readsfreenovel Chapter 592 So fast?
Chapter 592 So fast?
He recalled the mission about deploying defenses at a border fortress of a certain country, and it didn't seem particularly special. He looked at the Third Hokage with some doubt, unsure whether the intelligence work had been done well or poorly. After all, he had simply been collecting intelligence step by step and bringing it back safely.
The Third Hokage seemed to sense his confusion and smiled as he continued, "You did an excellent job with that intelligence report. You not only brought back the information, but more importantly, your analysis and judgment of the enemy's deployment far surpassed that of other ninjas of your rank. This is enough to qualify you for the Jonin position."
Zhang Hai was startled. A Jonin? So fast? He had indeed demonstrated some extraordinary abilities during the mission, but he hadn't expected to receive such high praise.
"Moreover, you possess talents that most Jonin don't have." The Third Hokage's gaze sharpened, his tone filled with certainty. "I even think you're capable of leading a team to complete a mission on your own."
Zhang Hai understood the Third Hokage's unspoken message: was he being asked to leave Kakashi's team and lead a separate group? He frowned. Although he craved power and strength, he also enjoyed his time with Kakashi and the other team members. After thinking for a moment, he decided to persevere. "Hokage-sama, I still hope to stay with my teacher. I still have much to learn from Sakumo-sensei."
Upon hearing this, the Third Hokage's smile deepened and became more amiable. "Oh? You are quite like him. However, this is exactly what White Fang meant." The Third Hokage said, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes, "He also has high hopes for you, believing that you have unlimited potential and need a wider world to hone your skills. He said that you are no longer a fledgling who can be protected."
Upon hearing the Third Hokage's words about "limitless potential" and "no need for protection," Zhang Hai felt no excitement whatsoever; instead, a strong sense of unease welled up within him. He knew this meant he was about to be thrust into the limelight, becoming Konoha's "star" ninja, shouldering greater responsibilities, and receiving greater attention.
However, he knew all too well the future fate of the Uchiha clan. That bloody night, that tragedy of the entire clan's annihilation, was something he could never forget. He knew clearly that no matter how powerful or loyal the Uchiha clan was, they could not escape their fate of extermination. He was afraid—afraid of becoming the next victim, afraid that he could not change that predetermined tragedy. The Uchiha's strength, ironically, became the reason they were feared. He did not believe he could be the exception.
“Lord Hokage,” Zhang Hai’s voice was somewhat low, with a hint of barely perceptible worry, “Aside from the Jonin promotion and leading the team, do you have any other plans?” He asked tentatively, hoping to avoid bringing it to light.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, his gaze becoming somewhat profound. As a wise man who had experienced numerous Shinobi World Wars, he could easily discern the unspoken meaning in Zhang Hai's words. He asked curiously, "Oh? You seem to have some concerns? Tell me, Zhang Hai, what are you afraid of? Could you elaborate?"
Zhang Hai smiled bitterly to himself. How could he explain it in detail? Was he supposed to tell the old man that the Uchiha clan would be wiped out in the future due to Konoha's suspicion and internal strife? Such a fantastical prophecy would only make him seem like a madman, or even lead to his secret disposal. He fell silent, head bowed, unsure how to answer.
A brief silence fell over the room, broken only by the rustling of leaves in the breeze outside the window. The Third Hokage, observing Zhang Hai's tightly pursed lips and conflicted expression, was filled with doubt. This young man seemed to be hiding many secrets.
Finally, the Third Hokage broke the silence, his voice tinged with a hint of probing and helplessness: "Since you have reservations, let me offer another suggestion. Zhang Hai, would you be willing... to join the Anbu?"
Zhang Hai abruptly raised his head, a glint of light flashing in his eyes. The Anbu! That was exactly what he needed! Anbu ninjas typically wore masks and carried out secret missions, remaining unknown to the public. This meant he could accumulate power in the shadows, avoiding public scrutiny, while also gaining a deeper understanding of Konoha's power structure.
Without the slightest hesitation, he respectfully replied, "Lord Hokage, I am willing!"
The Third Hokage's doubts deepened upon seeing Zhang Hai's unwavering affirmation. He had initially expected Zhang Hai to refuse, given the dangerous and oppressive nature of Anbu work, far less glamorous than achieving glory openly. But why would he prefer to wear a mask and conceal his identity rather than openly complete missions and build a distinguished record on the battlefield? What was this young man afraid of? What was he plotting?
Despite his confusion, the Third Hokage didn't press the matter further, having already spoken. He tapped the table, his tone becoming serious: "Very well! Since you've chosen to join the Anbu, I hereby appoint you as an Anbu squad leader. You will lead a squad personally selected by me, and depart immediately for the battlefield in Iwagakure!"
Zhang Hai's heart skipped a beat. The battlefield of Iwagakure! That was currently the most intense and dangerous front.
"Your squad's primary mission is to provide maximum support to the front lines and make victory your top priority," the Third Hokage said in a deep voice.
"Yes! I understand, I will not fail in my mission!" Zhang Hai readily agreed.
Seeing Zhang Hai's quick agreement, the Third Hokage hesitated slightly. He scrutinized Zhang Hai carefully and asked, "The Anbu often carries out the most dangerous missions, and surviving by the skin of their teeth is commonplace. Zhang Hai, are you confident?"
Zhang Hai's eyes were firm, without the slightest hesitation: "I will do my best to complete the mission and will never disappoint Lord Hokage." He did not say "I am confident" because he knew that on the battlefield, any promise was false, and only strength and luck could determine life and death.
The Third Hokage nodded, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes. He instructed, "Very good. Go and prepare. We'll depart tonight. I've already selected team members for you; they are all very capable and can handle all sorts of complex situations." He paused, his tone becoming more serious, "Remember, Zhang Hai, never act alone. Always pay attention to teamwork."
"I assure you, I will pay attention to teamwork," Zhang Hai replied respectfully once again.
As soon as he finished speaking, the office door was pushed open, and a ninja in an ANBU uniform walked in, carrying a brand-new ANBU outfit. The outfit was a dark, tight-fitting bodysuit covered by a light tactical vest, with a ninja tool pouch wrapped around his waist. The most striking feature was the expressionless animal mask.