As expected of you.
Kazuku.
Giving you decision-making power over the entire ninja squad—what's that if not captain?
A captain without authority is just a puppet.
Tobirama had a flood of retorts in his mind.
But undeniably…
He admired Kazuku's attitude.
A true powerhouse should have such confidence.
It reflected both self-assurance and responsibility.
Though only seven, Kazuku rose to special jonin in just over two months—a genius!
No.
A monster!
Especially to Hiruzen and the others.
Kazuku as captain was the obvious choice.
However…
Tobirama didn't plan to appoint him directly.
First, he wanted to see Kazuku's current strength.
To witness it himself.
Second, he wanted the squad to experience their captain's power firsthand.
"If that's the case, it depends on whether you have the strength, Kazuku."
After a brief silence, Tobirama spoke.
Kazuku: "???"
Grandpa Tobirama.
Are you serious?
You think Hiruzen and the others combined could match me?
Especially after I awakened Wood Release?
Kazuku wanted to laugh.
He was strong now!
Hiruzen, Danzo, Kagami?
No contest!
"While humility is good, recognizing the gap between yourself and others sets the path forward…"
"Constantly belittling yourself, shrinking back, or being overly insecure…"
"Won't lead to growth."
"A true powerhouse maintains reasonable confidence."
"If Hiruzen's qualified, I'd vote for him as captain."
"But…"
"No matter how you look at it, I'm stronger than Hiruzen."
It was only right…
To step up!
These were Kazuku's inner thoughts, unspoken to Tobirama.
In reality, he stood quietly, awaiting Tobirama's decision.
"So, I'll arrange a test."
"You'll face this ninja squad alone!"
Tobirama declared firmly.
This was Kazuku's first mission as special jonin!
Him alone against Hiruzen, Danzo, Koharu, Torifu, Kagami, and Homura.
These elite ninja!
"I know you defeated Danzo before, but this is different."
"I've trained them as a team."
"Their teamwork and coordination are near perfection."
"Don't underestimate them."
Tobirama explained.
He'd inform Hiruzen and the others about the test, giving them ample preparation time.
To analyze Kazuku's abilities and weaknesses.
Plainly, to treat Kazuku as an enemy, preparing thoroughly.
Truthfully, Tobirama had his own motives.
Hiruzen and the others were carefully selected from the ninja academy—prime seeds.
Each carried Tobirama's high hopes, nurtured diligently.
Exaggeration aside, Tobirama believed they could become Konoha's future leaders.
Handing them to Kazuku…
Was to form the prototype of a leadership team.
Ideally, Kazuku would become Hokage, with Hiruzen and the others as his advisors.
Like Tobirama supported Hashirama.
They needed to see Kazuku's excellence.
To serve willingly.
"Kazuku, you have one month to prepare."
One month was enough for Hiruzen's team to refine their teamwork.
And…
To devise targeted strategies based on Kazuku's profile.
"One month, huh."
Kazuku nodded, glancing at his check-in system.
By his calculations, he could check in once more in that time.
For a reward.
Though Kazuku knew the month was for Hiruzen's team to prepare…
Sorry.
I can check in!
"I'm looking forward to it."
Kazuku's lips curved into a smile.
He was eager to face Hiruzen and the others!
These future Konoha elites.
Let them witness his current strength!
After setting the date with Tobirama, Kazuku left the Hokage's office.
Watching Kazuku's small figure vanish…
Tobirama took a deep breath.
He could almost see the scene a month from now.
After all, even Gold Horn's squad fell to Kazuku.
Could Hiruzen's team, no matter how coordinated…
Really challenge him?
"Should I impose restrictions on Kazuku?"
"Like banning Eight Gates…"
Tobirama pondered.
Until knocks sounded at the door again.
"Come in."
With permission, the door opened.
The visitors were none other than the new squad's members.
Sarutobi Hiruzen.
Shimura Danzo.
Uchiha Kagami.
Akimichi Torifu.
Koharu Utatane.
Homura Mitokado.
They entered nervously, lining up.
Unsure why Tobirama summoned them.
"I'm forming a special ninja squad, under my direct command!"
Tobirama laid out his plan.
To Hiruzen and the others, it was an honor.
Their hearts surged with excitement.
But…
Tobirama shifted tone, "I plan to have Kazuku join and be your captain!"
"All future missions will follow his orders!"
The room erupted.
Especially Hiruzen and Danzo.
They never dreamed they'd become Kazuku's subordinates!
And…
"Wait, Lord Tobirama, isn't Kazuku still a chunin?"
Danzo exclaimed, "Is it appropriate for him to be captain? He's… seven!"
Danzo voiced everyone's thoughts.
Kazuku was just a seven-year-old kid!
Recently a chunin.
Lacking leadership experience, right?
"No worries, I've just appointed Kazuku as special jonin."
Tobirama paused, "But since you question his ability, I'll give you a chance."
"One month to grow stronger, then challenge Kazuku!"
(End of Chapter)