Chapter 53: Realization
Kiyoshi observed the scene calmly, his thoughts processing the situation with precision. The timing, the distractions, the immediate retrieval of the cargo—it was all premeditated. Danzo had orchestrated this entire sequence, ensuring control over the situation. The absence of direct confrontation, the convenient written orders, the tactical retreat—each element pointed toward a carefully laid plan.
Kiyoshi looked toward Kenshiro and the others, noticing the subtle shifts in their expressions. While Ryota seemed frustrated and Mikoto wore a furrowed brow, Kenshiro and Hideo remained composed, their eyes betraying an understanding that couldn't be voiced openly. Some truths were too delicate to be spoken in the presence of so many.
Breaking the silence, Commander Hideo finally gave his orders. "Everyone, back inside the outpost. Resume your positions."
As the shinobi obeyed, Hideo turned toward Kiyoshi, Ryota, and Mikoto. "You three, take the rest of the day off. You've done enough. Daichi will be taken to the medics for examination."
Kiyoshi gave a small nod, knowing full well that this battle had only just begun.
Kiyoshi, Ryota, and Mikoto quietly made their way back to their designated quarters, the weight of the day's events settling heavily on them.
As Kiyoshi reached his lodge, he pushed open the door, stepping into the dimly lit room. The familiar scent of wood and parchment greeted him, but tonight, it felt different—like a silent observer to the lingering thoughts in his mind.
He removed his gear with practiced ease, setting his weapons down beside the small table in the corner. His eyes flickered toward the single candle still burning, its flame steady despite the unease swirling inside him.
Sitting down on the futon, Kiyoshi exhaled allowing his mind to sift through the possibilities.
What exactly was inside those crates?
Danzo never moved without reason, and the precision of this operation suggested something valuable—something that couldn't fall into the hands of ordinary shinobi.
Experimental equipment? That was a likely possibility. Danzo had always been known to fund covert research, seeking ways to enhance shinobi through unnatural means. Perhaps those crates held tools meant for augmentation—something designed to create the perfect soldier.
Important scrolls? Forbidden jutsus? That, too, seemed plausible. If those rogue shinobi had obtained classified techniques, ROOT would have every reason to retrieve them before anyone else could. Forbidden jutsus were often more dangerous than they were useful, and Danzo wouldn't allow such power to remain unchecked—unless, of course, it served his interests.
Kiyoshi's expression darkened slightly. Or worse…
Orochimaru's materials.
That thought lingered longer than he liked. His research into genetic experimentation, human modification, and artificial jutsu had left scars on countless lives. If those crates contained remnants of his work, ROOT's involvement made perfect sense.
Sitting down on the futon, Kiyoshi exhaled, letting his thoughts drift through the possibilities.
What exactly was inside those crates?
Experimental equipment, forbidden scrolls, remnants of Orochimaru's work—each theory felt plausible. And yet, as Kiyoshi tried to focus, the thoughts grew distant, slipping from his grasp like mist.
With a sigh, he leaned back, rubbing his temples. What does it matter? It's not like we can chase after them now. ROOT had taken everything, and whatever was inside those crates was long gone. There was no use dwelling on it.
His mind shifted instead, recalling the battle from earlier. The way he moved, the strikes he landed—it had felt different this time. Sharper. More refined. His taijutsu had improved at an incredible rate, something he had barely noticed in the heat of battle.
Tsunade's teachings had strengthened his foundation, refining his movements with pinpoint precision, while the grueling sparring sessions and insights from Might Duy had toughened his body and enhanced his endurance. The combination had been working wonders, molding him into a much more formidable fighter. The way he countered, dodged, and struck with precision today—it was clear proof of his growth.
But then, another realization crept in. Their discipline, their efficiency, the way they moved—it was too refined for ordinary mercenaries.
They weren't just rogue shinobi… they were undercover ROOT operatives.
Those men had been following Danzo's orders, smuggling the crates from another country or one of ROOT's hidden facilities. That was why they had disguised themselves as merchants. That was why the entire fight had felt so tactical. They had been carrying out a mission—one that they couldn't fail, no matter the cost.
Kiyoshi sat up, his mind racing now. Then this means…
His eyes narrowed as he recalled the mission briefing from Hiruzen. Their squad had been sent here because of inconsistencies in reports—patrol logs that didn't match, missing supplies, small things that didn't add up.
But now, it all made sense.
Danzo had been moving those crates in secret, right under Hiruzen's nose. The false reports, the missing supplies—they weren't just oversights. They were cover-ups. ROOT had been using this outpost as a transport hub, and the Third Hokage had no idea.
Kiyoshi let out a slow breath, absorbing the realization. This mission had never been about hunting down simple criminals. They had stumbled onto something much bigger.
And Danzo would do everything in his power to keep it hidden.