Chapter 94

As the sun set over the Leaf Village, Tsunade, adorned in ceremonial robes, ascended the stage to accept the mantle of Hokage. With conviction, she pledged to uphold the village's values of peace and unity. The crowd erupted in cheers, united in celebration. Tsunade called upon the villagers to stand beside her, and together they embraced the future with hope and determination. As darkness fell, the Fifth Hokage stood ready to lead her people into a new era of prosperity.

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Within the training grounds nestled within the Uchiha compound, two figures engaged in high-speed combat, weaving through the air with incredible agility. It had been a week since Tsunade officially assumed the mantle of Hokage. During this time, the village had undergone a profound transformation. Many parts of Konoha were undergoing refurbishment to accommodate a new barrier, which would enclose the future expanded territory of the village.

Despite the war these past two years, work on the barrier has progressed steadily. However, with the war's end, the pace had accelerated significantly, with the Hokage herself using Mokuton to erect structures across various parts of the village. Any villagers whose properties or lands were acquired for this purpose were promptly compensated and relocated to alternative locations within Konoha.

Meanwhile, a young Uchiha Sasuke stood by the training grounds, observing the intense sparring between his elder brother, Itachi, and the esteemed Uchiha genius, Shisui.

The clash between Itachi and Shisui was a sight to behold; their movements were fluid and precise, and each strike was calculated to perfection. Shisui's speed was matched only by Itachi's agility, creating a whirlwind of motion on the training grounds.

As they exchanged blows, the sound of metal meeting metal rang through the air, punctuated by occasional bursts of chakra. Shisui's Sharingan glowed with intensity, his eyes scanning for any opening in Itachi's defenses, while Itachi's stoic expression betrayed no hint of emotion as he countered each of Shisui's attacks with ease.

After a particularly intense exchange, both fighters halted in the middle of the training ground, their breaths coming in ragged gasps. Sweat dripped from their brows as they stared each other down, a silent acknowledgment of each other's skill and prowess.

"Well fought, Itachi," Shisui said, a hint of admiration in his voice. "Your speed and precision are truly remarkable."

Itachi smiled, a look of satisfaction crossing his features. "And you, Shisui senpai, are as formidable as ever. It's always an honor to spar with you."

"So tell me, Itachi, what did you want to talk to me about? I know you've had something on your mind since our last clan meeting," Shisui inquired, sensing Itachi's lingering unease.

Noticing Itachi's hesitation, Shisui decided to broach the topic himself. "Is it about the clan's decision to make me the Seven-Tails Jinchuriki? You want to discuss this, don't you?" he asked, cutting straight to the heart of the matter. He understood that this had been weighing heavily on Itachi's mind since the clan meeting two days prior.

With a nod, Itachi confirmed, "Yes, Senpai, it's about the Seven-Tails. I know the clan has decided to make you the Jinchuriki, but I have a request of my own." He spoke cautiously, fully aware of the significance of what he was about to ask. The clan's decision had already been made, and deviating from it would not be easy.

Surprisingly, Shisui greeted Itachi's request with a smile. "Would you like to become the Jinchuriki?" he asked, but the glint in his eyes indicated that he already knew the answer. Itachi's gaze had shifted towards Sasuke, his younger brother, who sat at the edge of the training ground, watching them with excitement evident in his gestures.

"I would like you to give up your spot so that Sasuke can become the Jinchuriki." Itachi finally voiced his request, the weight of his decision evident in his tone. Recently, he had engaged in a conversation with his good friend Kazuki, and the information shared had left a profound impact on him. Though Kazuki hadn't divulged the full extent of his knowledge, every word he spoke sent a chill down Itachi's spine. Itachi trusted Kazuki implicitly; his friend was not one to exaggerate, and his secrets were always held close.

If what Kazuki had hinted at was true, then Itachi knew he needed to prepare. The revelation about an organization known as Akatsuki, and the involvement of the man Shisui had cornered during the war shook him to his core. This man, Obito Uchiha, believed to be dead, had survived and been raised by none other than Uchiha Madara himself. Kazuki had also hinted at the existence of someone within Akatsuki possessing the legendary Rinnegan—a notion Itachi initially dismissed as myth. However, upon delving into the village and Uchiha clan archives, along with documents provided by Kazuki, pieces of a sinister puzzle began to fall into place.

Itachi realized that he needed to act swiftly and decisively. In the meantime, he resolved to lay a strong foundation for Sasuke, ensuring that his younger brother would be prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead. Itachi's request to Shisui was not merely about passing on the mantle of Jinchuriki; it was a strategic move to protect Sasuke and the Uchiha clan from the looming threats Kazuki had unveiled.

"So it's for little Sasuke, huh?" Shisui remarked with a knowing glint in his eyes. He sensed that Itachi was still withholding certain details, but he chose not to pry further. Trusting in his friend's judgment, he accepted that there must be a compelling reason behind Itachi's request.

"Fine, I will talk to Fugaku-sama and the clan elders. I will find some reason to have Sasuke become the Jinchuriki," Shisui agreed, his tone resolute. He understood that Itachi wouldn't have approached him about such a matter unless it was of utmost importance. Itachi's love for Sasuke was unwavering, and Shisui knew that his friend would go to great lengths to protect his younger brother. If Itachi believed that making Sasuke a Jinchuriki was necessary, then there must indeed be a grave threat looming on the horizon—a threat that Itachi was determined to prepare Sasuke for, no matter the cost.

"Thank you, Shisui-senpai. I will remember this favor forever," Itachi expressed his gratitude with a deep bow, his respect evident in his demeanor. He then pulled out a scroll and handed it to Shisui, who accepted it with a puzzled expression.

"Go on, Senpai, open it," Itachi urged, a faint smile playing on his lips as Shisui unraveled the scroll. With the release of the sealing technique, a large square box materialized before them in a puff of smoke. Sasuke, who had approached the two upon noticing the end of their spar session, stood beside his brother, his curiosity piqued by the mysterious box.

As Shisui opened the box, his eyes widened in awe at the sight of its contents. Among the various items within, his gaze was immediately drawn to an exquisite black tanto nestled within a black scabbard. Carefully pulling out the blade, Shisui couldn't help but marvel at its craftsmanship. Sasuke, standing beside him, was equally captivated by the blade's beauty.

Shisui soon noticed something peculiar about the tanto—the intricate fuinjutsu seals etched along its blade. His Sharingan allowed him to discern the value of these seals, a testament to the blade's significance. However, he was perplexed as to why Itachi would gift him such a remarkable weapon, and he turned to his friend, seeking an explanation.

Scratching the back of his head in a sheepish manner, Itachi admitted that he was not entirely familiar with such traditions. However, under the guidance of Kazuki, he had learned a few peculiar customs that he didn't fully understand but chose to follow nonetheless.

Although Shisui maintained his composed exterior, inwardly he was filled with delight. As an orphan, he had rarely received gifts, and the fact that Itachi, whom he considered a brother, had bestowed such a thoughtful present upon him warmed his heart. With a sense of gratitude, he carefully placed the tanto blade back into the box and turned his attention to the large glass container filled with a green liquid.

"I know you've been experiencing difficulties with your eyes due to the Mangekyou Sharingan," Itachi explained, his tone filled with empathy. "This is something I obtained from my friend in the Nara clan. It should help alleviate some of the strain on your eyes."

Shisui was touched by Itachi's consideration and silently thanked him, knowing that his friend had gone out of his way to provide him with something so valuable. Itachi's gratitude towards Kazuki for providing such treasures was evident, yet he also understood that Kazuki's intentions were driven by a desire to secure his silence regarding various secrets.

Meanwhile, Sasuke, who had been standing by the side, unable to tear his gaze away from the sheathed tanto, couldn't help but speak up.

"Brother, why don't you give me such gifts?" He inquired, his eyes gleaming with curiosity and a hint of longing.

In response, Itachi playfully tapped Sasuke's forehead with his fingers, a fond smile gracing his lips. It was a gesture he often used to express affection towards his younger brother, a silent reassurance of their bond.

"Soon, Sasuke, you will have one when you start the academy, I promise you," Itachi assured his younger brother with a warm smile. He had already procured custom-made weapons from Kazuki, reserving one for Sasuke alongside the gift he had given to Shisui. The remaining weapons were submitted to the clan, awaiting distribution.

Shisui carefully packed the items Itachi had gifted him, securing the box and encasing it within the scroll. "I will accept your gift, Itachi, but I also have a request of my own," he stated, his tone earnest as he glanced towards Itachi.

Itachi nodded, indicating his readiness to hear Shisui's request. He anticipated what his friend was about to ask but remained patient, allowing Shisui to convey his intentions.

"Tsunade-sama has promoted my ANBU rank, granting me permission to form my own squad," Shisui began, his gaze steady as he addressed Itachi. "I understand that you have received an invitation from the ANBU. I would like to know if you are willing to join my squad. I can request Kakashi-senpai to reassign you if you agree."

Shisui was aware of Kakashi's desire to mentor Itachi within his own squad, but he believed that having Itachi by his side would greatly benefit the new team he was assembling.

"I appreciate your trust in me, Shisui senpai," Itachi replied, his tone sincere. "I am honored to join your squad and serve alongside you."

Shisui's eyes lit up with genuine gratitude and excitement. "Thank you, Itachi," he said, clasping his friend's shoulder in a gesture of camaraderie. "I have no doubt that with your skills and dedication, our squad will become a formidable force within the ANBU."

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The scene within the Hokage's office resembled a chaotic whirlwind, with Shizune desperately attempting to restrain Kazuki while he flailed his arms in protest. Seated calmly opposite the commotion were Sandaime Hiruzen and Shikaku Nara, the former with a solemn expression and the latter wearing a sly smirk that hinted at his involvement in the situation.

"Sensei, how could you do this to me?" Kazuki's voice rang out, filled with indignation and disbelief. "This is not fair! Assigning this old man, I understand, but why me? I'm just nine years old! I want to join the ANBU and gain some experience, not babysit!"

Tsunade, the Godaime Hokage, leaned back in her chair, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she observed the unfolding drama. "Calm down, Kazuki," she interjected, her voice laced with amusement. "It's not like you'll be stuck in the village forever. And from what I've heard from Naruto, you seem to enjoy imparting your knowledge to others, even if it means tormenting them a little."

Kazuki's protests grew louder, his frustration evident as he struggled against Shizune's attempts to restrain him. "But, Sensei, this isn't what I had in mind for my future plans! I had everything perfectly mapped out, and now you're throwing this curveball at me!"

Tsunade chuckled, enjoying the spectacle before her. "Consider it a new challenge, Kazuki. Who knows? You might discover a talent for teaching that you never knew you had. And besides, it'll give you a chance to sharpen your skills in a different way."

As the commotion continued, Hiruzen couldn't help but shake his head, feeling a mix of amusement and sympathy for his grand student's predicament. And Shikaku Nara, ever the strategist, watched with amusement, secretly pleased with the turn of events.

"And you, uncle, I hope you can wipe that smirk off your face before we get home. I'm certain Aunt Yoshino would love to have a chat with you about going behind my back and plotting with my Sensei," Kazuki fumed at Shikaku, his tone laced with irritation. He was convinced that Tsunade couldn't have been the mastermind behind such a scheme.

Kazuki's indignation towards his uncle was palpable, his arms crossed and a scowl etched on his face. Shikaku, however, seemed unfazed by his nephew's ire, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he countered, "Oh, come on, Kazuki. You know Yoshino won't be too hard on me once she hears about your new job posting."

Under Tsunade's directive, the Ninja Academy was undergoing a complete restructuring. It had become apparent that a majority of civilian children aspiring to become Shinobi were dropping out due to a lack of guidance and resources. Additionally, many of the subjects taught were only capable of producing mediocre ninjas. Tsunade recognized the necessity of improving the quality of the Shinobi produced by Konoha to ensure their survival in a dangerous world.

To address these issues, she proposed condensing the previous six-year Shinobi curriculum to three years and introducing an advanced Ninja course for the remaining three years. This advanced curriculum would focus on teaching advanced ninjutsu and related subjects. Basic resources would be provided to all students, regardless of their background, with additional resources available based on the students' growth and talent. Tsunade also included Iryo Ninjutsu as part of the curriculum for the latter three years of the academy, with fuinjutsu and a few more subjects being introduced from year one, as even those children who cannot excel in killing can find options to make a living by dedicating their effort to these new subjects and contributing to the village.

Kazuki, still simmering with resentment over his newfound role, couldn't help but interject, "But why me? I'm not exactly the nurturing type," he protested, earning a chuckle from Shizune, who had been observing the scene with a mixture of amusement and exasperation.

Tsunade raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Well, Kazuki, sometimes the ones who least expect it are the best mentors," she remarked cryptically, causing Kazuki to furrow his brow in confusion.

Shikaku, ever the opportunist, couldn't resist teasing his nephew further. "Besides, Kazuki, think of it as an opportunity to impart your... unique wisdom onto the next generation," he quipped, eliciting a groan from Kazuki.

"Sigh, fine, but in that case, I want a salary bigger than this old man's," Kazuki quipped with a mischievous glint in his eyes. If they were going to put him to work, he reasoned, he might as well make sure it was worth his while by poking a hole in their pockets.