Chapter 61: Managing the Village

AN: Hello everyone! Another update. Only Chapter 62 is left before RITWON PT. 1 is finished!

WARNING: Just so you all know there is kind of a Rated M scene in this chapter. You will see the WARNING sign before the paragraph. If you don't want to read it then go ahead and skip to the part where the scene ends. Because of this one little scene I might be forced to change the rating of the story to M, but I don't think it was too graphic so maybe not.

Anyways, as always thanks for reading! And stay tuned for "RITWON PT. 2" in the near future.

Chapter 61

The skies were overcast with gloomy clouds as a slight chilly breeze passed through the air, however, at this very moment the entire village was gathered down below right before the Hokage's building.

"Hey, do you know what's going on?"

"I don't know, don't ask me."

"It feels like something drastic is going to happen."

"Huh? How can anything more drastic than the aftermath of the 4th Great Ninja War happen?"

"Tsk. I hope whatever this important public announcement that Lord 5th Hokage has to make is actually important."

"I wonder what's going on with the village. How are we going to survive this crisis? Our homes are still left in shambles."

"Heh. Probably will be in shambles for a long time. Here's a secret, I saw the 5th Hokage drinking away liters upon liters of alcohol just the other day."

"Shhhh! Keep that information to yourself. What if she hears you? Don't you know that the 5th is rumored to be a bit hot tempered? I hear she could blast a mountain into smithereens with a single punch!"

Chatter amongst chatter could be heard from the crowd below as confusion, dissent, and growing anxiety filled the atmosphere. At this moment on top of the Hokage's building stood several elite Jonin, Shizune, Tsunade, the two Konoha elders, and myself. Shizune turned to Tsunade with a bit of worry as she heard what some people were saying down below and concernedly said, "Lady Tsunade-" However, before she could finish her sentence Tsunade smirked and replied, "It's fine Shizune. There is some truth to what the people are saying. This is precisely why it's the perfect time to name a new Hokage. Plus, what people are saying is only temporary. They are speaking how they feel at this moment. I don't take any personal offense to it."

She then strode forwards revealing herself to all the people below causing the crowd to go completely silent. Tsunade cleared her throat and in a loud booming voice she said, "People of Konoha! I know you all have your doubts and worries about the state of the village. I stand here before you as your 5th Hokage to tell you this, I know the war has affected you all. It has affected me as well. Yes, I admit it. The war has taken its toll on me and has hindered my ability to properly meet the needs of the village and its people. For that I can only offer you my apologies and ask for your forgiveness. I have failed you in this time of great need. And that is why I have decided to abdicate the position of the 5th Hokage for the 6th Hokage! Rest assured that in his hands the village will find its flame in the dark and reignite anew. He is one of the great war heroes that played a pivotal role in ending the 4th Great Ninja War. He has earned the moniker of Konoha's White Flash, The Blind Warrior, The Lone Ninja, and The God of Shinobi. Step forth, Karasuma Izaya!"

The crowd below were extremely shocked at the speech Tsunade just gave and at this new development. At Tsunade's que I slowly and confidently made my way over and stood before the crowd below. The wind in the air slowly passed by causing my new Hokage's haori to flutter around. It was a sleek snow white colored haori with red flames patterned along the border of the sleeves and bottom of the cloak. There were also red falling leaf patterns printed around the Haori with the word 6th Hokage on the back. I also wore long dark red pants and a white dress shirt with dark red buttons. The sleeves were rolled back to my elbows and my shirt was only buttoned to my upper chest. I wore a necklace with the letter H on it and had Muramasa strapped on the left side of my waist with a black colored leaf forehead protector tied on the sheath. The familiar feature of my blindfold covered my eyes accentuating my presence.

The crowd took in my appearance above them all and I at them, and as if it were truly the beginning of a new dawn and age the dark clouds in the sky slowly began to part ways and the beams of the sun's rays started to shine down on the world. This scene for some reason caused a feeling of majesty and of new found hope to surge into the hearts of the people. Tsunade smiled and walked over to me as she handed me the signature hat of the Hokage. I slightly nodded at Tsunade and took the hat in my hands before putting it on. A moment of silence passed by as I gave the crowd a moment to take in the new changes happening, then, I put on a serious expression and addressed the crowd below.

"Konoha! I know what you all must be thinking. I know what you all must be feeling. I know because I too have witnessed first hand the devastating destruction the war has caused. The war has taken so many lives from us. It has taken our brothers, our sisters, our friends, our fathers, our mothers, and our family! It has taken the lives of our lovers, our husbands, and our wives! It has cost us the lives of our people! And while many of us grieve and continue to mourn the death of our brave fallen comrades, I know that many of you still suffer because you are unable to mourn, for the bodies of many of your loved ones have not yet been successfully recovered! Fear not! I promise you this, as the 6th Hokage I will do all I can to recover those that have fallen in the war! I will do all I can to return to you your loved ones so that you can give them the proper farewell that they deserve. The war may have taken many things away from us, but I know that it has not taken our spirit! I know that many of you still have homes left in shambles and ruin. But as the 6th Hokage, I promise you this, I will do all I can to restore your homes to what they were before if not greater! I promise you this, as the 6th Hokage I will do all I can to carry us through this time of great turmoil. I may be young but I do not lack heart! I may be young but I do not lack strength! I may be young but I do not lack, our Will of Fire! Those who have given their lives and fought so bravely in the war did not leave us behind with nothing! The Will of Fire was with them until the very end! So long as we bear the Will of Fire within us, then they shall forever live on in our hearts! People of Konoha, do you still bear the Will of Fire within you?!"

The people of Konoha felt a stirring emotion of hope and power fill them from the inside. It was a strange feeling. There were still dark clouds overcast in the sky, however, there were parts in the sky where the clouds shifted away allowing the beautiful rays of the sun to shine through the darkness. The incredible, heartwarming, and powerful speech that the 6th Hokage was giving ignited something deep within all the people of Konoha. Konoha's people always carried a strong bond of familiarity and passion and pride with each other. With all the turmoil and chaos in the world it was as if they had forgotten who they were. Like they were lost in a sea of dark storm clouds, however, after hearing Izaya's speech they felt a glimpse of the Will of Fire reignite within themselves and they all shouted back with a great vigor that seemed to have been lost before.

"The Will of Fire lives on inside of us! We have not abandoned The Will of Fire!"

As I stood atop the Hokage's building staring down at the crowd below I silently nodded to myself in approval of the crowd's response. I then continued on, "The Will of Fire lives on in each and every one of us. So long as we do not forget that, we will always have hope. So long as we do not forget that, we will always be able to walk out of the darkness. You are the flames that light the world when all is filled in darkness. Let us not forget the power that we have when we all stand together! So, stand together with me now! As one village and not one person! And together, we can and will burn brighter than any star!"

The crowd shouted with a newfound vigor of hope and strength. I nodded at the crowd's reaction and remained standing before them for a few more minutes before retreating back into the Hokage's office to finally begin putting my plans into action. I let out a soft sigh as I looked at the Hokage's seat and plopped down. Several mountainous stacks of paperwork piled up as high as the ceiling and were spread around the room. Not long after Tsunade, Shizune, and the two elders walked in all with smiles on their faces. Tsunade was the first to break the ice.

"Izaya, I knew I didn't choose wrong naming you as the 6th! You managed to reinvigorate the entire village with one single speech! Incredible!"

Koharu and Homura simply nodded in agreement. We talked a bit longer before everyone left the room, all but Shizune. I tilted my head in confusion. "Did you need something Shizune?"

She shook her head. "No. Technically I'm still the Hokage's aid."

I raised my eyebrow in a bit of surprise before nodding and replied, "Shizune. Like Tsunade I believe you have already done enough for the village. I appreciate the fact that you would be willing to continue to assist me as the Hokage's aid, however, I believe that Tsunade needs you more. You should be by her side and help facilitate her recovery. From this moment forth, should you wish it, I will relieve you of your duties as the Hokage's aid."

Shizune felt her body tremble before a teardrop fell from her eyes. She quickly wiped it away and bowed, "Thank you! Thank you Izaya! I mean Lord 6th! I should quickly return to Lady Tsunade's side!" Just before she walked out of the room she paused and turned back. "Lord 6th. Before I go, if there is anything I can do please let me know."

I thought for a moment before nodding my head. "Then, Shizune, for your last act as an aid, please send a message for an immediate Jonin council meeting."

She quickly nodded and saluted before disappearing. I watched as she disappeared before taking a sweep of the Hokage's office noting all the troublesome paperwork and let out a sigh. "Well...Guess I should get started. Shadow Clone Jutsu!"

Poof!

Twenty clones instantly got to work on the paperwork as I stood up and headed towards the conference room where the Jonin meeting would be held. I didn't have to wait long before all the Jonin in the village arrived and settled in. Kakashi walked up to me and said, "Lord 6th, everyone is here."

I nodded in appreciation and started my address. "Everyone! Now that a chain of command has finally been set in order it's time we solve the issues that we are currently facing. First, Hatake Kakashi, I hereby promote you to Jonin Commander."

Kakashi was surprised but quickly replied, "Though I am not as competent as the late Jonin Commander Nara Shikaku, I will do my best to live up to his reputation."

I nodded in approval and continued. "I name Might Guy as the Vice Jonin Commander. The role of the Jonin Commander and Vice Jonin Commander shall be to oversee Konoha's military. You both shall be in charge of overseeing the training and disciplining of all Jonin and Chunin. You both will also be in charge of receiving all mission requests in the village from D-rank to A-rank. Only S-rank missions will be reserved for I, the Hokage to give out. Next is the matter of diplomatic issues. Kimimaro, I assign you the role as Konoha's diplomatic envoy to Iwagakure. Naruto, I am assigning you the role as the diplomatic envoy to Sunagakure. Choji, I assign you the role as Konoha's envoy to Kumogakure. Haku, I assign you the role as Konoha's diplomatic envoy to Kirigakure. And finally, Neji, I assign you the role as the diplomatic envoy to the Land of Iron. Sai, I appoint you the chief of police of Konoha's police force. After the meeting go discuss with Guy about who will be adequate to join the police task force and draw up a list. Then I want you to begin assigning roles to the task force to help calm public unrest and keep peace and order within the village. Guy, after you finish helping Sai with this task I want you to take one-third of our military strength and return to the battlefields to search for and recover any and all bodies of our fallen comrades. Sakura, you will be tasked with overseeing Konoha's hospital as the head medical chief. I will focus on rebuilding the foundations of the village's homes and other structures. Shikamaru, I name you as the Hokage's aid. That means you will be my advisor. I can only entrust this task to you. Now, if there are any objections please speak now."

Right as I finished giving out my commands everyone nodded in approval at how quickly and decisively I put things in place. I nodded in appreciation at everyone's understanding and said, "Yamato, Kakashi, Sasuke, Iruka, Shikamaru, you all remain behind. Everyone else is dismissed."

"Yes!" Everyone saluted before leaving.

The five left remaining in the room stood completely silent until Sasuke broke the ice. "So, what did you need us for Izaya?"

"There are some important matters I wish to discuss with you all. You can go afterwards. First, Iruka, with the aftermath of the war the educational system in the village is at a standstill." I then handed a pile of papers to him before continuing, "I believe you are best to manage the rebuilding of the academy. Here are the plans I have for rebuilding, restructuring, and reforming the educational system of the village. I want you to take a look over them and tell me what you think. If they seem reasonable and doable then I want you to oversee the implementation of these reforms into the academy."

Iruka was greatly surprised but quickly nodded and smiled. "Yes! I humbly accept honor! I will do my utmost and review these documents Izaya! I-I mean Lord 6th!"

I smiled as I watched Iruka excitedly leave the room to review the documents I handed him. I then turned to Yamato and handed him a letter. "Yamato-sensei, I need you to track down Orochimaru and give him this letter."

Everyone in the room was shocked at my words as the revelation hit them that Orochimaru was still alive. Only Sasuke was unfazed. Yamato stammered, "O-Orochimaru? What? He's still alive? But how? And where is he? And-" Before Yamato could finish I cut him off and handed him another letter.

"Yamato-sensei. I can only entrust this task to you. You'll understand when you read this letter. It'll have all the details pertaining to your mission inside. Don't worry, Orochimaru won't do anything to you. He'll understand once he reads my letter. While his character is questionable, the truth is his skills are still invaluable."

Yamato let out a sigh before nodding his head. "Alright. I'll do my best."

I nodded in appreciation as Yamato disappeared from the room. I then turned to Kakashi and said, "Kakashi-sensei, not only will you be Jonin commander, but I want you to be acting Hokage."

Everyone was incredibly shocked at what I just said. I placed my hand up to stop any of them from saying anything.

"Let me explain. First, all of you follow me back to the Hokage's office."

As we walked in the office everyone had a weird expression as they saw twenty of my clones going through all the paperwork in the room neatly organizing them. Not a moment later and they all disappeared in a puff of smoke. I curled my lips in a smile and nodded at the handiwork of my clones. I then returned my attention to Sasuke, Kakashi, and Shikamaru.

"Now. Picking up where I left off. Kakashi, I want you to be acting Hokage. It doesn't mean I'm enacting or appointing you as Hokage, but it means that when I'm not around, you will have the authority to do most of the things that I would need to do. In essence, giving the Hokage's seal of approval on all of this paperwork. Having the final say of yes or no in making certain decisions involving the village. Things like these."

Kakashi frowned and replied, "But, why would you need to give me this kind of authority? Are you implying that you won't be around?"

I let out a soft sigh before responding. "Correct. Now, I'm not saying that I'm abandoning my duties as Hokage, but rather there are things I need to do that go beyond the duties of a Hokage. As the Hokage I will protect the village at all costs. However, with the events that we witnessed in the 4th Great Ninja War and with Otsutsuki Kaguya's arrival, we should be well aware that we are not the only ones in this world. There are beings out there that have the potential to become world level threats. How can I protect the village if there is the potential that the entire world could be put in danger. This is why I am giving you the authority of acting Hokage Kakashi-sensei. I'll still be around, but just for the times when I'm not, that is when this role will be of use. Plus Shikamaru will be the Hokage's advisor. With you both at the helm I can rest more easily if and when I decide to go on an extended period of leave to learn more about the Otsutsuki clan and the world."

Everyone furrowed their brow in deep focus after hearing what I said and tacitly agreed that this was indeed a smart move. I then turned to Sasuke. "This brings me to my next topic. Sasuke. I want you to spend at least a month here in Konoha getting used to the power of your Rinnegan. After that I apologize, but I am assigning you a difficult task. An incredibly dangerous S-Rank mission. You are the only one I can trust this mission to. I want you to explore the world and try to find any trace of any remaining White Zetsu and hunt them down. I also want you to look for clues and information on Kaguya and the Otsutsuki clan. Now this doesn't mean that I want you to remain away from the village indefinitely, but this mission of yours will require a lot of your time being spent away from the village. Will you accept?"

Sasuke furrowed his brow in a moment of silence but ultimately nodded in agreement. "I'll do it. This whole thing about Kaguya and the Otsutsuki clan has been bothering me as well. I can't sit around and do nothing. I was planning on going out in the world and looking for clues about the Otsutsuki clan anyways."

I nodded in appreciation. I then finally turned to Shikamaru. "Shikamaru, the greatest tasks fall on your shoulders. I know this is a lot to ask but no one else will be able to fulfill these duties other than you. First, my clones have already gone through the pile of paperwork here and have organized them according to their proper category such as finance, trade and business, missions, construction and infrastructure, educational systems, international information systems, etc. Honestly I can't believe that all the past Hokage's have been doing this work on their own. As the current Hokage I don't believe this is the correct path for a Hokage to take. A Hokage should not be someone who is swamped by paperwork all day long and night hidden behind a desk. A Hokage should be someone who is deeply involved with the village and its people and pioneer new ways to move the village forward keeping the village stable. I have decided to reform the system. Shikamaru, for your first task I want you to find suitable people who have experience in these different fields and create a working task force that can effectively process the paperwork according to their areas of expertise. Once it has been processed through their trained eyes and work, then and only then will the final draft of the paperwork be brought to the Hokage's office. As the Hokage, I will look over the final details and ensure that everything makes sense and is in proper order before giving my seal of approval. Then it can be filed into the village's system. Once that is done I want you to assist me in solidifying the foundations for the Allied Shinobi Force."

Shikamaru raised his eyebrows in surprise and remarked, "Solidifying the foundations of the Allied Shinobi Force? I assume you already have a proposition in mind on how to do it? After all, every village is currently facing an internal crisis."

I nodded. "That is why I sent diplomatic envoys to each nation. The first major reason is to show that we have not forgotten to show support for one another. The second is to actually provide support where we can. And I have just the means to do so. I will personally journey to each nation and provide assistance in rebuilding their foundations using my Wood Style if they agree. The third major reason is that, should each nation see that we are doing our best to help each other in this time of need it will continue to strengthen our bonds. Not only did we fight a war together to save the world, we all lost comrades on the battlefield and felt the same pain. And now, after the war we didn't forget about each other, but rather we have gone out of our way to provide assistance in any way we can. This will help solidify the notion of the Allied Shinobi Force as a good thing and prevent us from disassembling it. I plan to speak to the other Kage's soon about establishing an Allied Shinobi Force headquarters together."

Shikamaru tilted his head as he asked, "An Allied Shinobi Force headquarters...Where do you plan to build the base? It can't be within the territory of one of the Five Great Nations. That could cause problems later down the line. And establishing it in the Land of Iron is too much to ask for the samurai. They could eventually see it as the shinobi world trying to take over their samurai customs and ways."

I nodded at Shikamaru's interjection. "Correct. I plan to build it in Amegakure."

"Eh? Amegakure? The small nation where the Village Hidden in the Rain is? But, will they allow such a thing?"

I thought momentarily before responding, "I believe they will. First, Amegakure had always been in a state of poverty due to past wars. Even under Hanzo's rule the economy and the land weren't the best. Then there was a civil war and Nagato took over. But after Nagato passed away there have been no stable government head in place. A clone of mine scouted the area a few days ago and the nation is currently in complete unrest. Many different types of people are trying to scramble for power in that region. I don't think this is what Nagato would have wanted for his home nation. I wish to honor Nagato by bringing some form of stability to Amegakure. I'll go there and speak to the people and do my best to convince them to allow the Five Great Nations to build the headquarters of the Allied Shinobi Forces there. I'll get permission from the other Kage's to grant Amegakure certain diplomatic immunities through the establishment of the Allied Shinobi Force. This is also great for Amegakure because with the Allied Shinobi Forces headquarters there, international trade routes leading from all five nations will flow through their nation and increase the amount of revenue they can generate. If on the off chance that the people of Amegakure don't accept the building of the ASF HQ there then we can only look elsewhere. But I'm quite confident my plan will work."

Knock Knock.

Hm? We all turned towards the door as I said, "Enter."

At that moment a small boy and old man walked in carrying various stone carving tools and said, "Ahem Ahem. Excuse me Lord 6th. I am the stone carver for the Hokage faces on the cliffside. I've come to take your measurements. I hope this isn't a bad time…"

I scratched the side of my cheek awkwardly before turning my attention back at Sasuke, Shikamaru, and Kakashi. "Ahem. Well, that'll be all for now. You can be dismissed."

The three of them nodded and quickly disappeared from the room. The stone carver quickly walked over to me in seriousness with many different tools as he started to measure every angle of my face before commenting, "Can you take off your blindfold? I'm about to place some clay mold over your face so we can get a small representation of how your face should look on the cliffside."

I awkwardly laughed before responding, "Ahem. Is it possible for you to just carve the blindfold on the cliffside as well? Most people recognize me with the blindfold on."

"What?! You want the blindfold on? Hmpf. Alright, well, it's your face going on the cliffside not mine." He then proceeded to place some clay-mold over my face as I inwardly thought, he sure is carefree. In less than an hour my meeting with the stone carver was over as I let out a sigh of relief. I quickly stretched before heading out to the village and started fixing as much of the damaged infrastructure as I could.

It wasn't until late at night when I finally finished and returned to the Hokage's quarters which were now mine. I quickly took a much needed hot shower from such a long day of work. I let out a deep sigh as I slowly stepped out to dry myself off with a towel and thought, Hanabi and I have been so busy that we haven't gotten to see each other in nearly a week. I want to see her.

WARNING: Please Skip This Part if you do not wish to read the Rated scene.

Hm? I turned towards the door to my room and smiled as I felt Hanabi's presence.

Is she psychic or something? Always showing up when I need her.

I quickly wrapped the towel around my waist and opened the door only to be completely stunned. I gulped down my saliva as I took in what Hanabi was wearing. It was a thin nightgown that was definitely see-through and it showed off her curves perfectly. I quickly snapped out of my daze and dragged her inside shutting the door behind us before I pinned her to the wall and said, "Wh-What are you thinking? Wearing something like that out in public?! What if someone saw you?!"

She smiled teasingly and whispered, "What do you mean? I'm fully clothed."

I gritted my teeth and pinned her hands above her head. "Y-You! I'll gouge out everyone's eyes who saw you like this!"

She chuckled playfully before saying, "You're the Hokage now. That's inappropriate."

I growled, "And wearing what you're wearing out in public is inappropriate."

She tiptoed a bit so she could whisper right in my ear. "Don't worry, I wore a cloak. I only just removed it. I wanted to surprise you."

My entire body started to overheat at our close proximity and at having the newfound knowledge that Hanabi wore this just for me. I took a step back as the moonlight shone through the window illuminating all of her for me to see. It was at this moment that Hanabi also took note of what I was wearing which was nothing but a towel around my waist. Her breathing grew rapidly and her body began to heat up uncontrollably. Just now she finally took in my full physique.

He grew taller, she thought. She involuntarily licked her lips as she took in my full height at 188cm tall. She took in the several droplets of water from my shower earlier dripping down my chest. She gulped as she took note of my abs and muscular frame. And finally, she couldn't take it anymore as she whispered, "Izaya...please."

And I lost it at her words of want and desire. Our lips crashed with fervor like we hadn't had water in weeks. Our hands roamed each others body like we've been starved of human touch for days. I couldn't take it anymore. I wanted her. I needed her. Just so much. Not being able to have any alone time with Hanabi for nearly an entire week was agonizing. Without any restraint I gripped her thin nightgown and ripped it cleanly in half prompting a shout of surprise from her. The next moment I lifted her off the ground as we disappeared and reappeared on my large king sized bed from the use of my Flying Thunder God Jutsu. Once again this elicited a shout of surprise from her as she laughed a bit at my impatience.

I kissed the nape of her neck and touched every sensitive part of her body in all the places I knew she loved immediately causing her to shout out loud moans of pleasure. "I-Izaya! D-Don't stop! Yes!"

Her moans and heavy panting struck a fire in me like I never felt before. Her skin was so soft and smooth. Every touch was like caressing the softest silk in the world. It was becoming unbearable to hold back my own arousal, wants, and needs. Hanabi knew this and instantly untied the towel around my waist throwing it off somewhere into the corner of the room. As she turned her attention back to me she curiously looked down at my body causing her face to immediately turn completely red. Her entire body trembled and shuddered in pure pleasure and nervous anticipation as she stammered, "W-Will it..."

I smirked at how beautiful and cute she looked at this moment and softly pushed her disheveled bangs out of her face caressing the side of her cheeks reassuringly before saying, "I'll be gentle."

She slowly nodded and swallowed down her nervousness. And that was the only confirmation I needed as I entered her. Immediately her breath hitched as she sucked in a deep breath at this new feeling of pain and pleasure. I dipped my head down and captured her lips in mine doing all I could to distract her from the momentary pain she was feeling as I continued to enter her until finally, we were truly and completely connected as one. I nuzzled my face in the nape of her neck as we both rapidly breathed in and out. Our hearts pounded hard against our chests like the beating of giant drums. After some time passed Hanabi wrapped her arms around my neck and moaned in pure pleasure and impatience, "Please, Izaya!"

And that was all the permission I needed. I quickly whispered in a heavy breath, "I love you, Hanabi…" And I didn't hold back anymore…

END OF RATED SCENE

1 month later

I sat in my office and stared out the window that overlooked the village and nodded silently to myself in approval at the rate in which the village was recovering. I had already restored all of the village's damaged residential and infrastructural buildings and the report Guy sent me stated that they had already recovered more than 95% of the missing bodies on the battlefield. I sent a clone to each of the Great Nations to help them rebuild their own infrastructure and we are now currently rebuilding new and better domestic and international trade routes. Just last week I was able to convince the people of Amegakure to let the Five Great Nations establish the ASF HQ in their country. The negotiations went much better than expected. At that moment the door to my office opened as Shikamaru walked in.

"Shikamaru, you're back."

"Yeah. It was a pain but I got all the data and information."

I nodded in appreciation. "So, what do the numbers look like?"

Shikamaru sighed before replying, "The war really did a number on the villages. The military strength of each village has dropped nearly to half after the war. Before the war Kumogakure's military might was approximately 17,000 shinobi strong. For Konoha it was 15,000. Iwagakure was 16,000. Kirigakure and Sunagakure were 11,000 and the Land of Iron was 10,000. We went into the war with approximately 80,000 strong shinobi and samurai. But now, after the war, for Kumo it's noted at 8567. For Konoha it's 7843. For Iwagakure it's 8021. Kirigakure is 6558, Sunagakure is 6472, and the Land of Iron is 4733. Collectively the ASF came out of the war with a total of 42,194 shinobi and samurai left. This was without a doubt the most brutal and bloody Great Ninja War in all of history."

There was a moment of silence between us as we both just let the numbers sink in. I let out a sigh before nodding my head in appreciation for Shikamaru's hard work. "Thank you. For collecting this data. It's essential for us to know just how much damage was dealt to us after the war. The good news is that Konoha's rate of recovery is going by much faster than I anticipated. The ASF has a place where it can begin building its HQ. Trade routes are being re-established and I estimate that within the next week we'll have recovered all the bodies of our fallen comrades on the battlefield. At that time we can hold a proper village wide memorial service in remembrance of them. Then, next month I'll discuss with the other Kage's about accepting the proposal of the five Daimyo's to hold an international military merit award ceremony. The Daimyo's are bored and have been continuing to pester us about it. I think they'll be happy to hear that there'll finally be a date set in stone. Plus, this will be good in building relations with the Daimyo's of the other lands. It'll be great if they can continue to get along like this."

Shikamaru nodded in agreement. "That sounds good. Is there anything more you need me to do right now?"

I thought for a moment before shaking my head. "Not currently. I'm expecting someone in a little bit here so you can take a break."

"Hm? Is this someone very important?" Shikamaru inquired curiously.

I nodded in seriousness. "Incredibly important."

Shikamaru's interest was immediately peaked as he asked, "Who is it?"

I paused for a moment before replying, "Yakushi Kabuto."

"W-WHAT?! K-Kabuto? He's alive?! Wait! Didn't you release the Reanimation Jutsu by defeating Kabuto? You didn't kill him?"

I waited for Shikamaru to voice all his questions and doubts before I calmly answered. "I did indeed defeat Kabuto and casted a Genjutsu on him to release the Reanimation. But I also casted a powerful Uchiha Forbidden Jutsu on him to change his fate. Even though I changed his fate it doesn't excuse the fact that he played a major role in the reason why many lives were lost in the 4th Great Ninja War. That is why I am meeting with him. He isn't a free man. But he is a changed man. I am meeting with him to give out his sentence."

Shikamaru fidgeted a bit uncomfortably but ultimately let out a deep sigh and nodded his head. "Well, you are the 6th Hokage. And we grew up together. I trust your decision Izaya, but can I at least sit in and be a witness?"

I nodded and pointed to a seat in the room. "That's fine. Make yourself comfortable."

Shikamaru nodded in appreciation as a knock on the door could be heard at that moment.

"Enter." I replied.

Kabuto walked in and stood before me completely cloaked to hide his look and said, "Izaya. No. Rather I should now call you the 6th Hokage."

I nodded. "It's been awhile Kabuto."

He nodded back and took a seat. "Lord 6th. I know that the crimes I have committed cannot be pardoned. Many shinobi lives were lost because of me. I am prepared to serve any sentence you give. I won't run away from this responsibility. I am ready to atone for my sins."

"Mn. Kabuto. So you have finally come to terms with who you are and are no longer trying to impersonate someone else. I'm glad to see this. But you are right, the crimes you committed during the war cannot be so easily pardoned, therefore, your sentence shall be a lifetime of servitude assisting the Allied Shinobi Forces in all things that it would require of you. Once the ASF HQ is built then that is where you shall be stationed. You will spend the rest of your life repenting for your sins by assisting the ASF in trying to do good whether that requires you to perform charity work, research, or giving educational instruction, etc."

Kabuto nodded. "I am prepared. Thank you for your leniency."

I let out a soft sigh before instructing, "Then return to Orochimaru's side for the time being. Once the ASF HQ is built a messenger will be sent to retrieve you. You are dismissed."

As Kabuto left Shikamaru turned to me with a look of curiosity and said, "So...You've decided that Kabuto is to serve the ASF huh? Is that a wise move?"

I nodded without hesitation. "Yes. Kabuto has affected the lives of not only Konoha but the entire world. Konoha alone does not have the right to hold him accountable. Him serving the ASF will allow for all the Great Nations to monitor him. And with Kabuto working for the ASF then all the Great Nations will benefit."

Shikamaru pondered quietly to himself for a moment before asking a bit doubtfully, "D-Did he really turn a new leaf? I mean he does seem different and his aura doesn't feel that creepy anymore but does someone really just turn a new leaf like that?"

I smirked. "Don't underestimate the power of the Uchiha's Forbidden Jutsu. It came at a high price. I reckon that other than me, no one else alive knows how to use this Forbidden Jutsu. It's not a Jutsu that can just be used whenever I want. Most likely I will never cast it ever again."

Now Shikamaru was truly curious as to exactly what kind of Forbidden Jutsu this was but just elected to let it go and trust in the 6th Hokage.

Knock Knock.

Hm? Both Shikamaru and I turned our attention back to the door as I replied, "Enter."

As the door opened it revealed to be Iruka.

"Oh. Iruka, what are you doing here?" Shikamaru asked.

"Ah, I came by to tell Lord 6th that the new academy building is completely finished now and can begin accepting new students as soon as next week."

I widened my eyes in surprise and smiled as I replied, "That was much faster than I expected. Everyone must have put in a lot of time, work, and effort to get the academy back up and running this quickly. I'm glad to hear that. Excellent work on managing everything Iruka!"

Iruka simply shook his head. "No. Thank you Lord 6th. It's because of you that the village can get back on its feet so quickly and it's thanks to your ideas that the academy will now have a much more comprehensive system in place."

I simply smiled and nodded my head. "Well, I'm glad everything went as planned. Then, go ahead and start open enrollment for the academy."

"Yes!" Iruka responded excitedly as he saluted before taking his leave.

Shikamaru turned to me and said, "Looks like everything is going well so far. That's good."

I nodded in agreement. "Yes. It is..."

Darkness soon blanketed the sky as night rolled around the corner. I stood atop the Hokage stone faces and looked to my left where the process of constructing my own face was being held in progress.

Hm? It was at that moment that I took note of a peculiar crow flying around in the distance before it dived down into a deep and dark forest. I furrowed my brow as a feeling of curiosity tugged at me. In less than a moment's notice I had disappeared from where I was standing and stood at the edge of the dark forest. Without hesitation I walked inside taking in the sight before me. Dense trees and large bushes. Lush green leaves and beautiful wild flowers strewn about the forest floor. I wandered around for a bit before I took note of a small lake hidden within a small clearing of the forest. The moonlight illuminated the water creating a sparkling effect as if it were filled with shimmering diamonds. The odd thing was that there was a tree in the middle of the lake. It wasn't huge, but it wasn't small either. It was incredibly ancient looking and seemed as if it had withstood the erosion of time. I walked right up to the edge of the lake but paused and simply stared at the old tree centered in the middle of the lake. It was at that moment I heard loud cawing noises prompting me to look all around me. In the trees all around the lake were black crows neatly perched as they stared down at me in curiosity.

"Oh? A human?" I heard a voice say.

I narrowed my eyes and turned my attention back to the old tree where I heard the voice come from. At that moment a three-legged crow flew out of the old ancient tree and perched right on top of it as it stared directly at me with its golden eyes. I raised my eyebrow in curiosity and said, "And who do I have the pleasure of meeting?"

There was a moment of silence between us before the crow responded, "I am called Yata-Garasu. The lord of all crows. It's been a while since I've last seen or spoken to a human. You did well to find this place."

"The lord of all crows? My apologies, I had no idea I was in the presence of someone as esteemed as yourself. I am Karasuma Izaya. It's an honor to make your acquaintance. I came by this place by chance. That's all."

"Yes. Through my crows I happen to know who you are. You are the current Hokage are you not?"

I nodded in response. "Correct. I am the 6th Hokage."

"I see. Well, 6th Hokage Izaya, our meeting here can be said to be one of chance. Perhaps even fate. The last person I ever spoke to was Uchiha Itachi."

I slightly flinched at the revelation that this crow knew Itachi. "You knew Uchiha Itachi?"

"Caw. Yes. Itachi formed a contract with my kind. That is how he can summon crows. He and I have met on several occasions. An interesting human he was. I mourn his death to this day."

I pondered to myself a bit before asking, "Lord Garasu, might I make a presumptuous request of you?"

Yata-Garasu tilted its head to the side before cawing and responded, "What is it that you wish of me child?"

"Would it be possible to make an exchange."

"Oh? What kind of exchange?"

"If you are willing to give me three crows I will do my best to give you something of your request that you deem equal in exchange."

A moment of silence passed between us as I felt a bit nervous for requesting something that seemed completely out of the ordinary from the lord of all crows, however, Yata-Garasu quickly replied, "Interesting. Very interesting. Very well. I shall make you a counter offer. I shall give you six crows. Do with them as you will. I will also let you sign a summoning contract with us crows. In return I want you to pass onto me the formula for the Eight Trigrams Sealing Jutsu and allow me to pay a visit to the corpse of Uchiha Itachi at least once so that I may send him my farewell."

I flinched a little inside at the unexpected development. I never imagined that not only would this lord of all crows accept my offer, he made a counter offer. But why would he want the formula for the Eight Trigrams Sealing Jutsu? It's only useful for sealing chakra into something. And what is his purpose for wanting to visit the corpse of Itachi? It can't really be to just send him a farewell can it? I pondered for a bit thinking about what kind of ramifications this might have but couldn't really think of one so I nodded and replied, "Very well. I will give you the formula for the Eight Trigrams Sealing Jutsu, however you must promise never to teach it to another. As for Itachi, I will allow you to visit his corpse once, but within my presence. Are these terms agreeable?"

Yata-Garasu cawed amiably as he replied, "Mn. Then let us exchange."

I quickly signed a contract with the crows as six crows flew down to my side. I then quickly wrote the formula for the Eight Trigrams Sealing Jutsu on a scroll and handed it over to lord Garasu. "Lord Garasu. This scroll, once you open it, it will not close. You will only have 30 seconds to memorize its content. Afterwards it will immediately be destroyed. Should you open it within the presence of another I have rigged the scroll to immediately self-destruct. Please forgive me for my precaution."

Lord Garasu simply cawed. "No matter. I understand your desire to protect the precious knowledge of your village. I have no hidden agenda to share this technique with anyone so it matters not."

I nodded in appreciation for his understanding and continued, "As for the matter of Itachi, how about next week on the full moon at midnight, fly to the top of the Hokage rock faces of Konoha and I will be there waiting for you."

Lord Garasu flapped its wings amiably before replying, "Mn. Very well." He then flew in a circle before re-entering the old and ancient looking tree in the center of the lake.

I stood there at the edge of the lake in complete silence and couldn't shake the feeling that this entire ordeal was a bit too mysterious and perhaps too coincidental. Could it be that lord Garasu purposefully led me here? He knew what he wanted from me a bit too quickly and knew that only I could give him what he wanted. I let out a sigh since thinking about it anymore wouldn't really get me anywhere and walked off as the six crows followed above me. Just as I made it out of the forest's edge I turned back to look behind me noting that the structure of the forest had shifted and changed.

"Huh…" I said simply before turning my attention to the six crows before me.

"Now then, you six will be my eyes in the sky."