Chapter 5: A Visit from the Third Hokage

Inside the Hokage's office, smoke lingered in the air. Third Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen puffed on his pipe, his eyes fixed on the crystal ball on his desk. The images of Tetsuya and Hinata were displayed within, courtesy of his signature jutsu—the Telescope Technique.

As Hokage, he often used this technique in his spare time to observe the happenings around Konoha, sometimes indulging in less honorable observations. Today, however, he stumbled upon an interesting scene.

"Kamiyo Tetsuya," he mused aloud, a nostalgic expression crossing his face.

Tetsuya's father, Kamiyo Kaze, had been his escort and a powerful Elite Jōnin. On the night of the Nine Tails Rebellion, Kaze had saved Hiruzen's life by blocking a critical blow from the Nine Tails, allowing him enough time to summon the ape demon Enma. Kaze's wife, Mieko, an exceptional medical ninja, had also perished that night. These memories were why Hiruzen favored Tetsuya, ensuring he was well cared for.

The cigarette in his hand burned out, the faint sensation pulling him from his thoughts. Hiruzen recalled how Tetsuya had first taught the arrogant children a lesson before healing them. A smile formed on his face. "This child has inherited the Will of Fire," he thought. "He protects his companions and uses medical ninjutsu. He will be a cornerstone of Konoha's future."

However, Hiruzen had some doubts. "Is Tetsuya's knowledge of medical ninjutsu Mieko's legacy?" he wondered. He needed more information. With a swing of his right hand, an Anbu member with a cat mask appeared.

"Retrieve all information on Kamiyo Tetsuya," Hiruzen ordered.

"Yes, Lord Hokage," the Anbu replied, vanishing immediately.

Meanwhile, after sending Hinata home, Tetsuya purchased supplies and returned home. The expense left him concerned about his lack of income. As he prepared dinner, he thought about his next steps. Healing three children had given him the attributes he would have gained from half a day of training. If he had access to injured ninjas, his progress would be unimaginable. "But how do I take that first step?" he wondered. "Going directly to the Third Hokage seems too forward."

"Dong, dong, dong!" A rhythmic knock at the door interrupted his thoughts. Tetsuya was puzzled. "Who could it be at this hour?"

"Coming!" he called, putting down the meal and walking to the door. To his surprise, the Third Hokage stood there.

"Grandpa Third Hokage?" Tetsuya exclaimed. He had met Hiruzen twice before, but only when he was given money. A surprise visit like this had never happened.

Hiruzen smiled warmly. "Tetsuya, won't you invite me in?"

"Uh, please, come in," Tetsuya replied, ushering him inside.

In the living room, they sat opposite each other in silence. Hiruzen held a cup of tea, glancing around the spotless room. It reflected Tetsuya's disciplined nature and kind heart. The Anbu report confirmed this—Tetsuya trained hard and treated his neighbors kindly.

Hiruzen was increasingly satisfied. "Tetsuya has inherited his parents' values and the Will of Fire," he thought. But what was the purpose of this visit?

"Tetsuya, I assume you have already begun refining Chakra?" Hiruzen asked, breaking the silence.

Tetsuya's heart skipped a beat. How had he been exposed? He quickly composed himself, smiling brightly. "Yes, Grandpa Third Hokage. I started a month ago using the technique my parents left me. I also have a special ability to heal others!"

Hiruzen's eyes gleamed with approval. "What kind of ability? Can you show me?"

Without hesitation, Tetsuya's right hand lit up with healing chakra. "Grandpa Third Hokage, do you have any injuries? I can help you heal!"

Hiruzen extended his hand, though inwardly he thought, "I haven't fought in years; I shouldn't have any injuries." Still, he felt the warmth of Tetsuya's healing technique flow through him, repairing old ailments and subconsciously straightening his hunched posture.

"This level of medical ninjutsu!" Hiruzen was stunned. He had greatly underestimated Tetsuya's healing power.

"Tetsuya," Hiruzen said, his voice filled with admiration, "your ability is remarkable. Your parents would be proud. How would you feel about helping in the hospital? Your skills could be of great use there."

Tetsuya's eyes widened with excitement. "I would be honored, Grandpa Third Hokage!"

Hiruzen nodded. "Excellent. I will make the arrangements. Your journey is just beginning, Tetsuya. You have a bright future ahead."

As Hiruzen left, Tetsuya felt a surge of determination. His path was clearer now, and with the support of the Third Hokage, he knew he could achieve great things. The Will of Fire burned brightly within him, guiding his steps towards an extraordinary future.