Chapter 5: Chapter 5: Acts of Kindness
Chapter 5: Acts of Kindness
Uchiha Tsukiko stood in the training field, contemplating the most efficient way to accumulate Heaven's Mandate Points.
The system had explained that there were two main methods: earning others' recognition and altering the fate of the ninja world.
For now, the latter seemed distant and unattainable, so he had to focus on the former. But what exactly did it mean to earn recognition? It was a broad concept.
Would helping people count? Would demonstrating strength earn respect? Could resolving crises change people's perception of him?
There was only one way to find out—experiment and adapt. Tsukiko needed a strategy.
For the next few days, he became unexpectedly active around Konohagakure, offering his help wherever he could.
His actions quickly caused a stir in the village. People began to view this young Uchiha boy with a newfound curiosity.
He helped the elderly carry heavy goods, trimmed their gardens, and even spent time chatting with them, easing their loneliness.
He retrieved lost pets for children, bringing them joy and earning the gratitude of their parents.
He assisted with repairing damaged houses, ensuring families had safe places to live.
Before long, villagers couldn't help but murmur among themselves.
"Is this kid really an Uchiha? He's so warm-hearted! Aren't the Uchiha supposed to be cold, aloof, and arrogant?"
Gradually, Tsukiko's efforts reshaped how people saw him. He no longer fit the stereotypical stoic and distant Uchiha image.
Despite his continuous efforts, however, the accumulation of Heaven's Mandate Points was painfully slow.
After several days, he had only gathered 100 points.
It was enough for Wood Release, but the efficiency was too low. He needed a faster method.
While interacting with the villagers, Tsukiko gained deeper insight into the village's current situation.
One thing stood out—the orphanage was in dire straits.
The children there were mostly war orphans, living in harsh conditions with limited resources.
The ninja world was filled with tragic fates, and the orphanage's funding was barely enough to keep it running.
Tsukiko saw an opportunity.
If he could sponsor the orphanage, he might be able to earn a large amount of Heaven's Mandate Points in one go.
Did Uchiha Tsukiko have money?
The answer was an overwhelming yes.
While reviewing his inherited memories, Tsukiko realized that his Uchiha-Senju lineage had left him a staggering fortune.
Both of his parents had been elite jonin, and his grandfather had been a clan elder.
The wealth they left behind was far beyond his expectations.
Sitting in his room, Tsukiko examined several sealed scrolls containing his family's inheritance.
His mind was blown.
The sheer amount of silver he possessed exceeded 200 million ryo—enough to buy six Sarutobi Asuma bounties on the black market.
With such wealth, donating 1 million ryo to the orphanage was nothing.
Carrying a small yet heavy storage scroll, Tsukiko felt a strange sense of excitement and anticipation.
It wasn't about the money—it was about what this could mean for the future.
He walked through the village streets, heading toward the Konoha Orphanage, located at the village's outskirts.
The building, though worn down, exuded a warm and welcoming aura.
Children played in the courtyard, their laughter pure and innocent despite their hardships.
Tsukiko took a deep breath and pushed open the doors.
Inside, the atmosphere was cozy but modest.
Through his interactions in the village, he had learned that the orphanage's headmistress was named Yakushi Kiro, an elderly woman who had once been a skilled medical ninja.
She had retired and devoted her life to caring for orphans, founding the orphanage in Konoha's early years.
As he stepped in, Yakushi Kiro emerged from a back room, a gentle and kind smile on her face.
Beside her stood a young girl.
Tsukiko's heart skipped a beat.
He instantly recognized her—Yakushi Nonō.
The future "Root" agent who would become Kabuto's adoptive mother.
He suppressed his thoughts and greeted them politely.
"Tsukiko, what brings you here today?" Kiro asked kindly.
"Let me introduce you," she said, gesturing to the girl beside her. "This is my granddaughter, Yakushi Nonō."
Nonō gave him a cautious glance, nodding slightly.
Tsukiko already knew of her tragic fate in the original timeline.
But for now, he set aside those thoughts—he had something important to do.
"Headmistress," Tsukiko said, "I came to discuss something important. I want to donate 1 million ryo to the orphanage to improve living conditions for the children."
Kiro's eyes widened in shock.
"Tsukiko, are you serious? That's a huge amount of money…"
Nonō's expression softened slightly, her initial wariness replaced with curiosity.
Tsukiko nodded firmly.
"I'm certain. This amount is nothing compared to what my clan has left me. I believe the orphanage is crucial to Konoha's future, and these children deserve a better life."
For a moment, Kiro was silent, deeply moved.
"Tsukiko, this is a blessing beyond words. The children… they will finally have proper food, clothes, and education."
Even Nonō, still young but sharp-minded, was visibly touched.
However, she hesitated before speaking.
"Are you sure?" she asked. "Even though the Uchiha are wealthy, a million ryo is no small sum. Won't you need it for yourself?"
Tsukiko chuckled.
"This money doesn't even make up ten percent of what I own," he admitted. "Besides, the orphanage needs it far more than I do. I trust you'll use it well."
Tears welled up in Kiro's eyes as she gently grasped his hand.
"Thank you, Tsukiko," she said sincerely. "You are truly a blessing to these children."
At that moment, a notification appeared in Tsukiko's mind.
[Host has earned Yakushi Kiro's recognition!]
[Host has altered the fate of the Konoha Orphanage's children!]
[Heaven's Mandate Points +800]
Tsukiko smiled inwardly.
This was only the beginning.