The Tale of an ordinary ninja

Tanaka Uzumaki straightened his vest as he approached the Hokage's office. The ornate doors loomed before him, a reminder of the weight of the authority that awaited inside. His thoughts swirled with irritation and apprehension.

Damn that Akira, he fumed internally. I thought making his exam paper impossibly difficult would guarantee his failure. But that little bastard answered every question as if it were child's play. Worst of all, he figured out what I was trying to do. If he's smart enough to uncover my intentions, what's stopping him from reporting me to the Hokage?

Tanaka sighed, shaking off his worries. No, if he planned to expose me, he would have done so already. I need to focus on why Lord Hokage has summoned me.

After a deep breath, he stepped inside, bowing respectfully. Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, sat at his desk, his piercing eyes studying Tanaka like a hawk. Despite his gentle demeanor, Hiruzen's presence was imposing.

"Lord Hokage," Tanaka greeted formally.

"Ah, Tanaka," Hiruzen said, gesturing for him to take a seat. "Let's discuss your students and their progress over the first year. I've been hearing promising things."

Tanaka nodded, eager to steer the conversation toward a positive light. "Indeed, Lord Hokage. This year's batch shows great promise. Many students are progressing well, and some have the potential to become elite shinobi."

Hiruzen's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Good to hear. I want your assessment of the most promising students in your class. Who do you believe could potentially grow into elite jonin?"

Tanaka took a moment to gather his thoughts. "There are a few students who stand out, my Lord," he began.

The Uchiha Brothers

"Among the Uchiha brothers, Daichi Uchiha is the most exceptional. He demonstrates a natural talent for ninjutsu, and his academic performance is equally impressive. His Taijutsu is solid but could use refinement. If he focuses more on honing his physical combat and awakens his Sharingan, I believe he has the potential to reach jonin rank—possibly beyond."

Hiruzen nodded knowingly. "As expected of the Uchiha. Daichi will need to temper his arrogance and ego if he wishes to excel. That will be his greatest challenge."

Kaede Senju

"Next, we have Kaede Senju," Tanaka continued. "She's exceptional in all aspects—academics, ninjutsu, and Taijutsu. She's currently ranked second in the class, and her potential is undeniable. However, her gentle nature might hinder her in the field. If she learns to balance her compassion with a sharper edge, she could become a remarkable shinobi."

Hiruzen smiled. "Kaede is a fine example of the Senju spirit. I have no doubt she will find that balance with time."

Sakumo Hatake

"Sakumo Hatake, despite being a civilian, displays incredible talent. His proficiency in every category is remarkable, and his tactical mind sets him apart. In my opinion, he has the greatest potential among all the students to become an elite jonin. His dedication and maturity are beyond his years."

Hiruzen's expression brightened at this. "It's always encouraging to see civilian-born talent flourish. Sakumo's progress is a testament to his hard work and determination. Keep nurturing that."

Shinku Yuhi

"Then there is Shinku Yuhi of the Sarutobi clan," Tanaka said. "He's disciplined, skilled in ninjutsu, and has solid Taijutsu abilities. I believe he has what it takes to reach jonin rank, though he will need to remain consistent."

Hiruzen nodded. "Shinku carries the pride of the Sarutobi clan. I will be watching his progress closely."

Akira Senju

Hiruzen leaned forward slightly. "What of Akira Senju? I understand he has been performing quite well."

Tanaka's jaw tightened briefly before responding. "Akira is showing exceptional promise, my Lord. He's currently ranked first in the class, excelling in both the academic and practical components of the exam. Based on his progress, I believe he could graduate by next year."

Hiruzen raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. And how is his interaction with the other students? Particularly with those from the Shimura clan?"

Tanaka hesitated before answering. "Akira largely keeps to himself, my Lord. His primary interactions are with Kaede Senju, Might Dai, and Sakumo Hatake. He doesn't seem to have any issues with the Shimura children but remains distant from them."

Hiruzen stroked his beard thoughtfully. "I see. Monitor Akira closely and report to me if you observe anything of note. He's a unique case, and I want to ensure his growth continues unimpeded."

Tanaka bowed slightly. "As you wish, Lord Hokage."

Hiruzen's Thoughts

After Tanaka exited the office, Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on the village through the window.

It seems this year's group is promising. Daichi, Kaede, Sakumo, and Shinku all have bright futures ahead. But Akira…

His eyes narrowed slightly.

Akira's rapid progress is both encouraging and concerning. His lineage and background are unique, and his potential is immense. I've heard whispers of his training under Lady Mochizuki. I respect the Senju clan's privacy, but I may need to consult with her directly to understand Akira's development. The boy could become an invaluable asset—or a dangerous outlier. It's better to guide him now, while he is still impressionable.

With that, Hiruzen resolved to reach out to Lady Mochizuki soon.

Hiruzen Meets Lady Mochizuki

The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the Leaf Village as Hiruzen Sarutobi arrived at the secluded training grounds of Lady Mochizuki. The area was quiet, save for the rustling leaves and the distant chirping of birds. Lady Mochizuki, known for her stoic demeanor and unmatched skills, stood by a tall oak tree, her long robes flowing slightly in the evening breeze.

Hiruzen approached her with measured steps, his Hokage hat tucked under his arm.

"Lady Mochizuki," he greeted with a nod.

"Hokage-sama," she replied, turning to face him. Her sharp eyes studied him with a mix of curiosity and caution. "What brings you here? It's not often you leave your office to visit someone like me."

"I've come to discuss Akira Senju," Hiruzen said, his voice calm yet carrying an undertone of seriousness.

Lady Mochizuki Inquires About Hiruzen's Interest

Lady Mochizuki raised an eyebrow. "Akira? What about him?"

Hiruzen clasped his hands behind his back. "You've been personally training him, haven't you? I wanted to hear about his progress from you directly."

She tilted her head slightly. "He's progressing well. His determination is commendable, and his ability to grasp advanced concepts quickly is impressive. But I find it strange that you, Lord Hokage, would take such a keen interest in him. After all, he's still just a boy."

Hiruzen smiled faintly but didn't respond immediately. Lady Mochizuki pressed further. "Why are you so invested in Akira? Surely there are other promising students in the academy."

Hiruzen's expression turned serious, his eyes narrowing. "Akira is no ordinary student. He's the son of Toshiro Senju and Umiko—a family whose influence extends beyond the battlefield. His father's ties to the Senju clan and his mother's ventures in the pharmaceutical and textile industries make him uniquely valuable to this village. Akira represents not just the future of his family but also a significant pillar for the Leaf's growth."

Lady Mochizuki folded her arms, her voice tinged with skepticism. "So, to you, he's a tool for the village's prosperity? That sounds more like something Danzo would say."

Hiruzen's gaze hardened, but his tone remained measured. "It's not that simple. Akira has the potential to be a great shinobi and a great leader. If we can foster his loyalty to the village, his skills and his family's influence could accelerate the Leaf's development. He must be deeply connected to the village, not just as a shinobi, but as someone who believes in its ideals and future."

Lady Mochizuki narrowed her eyes. "And if he doesn't 'connect,' as you put it?"

Hiruzen sighed, his voice dropping to a grave tone. "If Danzo were to take an interest in him, it would be disastrous. Danzo would see Akira's potential as a weapon to be wielded in the shadows, and I fear the boy would be consumed by the darkness. I cannot allow that to happen. To ensure his safety and loyalty, I intend to recruit him into the ANBU as soon as he's ready."

Lady Mochizuki's eyes widened slightly, and then her expression darkened. "ANBU? At his age? That's madness. You'd throw him into that life so soon? He's still a child, Hiruzen."

"I understand your concerns," Hiruzen said, raising a placating hand. "But this is the best way to keep him under my protection. In the ANBU, I can guide him personally, instill the Will of Fire in him, and ensure his loyalty to the village. If we delay, others—like Danzo—might intervene, and their influence would be far more harmful than anything I could impose."

Lady Mochizuki's fists clenched. "And what if he isn't ready for that kind of life? The ANBU isn't just about loyalty and skill—it's about sacrifice. It's about losing pieces of yourself to serve the village. Are you willing to risk breaking him before he even realizes his own potential?"

Hiruzen met her fiery gaze with calm resolve. "I won't let that happen. I'll ensure that the Will of Fire burns brightly within him, giving him the strength to endure and remain loyal. Akira is too important to leave to chance."

Lady Mochizuki took a deep breath, trying to temper her frustration. She looked away, her gaze settling on the horizon. "You're asking me to prepare him for a life I don't believe he should live yet. But if this is your decision, Lord Hokage, I'll abide by it. I'll train him as best I can and make sure he's ready."

Hiruzen gave a small nod of gratitude. "Thank you, Mochizuki. I don't make this decision lightly. Your training will be crucial in shaping his future."

Lady Mochizuki turned back to him, her eyes cold and unwavering. "Just remember this, Hiruzen. If your plan harms Akira in any way, you'll have to answer to me."

Hiruzen's lips curled into a faint, almost imperceptible smile. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you."

As the conversation ended, the two stood in silence for a moment, the golden light of the sunset casting long shadows across the training grounds.

Lady Mochizuki broke the silence, her tone quiet but firm. "Be careful with your schemes, Hiruzen. The fire you're trying to ignite in him might end up burning us all."

Hiruzen's expression remained neutral, but his eyes betrayed a flicker of unease. "Let's hope it doesn't come to that."

With those words, he turned and walked away, the weight of his decisions pressing heavily on his shoulders. Lady Mochizuki watched him leave, her own heart heavy with doubt about the path set before her young pupil.