Konoha's Succession Plan

**Kazuya's Training with Tsunade?**

Tsunade... did she deserve this honor? Kazuya's strength already matched that of the Kage-level, so the idea of him becoming her apprentice seemed absurd.

When Jiraiya heard this proposal, his initial reaction was one of disbelief. Kazuya's skills and the medical ninjutsu that Tsunade specialized in had nothing in common. Did the old man want to turn Kazuya into a medical ninja? It was a ridiculous notion. Transforming a genius who had mastered the Flying Thunder God Technique into a healer would be a waste of talent.

As Jiraiya was about to voice his objections, he noticed a knowing smile on the Third Hokage's face. A realization struck him, and he said in shock, "Teacher, do you mean..."

"That's right!" The Third Hokage nodded, speaking in a deep voice. "I have high hopes for Kazuya and want to groom him for the future. I plan to appoint him as the captain of Anbu, and then..."

"Include him on the list of potential Hokage candidates!"

The Third Hokage didn't expect Kazuya to learn much from Tsunade. But as long as he trained with her, his status would change significantly. If it weren't for the fact that his three students—Orochimaru, Jiraiya, and Tsunade—were still around, Sarutobi Hiruzen might have considered taking on another disciple himself.

Such a declaration from the Third Hokage would cause a sensation throughout Konoha Village. Captain of Anbu and a Hokage candidate! This was the rise of a bright new star. Outsiders would be astonished by such news.

However, Jiraiya's reaction was unexpectedly calm. He thought for a long time and then said seriously, "Teacher, your vision is very good."

"Really?" The Third Hokage asked, surprised. "Jiraiya, you agree with this idea?"

"Yes," Jiraiya confirmed. "I have completed two missions with Kazuya. He is intelligent, has a broad perspective, impeccable character, strong beliefs, and he cares deeply for his comrades. He is an exceptional ninja."

"And, he's very powerful! To be honest, I'm not even sure I can defeat Kazuya," Jiraiya admitted.

The Third Hokage nodded. "It seems you truly hold Kazuya in high regard."

"Of course," Jiraiya said with a smile. "Any ninja who can master the Flying Thunder God Technique is extraordinary."

A shadow of sadness crossed Jiraiya's face. The Flying Thunder God Technique... Every ninja who mastered it had been a cornerstone of Konoha.

"Teacher, did Tsunade agree?" Jiraiya asked.

"Yes," the Third Hokage replied, nodding. "She supports my decision."

Jiraiya breathed a sigh of relief. That was good.

However, it had been a long time since he last saw Tsunade.

In the ninja world, each village had different methods for passing down leadership. Iwagakure's Tsuchikage followed a hereditary system, like royalty. The Raikage of Kumogakure acted like a godfather, leading both the village and the Land of Lightning. Konoha's Hokage was chosen based on the master-apprentice bond, focusing on inheritance rather than bloodlines. This meant that without being part of the Hokage circle, a ninja would never have the chance to become Hokage.

Sarutobi Hiruzen's plan to have Kazuya learn from Tsunade was a strategic move to integrate him into this circle, preparing him for a future leadership role. The deaths of the Fourth Hokage, Tsunade's departure due to hemophobia, Orochimaru's defection, and Jiraiya's reluctance had left a gap in Konoha's leadership succession. This situation had caused Sarutobi Hiruzen many sleepless nights. As long as he lived, he could suppress Danzo and the Uchiha clan. But if he were to pass away, what would become of the village?

Fortunately, at this critical moment, Kazuya had risen like a comet. His strength, sacrifice, and dedication were impressive, making him stand out in the Third Hokage's eyes. Few ninjas in Konoha had such strong beliefs and formidable power.

"Luckily, my vision and luck aren't too bad," Sarutobi Hiruzen thought as he looked out at the bustling Konoha Village with warm, hopeful eyes.

Not long after, news spread through the village that Kazuya had severely injured Orochimaru and killed twenty rebels using the Flying Thunder God Technique. Kazuya's name became famous overnight in Konoha, astonishing many ninjas.

At the Uchiha clan compound, the atmosphere was solemn. In the patriarch's mansion, two individuals knelt on the tatami. Uchiha Fugaku, the clan leader, spoke in a deep voice, "Another ninja with the Flying Thunder God Technique has appeared in the village, Nohara Kazuya. He's capable of injuring Orochimaru."

Fugaku frowned and asked, "Shisui, you're also in Anbu. Do you think this news is true?"

The young man opposite him, Shisui, smiled gently. "Patriarch, this is likely true. I haven't had much contact with Captain Kazuya in Anbu, but I heard that during the peace treaty negotiations, he led a team to repel the Fourth Raikage."

"The Fourth Raikage?" Fugaku's expression shifted slightly. The rumors seemed true.

Shisui's gentle smile remained. Another Kage-level ninja in the village was a positive development, something that made him happy. The prospect of peace was exciting.

A day later, Kazuya led his team back to Konoha. Despite the large-scale hunt, Orochimaru had escaped. Kazuya wasn't worried about criticism; Orochimaru was one of the Sannin, after all. Let others try catching him if they could.

Finally, the iconic gates of Konoha appeared in sight. "Home at last," Kazuya sighed softly. After the dusty days outside, nothing felt as refreshing as being home, lying down, and growing stronger.