Chapter 80: Obito: She Says She Wants to Destroy the World? (Ten-Thousand-Word Chapter)

The Jonin exams were in full swing, and on a back mountain of Leaf Village, Itachi Uchiha was still training.

Although his heart was filled with doubt, he clearly understood one thing: without strength, he could not accomplish anything he wanted!

Moreover, only through constant training could he focus his mind and avoid wandering thoughts.

"Huh?"

However, just as he finished a round of training, he suddenly froze, sensing that someone was watching him.

After a moment's thought, he then forced himself to calm down and spoke.

"Whoever you are, come out."

"You're quite perceptive, kid."

As Itachi Uchiha's words fell, Danzo slowly stepped out from behind a tree.

He sized up the youngster before him, especially those scarlet Sharingan eyes, and felt especially pleased.

So young, yet already possessing such eyes—this kid's future is limitless!

"Who are you?"

Itachi Uchiha remained wary; if it were Orochimaru, he wouldn't show it so obviously.

But he didn't recognize this person, so he had to be extremely cautious.

"You're not yet worthy to know who I am, but perhaps you will be later."

Although Danzo had basically lost his influence, he could still put on airs when facing a brat.

"I know you're confused about the meaning of life, and confused about what happened to your family, right?"

"You"

Itachi Uchiha shuddered upon hearing this; he had always kept these matters buried in his heart, aside from once asking Orochimaru about them.

Suddenly he thought of something, and he cautiously asked.

"Was it Orochimaru who told you that?"

"Orochimaru did indeed tell me you're searching for the meaning of life, but that's all."

Seeing Itachi's expression, Danzo immediately knew he had hit the mark, and from then on everything would be easy.

"But given what happened to your family, I think you should have more thoughts now."

"You don't believe your father died in an accident; deep down you crave the truth, and you're also seeking the meaning of your life."

"A person cannot be completely consumed by vengeance; they also need more faith to prove their worth and meaning, and these are what you're confused about."

Itachi was once again moved by these words; at that moment his heart churned, and this mysterious old man turned out to be completely right!

"Yes, just as you said." After a while, Itachi lightly nodded.

"Then, do you want to find the meaning of life?"

Danzo pressed his advantage; he could make a large group of people loyally follow him, even regard him as the sole sun, so naturally he had some methods.

Using these methods on a four- or five-year-old child would basically be child's play!

"If you want, come with me, but from now on your life will undergo a huge change, because your inner belief has only one thing—protect Leaf Village!"

"If you refuse, then forget today's events and continue to lose yourself in confusion, muddledly pursuing your inner desires."

"Perhaps you'll find it one day, or perhaps you'll never find it in a lifetime, after all most people just muddle through life."

Itachi, upon hearing this, involuntarily closed his eyes; after a while he opened them, and his expression became exceptionally resolute.

"Sir, may I now ask your name?"

"Very well, I am the Hokage's assistant, the guardian of Leaf Village's darkness—I am Shimura Danzo!"

——

"Rizhan, have you really decided?"

On the high platform of the training ground, the Third Hokage sat together with Zhuangqin Xiaochun and Shuihumen Yan.

They seemed not particularly interested in the battle below, paying more attention to the significance behind this Jonin exam.

This Jonin exam was not only for boosting morale, but also intended to let everyone see Minato Namikaze's plans.

Simply put, this is just standing on the platform!

Minato Namikaze is indeed a war hero, but not the only one, because Yuzhi has taken away too much of his credit.

To be frank, Yuzhi's participation in the Jonin exam is merely a formality, but Jonin is the threshold of Leaf Village's power core, and everyone must undergo the assessment.

In the original story, Naruto is the savior, yet he still had to take the exam; moreover, because he used Sage Mode in the Chunin exam match with Konohamaru, he ended up being eliminated.

Regardless, Yuzhi stole Minato Namikaze's fame; now, if we want Minato to rise, we must make up for it elsewhere.

Zhuangqin Xiaochun and Shuihumen Yan are both smart; they naturally understand all of this.

"Hmm, basically confirmed."

The Third Hokage nodded, watching Minato Namikaze, who was in charge of the exam below, and said with a smile.

"Although young, he has ample potential, and he is going to marry Kushina."

"Indeed, given the circumstances, he is truly the most suitable."

Zhuangqin Xiaochun nodded, then let out a sigh.

"What a shame, Orochimaru—Danzo really went too far!"

"Danzo really went too far this time."

Shuihumen Yan also echoed the sentiment.

Although those two weren't exactly upstanding characters in the original story, after the Third Hokage's death they also managed to withstand pressure and did not choose that guy Danzo.

Instead, they supported Jiraiya, and after he clearly refused, they also agreed to Tsunade's matter.

"Alright, let's drop this matter." The Third Hokage also didn't want to say more: "Just remember, don't go spreading this around, got it?"

"Don't worry, we know what we're doing."

Zhuan Qin Xiao Chun and Shui Tuo Men Yan both nodded, but Shui Tuo Men Yan quickly frowned.

"But Rizan, don't you think this assessment, that little brat Yuzhi, is a bit—"

Since the assessment is for Minato's platform, to put him before everyone's eyes, yet this time the most popular contestant seems to be that Yuzhi guy.

Continuing like this feels a bit like putting the cart before the horse, doesn't it?

The Third Raikage could only purse his lips at the words; there was nothing he could do about it.

He can't just issue a rule, like banning the use of the Sharingan, can he?

Moreover, Yuzhi is also a key point against the Uchiha Clan; he has already reported through Minato and the ANBU, clearly understanding this kid's 'character'.

Even if this kid won't become a Uchiha Mirror, at least he has ties all over the village, inheriting the 'Will of Fire'.

"Let him have his moment in the spotlight; that way he'll gain more reputation within the Uchiha Clan and it'll be easier for him to achieve later."

The Third Raikage could only console himself that way, but just thinking that three Uchiha are participating this time…

And all three performed exceptionally well, giving him a headache.

Suddenly, a thought popped into his mind—why not pair them together to let them wear each other down?

With that idea, the Third Raikage's gaze fell on the list, and after a while he finally made a decision.

"Zhi Shui is a descendant of the Mirror; forget him. Uchiha Ying seems to get along well with Yuzhi, but it doesn't matter."

This brat's interpersonal skills are so strong, there's no need to worry about this, and it's not like he can't pass.

He just needs to pass the assessment, which depends on his own performance."

——

"Finally passed the selection; that was so hard."

In a rest area of the training ground, Asma sat quietly beside Akai, Yuzhi and others, muttering.

Akai and Aoba both nodded; although they didn't take part in many battles, the difficulty was truly high.

They had no chance to rest, with the next round starting almost immediately after one round ended.

From a competition standpoint, this seemed unfair, because each person faced different opponents.

But ninja value real combat; on the battlefield, round‑robin fights are common, and the neighboring Third Raikage even takes on thousands alone!

Although the outcome was being exhausted to death, it shows the enemy won't give you a breather; to become a Jonin you must have that resolve.

Behind them, Lin, Jifeng and others looked helpless, since they had already been eliminated.

Yet when they saw Yuzhi sitting silently with Hikari, waiting for the final assessment to begin, they could no longer hold back.

"These two are just here to go through the motions."

Yuzhi and Hikari's battle was really too easy, especially Yuzhi.

Normally, when someone meets an assessment opponent, they'd make some pre‑match boastful words to show confidence.

But facing Yuzhi, almost everyone skipped that step and went straight to post‑match silence.

Hikari was a bit better, but for the others it wasn't that great.

In truth, they never understood—Yuzhi is one thing, but why is Hikari so ruthless?

Moreover, besides Hikari, Zhi Shui from the Uchiha also entered, so all three made it to the main tournament!

"Wishing you both get drawn together."

Asma could barely contain himself; he whispered a line.

"Actually, I'd rather draw Yuzhi."

Akai knew he had no chance, yet he still wanted to challenge Yuzhi.

"If you can draw Yuzhi, I'll thank you."

Aoba laughed at this, whispering to Akai.

Yuzhi didn't mind this situation much; although he was surprised to see Zhi Shui here, he didn't dwell on it.

Moreover, as the competition deepened, he seemed to grasp the meaning of this contest.

Previously Minato Namikaze had hinted at some matters subtly, but that issue hasn't materialized yet; after all, the most important thing for Leaf Village is still the Hokage's selection.

Now Minato Namikaze stands here as the chief examiner of the Jonin exam, especially at this moment, which may also indicate something.

And he himself is also a contestant, receiving astonishing cheers and honors.

"They're boosting my reputation!"

Yuzhi's battlefield achievements are outstanding, but largely it's others and Leaf Village praising him; no one has truly seen his performance.

Now praise and reality intertwine, the effect naturally improves, and many Uchiha have arrived this time, so…

"Is this really a plan to support me within the clan?"

Thinking this, Yuzhi couldn't help but laugh and cry at the same time.

Leaf Village really doesn't miss any opportunity; even a simple Jonin exam they can turn into a three‑birds‑one‑stone scheme.

Yet their 'precise timing' to back the actual controller of the Uchiha makes Yuzhi genuinely uneasy.

"But that's fine; after all, it's all just milking the wool, whoever's it is the same."

He looked up at Minato Namikaze, who was preparing the draw, then turned to glance at the Third Raikage and others seated on the high platform.

He felt great spirits now, after all the new main storyline is "A true man cannot linger in the shadows of others," and boosting reputation can't stop for a moment!

"Main tournament, first round: Uchiha Haori vs. Uchiha Ying!"

As Yuzhi was pondering, Minato Namikaze loudly announced the opponent for the main tournament, sparking cheers throughout the arena again.

As a Great Hero of war, Yuzhi's deeds are widely spread, yet most have only heard of him and never seen him.

Even the ninja who fought alongside him on the front lines are the same, because Yuzhi's missions are either classified or small‑team operations.

Though his fame is great, those who truly witness this Great Hero's performance are surely delighted.

"What a pity, you two ended up drawn together; give it your all."

Asuma saw the lottery draw, immediately sighed and patted Yuzhi's shoulder, but his inscrutable expression showed he was in a very good mood.

"What a pity, I didn't draw you; otherwise I would still want to put on a good show in front of Hong."

Yuzhi guessed that this lottery draw was undoubtedly rigged, after all he never believed in so-called lotteries.

However, controlling the lottery outcome is a necessary means for every superior, beyond reproach, but this doesn't stop Yuzhi from teasing Asuma a bit.

"Damn." Asuma immediately shut up, he knew Hong had a good impression of Yuzhi.

"Come on, Yuzhi, Ying!"

Rin sat in the back row waving her fists, and Akai, Aoba, and others likewise cheered them on.

"I didn't expect your jinx to come true."

Hikari followed Yuzhi in nodding to everyone, and then, as they stepped out, she whispered.

The system told me I have to fight you—what's this jinx about?

Yuzhi muttered a complaint, then spoke: 'Actually, it's not unexpected; after all, we performed too well.'

The two chatted casually for a few sentences, then together came to the center of the training field.

"Yuzhi, good luck; let's chat after the match."

However, when Yuzhi passed Minato Namikaze, he suddenly lowered his voice and said to Yuzhi.

"The Hokage also wants to meet you."

Indeed.

Upon hearing this, Yuzhi instantly realized his earlier thoughts were not wrong at all.

These old fogies, using a jonin exam, can actually play so many tricks; one can only say they're truly formidable!

"Are you all ready?"

Minato Namikaze watched as Yuzhi and Hikari were already standing on the field; after loudly explaining the exam rules once, he asked.

Yuzhi and Hikari nodded simultaneously; although they didn't move, they had fully prepared for battle.

"Then, the match begins!"

As his words fell, the crowd's cheers grew louder, and Yuzhi and Hikari simultaneously activated their Sharingan.

"I must teach you a lesson, you foul-mouthed brat."

"For the mission, we can't lose."

With their momentum continually rising, the next moment they both moved almost simultaneously.

"Fire Release: Great Fire Dragon Technique!"

"Fire Release: Great Fire Dragon Technique!"

Without any probing, both sides instantly unleashed violent fire release.

The scorching heat instantly permeated the venue, drawing even more enthusiastic cheers.

However, this way of fighting gave the Third Hokage a headache; he could only have the barrier team members strengthen the barrier to avoid any accidents.

And their fighting also caused the gazes of two people hidden in the crowd to become deep.

"Uchiha Yuzhi's growth is truly somewhat unexpected."

Standing in a corner of the training field, Orochimaru gazed deep at the battle in the arena.

His purpose in coming here was originally to confirm the Third Hokage's ideas, but seeing the scene's atmosphere, he also furrowed his brow for a moment.

Because Yuzhi's popularity is really too high, this jonin exam seems to have been prepared for him.

"Could it be..."

Suddenly, Orochimaru thought of a possibility: that the Third Hokage's original intention was for Yuzhi.

"Quite possible, after all the Uchiha clan's internal strife has become like this; this is his opportunity."

Choose a suitable person to give him great fame, letting him attain a higher status within the Uchiha.

Then gradually nurture him, and eventually let him control the Uchiha, which best serves the old man's interests.

I don't know whether it's Orochimaru on the fifth level, the Third Hokage on the fifth level, or Yuzhi only thought of the first level.

Now this scene makes it hard for Orochimaru not to associate it with such a situation.

The Uchiha have always been a major problem for the Leaf Village, with relations between them extremely unpleasant.

If it weren't for the ninja world war breaking out, forcing them to present a united front externally, this powder keg would likely have exploded long ago.

Of course, whether it's really like this Orochimaru can't say for sure, but everything before us seems to be exactly so!

"Take it slow; we'll see later."

He shook his head, Orochimaru no longer thought further, but focused on watching this battle.

Because of Itachi Uchiha's relation, and the information brought back by Danzo about the 'Mysterious Eyed Person', he is now full of interest in the Sharingan.

Danzo has already agreed to let him research the Sharingan, but he still craves more actual observation.

And Yuzhi is an ideal sample, especially since he will participate in this exam.

Watching Yuzhi in the field dodge and weave, effortlessly deflecting attacks, while continually combining taijutsu and ninjutsu to counterattack.

Orochimaru, for a moment, watched with rapt attention; such a battle truly could be called an art.

"However, what's the situation with that Uchiha Ying—is she someone the Uchiha clan cultivated themselves?"

Yuzhi's performance isn't surprising to Orochimaru, but that Uchiha Ying not falling behind at all leaves him somewhat speechless.

Just thinking about these great clans, they have the habit of personally cultivating their clan members, so he doesn't find it particularly strange.

Watching the two figures constantly cross like phantoms, Orochimaru's inner desire began to intensify.

But soon, he also began to sigh.

"Just an ordinary Sharingan, still lacking a bit."

Madara Uchiha and Senju ZhuZhang forged a new order in the ninja world; besides their personal charisma, they relied on that unparalleled, formidable power!

Now he has already come into contact with the cells of Thousand‑Hand ZhuZhang, and his heart naturally yearns immensely for the power belonging to the Uchiha Clan.

Unfortunately, Leaf Village does not have Madara Uchiha's cells, and it is hard for this world to produce someone like Madara Uchiha.

But Orochimaru does not become despondent because of this; the Uchiha bloodline always lets him uncover its secrets!

"This is the meaning of life: to explore the unknown and understand the source of everything."

Orochimaru's heart becomes intensely fervent, and he is also very clear about one thing.

"To grasp these, one must have sufficient lifespan; only eternal life can possibly allow one to probe everything in this world!"

Thinking this, Orochimaru's aura seems to have shifted.

Listening to the continuous gasps and cheers around him, and watching the fierce battle below, Orochimaru shows a smile.

"If I could obtain their eyes, how wonderful that would be."

——

"That woman, is she also someone who possesses the Mangekyou Sharingan?"

In the alternate space beneath the stage, Obito is also watching the match before him.

He has already decided to strike Leaf Village, so he must come to thoroughly gather intelligence!

Although he could entrust these matters entirely to Bai Jue, he himself hails from Leaf Village and is therefore more familiar with the place.

Thus he chooses to come personally, making many things more convenient, especially since he wants to clarify matters about the Nine‑Tails jinchuriki.

But after he arrives at Leaf Village, he feels some regret.

"Why, why is it like this?"

Even though he had long prepared himself mentally, he can hear information about Yuzhi everywhere in Leaf Village.

Especially when he comes to this arena to investigate the mysterious Mangekyou Sharingan beside Yuzhi, and sees the audience's extreme cheers all around.

Lin, Akai and others, as well as Kakashi on the stands, are the same; even though he deems this a false world, he can't help but be moved.

"This is only a false world, this is just a false world."

Obito repeatedly comforts himself this way; he can only console himself like this, and now his heart becomes especially resolute.

"This world is so different; no one cares about what I do, my fate is merely forgotten.

Therefore I will shatter this illusory world, forge a world of my own, a world without Yuzhi!"

Such a biblical‑like consolation finally calms Obito's emotions considerably.

Watching Hikari battling Yuzhi, he feels somewhat disappointed, because the two have not displayed genuine strength.

But this is rather normal, because such a battle is truly of a performance nature; no one will truly fight to the death.

"But this person is definitely not Uchiha Ying; although I don't know her, I can be certain of that."

Obito quickly ponders in his mind, but regardless of who she is, he can confirm that this woman is certainly with Yuzhi.

"Why are all the good things taken by him!"

Obito's heart burns with anger; he can conclude that the events within the Uchiha Clan are most likely tied to these two.

After all, both have the Mangekyou Sharingan; if they truly intend to do something, no one can stop them!

Watching the two continuously fighting in the arena, the ever‑spouting flames, and the cheers that almost reach a climax.

Obito's expression grows increasingly sour, and suddenly a new thought arises in his mind.

"Why should I care about her identity? Who she is doesn't matter; what matters is why she follows that scoundrel Yuzhi.

She follows Yuzhi because she has her own motives; once I know these, is there anything I cannot do?"

Everyone has the Mangekyou Sharingan, and I have even more resources in my hands; under these circumstances, could I still be weaker than Yuzhi?"

Thinking this, Obito's expression finally recovers considerably.

Although the cheers beside him remain harsh, a smile blossoms beneath his mask.

"It seems that this trip to Leaf Village is not only to gather data on the Nine‑Tails jinchuriki, but also to find out what this woman wants…"

Though obstacles abound, Obito is confident; he firmly believes he will create a brand‑new world, a world belonging to him! —

"Yuzhi, hello, this counts as our first meeting, right?"

Behind the arena, the Third Hokage smiles as he looks at Yuzhi.

Minato Namikaze stands beside him; his true self has now arrived here, while the one left outside is merely a Shadow Clone Jutsu.

"Lord Hokage, hello, but for me this is not the first time."

Yuzhi smiles and says, at this point the assessment between him and Hikari has already ended.

Their battle is exceptionally fierce, and both appear very serious.

However, with the condition that the Mangekyou Sharingan cannot be used, no matter how intense their fight becomes, it remains just that.

Moreover, this battle truly gives Yuzhi the advantage, though he cannot use eye techniques to boost his power.

But his years of missions have not been in vain; the rewards from various Side Quests are unimaginably abundant.

He masters a great many techniques, and with the "Akai's Physiology" he is especially resilient; even if Hikari kicks him twice, it's no problem.

In the end, Hikari can no longer endure his ever‑changing tactics and, feeling a bit depressed, chooses to withdraw.

Nevertheless, their battle still provokes unimaginable cheers on the spot.

That splendid style of combat, that ferocious yet precise, purpose‑driven ninjutsu release.

All of this makes everyone present truly realize that combat can indeed become an art!

Most of them had only heard of it before, but now they finally have witnessed it.

But this makes many Uchiha Clan members present feel bewildered, as those sitting nearby whisper to them.

Even though their hearts are especially excited, the problem is they simply don't know how.

But this no longer concerns Yuzhi; looking at the system panel processing reward settlement, Yuzhi has already followed Minato Namikaze to the backstage to meet the Third Hokage.

And this meeting further confirms Yuzhi's earlier suspicion: that old man treats the Jonin assessment as a stage.

This stage is for Minato Namikaze, and it's also for him!

That really is my regret, not being able to discover you sooner.

The Third Hokage still had a full smile on his face, but he also felt somewhat troubled inside.

Yuzhi's ferocious combat ability is one thing, but Uchiha Ying's combat power is also surprisingly strong.

Especially since the originally enthusiastic cheers from outside have already subsided, he knows that the assessments of others will hardly attract the audience's attention anymore.

Although this time the stage was set up for two people, in the end Yuzhi still ended up stealing the spotlight.

What's more troubling for him is that although Uchiha Ying voluntarily withdrew from the exam, her Jonin position cannot be left vacant.

Congratulations, you have successfully become a Jonin this time, and your family will have three more Jonin this time.

Although he felt uneasy inside, the Third Hokage still continued speaking with a smile.

In the future, I expect to see many new faces at the Jonin class meetings.

The Jonin class is an institution that all Jonin of the Leaf Village must enter, and the matters discussed and decided there can even influence some of the Leaf Village's policies.

Of course, these policies are merely things that do not affect the Leaf Village's grand strategy, but after all, this is already being able to participate in the village's construction.

Moreover, the benefits and treatment of Jonin are absolutely incomparable to those of Chunin, including not involving secret technique scrolls, and also a fixed monthly allowance.

It can be said that these are the dreams of all ninjas!

However, the number of Jonin in each village is not large; even if you add up all the Jonin of the Leaf Village, there are actually only two or three hundred.

As for Special Jonin, although they also have decent treatment, compared to true Jonin the difference is not just a little bit.

Alright, I think we should get back to the main topic.

The Third Hokage also didn't want to dwell on this exam matter, and he shifted the conversation.

Actually, I have wanted to meet you for a long time, ever since we teamed up with Minato to destroy the Shin Wu Pi Bridge, but I didn't expect you to go on a mission afterward.

After that, you were even more involved in protecting the negotiations between the Leaf Village and the Rock Village, facing the Mist Village people again; thank you for your hard work, Yuzhi.

I am a Leaf ninja; this is what I ought to do.

Yuzhi shook his head and, following the Third Hokage's line of thought, spoke up.

Exactly, a Leaf ninja.

Sure enough, as soon as Yuzhi said that, the Third Hokage's face immediately broke into a smile.

However, you have done so much; the deserved reward cannot be lacking.

Yuzhi-kun, I don't know what you want.

Upon hearing these words, Yuzhi was momentarily stunned.

Good grief, this Third Hokage probably can't think of what to give him either, so he just passed the buck to him.

But Yuzhi also didn't know what he wanted; after thinking it over, he could only speak up.

As for this matter, I'll just follow the Hokage's arrangements, after all I am a member of the Uchiha clan.

Although there have been changes within the clan, many things have been let go, so I also don't know.

Upon hearing these words, the Third Hokage and Minato exchanged a glance, already understanding Yuzhi's meaning.

In that case, Minato will accompany you to peruse the Sealing Scroll, but you may only choose two techniques.

The Third Hokage pondered for a moment and then made his decision.

Besides, Yuzhi, may I inquire about the current situation within the Uchiha clan?

Although the village cannot interfere in clan affairs, you said before that the Uchiha are the Leaf Village's Uchiha, so we naturally need to be concerned.

If there is anything you need help with, you can also discuss it with us.

Actually, the Uchiha clan is doing fine right now.

Upon hearing that, Yuzhi felt a bit amused inside, but he still seriously began to talk nonsense.

I told Minato-senpai that although opinions within the clan are not unified, at least we can sit down and have a proper talk.

However, this time the losses are great; perhaps we need some material compensation, so that the clan can stabilize more quickly.

As for the Police Force, after internal clan discussion, it is also gradually changing, and I strongly support this change.

Although there is strong resistance, at least it has started smoothly; however, there is still a significant shortage of manpower, so perhaps we need more capable people to help us.

Yuzhi said all that without blinking an eye; if Uchiha Shin and Uchiha Shu were here, they'd probably be confused.

Those so-called 'strong resistances' are either already in prison or have gone to the Pure Land to accompany the clan leader and elders for tea, right?

Does that even count as resistance?

Unfortunately, the Third Hokage doesn't understand these matters; he merely smiled and nodded, then spoke.

In that case, the Leaf Village will not stand idly by; we will contact members of other families and let them meet with you.

As for how to talk and what outcome to reach, that's up to you; the Leaf Village will not interfere in clan affairs.

Besides that, the Leaf Village can also provide any materials the Uchiha need free of charge; you just need to make a list when the time comes.

Having said that, the Third Hokage suddenly stopped, then looked at Yuzhi with a meaningful gaze.

However, I have one request; I hope Yuzhi you won't shirk it.

Hokage-sama, please speak.

I hope that this time the provision of materials will be issued under the name of your contacting the Leaf Village, rather than otherwise.

Do you understand what I mean?

——

I certainly understand; you just want to support me as the head of the Uchiha clan, right?

At home, Yuzhi sat at the desk recalling his meeting with the Third Hokage, and he couldn't help but start complaining.

However, despite the complaining, Sarutobi Hiruzen this time actually brought out something real.

He didn't even ask for just a list; this shows he has decided to make a heavy investment.

Moreover, he even proactively helped arrange meetings between other families and the Uchiha, which is a clear signal.

Members of other families will at least give some face to this Third Hokage, even though he is about to step down.

"But these supplies can't be weapons or anything; otherwise he'll think we're determined to become rebels."

Yuzhi may be a rebel, but some things can't be said outright, and being labeled a rebel can wait until judgment.

He hasn't even lost yet; on what grounds can they call him a rebel?

And after freeloading so much, Yuzhi is feeling quite pleased.

"Dinner's ready, you bastard."

While Yuzhi was pondering, Hikari came over carrying tonight's dinner.

She glanced at Yuzhi's mischievous grin, thinking he was laughing at her loss, and suddenly couldn't hold back.

"What are you so smug about? When will we be unrestricted and do it again!"

"If you fight me without restrictions I'd definitely lose, but unfortunately there's no such chance."

Yuzhi shook his head immediately; though he knew he was misunderstood, he still played the grateful, obedient act to the extreme.

That made Hikari rather depressed; although she was the one who fell, it didn't mean she couldn't continue.

But seeing Yuzhi's current expression, she suddenly regretted going down a bit too early; she'd have to wait until this guy can't move.

"Alright, it's just a formality. Actually, even if you don't go down, I'm ready to go down, since neither of us can easily defeat the other."

Yuzhi saw Hikari's look, thought for a moment, and offered a comforting remark.

"You mean I went down too early, otherwise you'd go down?"

But Hikari seemed to have misunderstood, which made her even more depressed, wondering why she went so fast.

"Not exactly, but thank you."

Yuzhi shook his head; he wouldn't go down, after all it concerns his reward!

【Side Quest Completed: Defeat Uchiha Guang and complete the assessment with an all‑victory stance】

【Reward Obtained: Amaterasu (Uchiha Guang)】

Amaterasu is still a powerful ability; although in the original work it never actually killed anyone, its effect is never lacking.

Especially when used for ambushes, it can make a target fall instantly before they can react.

After all, not everyone is the Fourth Raikage, nor can everyone, like Obito, use Izanagi.

"And why can Hikari's Amaterasu control those flames?"

Yuzhi had always assumed Hikari's ability included the Kagu Earth Command, since she could control Amaterasu to form protection.

But now he discovers the situation is somewhat different from his assumption; Hikari's Amaterasu can be controlled on its own!

"How perverse."

Although thrilled inside, Yuzhi couldn't help muttering an insult, which would trouble the future Sasuke.

"Forget it, no need to thank me; I was never interested in this kind of thing."

Hikari shrugged indifferently; for her, she never took this assessment to heart.

She was somewhat annoyed, but after a pause she was fine.

"And really, shouldn't I be the one thanking you?"

"Don't bring up such profound topics, nor dwell on the past; just live well in the present."

Yuzhi shook his head, cutting off her next words; he knew what the girl wanted to say.

"Hmm, just live well in the present."

Hikari glanced at Yuzhi, nodded, and didn't object.

"What a pity, it seems some grudges are hard for me to settle."

I despise this world, despise the Ninja System, but I still have to consider the feelings of innocent people.

It's like that within this clan, and the whole ninja world is the same; the ninja world is even more complex and difficult than a clan.

Yuzhi heard her words without replying; having not endured others' hardships, one should not counsel others to be good—he understood this well.

Moreover, eradicating the entire ninja world system is truly too difficult, especially since they themselves are part of it.

Elimination and destruction are impossible, but perhaps there's a sliver of chance for change?

"Speaking of it, I'm curious—when I said I'd destroy this world, what did you think?"

Suddenly, Hikari looked at Yuzhi curiously and asked with a smile.

"Are you planning to find another excuse to deceive me?"

"No, never."

Yuzhi pondered for a while, then, looking at Hikari, he finally spoke.

"Perhaps I'll cooperate with you to do something."

——

In an alternate space a short distance from Yuzhi's house, Obito's eyes flickered with a faint light.

He dared not get too close, because he knew Yuzhi also possessed spatial abilities, making it hard to hear what was said inside.

Because Yuzhi, that bastard, set up a sound‑proof barrier, yet he still had some means to catch bits of sound.

And this time he heard a very interesting, very amusing voice!

"Did she say she wants to destroy this world?"

I'm at work, but the time didn't shift.

Actually it was mentioned before that the Third turned this exam into a stage specifically for Minato Namikaze and the protagonist; perhaps it was written too obscurely, causing misunderstandings, and after Naruto's fourth battle everyone must take the assessment, which is why I wrote it this way.