Naruto: I am Uchiha Shirou

Credits: Shoddy

Small Town.

"Lord Shirou, is what you wrote in your book true? That is... this story here."

Yahiko, seizing the opportunity during his studies, clutched a book he had likely flipped through countless times already, his face brimming with excitement. Under Shirou's feigned look of puzzlement, he voiced the question lingering in his heart.

"This story… the one where you wrote about villages steeped in generations of hatred, only for an abrupt war to shatter their animosity and force them to temporarily set aside their conflicts.

Then a powerful ninja came to rule over them, and the villagers, though numb and obedient to their circumstances, gradually found their hatred fading without realizing it. There were even stories of love and intermarriage that arose amidst this change..."

As Yahiko spoke, it seemed as though he had discovered something profound. His eyes grew brighter, and in his excitement, he waved his hands and continued:

"And these stories, even though the villagers suffered under the oppression of the strong, they endured much hardship without resistance. Yet it was still far better than the chaos and violence that came before..."

Watching Yahiko's growing excitement, Shirou, seated at the desk, responded with a faint smile of dawning realization.

"What you're referring to… well, how should I put it? These stories are adapted from real events. As for whether they truly represent peace or lead to everlasting peace, that's still uncertain. After all, it's something that needs to be observed over time."

He paused before adding, "In the latest issue of My Struggle, the fifth chapter, The Second Great Ninja War, I depicted the brutal reality of war and its devastating effects on both small and great nations.

There are countless stories set against the backdrop of war, almost all of which reflect the pursuit of peace and the exploration of its possibilities.

'For example, the so-called peace you see in this small town right now.'"

Shirou's expression remained calm, but he sighed openly without a hint of concealment.

"The arrival of Konoha in the Land of Rain also brought war. Yet, it was the Rain Ninja who initiated the conflict. Who is right or wrong no longer matters—it's about what the war has brought to the ninja world.

Under the oppressive rule of Konoha's so-called invaders, this small town maintains a fragile semblance of peace. But before the Konoha ninja arrived, it was already in utter disarray due to war."

At this, Shirou's expression became more solemn as he continued:

"From what I know, the economic collapse had led to rampant banditry. Murders and looting were frequent occurrences in this town, and the Rain Ninja were too preoccupied to govern it. While Konoha's ninja may be invaders, their arrival brought war but also a fragile peace to the town."

Shirou spoke with brutal honesty, analyzing Konoha's presence from the perspective of an observer without hesitation to critique the act of waging war on smaller nations.

The latest issue of My Struggle subtly introduced the question: Which of these false forms of peace is true peace?

Whether it's the peace imposed by the strong, the unity born out of chaos and suffering, or the trust between individuals, all these ideas were explored, leaving readers with a significant mystery to ponder.

The fifth chapter has begun planting the seeds of thought, inspiring some to rethink their understanding of peace. Some ninjas who longed for peace have even started to reflect on themselves. What is true peace?

Peace! It was never something Shirou imposed on others; instead, he encouraged others to contemplate it and find their own answers.

Even Uchiha Madara, observing from the shadows, was stunned—Shirou's perspective and vision had already surpassed what he and Hashirama once had.

"Yahiko!"

At that moment, a ninja's voice called out from outside the door, breaking the studious atmosphere in the room. Yahiko snapped back to reality, his expression turning respectful as he bowed to Shirou.

"Lord Shirou, I need to head out on patrol now."

Yahiko's talent was undeniable—he was undoubtedly a genius among ordinary ninjas. However, his lack of a Kekkei Genkai meant his potential was limited.

"Go on."

Watching Yahiko leave with excitement, Shirou waved him off with a casual smile. Yet, from the corner of his eye, he subtly glanced at Konan and Nagato, who were still engrossed in their studies.

Seeing the envy in their eyes, Shirou chuckled and said:

"Yahiko has good talent, and his body was stronger than yours from the start. But you two aren't bad either, especially you, Konan."

Hearing the praise, Konan's face turned slightly red as she nodded firmly. "Konan won't let Lord Shirou down."

Shirou smiled and ruffled both their hair gently. "I didn't expect Konan to be a Kekkei Genkai wielder as well."

Konan had just begun to demonstrate her Paper Release Kekkei Genkai ability after learning to use chakra. Although it had many flaws at the moment, it was still considered a Kekkei Genkai of some sort.

Nagato, on the other hand, had yet to reveal the power of his Rinnegan, as he was only beginning to learn chakra control.

"I… I'll work hard too," Nagato said nervously.

Shirou smiled as he watched them, his eyes narrowing. Once they were in his grasp, there would be no escaping.

Among the trio, Yahiko's charisma and strong ideals made him a natural leader. Shirou purposefully arranged for him to spend more time with the patrol ninjas, claiming it was to accelerate his growth. Yahiko, thinking it was a chance to learn from others, was thrilled, unaware that it was a ploy to reduce his time with Konan and Nagato.

"Yahiko's literacy skills are better than yours, so naturally he learns faster. But you two must work harder as well. Starting today, Konan, you'll take Nagato on patrols."

"Yes, Lord Shirou!" Konan replied excitedly, her eyes filled with admiration for Shirou's saintly smile.

Nagato, however, looked conflicted. Despite finding the studies grueling, he had felt fulfilled during this time. Yet, he couldn't move past the lingering pain of his parents being killed by Konoha ninja.

Noticing Nagato's expression, Shirou pretended not to notice and ruffled his red hair with a smile.

"Nagato, I want you to work hard. According to your reports, this village was under Rain Ninja's jurisdiction a few months ago. Seeing you flee from there proves the Rain Ninja's governance was utterly incompetent."

Casually dropping this piece of information, Shirou caught Nagato off guard. For the first time, Nagato nervously asked, "Lord Shirou, is it possible that it was the Rain Ninja disguised as rogue ninjas who killed my village?"

Nagato's voice trembled with uncertainty. Shirou feigned a moment of surprise before shaking his head.

"I can't say for sure. But what I can tell you is that even rogue ninjas often disguise themselves as enemy village ninja when committing atrocities."

"I… I understand."

Nagato, though lacking great ambition and appearing timid, had begun to think like a ninja after undergoing systematic training.

"Alright. You two aim to learn the remaining characters within five days so you can spend more time on training."

"Yes!" the two replied resolutely. Konan, in particular, was wholly dedicated to seeing herself as a tool for Shirou's vision, while Nagato seemed to have found his direction.

He wanted to uncover the truth behind his parents' deaths. Were Konoha ninjas truly the culprits, or had someone else disguised themselves?

Watching the two, Shirou smiled. By keeping Yahiko away, he had ensured the trio's bond did not grow too strong.

Konan was already under his control, and Nagato, whose thoughts were still unformed, was the simplest to influence.

During this time, Shirou had used the excuse of teaching them literacy to subtly plant the seeds of his ideology through My Struggle. As a result, Nagato's perception of him had grown more favorable than Yahiko's.

"Shirou."

At that moment, the door opened, and Uchiha Mikoto entered with a tray of food. She spoke as she placed it down:

"There's a mission requiring reconnaissance in this area."

She handed him a scroll, which Shirou read calmly before nodding.

"Understood."

As he put the scroll away, he turned to Nagato and, recalling their earlier conversation, reached out to ruffle his red hair once more.

"Nagato, I might pass by your old home on this mission. If there's anything you'd like, I can bring it to your parents for you."

"My parents…"

Tears streamed down Nagato's cheeks at the mention of them. His shoulders trembled as he fought back his sorrow and choked out, "Thank you, Lord Shirou. If you happen to pass by, please tell my parents... I'll live well."

"Nagato, if possible, this flower will surely reach your parents in heaven," Konan said softly, crafting a flower out of bread-wrapping paper.

"Th-thank you!" Nagato stammered, his Rinnegan eyes filled with emotion as he looked at Konan and Shirou. For the first time, he felt the warmth of family, and his trembling voice was filled with gratitude.

Seeing this, Mikoto smiled warmly and announced, "Alright, let's eat. Shirou will be away, I'll take over teaching you!"

The gentle and teasing tone of Uchiha Mikoto lightened the mood as everyone sat down to enjoy their meal.

Perhaps this is the warmth that exists amid war. However, the sudden piece of information made Shirou frown, his expression turning grave.

The information just received was not as trivial as Uchiha Mikoto had made it seem. Or rather, he could smell the scent of war embedded in it.

Something big was about to happen!

At the dining table, Shirou discreetly glanced at Nagato's red hair but silently sank into deep thought.

The message from Tsunade instructed him to head to the temporary command post. Hidden within her words, however, was a mention of White Fang. It seemed the village no longer wished to drag things out. This implied a major operation was in the works.

Could this major operation be related to the legendary battle that brought fame to the Sannin?

…

On a gloomy day with drizzle falling steadily, amidst the ruins of a village, three figures crept in under the cover of night.

"Captain Shirou, we've spotted a rogue ninja from the Land of Wind ahead. He seems to be gravely injured, and his chakra is extremely weak."

The three figures hid in the underbrush. Hyūga Hizashi, veins bulging around his eyes, activated his Byakugan to investigate before solemnly reporting the situation.

"Injured? It seems our luck is something this time. On the way to the command post, we stumble upon a severely wounded rogue ninja."

Under her cloak, Uzumaki Kushina, with her striking red hair, couldn't help but chuckle. But beside her, Shirou's expression grew heavier.

Heading out on a mission only to coincidentally encounter an injured rogue ninja?

That's far too coincidental! Moreover, this village happened to be Nagato's former home.

As Shirou pieced together the series of events, he took a deep breath. A thought crossed his mind. However, while the opposing party believed they were hidden in the shadows, they didn't realize that he was already well aware of their presence.

From the moment he began mentoring Nagato and Konan, Shirou had deliberately hinted that he'd be passing through this area and would deliver a message to Nagato's parents. This was an attempt to probe the hidden Uchiha Madara.

As this realization struck, Shirou discreetly glanced at Uzumaki Kushina. He silently vowed to himself—he was no Obito. This time, he had only brought along one companion.

In the future, he would try to only bring one person on missions. He wouldn't leave even the slightest opportunity for the opponent.

"Hizashi, scout the surroundings for any ambushes."

"Yes!"

If it was a coincidence, they'd just be catching a lucky break. But if it was truly Madara pulling strings behind the scenes to assist him, he wouldn't waste this favor.

Whoosh! Whoosh!

On a damp and chilly rainy night, inside a dilapidated wooden house, the gravely injured Sand ninja was gasping for breath, resting in exhaustion. Just as he was about to drift into a deeper sleep, a golden chain suddenly shot toward him.

"Damn it!"

Boom!

With a loud crash, the golden chain directly wrapped around the injured Sand ninja. Moments later, the white-eyed Hyūga Hizashi broke through the door and unleashed a flurry of palm strikes on the enemy's body.

Gentle Fist.

However, the moment his palms landed, Hizashi's expression shifted. He yelled out, "Not good! The enemy has committed suicide!"

...

In the leaky house, Uchiha Shirou, Hyūga Hizashi, and Uzumaki Kushina stood over the corpse, all frowning.

The heavily injured Sand ninja had already breathed his last. His eyes rolled back, and Hizashi knelt, his expression serious as he examined the body. After a moment, he shook his head and reported gravely:

"Before dying, he activated a jutsu implanted deep in his brain."

The jutsu destroyed his brain, wiping out all intelligence along with his life.

"So decisive…" Uzumaki Kushina muttered in frustration, feeling annoyed by the lack of actionable information. Shirou, however, merely glanced at her.

"Golden chains… Kushina, have you awakened the Uzumaki Clan's Adamantine Sealing Chains?"

Seeing Shirou's surprised expression, Uzumaki Kushina let out a rare smug smile. "You Uchiha have your Sharingan, but we Uzumaki also have our unique abilities."

Shirou shook his head with a slight smile before crouching down to carefully search the corpse for other clues.

"Shirou, with Hizashi and me as your guards, you can rest easy," Uzumaki Kushina declared confidently while taking in the sight of the ruined village.

This time, Shirou was heading to a temporary command post. As the person in charge, it was only natural to have guards, and Uzumaki Kushina and Hyūga Hizashi had been assigned as his temporary escorts.

"What's this!?"

Cutting a thread connected to an explosive tag with a chakra blade, Shirou retrieved a sealing scroll from the ninja's chest.

"A sealing scroll? Leave it to me!" Uzumaki Kushina immediately perked up, her confidence brimming as she reached out to take the scroll. But Shirou slapped her hand away.

Startled, Kushina stared at him in surprise. Shirou responded sternly:

"Although I didn't detect any poison, it's better to wear gloves, just in case."

While inspecting the corpse earlier, Shirou had already put on protective gloves.

Faced with Shirou's concern, Kushina pouted and retorted, "Your medical ninjutsu was taught by Sister Tsunade herself. If even you didn't detect poison, how could there still be any?"

Though her words were defiant, her actions were honest—she obediently retrieved a pair of protective gloves from her ninja pouch and put them on. Despite her complaints, her lips curved upward, unable to suppress a small smile.