50- New mission and Summons...

In the Hokage's office, after Hiruzen had finished explaining the details of the upcoming mission, Kakashi was taken aback by the gravity of the task at hand. The mission was crucial, but what made it even more significant was the identity of their target.

"You mean the masked man who attacked our village that year is in Kirigakure, and there's a possibility he might be controlling the Fourth Mizukage?" Dog inquired with palpable excitement. Much like Kirito, he harboured an intense hatred for this mysterious masked figure.

Hiruzen confirmed Dog's suspicions, "Yes, and your mission is to capture him if he truly is orchestrating events from the shadows. You should also assist Mei Terumi in any way possible, but avoid direct confrontation at all costs; it could escalate into war."

Dog nodded, understanding the importance of subtlety. "I get it. But is it confirmed that Yagura is under the control of that masked man?"

Hiruzen explained further, "Yes, one of Yagura's guards witnessed the manipulation firsthand and paid the price with his life, as Yagura was ordered by the masked man to eliminate him. However, he managed to escape with his life and conveyed the truth to Mei Terumi and Chojuro, the last remaining Ninja Swordsman. This revelation led to the rebellion and internal strife within Kirigakure."

Handing over a scroll bearing Jiraiya's seal, Hiruzen added, "This scroll contains all the relevant information."

Dog examined the scroll's contents closely, pondering the implications. "This clarifies everything. But don't you think it's risky to involve the kid?"

Hiruzen responded with confidence, "I understand your concern regarding the masked man's control over the child and the Nine-Tails. However, Saito and I discussed it thoroughly and believe it's manageable. You'll be going undercover, concealing your identities, and there's little chance for the masked man to recognize the child."

Dog considered this reassurance. "True, we can also use transformation jutsu to appear older. That shouldn't be much of a problem."

Hiruzen emphasized the mission's priorities, "That's the first part of your mission. But remember, if you discover that the masked man isn't in Kirigakure, abandon the mission. We don't want to escalate tensions unnecessarily."

Dog nodded solemnly, absorbing the gravity of their mission. Without further ado, he left the Hokage's office, his thoughts focused on the dangerous path that lay ahead.

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After reporting to the Anbu headquarters, Kirito stashed away his Anbu attire inside a scroll and began his journey back to his humble apartment in Konoha. As he strolled along the familiar, aged streets of the village, he couldn't help but wear a contented smile. It was a smile that spoke of comfort and a newfound sense of belonging, something he hadn't felt in a long time.

Sadaharu, his trusty canine companion, couldn't ignore the transformation in Kirito's demeanour. He decided to break the silence with a probing question, "Do you like this village that much, kid?"

Kirito, momentarily lost in thought, snapped back to reality. He was taken aback by Sadaharu's sudden inquiry. He replied with a hint of surprise, "Why do you think that?"

Sadaharu, perceptive as ever, explained his observation, "It's because I've never seen you smile like this before, not since we were outside the village. Your aura has changed completely as if you're at peace and content."

Kirito contemplated this observation. "I don't know if it's that. Maybe it's because, good or bad, this village is my home, where I grew up, loved or hated. Maybe it brings a sense of security to be here."

"That could be it," Sadaharu agreed. He sensed that Kirito was being sincere and that these were genuine feelings.

Their conversation was suddenly interrupted when Saito appeared behind them with a warm smile. His approach was so swift and silent that even Sadaharu couldn't detect him until he spoke.

Startled by Saito's sudden appearance, Sadaharu went on the defensive, emitting a low growl in instinct. He questioned with a cold tone, "Who are you, old man?"

In contrast, Kirito welcomed Saito's presence with a smile, as he had something he wanted to discuss. "So you wanted to ask me something too. Okay, let's talk while we head to the training ground."

Kirito inquired, "Is Naruto training right now?" His eyes sparkled with eagerness to see his brother.

Saito affirmed with pride, "Yes, he's training, and you'll be amazed to know he's mastered the Wind aspect of Swift Release."

Kirito's surprise was evident. "So his speed must be close to mine with Swift Release."

Saito added teasingly, "You'll see when you meet him. I must say, if he's using Swift Release, you won't stand a chance against him."

With confidence, Kirito responded, "We'll see about that."

Saito then turned his attention to Sadaharu, who had remained on edge. "So, where did you find him?"

Kirito began to explain the circumstances, but Saito interrupted with laughter, "You know, someone might try to capture you to seal you inside and control your Chakra."

Sadaharu, unfazed by the threat, retorted with nonchalance, "Let them try. I'm not afraid. Besides, in the past, those two brothers fought me, and the one with Reincarnation Eyes wanted to become my Jinchuriki. How brave..."

Saito, intrigued, asked for clarification, "Did you mean you fought the Elder Sage and his brother?"

Sadaharu confirmed, "If it weren't for me, his little brother wouldn't have run off to the moon to hide. He aimed to become my Jinchuriki. How audacious..."

Saito was quick to realize the gravity of the situation. "So, you're the Planetary Guardian mentioned in the ancient scrolls."

Sadaharu, still nonchalant, replied, "I don't know what you're talking about, but I'm closely connected to this planet."

Saito nodded in understanding, "No wonder your Nature Chakra is so pure."

Saito revealed his own identity, "I'm the 16th generation. I plan to choose Kirito as the successor for the 17th generation."

Unconcerned, Sadaharu assured them, "As long as you and humanity don't pose a threat to me or this planet, I won't interfere."

Confused by their cryptic conversation, Kirito asked, "What are you guys talking about?"

Saito downplayed it, "Nothing important. By the way, do you know about summoning animals, kid?"

Kirito nodded, "I'm familiar with summoning animals. I've even met Fukasaku and his wife, Shima, in the past."

Saito, however, had something specific in mind. "No, I mean, would you like to have a summoning animal?"

Kirito's face lit up with curiosity, "Sure, I'd love to, but I don't think toads are that strong."

Saito felt the need to educate Kirito, "You should know, kid, toads are exceptionally powerful. Even the legendary Sage of the Six Paths was a toad summoner. You should show them some respect."

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