Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

Sarutobi Hiruzen led Raiden Uzumaki out of the Hokage's office, stepping into the open air as they walked toward the Kageiwa. Despite the brisk pace, the Third Hokage seemed calm and collected.

As they ascended the escalator leading to the Hokage Rock, Raiden followed closely, curious about the detour. Soon, they reached the top of the First Hokage's head, where a breathtaking view of Konoha stretched out before them. The village, bathed in soft sunlight, looked serene and peaceful.

"Raiden, have you been here before?" Sarutobi asked, gazing at the scenery with a wistful expression. His robes fluttered lightly in the breeze.

"I'm ashamed to admit, this is my first time," Raiden replied, shaking his head slightly. "Most of my life has been consumed by training. I've never had the chance to really explore the village."

Raiden couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. The famous Hokage Rock—a place every visitor to Konoha dreams of seeing—and here I am, a resident for over a decade, visiting for the first time.

Sarutobi smiled faintly. "It's your first time, huh? I suppose that's to be expected. You've grown up so fast, and it seems you've never had the chance to enjoy Konoha properly."

He paused, his expression turning reflective. "In a way, I share the blame. You were pushed into responsibilities and training from such a young age. I didn't give you the opportunity to enjoy a normal childhood."

Raiden remained silent, unsure whether the Hokage's words were sincere or merely calculated sentimentality.

Sarutobi continued, "I understand you're hesitant about being part of my guard. Perhaps you feel it's a waste of your time. But I'd like you to try it, Raiden. Give it a chance. You might find it more fulfilling than you expect."

Raiden glanced at the Hokage, his lips curling into a small smile. "I had my doubts, but Yuhi Makoto explained the details to me last night. I'll admit, it's not as bad as I initially thought."

Sarutobi chuckled warmly. "That's good to hear."

A New Task

As they stood atop the Hokage Rock, a figure appeared behind them. Yuhi Makoto bowed respectfully and said, "Hokage-sama, I've arrived."

Sarutobi turned to face him. "Makoto, inform the guards to gather at Training Field No. 2 this afternoon. We'll hold a welcome for our newest member and conduct some training."

He then turned to Raiden. "Makoto will show you to the base, help you register, and get you equipped. Go with him, and settle in."

Raiden nodded. "Understood."

With a polite farewell, Yuhi Makoto motioned for Raiden to follow him. As the two descended into the forest, Raiden waved nonchalantly at the Hokage. "See you later, old man."

Sarutobi chuckled, shaking his head, though Makoto's expression tightened. "Could you be more respectful?" Makoto muttered under his breath, his irritation evident.

The Corridor

Makoto led Raiden to a concealed entrance hidden within the forest atop the Hokage Rock. The narrow passage sloped downward into a pitch-black corridor illuminated only by faint glowing lines along the floor.

"This is one of several entrances to the guard base," Makoto explained as they walked. "It's used primarily for covert missions, designed to keep movements discreet. Only team captains and above are privy to its location."

Raiden noted how cautiously Makoto moved, feeling his way through the darkness. The glowing guide lines helped little, and Makoto's pace slowed to a crawl.

"Why are we using this path if it's so inconvenient?" Raiden asked, his tone skeptical.

Makoto sighed. "It's to familiarize you with all the entrances. Believe me, I'd rather not be fumbling through this either."

Raiden chuckled quietly, saying nothing more.

After what felt like an eternity, they reached the end of the corridor, where faint light spilled into a stone chamber. Makoto tapped a specific spot on a stone platform, triggering a hidden mechanism that slid a wall open.

Stepping through, Raiden found himself in a spacious underground base. The air was surprisingly fresh, though it carried a faint earthy scent. The area was well-lit, with numerous guards moving about.

Registration

Makoto guided Raiden to a registration area where they completed the necessary paperwork. Once the formalities were done, the staff member retrieved a set of standard-issue armor tailored to Raiden's measurements.

The armor was sleek and gray, its design simple but efficient. The staff member handed it over, and Raiden examined it curiously. Picking up his blade, he tapped it lightly against the armor's surface.

Crack!

A long fissure ran through the armor with an audible snap, leaving Raiden, Makoto, and the staff member speechless.

"Hey!" Raiden exclaimed, holding up the damaged piece. "Are you trying to insult me? Why give me defective equipment?"

(End of Chapter)

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