Naruto: Recharging With Money System

Ishiwaka Kenichi watched as Sarutobi Hiruzen and the future Sannin left his shop, their voices fading into the bustling streets of Konoha.

It was clear that Hiruzen had tested him, probing his knowledge, searching for inconsistencies. But in the end, Kenichi had passed.

"They think my changes are just the aftereffects of war. Good. That means I haven't slipped up."

Despite this, he knew that Tsunade and Orochimaru were perceptive. Even now, they were probably discussing the encounter.

As expected, on their way to the training ground, Tsunade spoke up.

"Well... since we misjudged Boss Ishiwaka, shouldn't we take the time to apologize?"

"Apologize?" Jiraiya scratched his head. "For what? We didn't cause any trouble. If anything, we brought Sarutobi-sensei as a customer! That should count as helping his business, right?"

Tsunade rolled her eyes. "Idiot, that's not the point." She turned to Orochimaru. "What do you think?"

Orochimaru pondered for a moment before speaking. "It would be wise to clear up any misunderstandings. Sarutobi-sensei's words today carried a tone of interrogation. Even if Boss Ishiwaka didn't take offense, he could still connect the dots. He would know it was us who first suspected him."

Tsunade nodded. "Exactly. We don't want to ruin our relationship with him."

Jiraiya sighed. "Alright, fine. If it makes you two feel better, we can talk to him later."

"Good."

With that settled, they continued toward their training.

Back at the Ishiwaka Ramen Shop, Kenichi leaned against the kitchen counter, lost in thought.

"I was right to be cautious. Even though Hiruzen didn't find anything suspicious, those three are sharp."

He smirked to himself.

"But it doesn't matter. I'm not planning to stay in Konoha forever. If things ever go south, I'll just leave."

His immortal body meant that, sooner or later, he could outlast any enemy. He had no reason to fear the passage of time.

For now, though, he had more immediate concerns.

"Back to work. The instant noodles project isn't going to complete itself."

Sarutobi Hiruzen arrived at the Hokage Building, heading straight for his teacher's office.

Inside, Senju Tobirama sat at his desk, his face noticeably paler than before.

"It's Monkey. What is it?"

Hiruzen bowed slightly before speaking. "Teacher, I have some thoughts about post-war stabilization. I'd like to discuss them with you."

Tobirama listened as Hiruzen detailed his experience at Ishiwaka Ramen, his observations of the villagers' mood, and his proposed measures for restoring morale.

After a moment of silence, Tobirama nodded.

"Your plan is sound, Monkey. Do as you see fit. I will entrust Konoha to you in the future."

Hiruzen's eyes widened slightly. "Teacher, does this mean..."

Tobirama sighed. "Yes. I have already decided that you will be the Third Hokage."

A mix of emotions flashed across Hiruzen's face—surprise, joy, and pride.

Before, Tobirama had only stated his intention in the heat of battle. Now, in the safety of his office, he was making it official.

With this declaration, no one in Konoha could oppose him.

Tobirama leaned back in his chair, a rare look of nostalgia on his face.

"Ishiwaka Kenichi... Yes, I remember the Ishiwaka family well."

Hiruzen listened attentively.

"Back in the Warring States Period, before my brother and Madara united Konoha, the Ishiwaka family was already one of our most loyal vassals. Unlike other clans that followed us out of fear, the Ishiwaka stood with us willingly, through every battle."

Tobirama's expression darkened slightly.

"But loyalty comes with a price. The Ishiwaka clan was targeted by our enemies. They were constantly under siege. In the end, multiple small clans joined forces to destroy them. The Ishiwaka were nearly wiped out, but they never once wavered in their support of the Senju."

Hiruzen remained silent, absorbing the weight of Tobirama's words.

"When Hashirama and Madara founded Konoha, the remnants of the Ishiwaka clan joined us, but they were already too few in number. Most of their elite warriors had perished, and their strength faded."

Tobirama exhaled slowly. "Now, the only survivor is that boy, Ishiwaka Kenichi. His aptitude for combat is weak, and his bloodline is nearly lost... but I am glad to see that he has found a way to live peacefully."

Tobirama looked at Hiruzen sternly. "Monkey, take care of him. Ensure that the Ishiwaka family does not disappear entirely."

Hiruzen nodded. "I understand, teacher."

Suddenly, Tobirama coughed violently, gripping his desk for support.

"Teacher!" Hiruzen rushed forward.

Tobirama waved him off. "I'm fine."

But Hiruzen knew the truth.

His teacher was not well.

Tobirama wiped his mouth before fixing Hiruzen with a serious gaze.

"Monkey, I have already decided. You will be Hokage. With that comes responsibility."

Hiruzen nodded solemnly. "I understand."

Tobirama's next words carried unmistakable weight.

"What I am about to tell you, you must never repeat until the day you step down as Hokage."

Hiruzen tensed.

"I swear it, teacher."

Tobirama's expression darkened. "Then listen carefully. This concerns the future of Konoha."

Hiruzen took a deep breath.

End of the Chapter.

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