino Sasuke shook his head, his tone resolute: "Shun, don't doubt me, I'm usually very good at judging people."

Shisui's future achievements are definitely limitless. Not to mention opening his eyes, I think he has a great chance of opening the Mangekyou Sharingan!
Don't believe me? How about we make a bet? If he ever develops a kaleidoscope, you'll have to treat me to a good drink!

"The Mangekyou Sharingan?!" Before Umino Sasuke could finish speaking, Haruko, who was pouring water next to him, was struck dumb. Her hand trembled violently, and the kettle fell to the ground with a "clatter," splashing hot water everywhere.

Her face turned deathly pale instantly, her body swayed, and she fell straight backward!

"Haruko!" Uchiha Shun exclaimed in shock, rushing forward to support his wife.

"Sister-in-law!" Haiye Xiaoxin exclaimed in surprise and rushed forward to check on her.

Sasuke Umino was also startled, not expecting that his casual "prediction" would cause such a big reaction.

He immediately realized that the Mangekyou Sharingan was both a source of power and a heavy curse of destiny for the Uchiha clan. Haruko, as Kagami's daughter-in-law, clearly understood this, which explained her intense reaction.

As a medical ninja, Umino Koko immediately crouched down, her hands radiating a soft green medical chakra as she carefully examined Haruko's condition.

After a moment, she frowned slightly: "Sister-in-law, you lost your vital energy during childbirth and didn't take good care of yourself during your postpartum period. Your body has been very weak. Just now, you were frightened, your mind was agitated, and your blood rushed to your head, which is why you fainted. This deficiency cannot be made up for overnight. It requires long-term nourishment and conditioning. I don't have any good quick fix for the time being."

Xiao Xin felt somewhat ashamed. Although her medical ninjutsu was quite good, she still lacked experience in dealing with such a deep-seated illness that affected the very source of suffering.

Upon hearing this, Uchiha Shun's eyes filled with heartache and self-blame. He tightly gripped his wife's cold hand: "It's all my fault! It's all my fault! When Haruko gave birth to Shisui, I was on a mission at the front lines and couldn't be by her side. The clan... sigh..."

His voice choked with emotion, filled with guilt.

(End of this chapter)