Naruto: My Unique System

Chapter 7: Minato's Envy and Goal

Included in the set were Fuma Shuriken, Giant Shuriken, Sasumata (a distinctive pole weapon with two prongs), Ninja Blades, Concealed Blades, Chain Mail, Ninja Boots, Gloves, and more. Tatsuma marveled at the array, realizing that if not for his and Minato's intervention, there might have been even more exotic and specialized ninja tools in the mix.

The existing array of ninja tools had already captivated Tatsuma's eyes, some even managing to surprise him. Take the chain mail, for instance—in his previous life, influenced by manga, he had envisioned it as some kind of fishing net. Now, experiencing its solidity and lightness firsthand, he marveled at its true qualities.

Outside the Hokage's office, Hiruzen observed Sakumo and inquired, "What are your impressions of those two youngsters?"

Pausing in his attempt to change clothes, Sakumo halted at the question. After a moment of reflection, he responded, "They possess Jiraiya's infectious enthusiasm and Orochimaru's measured restraint, coupled with a remarkable mutual understanding. Complete trust binds them; they are truly exceptional youngsters."

Upon hearing Sakumo directly employ his two disciples for comparison, Hiruzen didn't take offense. Given Sakumo's seniority to both Orochimaru and Jiraiya, such a comparison was not considered disrespectful.

In fact, Sakumo's judgment resonated with Hiruzen's own assessment. The Hokage nodded and remarked, "Is Atoma the sensei for their class? Have him pay extra attention to these two youngsters."

"Yes, Lord Third."

Sakumo concurred with a nod, and Hiruzen sighed, expressing, "The Great Ninja War concluded only a few years ago, and conflicts are already resurfacing. I earnestly wish there could be more time for you and those youngsters to experience growth."

As the guardian of the Hokage, Sakumo naturally grasped the current precarious state of the ninja world. The once-present smile on his face waned, giving way to a more somber and serious countenance. He responded, "I'll go extinguish some of the sparks."

Hiruzen, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, advised, "In the end, it's merely delaying the inevitable explosion. Certain matters don't necessitate your personal intervention. Danzo has overseen the Root for quite some time; it's high time we assess his management," he added with a disapproving shake of his head.

However, as soon as Hiruzen finished speaking, a deep voice resonated from within the office, "Sarutobi, are you questioning my capabilities?!"

"Danzo? You choose this moment to make an appearance?" Seeing his old friend, Hiruzen couldn't help but sense a headache coming on. Stepping forward, Danzo sneered, "Hmph! If I hadn't come, would I simply stand by as you suppress my Shimura Clan? Using two orphans as an excuse—your methods are truly cunning, Sarutobi."

"Enough, Danzo! I am the Hokage. Return to your Root; my decisions don't require your interference."

Hiruzen was weary of clashing with Danzo and abruptly concluded the conversation. Danzo, infuriated, twitched his face, pointed accusingly at Hiruzen for a moment, and then spat out angrily, "Sarutobi, you will regret this!"

After those words, Danzo stormed off, leaving Hiruzen to return to his seat, rubbing his temples in an attempt to ease the tension. Sensing the awkwardness that lingered, Sakumo prepared to take his leave when Hiruzen unexpectedly spoke up:

"Sakumo, take a break. I need some solitude."

Sakumo nodded, saluted, and replied, "Yes, Lord Third."

...

The following day, at seven o'clock, Tatsuma and Minato, having completed their morning training, arrived at the Academy. The atmosphere was even more vibrant than the previous day, with a substantial gathering of students, new entrants, as well as ninja and prominent members of the clans—an uncommon spectacle.

Observing the new students joyfully holding hands with their parents, Minato was unexpectedly struck by a sense of discomfort. Just as he grappled with these emotions, Tatsuma placed a comforting hand on Minato's shoulder and inquired, "Feeling a twinge of envy?"

After a brief contemplation, Minato nodded, allowing his genuine sentiments to surface. "Yeah," he admitted.

Tatsuma, intending to make a light-hearted comment at firt, found himself struck silent as he observed Minato's expression. Opting for a reassuring gesture, he patted Minato's shoulder and remarked, "The past is beyond our control, but we have the power to shape a future with fewer war orphans like us."

"Yeah, I'm committed to making it happen," Minato affirmed with sincerity.

Not far away, three middle-aged ninjas and three young new students gathered, their attention fixed on the duo. A ninja with a distinctive pineapple-shaped haircut spoke up:

"Are these the two kids Lord Hokage met personally yesterday? They certainly harbor impressive dreams. Shikaku, Choza, Inoichi, why don't you try to befriend them? Just be mindful of your boundaries and approach. Remember, you're all academy students, and soon-to-be ninjas of Konoha. No sense of superiority—clear?"

The kid with the distinctive pineapple-shaped hair let out a sigh and remarked, "Dad, you're always so talkative. Making friends feels like such a chore."

Ruffling his child's head, the pineapple-haired ninja responded, "A bit of effort now can spare you many challenges later on. Think beyond the moment."

"Understood."

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