Departure from Konoha to the City of Fire
The next morning, Uchiha Tunan rose early and packed his belongings.
Before leaving, he made his way to the family altar, where intricately carved wooden statues stood in tribute to his ancestors, loved ones, and fallen comrades. Lighting three sticks of incense, he clasped his hands together in silent prayer.
"I'm leaving now. There's much to do this time, and I might not return for a while. If you miss me, just remember to reach out."
With that, he bowed three times before each statue, placing the incense before them.
---
Three Hours Later – Konoha Village Gates
Uchiha Tunan stood silently under the shade of a large tree at Konoha's entrance, waiting.
From the main street, the figures of Sarutobi Shinnosuke and his younger brother, Asuma Sarutobi, finally emerged.
Shinnosuke ruffled Asuma's hair with an affectionate yet teasing smile.
"Asuma, if you keep oversleeping, I won't take you anywhere next time."
Asuma scowled and pushed his brother's hand away. "Alright, alright, I get it! I was just too excited last night and couldn't sleep."
Approaching Tunan, Shinnosuke offered a sheepish smile.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
Uchiha Tunan adjusted his glasses and shook his head. "It's no problem. I just arrived myself."
Shinnosuke smiled, then nudged Asuma. "Come on, Asuma. Tunan is your classmate. Say hello."
"Hmph."
Though they had studied together at the Academy, Asuma had always seemed to hold a grudge against Tunan for some reason. He barely spared him a glance.
Tunan, unfazed, simply observed the exchange with a calm expression. He had already deduced the likely reason for Asuma's animosity.
Still, he hadn't expected Asuma to join them on this trip to the City of Fire. If things went well, perhaps he could take care of two problems at once.
Sensing the tension, Shinnosuke cleared his throat and changed the subject.
"Alright, let's go. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to ask."
After checking out at the village gates, the three officially left Konoha, heading for the capital of the Land of Fire.
---
En Route – A Last Glance at Konoha
Not long after passing through the village's protective barrier, Uchiha Tunan slowed his pace slightly and turned to look back.
At the far end of the street, just for a fleeting moment, a familiar figure appeared before vanishing into the crowd.
Silently, he turned back around and gave a small wave before continuing forward.
---
A Few Days Later – Arrival at the City of Fire
After a long journey, the trio finally reached the outskirts of the City of Fire.
Situated on a vast plain, the capital was surrounded by numerous villages and towns. These smaller settlements had formed over time due to the city's high cost of living. Only high-ranking officials, noble families, and wealthy merchants could afford to reside within its walls, forcing many commoners to live outside and commute into the city for work.
As they arrived at the southern gate, a group of city guards stopped them.
"State your business and register before entering."
Shinnosuke pulled out his identification and handed it to the soldier, who examined it briefly before straightening up with a respectful bow.
"My apologies, Lord Shinnosuke! Please, go right in!"
Shinnosuke nodded, then turned to Tunan. "I'll take you to the Five Guards Headquarters first."
With that, they stepped through the massive gates into the heart of the Fire Country's capital.
---
The Bustling Streets of the City of Fire
As they walked through the main avenue, merchants lined the streets, their energetic shouts filling the air as they advertised their goods. The city's grand buildings and busy streets were a stark contrast to the quieter life of Konoha.
Asuma's eyes widened in awe as he looked around. "Whoa... the City of Fire is huge!"
Shinnosuke glanced at his younger brother, then at Tunan, who remained calm and composed despite the grand display. The difference in their reactions was striking.
"They're the same age, yet their maturity levels are worlds apart."
Smiling, Shinnosuke placed a hand on Asuma's shoulder. "The City of Fire is the largest and most prosperous city in the entire Shinobi world. You'll get used to it soon enough."
Tunan suddenly spoke. "Senior Shinnosuke, I heard you are one of the Twelve Guardian Ninja?"
Shinnosuke nodded. "That's right. The Guardian Twelve exist to protect the Daimyo."
Tunan adjusted his glasses. "I assume there are shifts?"
"Exactly. We rotate duty. At all times, four members guard the Daimyo directly, while others protect key locations. Some also serve as bodyguards to his family."
Tunan's eyes sharpened slightly. "I see. Then who does the Second Prince have as his guards?"
Shinnosuke chuckled. "That won't be necessary. The Daimyo's eldest son is expected to inherit the title. All signs point to his succession."
Tunan nodded, his mind already working through this new information.
Meanwhile, Asuma, now deep in thought, suddenly blurted out:
"Who's more important, the Daimyo or the Hokage?"
Shinnosuke's expression turned serious, and he quickly covered Asuma's mouth, glancing around cautiously.
"Don't say things like that in public. It could get you into trouble."
---
Appointment at the Five Guards Headquarters
After a half-hour walk, they arrived at the Five Guards Headquarters, a branch responsible for maintaining security within the city.
Upon entering, several staff members immediately recognized Shinnosuke and stood to bow.
"Lord Shinnosuke!"
Shinnosuke nodded and gestured to Tunan.
"This is Uchiha Tunan, newly appointed as Captain of the Northern Gate Division. Here is his official appointment letter."
He handed over the document. The staff carefully checked the credentials before bowing deeply to Tunan.
"Lord Tunan, welcome! We are honored to have you."
Tunan returned the bow with a polite smile. "I look forward to working with you all."
Shinnosuke turned to Tunan. "I'll be staying in the eastern district, near the Daimyo's palace. If you need anything, don't hesitate to find me."
Before Tunan could reply, Asuma tugged on Shinnosuke's sleeve. "Come on, let's go check out the city already!"
Shinnosuke sighed, giving Tunan a helpless look before being dragged away by his enthusiastic younger brother.
Tunan watched them leave, the smile on his face gradually fading into a thoughtful expression.
The staff member beside him hesitated before speaking. "Lord Tunan, shall I take you to your residence now?"
Tunan turned, his gentle demeanor returning. "Yes, please. I appreciate it."