Naruto: I Reincarnated with Magi System

Chapter 8: Attention and Danger

While Shin enjoyed a peaceful evening in the Hattori compound, elsewhere in the shadowy confines of Root's base, Danzo sat listening intently to a report from one of his operatives.

The Root shinobi described Shin's recent feats, though the details were vague, as Hiruzen's strict measures kept information on Shin closely guarded. Still, the report was enough to pique Danzo's interest.

"A boy with a rare Kekkei Genkai, a space-time ability at that," Danzo mused. "Such talent could prove invaluable… if properly molded."

Danzo gave a curt order. "Increase surveillance on Hattori Shin. I want every detail—his training, his missions, his interactions. Everything."

The next day, Danzo stormed into the Hokage's office, his usual calm demeanor replaced with visible frustration.

"Hiruzen," Danzo began, "why was I not informed about the Hattori boy? His abilities could be a great asset to Konoha. Yet, you've kept him hidden from my purview."

Hiruzen sighed, leaning back in his chair, his calm but firm tone belying the tension in the room. "Danzo, Shin is under my direct protection. He has shown promise, but he is still a child. I will not allow you or your Root operatives to meddle in his life."

Danzo scowled. "You know as well as I do that Konoha's enemies won't wait for him to grow. If he's as skilled as the reports suggest, he must be prepared—disciplined."

Hiruzen's expression hardened. "His father, Kenshin, is more than capable of guiding him, as is his instructor, Sakumo Hatake. I will not allow you to exploit this boy for your purposes. And I warn you, Danzo—do not test my patience. Leave Shin alone."

Danzo's eyes narrowed, but he said nothing further, retreating from the office with a begrudging bow. As he left, his mind churned with schemes. Hiruzen can keep his secrets for now… but I'll find a way to make the boy join Root.

Meanwhile, Team 4 spent their days diligently completing D and E-rank missions. From retrieving lost pets to cleaning up storerooms, the tasks were mundane but necessary for building teamwork and discipline.

Kakashi, however, was less than pleased. "I've done all of this before," he muttered under his breath after completing yet another errand.

Sakumo chuckled. "Think of it as practice, Kakashi. It's important to build a strong foundation, even in the basics."

After five grueling days, Team 4 had completed the required 20 D and E-rank missions. The announcement from Sakumo brought a spark of excitement to both Hikari and Shin.

"Finally!" Hikari exclaimed, her Byakugan practically glowing with anticipation.

Shin, on the other hand, was quieter but equally eager. This would be his first real mission outside Konoha—a chance to experience the reality of being a shinobi.

The next morning, the team gathered at the Hokage's office, where Hiruzen handed them their first C-rank mission.

"Your task is to guard a caravan traveling to the Land of Hot Water," Hiruzen explained. "The merchants expect safe passage through the forest and mountain regions."

Shin's eyes widened slightly. The Land of Hot Water… isn't that where Hidan is from? While Hidan wouldn't appear for some time, Shin felt a tinge of excitement at the possibility of encountering something—or someone—unexpected.

"It's a standard mission," Hiruzen continued, "but remain vigilant. You never know what might happen beyond the borders of Konoha."

The team bowed in acknowledgment before heading out to prepare for their journey.

As Shin packed his supplies, his thoughts wandered. He knew this was supposed to be a straightforward mission, but something about it felt significant. It wasn't bloodlust or a desire for conflict—Shin simply wanted to test himself.

Standing by the gates of Konoha with his teammates, Shin felt the weight of responsibility settle on his shoulders. The journey ahead promised both challenges and opportunities, and he was ready to face whatever awaited them.

Little did they know, shadows were already moving in the distance, and danger loomed closer than any of them realized.