Chapter 118: I Promise You on the Honor of the Uchiha Clan
"Alright."
Deidara's thoughts flitted quickly, dismissing the old man's advice. He nodded casually and began descending with his beloved large bird.
Meanwhile, Shizune arrived outside the gates of the Uchiha Clan Land.
Just as she was about to enter, an Uchiha clan member blocked her path.
"Stop there. What do you want?"
He raised a hand and flared his nostrils. In the wake of the Uchiha Clan's resurgence over the past few days, some members had grown slightly arrogant, speaking with such airs. This behavior was most common among lower- and mid-level Jonin, while the elite Anbu under Fu Yue's supervision remained professional.
"I… I have an urgent matter for Hokage-sama," Shizune said quickly, trying to keep her composure. "Could you let me in—or, I can wait here. Please inform Hokage-sama that I have something important to tell him."
The Uchiha's nostrils flared as he assessed her. She appeared well-behaved, a good sign. Still, what could warrant an urgent message for Hokage-sama at this hour?
"Your name?" he asked sternly.
"Shizune," she replied. Quickly adding, "I am Lady Tsunade's attendant, and this is very urgent~"
Recognition flickered in the Uchiha Genin's eyes. The Sannin Tsunade's reputation preceded her, and the urgency of her request, coupled with Shizune's appearance, meant he dared not delay.
"Wait here. I'll inform Hokage-sama immediately," he said and hurried off.
Shizune paced nervously, hesitating, but reminded herself: she had introduced herself and the Uchiha were already informed. Retreating now would be pointless.
It's okay, Shizune. You're doing the right thing—don't be afraid.
Her mind ran over the past few days: the village's harmony, her cooperation with kind ninjas on multi-person missions, the money she had earned. If Hokage-sama were assassinated by Jiraiya… what would become of Konoha?
Suppressing the urge to retreat, she waited patiently. Soon, she spotted two figures hurrying toward the main gate.
They're here, she thought, sighing in relief.
But as they approached, she noticed the figure behind the gatekeeper was a woman. Unease rose. Why is it a woman? Where's Hokage-sama?
The Uchiha Genin returned, reading her thoughts. "Hokage-sama is not here. This is his wife. You can tell her whatever urgent matter you have."
Understanding, Shizune sized up the elegant woman before her.
Uchiha Mikoto observed Shizune carefully, noting the girl's resemblance to the little girl who had once accompanied Lady Tsunade. "Shizune, right? You've come to see Hokage-sama. Has something happened to Lady Tsunade?"
Shizune shook her head. Since Hokage-sama was absent, informing his wife would suffice.
Lowering her voice, she whispered, "Madam, what I have to tell concerns Hokage-sama. I will leave after speaking, and I hope you will not reveal that I informed you. Can you promise that?"
Uchiha Mikoto's expression grew solemn. "I give you my word, on the honor of the Uchiha Clan, that what you say will remain between us. I will not disclose it to anyone."
Shizune took a deep breath. "It's like this: earlier, Jiraiya found Lady Tsunade and tried to persuade her to return with him to avenge the Third Hokage."
Seeing Mikoto's subtle reaction, she quickly clarified, "Of course, Lady Tsunade refused immediately."
Her words eased Mikoto's expression, and Shizune continued, "Then Jiraiya went to find Orochimaru. Just now, I saw Jiraiya at the free restaurant in Pansi Cave. I didn't see Orochimaru, but I assume he's there too. They may be plotting to assassinate Hokage-sama. I felt it was urgent to inform you immediately."
Gratefully, Uchiha Mikoto clasped Shizune's hands. "Thank you for telling us. Our clan will remember your kindness."
Shizune waved her hand hurriedly. "It's nothing. You should inform Hokage-sama immediately. I must take my leave."
Mikoto nodded. "Alright, go. After this is resolved, I will personally thank you. Please accept then."
Shizune nodded and left quickly. After putting some distance between herself and the Uchiha gates, she looked back once, her chest swelling with relief. At least she had spoken up.
She dared not return to Pansi Cave, anticipating possible conflict. Instead, she found a nearby restaurant, ate quickly, and returned to her new home.
Meanwhile, Uchiha Mikoto, having watched Shizune leave, set off immediately for the Hokage Building without delay.
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