So far, everything proceeded smoothly, near perfectly.
Especially Kazuku's performance.
Each time, it exceeded expectations.
As Konoha's de facto leader, Tobirama couldn't imagine a reason to deny Kazuku as the next Hokage.
Conversely, he couldn't find a better candidate.
Sarutobi Hiruzen.
Shimura Danzo.
In intellect, ability, or otherwise, they paled beside Kazuku.
This gap wasn't bridgeable by hard training or diligence.
Crucially…
The Senju, Konoha's largest clan, were widespread.
Though Kazuku was only seven, when he matured…
Every Senju would back him as clan leader.
A political resource from birth.
In the meeting, Tobirama tested the clan leaders.
When he revealed Kazuku's Wood Release, their reactions were intense.
Sarutobi.
Shimura.
Hyuga.
They were Kazuku's supporters.
Or at least, outwardly.
Only the Uchiha's stance was nuanced.
Understandable.
"In the Warring States, Senju and Uchiha were sworn enemies."
"Though Madara and big brother set aside hatred to found the village, they've always vied for Konoha's leadership."
Tobirama stood by the Hokage office window, admiring Konoha, muttering.
Analyzing the situation.
Pondering countermeasures.
How to prevent another Madara.
Then, rhythmic knocks came from the door.
Pulling Tobirama back to reality.
"Come in."
Tobirama set Uchiha matters aside, returning to his seat, sitting steadily.
The door opened slowly.
The visitor was none other…
Than his brother Hashirama's grandson.
Kazuku.
Freshly promoted to special jonin.
Though special jonin were generally weaker than jonin…
In certain fields, they held status chunin couldn't touch.
Like education, research, espionage, interrogation, or assassination.
Requiring unique skills.
"Lord Tobirama."
Kazuku strode to Tobirama, eager for his next mission.
"Kazuku, what do you think of Sarutobi Hiruzen and Uchiha Kagami?"
Tobirama didn't assign a mission, instead leaning forward, elbows on the desk, asking Kazuku's opinions.
After all, he'd worked with them.
Had contact.
Their identities were significant.
Kagami, an Uchiha genius with Sharingan, was highly regarded.
In intellect and strength, he excelled.
Many believed he could one day surpass Uchiha Madara!
What Tobirama admired most…
Was that, despite being Uchiha, Kagami had broad vision, willing to transcend clan limits for the village's sake.
Thus, Tobirama nurtured him.
If possible, he hoped Kagami would become Uchiha clan leader.
Fostering more like-minded clansmen.
Sadly…
In normal history…
Kagami didn't meet Tobirama's expectations, dying young at twenty-five.
Never becoming clan leader.
Though Kishimoto didn't specify his death, Kazuku suspected power struggles.
With Uchiha's nature, how could they let a Tobirama supporter lead?
As for Sarutobi Hiruzen, no need to elaborate.
Before Kazuku, he was Tobirama's prized student.
His father, Sarutobi Sasuke, was a renowned ninja.
A household name.
Backed by a founding Konoha clan.
In lineage and political resources, Hiruzen shone.
Plus, his abundant chakra and mastery of all five releases.
Tobirama saw him as fit for Third Hokage!
Indeed, Hiruzen, as Third, led Konoha to its peak.
Without Kazuku's arrival…
History would've flowed as intended.
But compared to Kazuku, Hiruzen's advantages dimmed.
Lineage?
Hiruzen's father was a famed ninja, Sarutobi Sasuke.
But Kazuku's grandfather was the God of Shinobi, Hashirama, who ended chaos!
Chakra?
If Hiruzen's was a flowing river…
Kazuku's was a boundless ocean!
Clan support?
Hiruzen had a founding clan.
But Kazuku had the illustrious Senju!
No…
Not just Senju.
The Uzumaki too!
His grandmother was an Uzumaki princess.
Frankly…
Hiruzen had no chance against Kazuku.
But since Tobirama asked, he had his reasons.
Kazuku feigned contemplation.
Not acting like a seven-year-old.
More like a seasoned ninja.
"I think Uchiha Kagami's impressive, not just for his Sharingan, but his high ideals."
"Spending over a month with him at the border, his words showed…"
"He's proud as an Uchiha, yet considers the village's welfare."
"Having such a subordinate makes me glad."
Kazuku answered seriously.
Distilled, his words meant…
Kagami's great, keep him as my subordinate.
Kazuku wasn't a puppet.
He had his own ideas.
While he didn't mind Tobirama paving his path, he needed trusted allies.
Otherwise, as Hokage, with no one reliable…
How awkward would that be?
Kagami was a good choice.
He could help him become Uchiha clan leader.
Turning the Uchiha into his political force.
No downsides.
"As for Sarutobi Hiruzen, when I was a genin…"
"He helped me greatly, a good person."
(End of Chapter)