Yukari Uchiha (English)

Chapter 22

"Yukari, may I now introduce your team..." The Hokage pauses meaningfully, the tension in the room becoming palpable.

My heart races as the door opens. At first, I only see two silhouettes, but as they step closer, I immediately recognize the familiar faces. It's Itachi and Shisui. My brothers.

For a moment, I can hardly breathe. Of course, I know them both inside and out. We've trained together countless times, and they've helped me grow stronger more than I can count. But now—now we're on a different level. We're not just siblings and training partners anymore. We're a real team. My team.

Itachi remains calm, his gaze as piercing as ever. Shisui smiles faintly, with a glint of joy in his eyes, though he often hides it behind his carefree façade.

"Yukari," Itachi begins, his deep voice breaking the silence. "This is the first time we'll truly work together. It won't be an easy journey, but I know you're ready."

Shisui steps forward, placing his hand playfully on my head as he often does. "Welcome to the team, little sister," he says with a broad grin. "I hope you're ready to get serious. No more breaks in training now."

I smile back, though my heart still races. "I'm ready," I reply with determination. I've worked so hard for this moment, and while it feels strange to see them as both brothers and comrades, it feels right.

The Hokage watches us with a satisfied smile before continuing, "You three make up a special team. It's rare to have a team made entirely of members from one clan, but in this case, it's necessary. We hope that, as a unit, as Uchiha, you will demonstrate the strength your clan is capable of." His voice becomes serious. "Especially in these tense times."

I instantly understand what he means. The growing tension within the Uchiha clan and between the clan and the village is palpable. A team like ours might help ease some of that tension—or at least the Hokage hopes so.

"It's also a very small team," he adds. "Only three shinobi. Normally, teams have four, but you will be given special tasks, which is why your team is structured differently."

I glance at Itachi and Shisui, both looking calm, as if they've been expecting this moment for a long time. "What exactly do 'special tasks' mean?" I finally ask, curiosity piqued.

"You won't just be doing ordinary missions," the Hokage explains. "While you, Yukari, will take part in the usual Genin missions, Itachi and Shisui will simultaneously serve as ANBU. This means they will have separate duties to fulfill during your missions, receiving ANBU assignments. They will protect and support you, but often, they'll need to carry out their own responsibilities."

A chill runs down my spine. I knew Itachi and Shisui were ANBU, but the reality of them handling secret tasks during our missions makes everything feel more intense. This isn't an ordinary Genin team. We're part of something bigger.

"You'll need to be able to work independently," the Hokage adds. "Sometimes, you'll have to act alone while your brothers complete other tasks. It will be a challenge, but I'm confident you'll rise to it."

I nod resolutely. "I understand," I say softly, though my thoughts are racing. So many new responsibilities at once, and the weight of them feels heavier now. But at the same time, I know this is my path—the one I must follow.

"Your first mission will begin tomorrow," the Hokage finally says. "It will be a simple D-rank mission to introduce you to the daily life of a Genin, Yukari. But as I said, your missions will quickly become more difficult and dangerous. Be prepared for anything."

Shisui grins and winks at me. "So, little sister, ready for an adventure?"

I smile, though my nerves are still on edge. "I'm ready," I reply firmly.