Uchiha-Style Swordsmanship
C-rank missions typically involve tasks such as escorting merchant caravans, transporting important materials or documents, and clearing out bandits. The enemies encountered are usually ordinary civilians with no knowledge of ninjutsu—perhaps skilled fighters or samurai at best.
Once it's confirmed that the enemy possesses chakra and can skillfully wield ninjutsu, the mission is upgraded to a B-rank assignment.
By protocol, Kato-sensei's Genin team has only been active for three months, and technically, it's still too early for them to undertake true C-rank missions. Normally, they'd continue with mundane tasks like weeding, delivering messages, or assisting with construction.
However, with Konoha's military strength stretched thin by the warfront, available personnel are limited. Furthermore, Kato Dan personally believes that his students stand apart from the average Genin. Not only are their individual abilities impressive, but their teamwork is also cohesive. In his view, it's time they experienced real combat.
"Alright! A C-rank mission! No more pulling weeds!"
Inuzuka Ryo was overjoyed. He leapt up from the ground, fully recharged. His ninken partner, Tiewan, mirrored the excitement with synchronized enthusiasm.
"Sensei Dan."
Mingjing looked away from the mission scroll and turned toward their squad leader, his tone serious.
"According to the mission intel, an elite team from Sunagakure attacked this area four months ago. Is it possible that they're still active in the region—or might return? For them to bypass the Land of Fire's frontlines and strike this deep inside, they must've been formidable. Could the three of us really stand a chance?"
"That's not an issue anymore," Kato Dan replied with a calm smile.
"The mines at Tieshi Town are critical to ninja tool production, and the village knows that. Three months ago, Minato Namikaze—Konoha's youngest rising star—led a strike force that crushed their main contingent. The threat has mostly been neutralized."
He added confidently, "Even if a straggler remains, I'll be there. Unless we encounter a Kage-level opponent, I have full confidence I can protect you."
The current enemies were merely bandits—former miners turned rogue. They might know some kenjutsu or martial arts, but against trained shinobi, especially those under a Jonin's guidance, they posed little threat. It was a fitting challenge for newly minted Genin to get real combat experience.
Mingjing nodded, signaling no further concerns.
Kato Dan turned to Inuzuka Ryo and Aburame Nami, confirming they too were ready. Satisfied, he declared, "You have two hours to prepare. Meet at the village gate. We head out then."
---
Later…
"Are you heading out on a mission?"
Uchiha Yu sat kneeling on a tatami mat, polishing a well-maintained katana. He looked up at the fully equipped Mingjing standing before him.
"Yes," Mingjing replied. "Kato-sensei is leading us on a bandit-elimination mission."
"I've heard of Kato Dan," Uchiha Yu said thoughtfully, stroking his beard. "Among Konoha's younger Jonin, he's one of the few who could once rival Hatake Sakumo, and even the Third Hokage's famed students—Jiraiya, Tsunade, and Orochimaru. His sensory perception and spiritual techniques are exceptional. If you can learn from him, it'll greatly aid your mastery of the Sharingan."
He paused, then asked, "How far along are you in your training with the Uchiha-Style Swordsmanship?"
"I've completed the basic forms," Mingjing answered truthfully. "I'm halfway through learning the techniques that integrate Kenjutsu with Fire Release."
The Uchiha-Style Swordsmanship is a traditional martial art passed down through generations. Honed over centuries, it perfectly complements the clan's mastery of the Sharingan and Fire Release. The style is split into two phases: foundational sword forms and advanced techniques that fuse swordplay with Fire-style ninjutsu.
Mingjing was still in the early stages.
According to Uchiha Yu, mastery of just the first phase—when combined with even a one-tomoe Sharingan—was enough to elevate a ninja to Tokubetsu Jonin rank if swordsmanship was their specialization.
"You're only scratching the surface," Uchiha Yu said. "But even that is enough to set you apart from most Genin. The Uchiha's Kenjutsu and Fire Release techniques are among the most elite in the shinobi world."
His tone was matter-of-fact, even indifferent, as if stating something obvious.
That was the Uchiha way.
The pride of the Uchiha Clan—rooted in generations of supremacy—often came off as arrogance. But it was also fact. From the Warring States Era to the founding of Konoha, the Uchiha were always at the pinnacle of power. No era passed without a Uchiha standing among the strongest shinobi.
"But it's not enough," Yu added flatly, "not by my standards."
He reached into his sleeve and withdrew a scroll.
"Since Fugaku, you're the most promising Uchiha of your generation. You have the potential to evolve the Sharingan to its highest form. Adolescence is the window when the Sharingan develops most rapidly. What the Uchiha lack today is a true powerhouse—someone who can awe the world. You must become that person."
Realizing he was pressing hard, Yu shifted his tone and unrolled the scroll.
"This contains beginner-level Genjutsu techniques. Many Konoha ninja learn them, but with your Sharingan, you'll be able to cast them instantly. When fighting with our clan's sword style, a well-timed illusion can turn the tide of battle."
"I've also included some Genjutsu of my own design. Once you master the basics, you'll be ready to learn more advanced illusions—ones only a true Uchiha with the Sharingan can wield."
Mingjing bowed and accepted the scroll with both hands.
"Thank you, Grandpa Yu."
Uchiha Yu waved him off casually.
"Get stronger. Become someone who can protect our clan and our village. That will be thanks enough. Though… I wonder if this old man will live to see the day you truly shine."