章 54: Self-Sacrifice or Self-Interest
After entering the camp, Kazuya and his team were greeted by the sight of numerous bonfires. The Land of Frost's extreme cold necessitated these fires even at noon. Many Konoha Shinobi huddled around them for warmth as Kazuya, Kurenai, and Yūgao made their way to the large tent at the center of the camp.
As they approached, several figures emerged from the tent. The first to greet them was a kind-looking, large man in dark green armor with the word "food" inscribed on his belly. Kazuya recognized him immediately as Akimichi Choza, the father of Choji and one of the Twelve Guardians of Konoha. Beside him was a handsome young man with short hair who bowed respectfully.
"Captain Kazuya, hello," the young man said. "I'm Uchiha Shisui. It's a pleasure to meet you."
As Shisui spoke, Kazuya could feel the chakra radiating from him, providing a boost to Kazuya's own abilities.
"Thank you, Shisui-san. Senior Choza, and everyone," Kazuya responded warmly. "I received an order from Lord Hokage to support the front line."
"Very good!" Choza said enthusiastically, grabbing Kazuya's arm. "Lord Third Hokage notified us of your arrival. To be honest, facing the Jinchūriki from Cloud Shinobi Village without you would be daunting."
"Has the enemy dispatched even their Jinchūriki?" Kazuya asked calmly.
Choza nodded seriously. "We've already faced the Two-Tails Jinchūriki, Yugito Nii. Her combat power is formidable. And there are reports that the Eight-Tails Jinchūriki, Killer Bee, has been dispatched as well. We can manage for now, but if both appear simultaneously, it will be a challenge."
Listening, Kazuya entered the tent and saw a stern-looking middle-aged man standing by the war sand table. He greeted Kazuya with a nod, though not very warmly. Kazuya recognized him immediately as Uchiha Fugaku, the head of the Uchiha clan, who had led his clan to near extinction.
"Chief Fugaku, are you injured?" Kazuya asked, noticing the bandages.
Fugaku sighed. "Two days ago, I fought Yugito Nii and was scratched by her claws. She's incredibly fast."
"Fugaku-sama, could the Sharingan not track her speed?" Kazuya inquired, pretending to be surprised.
Fugaku's face darkened. "She is indeed a difficult opponent, far from ordinary."
Kazuya reiterated, "Even Chief Fugaku was injured. It seems the enemy is truly strong this time."
Choza took over the conversation, "Cloud Shinobi Village has dispatched 240 ninjas, including over 30 Jōnin and two Jinchūriki. While we have many common ninjas, we lack top-tier fighters. If the Eight-Tails Jinchūriki enters the fray, the situation could become dire."
Fugaku agreed, "Our Nine-Tails Jinchūriki is not battle-ready, putting us at a disadvantage against Cloud Shinobi's Jinchūriki."
Kazuya nodded thoughtfully. It seemed even Cloud Shinobi was wary of triggering a full-scale Fourth Shinobi World War. However, their strategic use of Jinchūriki was a significant threat in smaller skirmishes.
Kazuya then spoke up, his tone sincere, "Everyone, I will handle the battles involving the Jinchūriki. Leave the other Cloud Shinobi to you."
The tent fell silent. The ninjas present looked at Kazuya with a mix of surprise, admiration, and respect. Taking on Jinchūriki directly was a daunting task, one that few were willing to face.
"As expected of you, Kazuya-kun!" Choza said, somewhat ashamed. "I thought the rumors were exaggerated, but meeting you today, I see they are true. You are indeed brave and self-sacrificing."
Uchiha Fugaku nodded in agreement. "Hokage-sama was right, Kazuya-kun. You truly embody the Will of Fire. You are remarkable."
Kurenai and Yūgao looked at Kazuya with admiration. Here was a man willing to face the most dangerous foes head-on.
"This is what I should do," Kazuya said with a faint smile, casting a playful glance at Fugaku. Underneath his composed exterior, he knew the real challenges were yet to come. The Will of Fire, after all, would soon put the Uchiha clan to the ultimate test.
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