Naruto: Tenseigan Eye

Seeing signs of the daimyo's anger, the staff's legs trembled as they hastily explained:

"At the beginning of Konoha's formation, the Sarutobi clan was merely a moderately successful ninja clan. However, they managed to rally many smaller clans to resist external enemies, which led them to play a central role in Konoha's founding."

"Because of this, they received favorable treatment."

"But the Sarutobi clan's growth became abnormal after Sarutobi Hiruzen became Hokage."

The daimyo frowned slightly. "Another Sarutobi becoming Hokage and the clan developing rapidly—is there a problem with that?"

"This is precisely the issue," the staff continued cautiously, relieved that the daimyo was beginning to take an interest. "Based on the Sarutobi clan's known resources, their industrial capacity is insufficient to sustain such rapid growth. Even the wealthiest clans in Konoha would struggle to achieve this pace of development."

"There has to be something else at play!"

The daimyo's face darkened as the realization dawned. While he was not an expert on the ninja system, he was no fool. He understood the challenges and costs of training ninjas, having personally invested in such efforts, albeit with less-than-ideal results.

"If I, as the daimyo, find it difficult to sustain a small force, how did the Sarutobi clan manage such explosive growth? They are not a bank capable of printing endless money. Their rise coincided with Sarutobi Hiruzen's tenure as Hokage, raising the suspicion of corruption."

His gaze sharpened. "Send someone to investigate. Do it discreetly—there's no need to rush. But find the truth."

The message was clear: Sarutobi Hiruzen had better hope his record is spotless, and that his clan's rise had not come at the expense of Konoha's resources.

At the Anbu Headquarters

Nara Shikasui, a member of the Nara clan, was reluctantly assigned as a temporary assistant in the Anbu Minister's office.

"For routine matters, consult the two squadron leaders, Eagle and Tiger," Shinki instructed. "They're veterans of the Anbu and utterly loyal. For more complex issues, seek out Shikaku. Handle what you can without involving me unless absolutely necessary."

Shinki was preparing to leave Konoha with Kushina, but before doing so, he needed to delegate responsibilities. The Pharmaceutical Department was simpler; its operations were managed by puppets, ensuring production was temporarily halted and inventory was secure. Accounts would be monitored remotely, and all financial matters would await Shinki's return.

The Anbu, however, required more meticulous handling. Shinki trusted the Nara clan's reliability. In his absence, Nara Shikasui would oversee operations, with guidance from Shikaku and the squadron leaders.

"If it's beyond your capabilities, contact me through the puppet," Shinki reassured. "Even if I'm not physically here, I can manage remotely."

Shikasui sighed inwardly. Can I refuse? He had no choice but to accept. His cousin, Shikaku, was originally supposed to take on this role, but his age raised concerns among the Anbu members.

Shinki smiled faintly. "If you're unsure, consult Shikaku. Between you two, the Anbu's affairs should run smoothly. I'll return soon after capturing a rogue ninja."

"…Capturing a rogue ninja or just going on a vacation?" Shikasui muttered to himself, his frustration mounting.

Nara Clan Banter

After Shinki left, Shikaku approached Shikasui with a grin. "Uncle, think about it. Master Shinki trusts us completely! That's no small thing."

Shikasui glared at him. "Don't make me beat you, Shikaku. Is this your father's idea?"

Shikaku hesitated before replying. "Uncle Shikama went to the senior ninja class… so the responsibility fell to you."

Shikasui's patience wore thin. "Hmph, it's a good thing your father's the clan leader. If this was your idea, I'd thrash you myself."

Shikaku chuckled nervously, inwardly relieved. Good thing I kept quiet about my suggestion.

Hatake Sakumo's Request

After leaving the Anbu headquarters, Shinki arrived at his meeting spot with Hatake Sakumo. To his surprise, Sakumo was the first to speak.

"Shinki, I want to join the Anbu."

Shinki raised an eyebrow. "Senior, joining the Anbu would waste your talents. You understand that once you don the mask, your past accolades will mean nothing. You'll no longer be Konoha's White Fang, but a shadow in the darkness."

Sakumo shook his head, a bitter smile on his face. "That's fine. I don't want to live in the shadow of my past achievements anymore."

The Third Hokage's cold treatment had left Sakumo disheartened. Despite realizing his mistakes, Sakumo found himself sidelined, his contributions overlooked. He feared being forgotten, his glory fading with time.

"If the village needs me, they won't call. They'll just let me fade into obscurity. Joining the Anbu is my way of continuing to serve, even if it's in the shadows."

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[Naruto: Maelstrom Of the Uzumaki]