Chapter 9: Making Money and Building Bonds

Administration Building, inside the Hokage office.

The familiar smoke lingered as Third Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen listened silently to Anbu's report. As the Nine Tails Jinchūriki, Naruto's movements were of utmost importance in the village. A three-person Anbu team monitored him constantly to prevent foreign enemies and to be alert for any signs of the Nine Tails running wild. Any unusual activity was immediately reported to the Third Hokage.

"According to my subordinates, Kamiyo Tetsuya's meeting with the Jinchūriki was purely coincidental, but his sudden approach is somewhat suspicious," reported the Cat-faced Anbu, bowing his head and awaiting Hokage's decision.

Hiruzen, without haste, took out the crystal ball and performed a few hand seals. Immediately, the scene at Ichiraku Ramen appeared. Tetsuya and Naruto were devouring their bowls of ramen, while Teuchi laughed beside them.

The Third Hokage's eyes grew complicated. He felt guilt for Minato and Naruto. Tetsuya's presence was timely, potentially filling a void in Naruto's life. Hiruzen often visited Naruto, speaking about the Will of Fire and offering guidance, but he knew that Naruto needed peer companionship and recognition.

"Tetsuya is a good boy," Hiruzen thought. "From a respectable background, good character, and outstanding talent. He could be a valuable ally for Naruto in the future." In his mind, Hiruzen was already envisioning Tetsuya as a future Hokage.

Just then, the door to the office burst open, and Danzo walked in with his usual stern expression.

"Danzo, you didn't knock again," Hiruzen reprimanded, waving Anbu away. Danzo, however, was unfazed by such reprimands.

"Hiruzen, Kamiyo Tetsuya's sudden contact with the Jinchūriki is suspicious. I suspect he might be a spy from another village aiming to harm the Jinchūriki. Hand him over to Root for investigation," Danzo demanded.

Hiruzen scoffed inwardly. The excuse was flimsy, and Danzo's true intentions were transparent. He wanted Tetsuya for Root, recognizing the boy's talents. "Danzo, Tetsuya is the child of Kaze, an heir to the Will of Fire. I won't hand him over to you!" Hiruzen's voice was firm.

Danzo, undeterred, pressed on. "Hiruzen, Kamiyo Tetsuya's medical ninjutsu has immense research value. He could contribute significantly to Konoha."

"Impossible!" Hiruzen cut him off. "I am Hokage!"

Danzo's expression darkened. "Hiruzen, you will regret this!" With that, he left the office, knowing he wouldn't get Tetsuya today.

Inside the office, Hiruzen sighed deeply. "Danzo's hand reaches too far," he thought, contemplating measures to restrict Root's power.

Meanwhile, at Ichiraku Ramen, Tetsuya and Naruto were finishing their third bowls of ramen. Naruto rubbed his swollen belly, looking at Tetsuya, who was also struggling.

"I'm not in top form today. I'll definitely beat you next time," Naruto declared.

Tetsuya waved his hand dismissively. "Winning against me isn't much. Try beating my friend Hinata."

The memory of a ramen-eating contest with Hinata made Tetsuya more determined than ever to make money. "If I don't make money, I can't support my future wife," he thought humorously.

"I'm a little embarrassed eating three bowls on your tab. I'll treat you to barbecue next time," Tetsuya said.

Naruto's face lit up. "Deal!" he exclaimed, thrilled at the prospect of another meal with his new friend.

As they parted ways, Naruto looked at Tetsuya with hope. "Tetsuya, are we friends?"

Tetsuya tilted his head, then shook it. "Not yet, but when I treat you next time, we will be. Friends need to reciprocate."

Naruto's initial disappointment turned to joy. "I have a friend!" he shouted, jumping up and promptly falling flat on his face.

Tetsuya laughed, reaching out to heal Naruto's scraped palm. "Healing Technique!"

[Heal Uzumaki Naruto, gain Physique +1, Chakra +5, Points +20, Pure Ashura Chakra]

The unexpected gain made Tetsuya pause. "Pure Ashura Chakra?" he thought. "Naruto truly is special."

As they walked away, Tetsuya felt a warmth in his chest. He knew he was making the right choice, building bonds and preparing for the future.