shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 6: Rising Fame in the Ninja Academy

After bidding farewell to Headmistress Yakushi Kiro, Uchiha Tsukiko strolled through the streets of Konoha, contemplating his next move.

At this moment, his Heaven's Mandate Points had accumulated to 900—just 100 points short of unlocking Wood Release.

However, Tsukiko realized that helping the villagers had reached its limit as a method of gaining points.

The villagers already held him in high regard, and while he could still help with small tasks, the rate of point accumulation had slowed to an almost negligible level.

He needed a new approach to quickly acquire the remaining points.

Determination flashed in his eyes—it was time to make his mark at the Ninja Academy.

Recognition from his peers was also a valid way to earn Heaven's Mandate Points, and Tsukiko knew that with his current strength—especially with the battle awareness and instincts granted by [Ninja World Dance King]—becoming the top student at the academy would be effortless.

This was not only an opportunity to gain more points but also a chance to showcase his true strength to the entire village.

The next day, when Tsukiko stepped onto the training grounds of the Ninja Academy, he immediately felt the eyes of his classmates on him.

Some were filled with curiosity, others with admiration, and a few with jealousy.

Tsukiko, however, paid them no mind. He simply stood in place, quietly waiting for the teacher's instructions.

"Tsukiko-kun, you arrived at the perfect time!"

A young instructor, Sarutobi Yusuke, noticed him and greeted him with a warm smile. He appeared to be a friendly and approachable teacher, putting Tsukiko slightly at ease.

"We're about to begin a combat tournament—would you like to participate?"

A tournament?

Tsukiko's lips curved into a small smile.

This was exactly the kind of opportunity he had been waiting for.

He nodded, indicating his agreement.

Sarutobi Yusuke clapped his hands together. "Alright! The rules are simple—this is an elimination-style combat tournament.

Each participant can challenge an opponent of their choice, and the last one standing will be declared the winner.

You can choose your opponents strategically based on your strength and tactics, but remember—if you lose, you're out."

Tsukiko listened carefully, formulating his strategy.

To win the tournament and maximize his Heaven's Mandate Points, he needed to display his skill and intelligence, standing out among his peers without revealing too much of his true power too soon.

With that in mind, he watched as the first few rounds began.

Some students overestimated themselves, challenging stronger opponents and getting knocked out immediately.

Others were too cautious, hesitating to make a move and ultimately losing without a fight.

Tsukiko decided to observe carefully, analyzing weaknesses and fighting styles before choosing his first opponent.

Finally, it was his turn.

Tsukiko's first match was against Akimichi Chōza.

The Akimichi clan was known for their large physique and immense strength, making them fearsome close-combat fighters.

As soon as the match began, Chōza activated Partial Expansion Jutsu, enlarging his body to deliver a powerful charge meant to overwhelm Tsukiko with brute force.

However, thanks to [Ninja World Dance King], Tsukiko's dynamic vision and agility allowed him to effortlessly dodge every attack.

With a graceful sidestep, he avoided Chōza's massive palm strike, and in the moment Chōza left an opening, Tsukiko swiftly struck his waist with a precise, well-placed kick.

Chōza lost his balance and fell backward, unable to continue.

[Victory against Akimichi Chōza: +40 Heaven's Mandate Points]

Tsukiko's next challenger was Nara Shikaku, a genius of the Nara Clan, known for their Shadow Imitation Jutsu and strategic mind.

The moment the match started, Shikaku cast his shadow forward, attempting to lock Tsukiko in place.

Tsukiko immediately realized what was happening and used his superior speed to keep just outside the shadow's reach.

By skillfully using obstacles and unpredictable movement, he avoided being trapped.

When Shikaku attempted to reposition, Tsukiko seized the opportunity—closing the gap in an instant and delivering a decisive strike before Shikaku could react.

[Victory against Nara Shikaku: +50 Heaven's Mandate Points]

Suzaku, another member of the Nara Clan, was a master strategist who specialized in setting traps.

Tsukiko remained cautious, avoiding potential pitfalls while reading his opponent's movements carefully.

Seeing through Suzaku's feints and decoys, Tsukiko outmaneuvered him, delivering a perfectly timed counterattack that ended the match in seconds.

[Victory against Nara Suzaku: +40 Heaven's Mandate Points]

Tsukiko's last opponent was Uchiha Mikoto—a skilled kunoichi known for her Uchiha-style taijutsu and precision throwing techniques.

Tsukiko knew that Mikoto was formidable, and he needed to take her seriously.

"Are you ready, Mikoto?" he asked with a calm smile.

Mikoto nodded. "I won't hold back, Tsukiko."

As the match began, Mikoto launched into close combat, her strikes fast and aggressive.

Each punch and kick was sharp and controlled, showing high-level taijutsu proficiency.

However, thanks to [Ninja World Dance King], Tsukiko effortlessly dodged, his body moving in perfect sync with Mikoto's attacks.

Seeing that close-range combat wasn't working, Mikoto swiftly retreated and pulled out a set of shuriken, launching them in a precise formation meant to corner Tsukiko.

In response, Tsukiko countered by launching his own kunai in mid-air, deflecting Mikoto's shuriken perfectly.

One of his kunai narrowly grazed Mikoto's shoulder, leaving a small cut.

Mikoto stiffened slightly, realizing that Tsukiko's skill far surpassed hers.

Still, she remained calm and focused, attempting to create distance to try another strategy.

Tsukiko, however, didn't give her the chance.

Using his enhanced agility, he closed the gap instantly, landing a sweep kick that sent Mikoto falling to the ground.

Then, without hesitation, he offered her a hand to help her up.

Mikoto smiled despite her loss.

"Tsukiko, you're really strong," she admitted.

"You're amazing too, Mikoto," Tsukiko replied sincerely.

[Victory against Uchiha Mikoto: +40 Heaven's Mandate Points]

With that final victory, Tsukiko had officially won the tournament.

His Heaven's Mandate Points now totaled 1,110—more than enough to unlock Wood Release.

As he stood victorious, he knew this was just the beginning.