THE UCHIHA ASCENSION

Increasing the gravity in the Gravity Barrier to ten times normal gravity was an immense challenge, and Uchiha Kiyo wasn't certain if he could succeed.

"This time is different. I've learned the Five Elements Seal, so I can use that as a reference."

The enhancement of the Gravity Barrier had already reached its limit. The core seals had been layered tenfold, yet this only resulted in triple gravity. The idea of reaching tenfold gravity through the same method was inconceivable.

Since the layering method was no longer viable, Uchiha Kiyo changed his approach. He planned to achieve the enhancement through combinations of strengthening effects rather than brute-force superposition.

He had considered this before, but the strengthening seals he previously knew were too basic to handle gravity-based reinforcement.

This time, Kiyo planned to address the issue in two ways:

1. Strengthening the foundation of the seals—The basic framework was too weak. It was like using a bicycle chain to power a high-speed motor. The so-called basic combinations strengthening advanced ones was akin to making that chain out of plastic—it would snap under stress.

2. Preventing structural collapse—Instead of relying solely on stronger seals, he needed a protective layer around the combinations. This way, even if the seals couldn't fully withstand the pressure, they wouldn't break apart.

This principle was also present in the Five Elements Seal, which was why Kiyo was confident in applying it.

"With the theory in place, all that's left is the tedious process of arranging it."

Massaging his temples, Kiyo rested for a moment before standing up to begin his trials.

"Let's start with strengthening the combinations…"

---

Hokage's Office

A high-level meeting was underway, discussing Konoha's response to the Land of Rain's attack on the Land of Iron.

"The Land of Rain's actions are unacceptable! They're provoking war with the Five Great Nations. We must retaliate immediately!"

Danzo was the first to speak, advocating for military action as the radical faction's representative.

"No, Konoha is a peace-loving village. We can't be the ones to start a war. We should wait and assess the situation before making a move. If possible, we should avoid war entirely."

Danzo scoffed. "Fool! The Land of Rain's intent is obvious—they're preparing for war. Even their supply chains are being reinforced."

"Think back to the rise of Hanzo of the Salamander. Since his emergence, the Land of Rain has continuously expanded its military operations. He's clearly dissatisfied with ruling just a small country—his ambitions lie in conquering new territories."

Danzo's arguments were logical. Unlike in the future, where he would be an old, scarred veteran with a broken arm and a missing eye, the current Danzo was still in his prime—radical, yet rational in his reasoning.

Many high-ranking officials fell silent.

As Konoha's leaders, they were well aware of the Land of Rain's aggressive military maneuvers.

It had been nearly twenty years since the First Great Ninja War ended, and the world was at a breaking point. Every major nation had reached its peak strength, and expansionist desires were stronger than ever.

Other great nations had buffer zones—small countries separating them from one another. Even if a war broke out, they had time to react.

But the Land of Rain was different. It directly bordered the Land of Fire, Land of Wind, and Land of Earth.

If Hanzo decided to launch a surprise attack, Konoha would have no warning—they would suffer devastating losses before they could react.

This was the crux of Danzo's argument.

Sitting at the head of the table, Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, held his pipe in his hand, though he refrained from smoking in such a crowded meeting. Instead, he tapped it rhythmically on the table, deep in thought.

Ultimately, he made his decision.

"I agree with Danzo. The attack on the Land of Iron is a serious threat to the stability of the region. As Konoha, we represent peace—we cannot stand idly by.

Prepare the forces. In three days, we will deploy troops to the Land of Rain."

Some of the elders hesitated.

Konoha had always preached peace, yet now, they were preparing for war. It felt contradictory.

However, the alternative was worse—if they waited too long, the Land of Rain might strike first, causing severe damage to the Land of Fire.

Danzo and Hiruzen had no such hesitations.

The Land of Rain's intentions were blatant. The Land of Wind and Land of Earth would also feel threatened. Soon, the other two great villages—Sunagakure and Iwagakure—would likely declare war as well.

This wouldn't be just Konoha's war—it would be a joint attack on the Land of Rain by three nations.

Moreover, Hanzo had made a fatal mistake. He had expanded too quickly, raising alarms among the great nations. His military growth had threatened the stability of the region, something the Five Great Nations would never tolerate.

Even though the decision was clear, Hiruzen kept some details to himself.

Danzo and Hiruzen didn't need to explain these strategic calculations to the clan heads or civilian officials. They only needed agreement.

"The decision is made," Hiruzen announced. "Everyone, return to your duties. In three days, Konoha's first wave of forces will deploy to the front lines."

---

Danzo's Hidden Agenda

As the officials filed out, Danzo suddenly spoke again.

"Hiruzen, have you considered my proposal from before?"

Hiruzen's fingers tightened around his pipe. He already knew what Danzo was referring to.

"Konoha is strong, but no village can remain pure. Someone must shoulder the darkness.

The Root Division has been established for years, but it lacks the strength to truly deter threats.

For Konoha to grow, we must expand the Root Division."

Hiruzen frowned.

"Danzo, I've already told you—I won't allow Root to recruit from the major clans."

Danzo slammed his hand on the table. "Hiruzen, you're too naive! Where there is light, there is darkness. The village thrives on the surface, but in the shadows, threats remain.

We need a stronger Root to deal with those threats! The current recruits—civilians and orphans—aren't enough.

The clan children must contribute as well!"

"Enough, Danzo!"

Hiruzen's patience snapped. "The clan ninjas have protected Konoha since its founding. They belong in the light, growing and thriving—not buried in the darkness of Root!"

Danzo narrowed his eyes but said nothing.

There was another topic he hadn't brought up yet—the Uchiha clan.

"…And what about Uchiha?" he finally asked.

Hiruzen stiffened.

"You know what Tobirama-sensei said. 'The Uchiha are a dangerous clan, driven by emotion and madness.'

Uchiha Kiyo… Even if he's calm now, he's awakened the Sharingan. It's only a matter of time before he shows his true nature."

Hiruzen exhaled sharply. "I won't agree to this, Danzo.

The Uchiha clan is part of Konoha, not a hidden threat to be eliminated."

Danzo clenched his fists but knew he had pushed too far.

"…Very well, Hiruzen."

Without another word, he turned and left the office.

Inside, Hiruzen sighed, gripping his pipe tightly.

Even as Hokage, there were some battles he could never win.

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