Though Sarutobi Hiruzen's tenure had dark spots…
Like Hizashi's death.
The Uchiha massacre.
At this time, Hiruzen was decent.
At least…
He was good to Kazuku.
Answering questions, treating him sincerely.
Kazuku had no need to badmouth him.
True strength didn't stoop to slandering rivals.
Lineage.
Ability.
Popular support.
Kazuku far surpassed Hiruzen.
Badmouthing him to Tobirama? Forget Tobirama's reaction…
Kazuku would find it distasteful.
So when asked about Hiruzen…
Kazuku spoke truthfully, sharing his current view.
Tobirama nodded, approving.
"I didn't expect Kazuku to be so observant."
Tobirama marveled inwardly.
Though their time together was short, Kazuku's thinking wasn't that of a seven-year-old.
He had unique perspectives.
Always cutting to the core.
If Tobirama didn't know him, he'd suspect this seven-year-old was an adult in disguise.
His views on Hiruzen and Kagami aligned with Tobirama's.
Especially on Kagami.
Kazuku said…
He's proud as an Uchiha, yet transcends clan limits for the village.
This showed Kazuku could also rise above clan constraints for the village.
The difference…
Kagami's ideals were shaped by the ninja academy.
Influenced, somewhat, by Tobirama.
But Kazuku…
Only seven.
Without such guidance, he grasped the clan-village dynamic.
A rare feat.
This solidified Tobirama's resolve.
Kazuku was the ideal Hokage successor.
Even more than himself.
"One day, Konoha will reach its true peak under Kazuku."
Tobirama mused.
He kept these thoughts private.
"Since that's the case, Kazuku, I plan to form a special ninja squad."
"Ninja squad?" Kazuku tilted his head, murmuring.
"Correct."
Tobirama explained, "I've long had this idea."
"To select some of the thirty-eight graduates from the fourth ninja academy class for this squad."
"It'll answer directly to me."
Kazuku had a realization.
If he guessed right…
Tobirama meant…
Sarutobi Hiruzen.
Shimura Danzo.
Uchiha Kagami.
Koharu Utatane.
Homura Mitokado.
And Akimichi Torifu.
All exceptional ninja.
Later, except for Kagami's early death and Torifu's unknown fate…
The other four became Konoha's top brass.
"Among them, Hiruzen and Kagami stand out."
After analyzing, Kazuku guessed…
Tobirama likely wanted him in this squad.
"So far, the squad's tentative members are people you know."
Tobirama paused, listing names.
As Kazuku expected.
Hiruzen, Danzo, Koharu, Torifu, Kagami, Homura.
In the original story, they were Tobirama's guard squad, true disciples.
Even for major events like the peace treaty with the Raikage…
Tobirama brought them.
When ambushed by Gold and Silver Horn, he named Hiruzen Third Hokage.
Their importance to Tobirama was clear.
"Originally, I planned for Sarutobi Hiruzen to lead this squad."
"In intellect, responsibility, strength, and reaction, Hiruzen's the best."
"But…"
Tobirama shifted tone.
"Your recent performance has surprised me."
His voice was calm.
But Kazuku wanted to laugh.
Grandpa Tobirama.
"Somewhat surprised" is fitting?
You weren't just surprised!
Your jaw nearly hit the floor!
Those half-open eyes…
Widened bigger than a bull's.
Fine.
No teasing.
You're my grandpa, after all.
I'll save you some face.
Seeing Kazuku listen quietly, not interrupting…
Tobirama continued.
"So, I'll make an exception, letting you join this squad with Hiruzen and the others for missions."
"But…"
"As I'll directly oversee this squad, the missions will be very difficult."
Harder missions meant greater contributions.
A boon for Kazuku's growth.
After all…
Tobirama wanted a Hokage surpassing Hashirama.
Not a puppet.
Nor a decorative pillow!
Even for gilding, Tobirama wanted Kazuku to pass real tests.
S-rank missions would become routine!
If Kazuku lacked that resolve…
He'd be disappointed!
But Tobirama believed Kazuku wouldn't let him down.
Because he was Kazuku!
Senju Kazuku!
Even if Hashirama wanted Senju to intermarry, shedding the name…
Some things couldn't change!
With Kazuku's call, all Senju would follow!
"I'm fine joining, but I have a question."
Kazuku spoke slowly, questioning Tobirama.
"Oh? What?" Tobirama eyed him, wondering what this seven-year-old was scheming.
He didn't mind Kazuku negotiating.
On the contrary, it excited him.
Better than a submissive child.
Boys should be rebellious, with their own ideas.
Otherwise, what could they achieve?
Hashirama, as a kid, often had…
Fatherly love, filial piety.
Yes.
Fatherly love, filial piety.
"Am I joining as captain or member?"
"If the latter, I'd like the squad's decision-making power."
Tobirama: "???"
(End of Chapter)