Naruto's chances of becoming Hokage? Kakashi wasn't sure.
But seeing the way Gaara had been handled, it seemed like there might actually be a glimmer of hope.
"So, Minamoto's choice is that Jinchūriki?"
In the ANBU laboratory, Tobirama Senju stroked his chin thoughtfully after hearing Kakashi's report.
"A Jinchūriki with such emotional vulnerabilities is indeed worth utilizing. Although their status is unique, it's worth considering."
"Hey, can you stop being so pragmatic? Do you have to look at everything this way?"
Hashirama Senju was visibly annoyed at his younger brother, feeling that Tobirama's cold, machine-like attitude was unbearable.
"Where's Minamoto? Why isn't he here?"
"First Hokage-sama, Minamoto went to check on Naruto and Gaara. He also asked me to come here on his behalf."
Kakashi scratched his head helplessly, explaining Minamoto's absence.
"He doesn't really like attending these kinds of meetings."
"Hmm, what a coincidence—I don't like them either."
Hashirama crossed his arms and nodded in agreement.
But Tobirama shook his head disapprovingly.
"That needs to change. As a Kage, he must attend meetings and listen to reports. Only then can he stay informed and maintain control. His current behavior is unacceptable."
"Do you want him to turn into a cold machine like you?"
Hashirama was even more displeased now, glaring at his brother.
"You've been like this since you were a kid—so unlovable, it's infuriating."
"I don't need to be lovable. When I was a child, my priority was ensuring the survival of our clan. Now, my responsibility is the village."
Tobirama, clearly irritated by his brother's remarks, put down his work and retorted.
"Don't think my approach is wrong. On the contrary, if the village were under your leadership, it would collapse even faster. I can make it better!"
"And you think eliminating comrades is making the village better?"
Hashirama stood up abruptly, his tone filled with anger.
But Tobirama remained as calm as ever.
"That's only because I died too soon."
"Huh?"
"Do you think I was unaware of their capabilities? Do you think I gave them control of the Konoha Military Police Force without reason? Do you think I did nothing?"
"Well, you—"
"It's laughable. What I wanted was for them to integrate into Konohagakure. I needed their strength. I even spared Uchiha Setsuna."
"..."
"Let's be realistic. The Uchiha aren't something you can resolve with love and peace alone. The only reason your approach worked was because you were strong enough—not because they truly believed in you."
Tobirama's sharp words left Hashirama speechless.
And the truth was, despite his deep dislike for Madara Uchiha, Tobirama never underestimated the Uchiha Clan's capabilities.
Handing over a massive institution like the Konoha Military Police Force to them was his way of dividing and integrating the Uchiha. He had confidence in his ability to manage the situation.
But unfortunately, a war, a negotiation, and a sneak attack had undone all his efforts.
He didn't even bother blaming his disciples for failing to handle these matters—it would only reflect poorly on his own teaching.
Hashirama opened his mouth to argue but ultimately fell silent, frustrated.
Kakashi, standing awkwardly between the two Hokage, didn't know what to say.
"Thank you for your efforts, Kakashi."
Satisfied with his brother's silence, Tobirama turned to Kakashi.
"As Minamoto's teacher, you should help guide his mindset from time to time."
"..."
Kakashi scratched his white hair, feeling a bit at a loss.
Guide Minamoto's mindset? He's already more ruthless than you!
"I understand..."
"Also, please bring Hiruzen here. Since Minamoto has decided on that boy, let's give it a try."
"..."
"Oh, and about the Daimyō—have Minamoto probe him for information as well."
"..."
You two really have no bottom line, do you?
"Ugh! Why hasn't anything started yet?!"
At the training grounds in Konohagakure, Naruto sat by the river, complaining loudly.
Sasuke rolled his eyes and shot him a glare.
"Idiot. Someone's helping us train, and you're still whining?"
"Hey, he's always picking on me! How can you say that?"
Naruto snapped back, shouting at Sasuke.
But Sasuke merely scoffed and glanced at Kitagawa Minamoto, who was nearby.
"Who knows about you? Anyway, I think it's great. If only I could—"
"Don't give me that look. Didn't I already teach you the basics of Purple Electricity?"
Kitagawa Minamoto interrupted, shaking his head as he noticed Sasuke's subtle glances.
"Chakra control is the key. You need to master both transformation and shape manipulation to the extreme. If you can't do that, there's nothing more I can teach you."
Sasuke had approached Minamoto before, seeking guidance to prepare for his eventual confrontation with Itachi Uchiha.
While Minamoto found the request a bit extreme, he considered the situation.
Thanks to his interference, Sasuke had likely lost interest in Orochimaru, and Orochimaru himself had no chance of recruiting Sasuke.
So, Minamoto saw no harm in guiding Sasuke, especially since the boy had a natural talent for Lightning Release.
Not to mention, Sasuke carried Indra's Chakra. Minamoto was curious if this might trigger any new quests.
"I understand, Minamoto-senpai. I'll work hard."
Sasuke nodded earnestly, fully committed to learning from Minamoto.
That day, although he had been taken away, he had seen firsthand just how powerful Minamoto truly was.
"Orochimaru, the Fourth Raikage, the Fourth Kazekage, and even a massive beast..."
The destruction caused by that giant creature was unforgettable. It was the reason they had been forced to retreat.
And having trained under Jiraiya for some time, Sasuke knew that the "super pervert" was deceptively strong.
Orochimaru, one of the Legendary Sannin, was no weakling. And the significance of defeating two Kage-level opponents was clear.
But Minamoto had not only crushed that beast but had also defeated all three opponents, killing two of them!
"To be this strong... No wonder he could defeat Itachi Uchiha so easily."
Now, Sasuke had only one thought: to train diligently under Minamoto and one day kill Itachi with his own hands.
"I won't disappoint you, Senpai!"
"..."
Minamoto looked at Sasuke with a mix of amusement and exasperation.
Meanwhile, Naruto grumbled from the side.
"You never teach me anything! And why are you so strong, anyway?"
"Learn from the Pervy Sage first, then we'll talk."
Minamoto rolled his eyes. But Naruto's complaints continued.
"Not only are you strong, but why are you so popular?!"
"Huh?"
"Seriously! You don't seem that special, so why do so many girls like you?"
"..."
Minamoto was baffled, but Naruto leaned in, his curiosity evident.
Unable to hold back, Minamoto shoved Naruto's head away.
"Stay away from me. Of course they like me—I'm handsome and strong. What, do you expect them to like you?"
"Damn it! How can someone with such a bad personality be so popular?!"
"If you dare spread rumors, I'll make sure you stay a Genin for life."
"..."
Naruto instantly deflated. He couldn't understand how someone could be this mean.
For some reason, he really wanted to punch Minamoto right now.
Too bad he couldn't win...
Sasuke, watching from the side, nodded in agreement. Seeing Naruto's misfortune was oddly satisfying, even if it felt a bit excessive.
"Besides, if we're talking about popularity, wasn't Sasuke more popular than me in school?"
Minamoto gestured toward Sasuke, who suddenly panicked.
"Senpai, I'm only focused on revenge. I don't have any other thoughts."
"Tch, asking him is pointless!"
Naruto pouted, looking thoroughly unimpressed.
"You two..."
Minamoto shook his head, then glanced around cautiously before leaning in conspiratorially.
"Actually, if you want to attract girls—or manage relationships—I do have some tips."
"Hmm?!"
Naruto's eyes lit up, and even Sasuke, though skeptical, leaned in curiously.
"Take a look at this."
With a sly grin, Minamoto pulled out a small orange book from his ninja pouch and placed it on the ground.
The cover read in bold letters: Make-Out Paradise.
"Isn't this..."
Naruto's eyes widened, and even Sasuke looked surprised.
"Kakashi-sensei's Make-Out Paradise?"
"Yep."
Minamoto nodded nonchalantly, smiling as he explained.
"Even though Kakashi-sensei is still single—well, honestly, a lifelong bachelor—his charm in Konohagakure is unmatched."
"..."
"Guess how he maintains that charm?"
"..."
"It's all in here. This book is full of techniques."
Naruto's breathing quickened. He had always been curious about this book, especially since Kakashi never let him see it.
Even Sasuke, though feigning disinterest, couldn't help but sneak glances at the book.
(End of Chapter)
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
The story isn't over...
🤔 Want to know what happens next to the characters?
🤫 Eager to explore the untold secrets of this world?
✍ Ready to read more of my wildest stories?
✨patreon.com/GoldenLong