I, Uchiha Hikaru, have joined the chat group.

Chapter 74: Why is it her again?

That afternoon.

Two preliminary investigation reports on the "Invasion of the Hidden Mist" were presented to Hiruzen Sarutobi.

One copy came from the security forces, and the other from the secret service.

The content is basically the same, only the perspective is slightly different.

After reviewing the contents of the two reports, Hiruzen Sarutobi immediately summoned Jiraiya and the two advisors for an intense discussion.

"How could this happen... What exactly is Kirigakure trying to do? Are they going to declare war on Konoha?"

"How did they infiltrate? A dozen or so Kirigakure ninjas appeared directly in the heart of the Naka River without any prior warning. Were the barrier team members really that lax?"

"besides……"

Koharu, turning to her new dorm, glanced at a name mentioned in both reports and frowned: "Why is it her again?"

"cough……"

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed and explained with a hint of helplessness, "Although Hikaru Uchiha was indeed involved in this matter, she wasn't the cause... According to the ANBU reports present, if she hadn't intervened in time, the casualties in Konoha might have been much more severe."

Honestly...

Hiruzen Sarutobi was also having a headache.

He was just feeling relieved this morning that his "great-grandmother Uchiha" had behaved well this time and hadn't caused any trouble, but less than a day later this happened.

Moreover, this incident also involves another ninja village. If it is not handled properly, it could very well be a repeat of the incident a year ago when the Cloud Village delegation kidnapped Hinata Hyuga.

Of course, there are some differences between the two incidents.

After all, Kumogakure (Hidden Cloud Village) had initially used the pretense of signing a peace treaty, making it difficult to openly sever ties. Kirigakure, on the other hand, would have infiltrated and started fighting without hesitation. Even assuming the worst, Hiruzen Sarutobi would absolutely not dare to ask the current Uchiha clan to hand over the "culprit" to quell the situation. If he were to utter such a statement, he, the Third Hokage, would likely be handed over his own corpse…

the other side.

Koharu and Homura exchanged a glance, choosing not to comment.

Next, several high-ranking officials in Konoha began to discuss countermeasures.

Although there is no evidence yet to prove that Kirigakure is about to launch a large-scale invasion, patrols around the village must definitely be strengthened; the barrier team and the interrogation team must also get to work as soon as possible, with the former responsible for reinforcing the barrier and the latter responsible for interrogating the captured Kirigakure ninja; in addition, someone must be sent to the Land of Water as soon as possible to issue a strong condemnation and inquiry to Kirigakure for invading their territory...

Another point.

Those members of the Anbu and Uchiha clan who were killed or wounded in this operation must be compensated as soon as possible. Compensation and the corresponding "Konoha Hero" titles must be provided. We must not allow the Uchiha to feel any favoritism.

This matter was originally a relatively low priority, but because of Uchiha Hikaru's existence, it was forcibly raised two levels.

The results of these discussions were quickly compiled and assigned to various departments.

Starting the next day, many ninjas appeared in Konoha Village, especially those from the Hyuga and Inuzuka clans—they were more experienced in patrolling and reconnaissance.

……

Uchiha Hikaru was not concerned about these situations.

After all, she was just an "old thing" from the old era. She attacked Obito before because his actions involved the Uchiha clan. Now that the problem has been resolved, the remaining disputes should be handled by the younger generation, like Hiruzen Sarutobi. The younger generation should be given some room to maneuver.

Actually, this is also an opportunity for the Uchiha clan.

Previously, the conflicts between the Uchiha clan and other clans in Konoha were mainly due to the unfair distribution of benefits.

However, if a common external enemy exerts pressure, many internal contradictions can be temporarily ignored.

With increased patrols around Konoha, the Anbu's workload suddenly increased, and Uchiha Hikari's original plan to take some time to "guide" Itachi and Shisui was temporarily put on hold. With the New Year approaching, she was currently taking Naruto to the shopping street to buy New Year's goods.

Just as Naruto said before.

Konoha Village is now decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, and many shops have put up signs advertising discounts and promotions, attracting many villagers to brave the biting cold wind and shop. In just half a day, Uchiha Hikaru has already spotted several familiar faces—

Sakura Haruno is being led out by her parents to buy new clothes.

Choji Akimichi is seen eating heartily at a yakiniku (grilled meat) restaurant with his father, Choji Akimichi.

Yamanaka Ino helps her family sell flowers to passersby.

Kakashi, while on a surveillance mission, sneaks out to buy an illustrated, high-quality edition of "Icha Icha Paradise"...

Several of these people recognized Uchiha Hikaru and greeted her from afar with nods or bows.

Uchiha Hikaru didn't pay much attention.

Naruto, a little curious, tilted his head and asked in a low voice, "Huh, so Hikari-neechan knows so many people?"

"I guess so... to be precise, I was recognized."

Putting aside his memories before time travel, Uchiha Hikaru, as a "remnant of the Warring States period," had never met Akimichi Choza and the others; he was simply recognized by them.

"Go, try on this new dress."

Uchiha Hikaru casually handed Naruto a set of clothes, indicating that he should go to the changing room to change.

After the blond-haired girl finished dressing and came out, she casually took a picture and posted it in the group, tagging Minato Namikaze.

[Bulma: Huh, is this Mr. Eternal's child? I didn't even recognize her! She looks so different from before, her whole demeanor is different, and she's grown taller too?]

[Yongdai-mei: It probably won't be that fast, after all, he's only four or five years old. But he is indeed much more cheerful and lively than last time, I'm really grateful to Ms. Guang for taking such good care of him during this time.]

Bulma: Hmm...

[Bulma: Speaking of which, is Hikari celebrating the New Year these days? It looks really lively. Can I go check it out? @Anonymous]

[Nameless: ...That's possible, but I might not have a place for you to stay. After all, I'm currently staying at Naruto's house.]

[Bulma: It's okay, I can sleep on the floor!]

[Anonymous: It's not that bad...]

Previously, Hikaru Uchiha hadn't agreed to let Bulma come, mainly because her situation was still unstable and there might be some unpredictable dangers. However, now that Danzo is dead, although Obito and Black Zetsu might take action, if Bulma is just sightseeing in Konoha for a few days, she can still fully guarantee her safety.

Bulma: Okay, I'll pack my things and come see you this weekend!

(End of this chapter)