The Rise of Uchiha Clan

Chapter XLI

As Naruto continued his intense training, he couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at him. His thoughts were consumed by worries about Sasuke and Hinata, even though he had no concrete information about their current status.

Jiraiya noticed Naruto’s distracted demeanor and approached him, concern etched on his face. “Naruto, you’re working hard, but I can see that something’s troubling you. What’s on your mind?”

Naruto paused, sweat dripping from his brow as he looked at Jiraiya. “It’s Sasuke and Hinata,” he said, his voice heavy with worry. “I keep thinking about them. I know they’re in danger, and I feel like I’m not doing enough. I don’t even know where they are or what’s happening to them. I can’t stop thinking about it.”

Jiraiya’s expression softened as he listened to Naruto’s concerns. “It’s tough when you’re worried about your friends, especially when you don’t have all the information. It can make you feel powerless.”

Naruto nodded, his eyes filled with a mix of frustration and determination. “Yeah. I don’t even know if they’re okay. All I know is that I need to do something. I need to be stronger. But how can I be strong enough if I don’t even know what I’m fighting against?”

Jiraiya placed a reassuring hand on Naruto’s shoulder. “Your concern for them shows how much you care, and that’s important. But remember, worrying alone won’t change their situation. You need to focus that energy into your training. The better you become, the more you’ll be able to do when the time comes to act.”

Naruto looked up, his expression resolute. “I understand. I’ll keep training, and I’ll do everything I can to be ready. I won’t let my worry stop me from becoming stronger.”

Jiraiya smiled, proud of Naruto’s resolve. “That’s the spirit. Keep pushing forward, and use that concern as motivation. You have the heart of a true ninja, and that’s what will drive you to succeed.”

With a renewed sense of purpose, Naruto returned to his training with a determined focus. He pushed himself harder, channeling his worries into every movement, driven by the hope that one day he would be able to reunite with Sasuke and Hinata and make a difference in their lives.

Tsunade, now firmly settled into her role as Hokage, was in her office when the grim news about Hinata and Sasuke's disappearance reached her. Realizing the urgency of the situation, she immediately called a meeting with every available genin. The large room filled quickly with anxious and worried faces, all eager to contribute to the search.

Neji, visibly distressed and angry, was standing near the back of the room. His frustration with the situation boiled over as he began to speak harshly about Hinata. “Why did she have to get involved in something so dangerous? It’s always the same with her, putting herself in harm’s way. I knew this would happen—she’s always been a liability.”

Naruto’s eyes flared with anger at Neji’s words. “You don’t have any right to talk about Hinata like that! She’s one of us, and we’re all in this together. She’s just as strong and important as any of us!”

The room grew tense, the murmur of disagreement spreading among the genin. Tsunade, sensing the escalation, slammed her fist on the table with enough force to make the room fall silent. Her expression was a mix of frustration and command.

“Enough!” Tsunade’s voice cut through the murmurs like a blade. “We don’t have time for arguments or personal grievances right now. Hinata and Sasuke are missing, and we need to find them. This is not the time to be at each other’s throats. We must work together, focus on the task at hand, and bring them back safely.”

Her words resonated with the room, and the genin fell silent, understanding the gravity of the situation. Naruto, still fuming but recognizing the need for unity, took a deep breath and nodded in agreement.