blogombal Chapter 325 New Year, New Look
Chapter 325 New Year, New Look
Chapter 325 New Year, New Look
January 1st, Konoha Year 48: A new year has begun in the blink of an eye.
As the first day of the new year, even the Hokage had time to rest, and the entire Konoha administrative system also received a rare holiday.
As for Taiyi, who is the Hokage's ANBU bodyguard, he was also granted special permission by the Hokage not to be on duty today and could rest at home for a day.
Naturally, visiting elders is an essential part of such occasions.
Although they were far apart, it was no big deal for Taiyi.
The combination of Shadow Clone Technique and Flying Thunder God Technique allows Taiyi to travel quickly to various places, which is why Taiyi didn't have time to cultivate on this day.
All of Taichi's shadow clones were dispatched to Tsunade, Jiraiya, Nono, Minato, and the Yohei Squad—people with whom he had a deep connection.
The Tai family home is no longer as quiet and deserted as it used to be.
With 22 new members moving in, especially 22 women, you can imagine how lively it would be.
They say three women make a drama, and four roommates make eight group chats.
After an initial period of adjustment, the long time they spent together allowed them to gain a considerable understanding of Taiichi.
Unlike most people in the ninja world, Taiyi is not very particular about rules. As long as you do your job well and don't cross his bottom line, he is very easy to talk to.
So over this period of time, these girls, who are only around twenty years old, have regained the liveliness that should belong to their age.
Now, Tai's family home is decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, and the joy of the New Year can be seen everywhere.
"Mizuki, Grandma Keiko and the children from the orphanage are coming over this afternoon to celebrate the festival together. How are your preparations going?"
"Don't worry, Tai-ichi. All kinds of gifts, snacks, and ingredients for dinner have been prepared. We're just waiting for the children to arrive."
Tai nodded slightly, revealing a satisfied smile. This was one of the advantages of having subordinates; he could simply give instructions on what needed to be prepared without having to worry about it all by himself.
Of course, as a prominent figure in Konoha, he receives many visitors as well as others.
In particular, those ninjas who had fought alongside him on the battlefield or who had been saved by him naturally came to visit him after learning that he was also staying in Konoha.
However, everyone knew that his time was precious, so they only paid a polite visit to express their gratitude, and then said goodbye and left.
However, there are always exceptions.
Mizuki took quick, light steps toward Taiichi, her face beaming with pride and joy.
Taiyi saw this, sheathed his short sword, and stood up straight to wait for her to come. Judging from her appearance, someone else was probably visiting. He wondered who it was that could make her so happy.
"My lord, the Uchiha clan chief has come to visit with his wife and son. They have already been brought into the living room."
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Oh, so it's Fugaku, and he's with his wife and kids.
Taiyi quickly realized his intentions after a moment's thought. Could it be that he's here to fulfill the promise they made at sea?
While thinking this through his mind, he didn't slow down. The Uchiha clan leader was visiting, and he had to show him the utmost respect, as it was basic etiquette.
The warm New Year's sun shone through the wide French windows into the living room, which was decorated with festive cheer by Meiyue and her friends.
The air was filled with the peace and tranquility of the New Year, along with a faint, calming fragrance—something that was never present in Tai's home before.
Fugaku Uchiha, his wife Mikoto, and their son Itachi were sitting in the guest seats, quietly enjoying the tea and snacks on the table.
Fugaku looked around. What he had seen and heard along the way was completely different from what he had imagined. He had thought that Taiichi lived alone and that such a big house would be very deserted.
Unexpectedly, there were other people here, and he recognized them all—the 22 ninjas who had been captured on the battlefield.
I never expected to see them again in this kind of scene, and seeing that they are all doing quite well, it's clear how skilled Taiyi is at managing people.
Just as Fugaku was still pondering, Taiichi's cheerful voice came from afar.
"Chief Fugaku, Mrs. Mikoto, welcome to my humble abode! Happy New Year!"
With the sound, Taiyi's figure also entered the house. His gaze swept across the room and landed on the small figure who had already stood up and was quietly standing behind his parents.
"This must be Itachi, he's really cute."
"Taiichi-kun!" Fugaku bowed slightly, his face solemn. Mikoto also bowed gracefully, her voice gentle: "Happy New Year, Taiichi-kun. I apologize for disturbing you."
The little weasel obediently followed its parents in bowing, its large, dark eyes displaying a maturity and composure beyond its years.
He looked at the top expert his father had mentioned, a person he might become in the future, with a mixture of curiosity and restraint.
"Not at all, please have a seat."
Taiichi warmly invited them to sit down, and Mizuki served them fresh tea and snacks.
"When distinguished guests visit, the house becomes lively, adding to the festive atmosphere of the New Year."
He then looked at the weasel sitting at the back, a tiny creature sitting in a chair, looking very serious, but its feet couldn't even touch the ground.
"Itachi, Happy New Year. Please make yourself at home here."
Fugaku picked up his teacup, took a sip, and looked around at the brand-new New Year decorations and the vaguely visible busy figures.
"Taiichi-kun's place is very lively, completely different from what I imagined. It seems the new member is very dedicated."
He was naturally referring to the 22 prisoners of the Mist Village. As someone who had experienced it firsthand, he was well aware of their identities.
"Yes, there are more people at home, so it's not so lonely. Otherwise, I probably wouldn't be at home for the New Year."
Taiichi smiled and nodded. The relaxed atmosphere made Mikoto relax as well. She gently stroked her son's hair, her eyes full of affection.
After exchanging pleasantries for a while, Fugaku put down his teacup, and his expression turned serious.
He glanced at his son, who had been sitting quietly beside his wife, then turned to Taiyi and spoke solemnly.
"Taiichi-kun, the beginning of the new year should be a time of celebration, but I have come here today with my wife and children to fulfill a promise we made on the Eastern Front. I wonder if that promise still stands."
The atmosphere in the living room became serious because of Fugaku's words. Mizuki quietly withdrew at the right time, leaving the space to Taichi and Fugaku's family.
Taiichi also stopped smiling, and a serious expression appeared on his face. He naturally knew what Fugaku was talking about. His self-glow fell on Itachi again, but this time it had a bit of scrutiny.
"Back then at sea, you suggested that Itachi become my apprentice, but the war situation changed rapidly, and we were never able to discuss it in detail."
"That's exactly it." Fugaku's eyes revealed a hint of longing. "Although we didn't discuss it in detail back then, that feeling hasn't changed to this day."
I understand Taiyi's current concerns regarding his status and position, but I hope you can understand a father's expectations for his child.
Fugaku turned to look at Itachi, his eyes filled with the pride of a father. He straightened his back and said, "Itachi is extremely talented, and he is currently lacking a mentor with a broad vision and great strength like you."
More importantly, I also hope to establish a deeper connection with you and with the Will of Fire of Konoha through him.
Taiichi's pupils contracted slightly. Fugaku's words could be seen as a statement and a show of allegiance, demonstrating his determination to ease tensions between his family and the village.
Before Fugaku could finish speaking, he added, "There may be some unusual teachings you gave me back then. I, Fugaku Uchiha, trust your judgment and methods. No matter how you teach Itachi, my Uchiha clan will not object or interfere."
Taiichi stared wide-eyed at Fugaku, who had uttered those words. What kind of determination did it take to completely entrust his child to an outsider?
Sitting to the side, Mikoto unconsciously gripped her clothes tightly. Although she had expected it, she still felt quite reluctant to part with them.
The living room fell silent for a moment. Taiyi slowly withdrew his gaze and did not answer immediately. He gently tapped the rim of his teacup with his fingers, his eyes seemingly looking into the future through time and space.
In the original work, Itachi is undoubtedly a tragic figure, caught between the village and his family. Although he is forced by his environment, his actions are not approved by Taichi.
This timeline has changed drastically. Danzo was killed long ago, the Uchiha now possesses a pair of Mangekyou Sharingan, and more importantly, he himself exists here.
Looking at the weasel before me, its eyes held a pure innocence tinged with childlike naiveté, yet a precocious intelligence was already beginning to emerge; if left unguided—
Now that such an opportunity has presented itself, and with Fugaku making such a promise, what is there for me to hesitate about?
Isn't it the expectation of most masters to train a disciple who is famous in the ninja world?
Finally, Taichi raised his head, his gaze sweeping over Fugaku, Mikoto, and finally settling on Itachi, who was listening attentively.
"What Chief Fugaku and Lady Mikoto said before was not a joke. Now I see Itachi's performance and character."
"Since you trust me so much and entrust Itachi to me, then I, Matsushita Taichi, will accept this disciple!"
Fugaku's face instantly lit up with an overwhelming mix of excitement and relief.
Mikoto's eyes welled up with tears of joy, and she gripped her husband's arm tightly with her right hand.
Itachi also sensed the change in atmosphere. Although he couldn't fully understand what it meant, he felt the solemnity and his small body involuntarily sat up straighter.
"That's wonderful! Taiichi-kun! No, Taiichi-sensei!" Fugaku stood up excitedly and bowed deeply to Taiichi. "The Uchiha clan is deeply grateful! Itachi's greatest blessing is to be your disciple!"
Mikoto followed suit, bowing deeply in gratitude.
"No need for formalities." Taiichi raised his hand in a gesture of support, then looked at Itachi, his tone gentle yet firm, "Itachi, from now on, you are my disciple. I will teach you according to my own methods and understanding, and I hope you will also strive to do your best."
Itachi nodded seriously, his voice, though still childish, carrying a clarity beyond his years: "Yes, Taichi-sensei."
"Mizuki!"
Taiichi called out, and soon Mizuki reappeared in front of him.
"Go to the study and bring me the scroll from the first shelf of the large bookshelf."
"Yes." Mizuki accepted the order and left.
Taiichi then called Itachi to his side and talked with him about their daily training and understanding of ninjutsu.
Despite his young age, Itachi speaks with remarkable clarity and logic, behaving like a little adult.
Soon, Mizuki returned, holding a scroll that was a foot long and half a foot thick.
Taichi took it and placed it in Itachi's hands. The little boy holding a large scroll looked rather comical.
Taiichi smiled and looked at Fugaku again, "Today is the first day of the new year, and there are many things to do. I know that your clan must be even busier, so I will not stay any longer."
This scroll contains some of my training insights, a very basic part, which is perfect for Itachi to read right now. Take him back, and he can come back for formal lessons in three days.
Fugaku nodded, looking at his son with an indescribable sense of pride and relief.
Itachi was also happy. Holding the scroll, he said crisply, "Thank you, teacher."
Despite simply spending time together, he discovered that he really enjoyed being with Taiichi.
Perhaps because he was still a child, he could feel the aura of natural energy emanating from Taiyi, which made him feel exceptionally comfortable.
The Fugaku family left with great joy and gratitude.
Taiyi stood at the door, watching their departing figures, his mind churning with thoughts.
Taking Uchiha Itachi as his disciple not only meant taking on the responsibility of teaching a future genius, but also placed a crucial move in the power structure between him and the Uchiha clan, and even the future of Konoha.
This is both a challenge and an opportunity.
Turning around, she walked home, with Mizuki following closely beside her.
Having spent a lot of time together, she was no longer as cautious as before when no one was around.
"You are truly amazing, sir. Even a powerful clan like the Uchiha is willing to have their clan leader's son become your disciple."
The little girl's eyes were filled with admiration and gratitude. Even a clan like the Uchiha came to her door asking to become her apprentice.
How luxurious it is that these helpless people can enjoy the fixed teachings of adults every day.
Taiyi turned around and looked at the girl who was almost his little fangirl. He didn't know if it was the influence of the cursed seal or if she had completely let go of the past. Now she was really wholeheartedly working for this family.
"Itachi is only 5 years old this year, and he's just building up his foundation right now. But you guys can't slack off on your training. No matter what you do, strength is the most important thing."
Taiichi kept walking and giving instructions. He had also arranged jobs for these 22 people, most of whom went to Konoha Hospital.
The process was not complicated. With his influence, the Hokage's approval, and the fact that Konoha Hospital was indeed short-staffed, their small group was easily absorbed.
This has somewhat alleviated the shortage of hospital staff.
Time flew by, and after Fugaku and the others left, no other visitors came to the house, giving Taichi time to continue his daily training.
Around 3 p.m., a large group of little ones, led by Grandma Huizi, came chattering into Taiyi's house.
The moment they met, cries of "Brother Taiyi" echoed from all sides.
"Brother, brother, we've also prepared a New Year's gift for you!"
Sure enough, these little guys didn't come empty-handed. They all brought their own carefully prepared little gifts, and before Taiyi could even speak, they stuffed them into his hands one by one.
There are paper cranes and paper flowers that I folded myself, handwritten greeting cards with blessings, and snacks that I secretly saved up.
In just a short while, Taiyi's hands, neck, and pockets were filled with all sorts of gifts.
Taiyi laughed heartily at the sight. Only when he was with these little guys could he let go of all his worries and become his most authentic self again.
After carefully accepting the gifts from the children, Taichi led everyone to the inner courtyard.
Taiichi created a shadow clone to play with the group of energetic kids, while Taiichi sat in the pavilion chatting with Grandma Keiko.