New Year, New Atmosphere

January 1st, Konoha Year 48: A new year has begun in the blink of an eye.

As it was the first day of the new year, even the Hokage had time to rest, and the entire Konoha administrative system also received a rare holiday.

As for Taiichi, who is the Hokage's Anbu bodyguard, he was also granted special permission by the Hokage not to be on duty today and could rest at home for a day.

Naturally, visiting elders is an essential part of such occasions.

Although they were far apart, it was no big deal for Taiichi.

The Shadow Clone and Flying Thunder God allows Taiichi to travel quickly to various places, which is why Taiichi didn't have time to cultivate on this day.

All of Taiichi's Shadow Clone were dispatched to Tsunade, Jiraiya, Nonō, Minato, and the Yohei Squad—people with whom he had deep connections.

The Taiichi home is no longer as quiet and deserted as it used to be.

With 22 new members moving in, especially 22 women, you can imagine how lively it would be.

They say three women make a drama, and four roommates make eight group chats.

After an initial period of adjustment, the extended time they spent together allowed them to gain a considerable understanding of Taiichi.

Unlike most people in the Ninja World, Taiichi doesn't place great importance on rules. As long as you do your job well and don't cross his bottom line, he's very easy to talk to.

So over this period of time, these girls, who are only around twenty years old, have regained the liveliness that belongs to their age.

Now, Taiichi home is decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, and the joy of the New Year can be seen everywhere.

"Mizuki, Grandma Keiko and the children from the Orphanage are coming over this afternoon to celebrate the festival together. How are your preparations going?"

"Don't worry, Taiichi. All the gifts, snacks, and ingredients for dinner are ready. We're just waiting for the children to arrive."

Taiichi, revealing a satisfied smile. This was one of the advantages of having subordinates; he could simply give instructions on what needed to be prepared without having to worry about it all himself.

Of course, as a prominent figure in Konoha, he receives many visitors as well as others.

In particular, those ninjas who had fought alongside him on the battlefield or who had been saved by him naturally came to visit him after learning that he was also staying in Konoha.

However, everyone knew that his time was precious, so they only paid a polite visit to express their gratitude, and then said goodbye and left.

However, there are always exceptions.

Mizuki took quick, light steps toward Taiichi, her face beaming with pride and joy.

Taiichi saw this, sheathed his short sword, and stood up straight to wait for her to come. Judging from her appearance, someone else was probably visiting. He wondered who it was that could make her so happy.

"My lord, the Uchiha Clan Head has come to visit with his wife and son. They have already been led into the Reception Hall."

39

Oh, so it's Fugaku, with his wife and kids.

Taiichi quickly realized his intentions after a moment's thought. Could it be that he's here to fulfill the promise they made at sea?

Thinking this through his mind, he didn't slow down his steps. The Uchiha Clan Head was visiting, and he had to show him the utmost respect; it was basic etiquette.

The warm New Year's sun shone through the wide French windows into the living Reception Hall was decorated with festive cheer by Mizuki and her friends.

The air was filled with the peace and tranquility of the New Year, along with a faint, calming fragrance—something that was never present in Taiichi before.

Fugaku Uchiha, his wife Mikoto, and their son Itachi were sitting in the guest seats, quietly enjoying the tea and snacks on the table.

Fugaku looked around. What he had seen and heard along the way was completely different from what he had imagined. He had thought that Taiichi and that such a big house would be very deserted.

Unexpectedly, there were other people here, and he recognized them all—the 22 ninjas who had been captured on the battlefield.

I never expected to see them again in this kind of scene, and seeing that they are all doing quite well, it's clear how skilled Taiichi is at managing people.

Just as Fugaku was still pondering, Taiichi's cheerful voice came from afar.

"Chief Fugaku, Mrs. Mikoto, welcome to my humble abode! Happy New Year!"

Following the sound, Taiichi entered the house. His gaze swept across the room and landed on the small figure who had already stood up and was quietly standing behind his parents.

"This must be Itachi, he's really cute."

"Taiichi- kun!" Fugaku bowed slightly, his expression solemn. Mikoto also bowed gracefully, her voice gentle. "Happy New Year, Taiichi- kun. I apologize for disturbing you."

The little weasel obediently followed its parents in bowing, its large, dark eyes displaying a maturity and composure beyond its years.

He observed the top expert his father had mentioned, a man he might become in the future, with a mixture of curiosity and restraint.

"Not at all, please have a seat."

Taiichi warmly invited them to sit down, and Mizuki served them fresh tea and snacks.

"When distinguished guests visit, the house becomes lively, adding to the festive atmosphere of the New Year."

He then looked at the weasel sitting at the back, a tiny creature sitting on a chair, looking very serious, but its feet couldn't even touch the ground.

"Itachi, Happy New Year! Please make yourself at home."

Fugaku picked up his teacup, took a sip, and looked around at the brand-new New Year decorations and the vaguely visible busy figures.

"Taiichi- kun's place is so lively, it's completely different from what I imagined. It seems the new member is really dedicated."

He was naturally referring to the 22 prisoners of war from the Mist Village. As someone who had experienced it firsthand, he was well aware of their identities.

"Yes, it's not so lonely with more people at home. Otherwise, I probably wouldn't be home for the New Year."

Taiichi nodded with a smile. The relaxed atmosphere made Mikoto also Matsushita. She gently stroked her son's hair, her eyes full of affection.

After exchanging pleasantries for a while, Fugaku put down his teacup, and his expression turned serious.

He glanced at his son, who had been sitting quietly beside his wife, then turned to Taiichi and spoke solemnly.

"Taiichi- kun, the beginning of the new year should be a time of celebration, but I have come here today with my wife and children to fulfill a promise we made on the Eastern Front Battlefield. I wonder if that promise still stands."

The atmosphere in the Reception Hall became serious because of Fugaku's words. Mizuki quietly withdrew at the right time, leaving the space to Taiichi and Fugaku's family.

Taiichi also stopped smiling, and his face showed a solemn expression. He naturally knew what Fugaku was talking about. His self-awareness fell on Itachi again, but this time it was with a hint of scrutiny.

"Back at sea, you suggested that Itachi become my apprentice, but the war situation changed so quickly that we were never able to discuss it in detail."

"That's exactly it." A hint of longing appeared in Fugaku's eyes. "Although we didn't discuss it in detail back then, that feeling hasn't changed."

I understand Taiichi's concerns regarding his current status and position, but I hope you can understand a father's expectations for his child.

Fugaku turned to look at Itachi, his eyes filled with the pride of a father. He straightened his back and said, "Itachi is extremely talented, and what he lacks now is a mentor with a broad vision and great strength like you."

More importantly, I also hope to establish a deeper connection with you and with the Will of Fire of Konoha through him.

Taiichi's pupils contracted slightly. Fugaku's words could be seen as a statement and a show of allegiance, demonstrating his determination to ease tensions between his family and the village.

But Fugaku hadn't finished speaking, "Also, your teachings at the time might have been somewhat unusual. I, Fugaku Uchiha, trust your judgment and methods. No matter how you teach Itachi, my Uchiha Clan will have no objections and will not interfere."

Taiichi stared wide-eyed at Fugaku, who had uttered those words. What kind of determination did it take to completely entrust his child to an outsider?

Sitting to the side, Mikoto unconsciously gripped her clothes tightly. Although she had expected it, she still felt quite reluctant to part with them.

The Reception Hall fell silent for a moment. Taiichi slowly withdrew his gaze, not answering immediately. He gently tapped the rim of his teacup with his fingers, his eyes seemingly looking into the future through time and space.

In the original work, Itachi is undoubtedly a tragic character, caught between the village and his family. Although he is forced by his environment, his actions are not approved by Taiichi.

This timeline has changed drastically. Danzo was killed long ago, the Uchiha now possesses a pair of Mangekyo, and more importantly, there is a presence of himself here.

Looking at the weasel before me, its eyes held a pure innocence tinged with childlike naiveté, yet a precocious intelligence was already beginning to emerge; if left unguided—

Now that such an opportunity has presented itself, and with Fugaku making such a promise, what reason do I have to hesitate?

Training a disciple who becomes famous Ninja World is what most masters hope for.

Finally, Taiichi raised his head, his gaze sweeping over Fugaku, Mikoto, and finally settling on Itachi, who was listening attentively.

"What Chief Fugaku and Lady Mikoto said before was not a joke. Now I see Itachi's behavior and character."

Since you trust me so much and have entrusted Itachi to me, then I, Taichi Matsushita, will accept this disciple!

Fugaku's face instantly lit up with an overwhelming mix of excitement and relief.

Mikoto's eyes welled up with tears of joy, and she gripped her husband's arm tightly with her right hand.

Itachi also sensed the change in atmosphere. Although he couldn't fully understand what it meant, he felt the solemnity, and his small body involuntarily sat up a little straighter.

"That's wonderful! Taiichi- kun! No, Taiichi- sensei!" Fugaku stood up excitedly and Taiichi. "The Uchiha Clan is deeply grateful! Itachi's greatest blessing is to be your disciple!"

Mikoto followed suit, bowing deeply in gratitude.

"No need for formalities." Taiichi gestured for Itachi's aid, then looked at Itachi, his tone gentle yet firm, "Itachi, from now on, you are my disciple. I will teach you according to my own methods and understanding, and I hope you will strive to do your best."

Itachi nodded earnestly, his voice, though still childish, carrying a clarity beyond his years. "Yes, Taiichi- sensei."

"Mizuki!"

Taiichi called out, and soon Mizuki reappeared in front of Taiichi.

"Go to the study and bring me the scroll from the first shelf of the large bookshelf."

"Yes." Mizuki accepted the order and left.

Taiichi then called Itachi to his side and talked with him about their daily training and understanding of Ninjutsu.

Despite his young age, Itachi speaks with remarkable clarity and logic, behaving like a little adult.

Soon, Mizuki returned, carrying a scroll that was a foot long and half a foot thick.

Taiichi took it and placed it in Itachi's hands. The little boy holding a large scroll looked rather comical.

Taiichi smiled and looked at Fugaku again, "Today is the first day of the new year, and there are many things to do. I know that your clan must be even busier, so I will not stay any longer."

This scroll contains some of my cultivation insights, a very basic part, which is perfect for Itachi to read at his current level. Take him back, and he can come back for formal lessons in three days.

Fugaku nodded, looking at his son, feeling an indescribable sense of pride and relief.

Itachi was also happy, hugging the scroll, and said crisply, "Thank you, teacher."

In just a few moments of interaction, he discovered that he really enjoyed being with Taiichi.

Perhaps because he was still a child, he could feel the aura of Natural Energy emanating from Taiichi, which made him feel exceptionally comfortable.

The Fugaku family departed with hearts full of joy and gratitude.

Taiichi stood at the door, watching their departing figures, his mind churning with thoughts.

Taking Uchiha Itachi as his disciple not only meant taking on the responsibility of teaching a future genius, but also placed a crucial move in the power structure between him and the Uchiha Clan, and even the future of Konoha.

This is both a challenge and an opportunity.

Turning to walk home, Mizuki followed closely beside her.

Having spent a lot of time together, she's no longer as cautious as she used to be when no one's around.

"You're truly amazing, sir. Even a powerful clan like the Uchiha is willing to have their clan leader's son become your disciple."

The little girl's eyes were filled with admiration and gratitude; even a clan like the Uchiha came to her door seeking to become her disciple.

How luxurious it is that these helpless people can enjoy the regular instruction from adults every day.

Taiichi turned around and looked at the girl who was almost his little fangirl. He didn't know if it was the effect of the Curse Mark or if she had completely let go of the past. Now she was truly wholeheartedly working for this family.

"Itachi is only 5 years old this year, and he's just building up his foundation right now. But you guys can't slack off on your training. No matter what you do, strength is the most important thing."

Taiichi kept walking and giving instructions. He had also assigned jobs to these 22 people, most of whom went to Konoha Hospital.

The process wasn't complicated. With his influence, the Hokage's approval, and the fact that Konoha Hospital was indeed short-staffed, their small group was easily absorbed.

This has somewhat alleviated the shortage of hospital staff.

Time flew by, and after Fugaku and the others left, no other visitors came to the house, giving Taiichi time to continue his daily training.

Around 3 p. m., a large group of little ones, led by Grandma Keiko, arrived at Taiichi, chattering excitedly.

The moment they met, cries of "Brother Taiichi" rose and fell.

"Brother, brother, we've also prepared a New Year's gift for you!"

Sure enough, these little ones didn't come empty-handed. They all brought their own carefully prepared little gifts, and before Taiyi could Taiichi speak, they stuffed them into his hands one by one.

There are paper cranes and flowers that I folded myself, handwritten greeting cards with blessings, and snacks that I secretly saved up.

In just a short while, Taiichi's hands, neck, and pockets were filled with all sorts of gifts.

Taiichi laughed heartily at the sight. Only when he was with these little guys could he let go of all his inhibitions and become his most authentic self again.

After carefully accepting the gifts from the children, Taiichi led everyone to the inner courtyard.

Taiichi created Shadow Clone to play with the group of energetic kids, while Taiichi sat in the pavilion chatting with Grandma Keiko.