Chapter 125: New Tasks!

Hyuga Hizashi bowed deeply before Uzumaki Raiden, his unexpected plea causing Raiden and Uchiha Fugaku to exchange puzzled glances. Neither of them could fully grasp why the second son of the Hyuga family, bound by the branch family's restrictions, would desire a position in Raiden's Anbu team.

Before Raiden could question him, Hizashi began to explain himself. "Captain Uzumaki, you came here to recruit my brother, clearly valuing the Byakugan and the Hyuga clan's bloodline abilities," he said. His tone was steady but tinged with determination. "To be frank, my abilities are on par with my brother's. I can contribute as much—if not more—to your team."

Hizashi paused, glancing at Hiashi before continuing. "But unlike my brother, I'm from the branch family. For Hokage-sama, assigning a branch member to Anbu would be straightforward, without any complications. Recruiting someone from the main family, however, is a near impossibility."

His words carried a tinge of bitterness. The distinction between the Hyuga's main and branch families was evident, as was his frustration with his situation. Raiden understood instantly: Hizashi sought freedom, a chance to escape the confines of his cursed role in the Hyuga hierarchy.

"You wish to escape the control of the Hyuga clan," Raiden stated plainly. "You resent the fate of the branch family."

Hizashi looked up, his fiery gaze meeting Raiden's. For the first time, someone had voiced the thoughts he had buried deep within himself. His expression burned with a newfound resolve.

Hiashi, who had been silently observing, couldn't ignore the tension. As Raiden spoke, his expression shifted. The truth in Raiden's words stung, and Hiashi's usual calm demeanor wavered.

"We are twins," Hiashi said softly. "Born at the same time. But because I was the first to enter this world, I became the heir to the Hyuga clan, while you became part of the branch family. I see now how deeply this has affected you."

Hiashi looked at Hizashi, his tone heavy with regret. "I didn't realize how much you despised your role. If joining Anbu can give you a sense of purpose and freedom, I'll support your decision."

Hizashi blinked in surprise, the bitterness in his eyes softening. Hiashi had always appeared indifferent to his plight, but his elder brother's words now carried a sincerity he hadn't expected.

Hiashi turned to Raiden. "Raiden, my brother is indeed a rare talent, even within the Hyuga clan. If it's possible, please take him into your team. As for me, I accept my role as the Hyuga heir. My responsibilities prevent me from joining Anbu."

He paused, his tone turning firm. "But Hizashi, you must remember: even in Anbu, you represent the Hyuga clan. Don't disgrace our family's name."

Raiden smiled faintly, sensing Hiashi's pride and protective instincts as an elder brother. "If you're willing to vouch for him, I'll take Hizashi into my team. I'll handle the arrangements with Hokage-sama."

Hizashi bowed deeply once more. "Thank you. I'll give everything to this team."

Raiden acknowledged him with a nod, then turned to Hiashi. "Thank you for your trust. Konoha's strength lies in its unity, and I'll do everything to ensure we work together for its future."

Later that night, as Raiden and Fugaku exited the Hyuga estate, the stars glittered in the dark sky. Fugaku, curious about their next steps, asked, "So, where to now? You've secured me, Hizashi, and possibly others with Hokage-sama's help. What's the plan for the rest of the team?"

Raiden chuckled. "There's only one more member I'm certain of, but the rest will depend on finding the right individuals. I'm not rushing to fill all the slots just yet."

Fugaku raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. "Fair enough. I'll leave you to your scouting. Let me know when you need me." With that, Fugaku headed home, leaving Raiden to his thoughts.

As the first rays of morning sunlight bathed the village, Raiden made his way to the Hokage's office. He had prepared a list of his recruits and intended to finalize their assignments without delay.

When he entered, the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, was reading a report. Looking up, Hiruzen's face lit up with a hint of enthusiasm. "Raiden, just the person I needed to see. I have a mission that requires immediate attention, and you're the perfect candidate to lead it."

Hiruzen handed Raiden a scroll. Opening it, Raiden's eyes widened momentarily before his expression turned serious. After reading the contents, he looked up. "This is the Rouran mission," he said. "For this, I'll need specific support."

"Tell me what you need," Hiruzen replied.

Raiden nodded. "I'll require my Anbu recruits to assist. Additionally, for a mission of this complexity, I need Minato Namikaze to join the team."

Hiruzen leaned back, considering the request. "Very well. I'll arrange it. Prepare your team immediately."

(End of this chapter)