Traveling through three generations: Making Konoha great again!

Chapter 136 Tobirama's Zero-Score Exam! The Kaleidoscope Opened for Seisui! (1.1-word Chapter!)

Leaf.

Hokage Building.

Hiruzen Sarutobi held a cigarette in one hand and squinted as he graded exam papers with the other.

He was reviewing the students' answer sheets from the ninja academy; the questions were ones he had personally set.

Please write down your vision of the Will of Fire.

He recounted his story related to the Will of Fire.

Point out the current shortcomings of the village and write down your opinions.

The first two points were used by Hiruzen Sarutobi to survey and assess the current level of understanding of the broad concept of the Will of Fire among Konoha ninja.

Students from the Ninja Academy are the best subjects for investigation.

A seasoned ninja, having spent so much time navigating the ninja world, will simply shout "Yes, yes, yes" when asked similar questions.

Or they might say they are very happy, and then vaguely repeat some statements that are generally considered correct—

For example, where fallen leaves dance in the air, fire also reignites—

To avoid getting involved in unnecessary trouble.

But the students at the Ninja Academy are different; they are always willing to speak the truth and don't wear armor too often.

"The Will of Fire is too general; it lacks a clear definition and framework."

"This is dangerous."

Hiruzen Sarutobi glanced at the students' papers and casually gave a few high marks.

Most of the answers were based on concepts like inheritance, sacrifice, and dedication, which were rooted in emotion and lacked standardized concepts and definitions.

"Unifying thinking and clarifying values ​​are absolutely necessary."

"The Will of Fire is ahead of the Ninja Code, but only by half a step. This kind of thinking that is changing from the old to the new is actually the easiest to cause big problems."

Hiruzen Sarutobi pondered.

Vague collective values ​​cannot become stable behavioral norms.

In the face of conflicts of interest in the ninja world, real-world tests, or extreme conditions, it is extremely easy for things to be interpreted in multiple ways or even become distorted, leading to ideological divisions, wavering, and even strong backlash.

"The essence of the Will of Fire's slight lead lies in its slight violation of the ninja code, but there is no corresponding ideology or system to replace it—"

"The Will of Fire awakened humanity and inspired the ninjas' initiative, but it also made them question the ninja code. "Although the ninja code is cold, it has stood the test of time. Even though it suppresses humanity and emotions, everyone knows what they should and shouldn't do."

"When the Will of Fire faces an inexplicable predicament, it can cause terrible internal strife among the ninjas—in terms of their mental state, it's like planting a bomb in the village."

Judging from the mental state of a ninja, Hiruzen Sarutobi had high doubts—

If he continues to let things go unchecked, there's a possibility that some ninjas might develop into world-destroying fanatics.

The Will of Fire won't work, and neither will the Ninja Code.

Then let's destroy them all!

It sounds strange, but based on Hiruzen Sarutobi's experience, it's quite possible.

"Take Hiruko for example. If it weren't for the Konoha committee system that selected him, given his sensitive and obsessive personality, he could very well have become a rogue ninja—"

"The daily rate is about the same, but with the restrictions of a caged bird, it's estimated that even if it suffers injustice, it won't be able to resist, and it will just live a cowardly life—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi still remembered the first time he met Hizashi.

He wasn't the cold-faced ANBU he is now, but a timid young man who would cower in fear when speaking to him.

As for the Uchiha clan, it's even harder to say what kind of fanatical madmen might emerge from them—

It was only because Tobirama Senju was watching that Hiruzen Sarutobi could feel at ease.

Thoughts are things that cannot be seen or touched, nor can they be truly materialized.

Seemingly powerless, studying these is like carving on paper—

In reality, the power of thought is terrifying.

What enabled the seemingly disparate ninja clans to set aside their differences and establish a village, and for ninjas to stand up for their comrades with their own flesh and blood—

It could also cause a large, hidden village to quietly split and collapse!

Hiruzen Sarutobi picked up an exam paper, which was signed by Uchiha Aokiji.

Compared to other ninja academy students, Tobirama Senju emphasized clear rules and regulations in the first two questions.

He also suggested that Hiruzen Sarutobi provide examples to help the ninjas understand—

"As expected of Tobirama-sensei—"

When Hiruzen Sarutobi was young, Tobirama Senju often told him, "If ninjas suppress their emotions, establish strict rules, and abide by them, they can avoid fighting—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled and shook his head.

Tobirama Senju hasn't mentioned suppressing his emotions anymore.

It's unclear whether they believed the Uchiha clan's problems would be solved, or if they thought the ninjas' emotions, if properly channeled, could become an extremely powerful force—

This is a silent communication between master and apprentice.

"Tobirama-sensei is reminding me that Konoha needs an update—" Hiruzen Sarutobi thought to himself, shifting his gaze down to the bottom of Tobirama's exam paper.

There were his answers to the third question.

What problems still exist in Konoha today?

Tobirama Senju wrote a lot, but it all boils down to one point!

Root, Danzo!

He believed that even during periods of rapid development, everything in the village was thriving.

But we shouldn't hide past problems either.

For example, Danzo served as the Hokage's assistant, and the Root organization, though nominally the Anbu, was actually a private army. They brainwashed ninjas to have no emotions, no past, no future, and no names, and acted recklessly in the name of the Will of Fire!

Even if Root did make some contributions, from the perspective of traditional ninja values, their merits and demerits should be balanced.

However, the Hokage's assistant should hold himself to high standards and strict requirements!

Otherwise, how would the village's ninjas view the Will of Fire?

Naruto did a great job, no problem.

However, the Hokage's assistant is, after all, the second most important person in the village, and his actions represent the village, and to a certain extent, Hiruzen Sarutobi!

The two extremes of light and darkness can distort a ninja's thinking, leading to internal strife.

Therefore, it is precisely at this time, when the village is growing stronger and the ninjas are generally more tolerant, that Danzo's problem should be addressed openly.

This way, Danzo won't be completely condemned, and the historical issues can be resolved.

Tobirama Senju called it scraping the bone to remove poison.

"The first two questions only took up one page, but the Danzo question took over seven pages—"

"Is this because they're worried I'm protecting Danzo?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled and shook his head.

In fact, he had already warned Danzo in advance.

I've mentioned this many times before: when I met Danzo at the Senju family's ancestral home.

To punish someone without teaching them is cruelty.

Hiruzen Sarutobi wasn't insistent on using Danzo as a stepping stone, but his old buddy just wouldn't change his ways, so he had no choice but to use him.

Such a major reform is like the peace talks between the Senju and Uchiha clans.

Unless something major happens and the problem becomes concrete, the ninjas won't truly grasp its significance.

Danzo already wielded enough influence, and due to his special status, he could also control the power of public opinion.

This is also thanks to Hiruzen Sarutobi's emphasis at the commendation ceremony that he had been in a special working environment for a long time.

They gave Danzo a hand.

Otherwise, if this commotion were to happen, given his old friend's past reputation—

Hiruzen Sarutobi shook his head slightly.

Hiruzen Sarutobi pondered the mystery of Tobirama Senju's move.

Not only could he resolve the village's historical issues, but he could also win back the hearts of the Uchiha clan and gain terrifying prestige within the clan.

A ninja academy student, and a member of the Uchiha clan at that—

To fight Danzo head-on and win is truly a level of combat skill akin to a god descending to earth.

As for why Hiruzen Sarutobi was so certain that Tobirama Senju would win.

Putting aside strength for now, isn't he sitting right here?

However, Hiruzen Sarutobi neither could nor had foreseen this.

Another elderly Uchiha man, who wished to remain anonymous, decided to add fuel to the fire in this incident—

This caused "Seisui" to become disillusioned with Konoha and turn to the Eye of the Moon Project.

And just then...

Just as Hiruzen Sarutobi was pondering how to make Tobirama Senju's exam paper public—

A knock came at the door.

Danzo slowly walked in and immediately said, "Hiruzen, that Uchiha brat is still too dangerous! I think we should send him to the Anbu after he graduates, right under my nose—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled to himself.

Speaking of Danzo, Danzo has arrived—

"Let's talk about it after graduation, don't worry about it now. Help me with some chores!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi calmly stuffed Tobirama's exam paper back into place, then naturally divided it into two stacks, handing the one with Tobirama's paper to Danzo.

Danzo took it, but was still saying, "Hiruzen, this is no small matter! I have a bad feeling about that brat. Although I don't think he's capable of really doing anything, danger needs to be nipped in the bud!"

Danzo had a certain understanding of Qingshui's talent and strength.

He is a true genius comparable to Minato Namikaze.

This is also a major reason why he wanted to take Qingshui as his apprentice.

Danzo's grand plan to conquer the Uchiha clan was similar to Tobirama Senju's in some ways.

They all control the Uchiha clan through "Seisui".

However, Danzo's goal was to control the "Blue Water," and thus control the Uchiha clan.

It seems that Hiruzen Sarutobi is unaware of the importance of Aoshui.

Danzo sighed, deciding to try and persuade Hiruzen Sarutobi another day, before glancing at the exam paper that had been handed to him—

"What are these?"

"Study papers from the Ninja Academy? And they're about the Will of Fire. You want me to grade them for you?" Danzo looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi with suspicion.

Have you forgotten that I am the Dark One of the Ninja?

"Otherwise what? You're the Hokage's assistant. It's one thing if you're not proficient in the Will of Fire, but can't you even instruct students at the Ninja Academy?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi hardened his face: "How can you possibly become Hokage looking like this?!"

Danzo was taken aback.

Naruto? What does this have to do with Naruto? — No, it's extremely relevant!

The Hokage has always served as the principal of the Ninja Academy.

Furthermore, even if he didn't agree with the Will of Fire, having been by Hiruzen Sarutobi's side for so long, he had absorbed the benefits of using the First Hokage's name—

After becoming the Fourth Hokage, he could not openly oppose the Will of Fire, as that would be tantamount to severing ties with all the Konoha ninja.

At most, they might secretly slip in their own agenda.

"Hiruzen, that's not what I meant. I meant I've been quite busy with work lately—the spies in Iwagakure have become active again—"

"Oh, then you can go ahead and get busy!"

"Look at what you're saying. Helping the Hokage is just an auxiliary job. Taking a look at the Ninja Academy students' exam papers in advance will allow me to relax a bit and make my work better!"

Danzo coughed lightly and replied in this way.

He plopped down opposite Hiruzen Sarutobi and, as if they were old friends, picked up a red pen.

"It's been a long time since we've worked together—"

Danzo mentally gave himself a thumbs up.

Having studied with Hiruzen for so long, he'd come to understand a principle: don't openly confront the Hokage.

Sometimes you have to be flexible and adaptable.

Moreover, isn't this clearly Hiruzen's way of cultivating his ability to become Hokage?

If he doesn't know how to appreciate it, then that's his own problem.

After all, if he's the one who's grading this paper, then Orochimaru could also grade it, right?

"I've taken another step ahead on the path to becoming Hokage!" Danzo thought to himself with secret joy.

"Hiruzen, what's the standard?"

"Do it your way—" Hiruzen Sarutobi glanced at Danzo: "Don't be too strict, but deduct points for problems. It would be best to give some comments to encourage these ninja academy students."

After thinking for a moment, Hiruzen Sarutobi added, "Remember to sign your name!"

Danzo nodded knowingly.

Signing his name is, of course, to increase his fame!

Just like that commendation ceremony, if the names aren't written down, who would know that it was approved by the assistant?

Even if his handwriting is different from Hiruzen Sarutobi's, others don't know his handwriting. What if they mistakenly think it was Orochimaru who wrote it?

Wouldn't this just boost the popularity of my political enemies?

"Hiruzen is indeed very thoughtful. Although he doesn't say it, he's definitely biased towards me—" Danzo nodded contentedly and picked up the exam papers to grade them.

A moment later, he frowned.

Having worked at Root for so long, I still felt uncomfortable seeing the rather naive thoughts of the ninja academy students.

"Protect? The priority should be completing the mission!" Danzo suppressed his dissatisfaction and reluctantly gave Might Guy's test a score of 60.

I'd say being lenient is a passing grade!

Hiruzen Sarutobi was somewhat surprised.

He flipped through the exam papers of several international students from Kirigakure.

"Why are they participating in the Will of Fire exam?"

"This has become deeply integrated into life at the Ninja Academy, that's great—"

These international students naturally didn't understand the Will of Fire, so their answers were off-topic, but the information they conveyed was quite interesting.

Kisame: His comrades no longer kill each other, they can trust each other, and he can offer suggestions to higher-ups.

Nakamaro: A skilled ninja can instruct a weaker ninja without incurring any harm in return.

Snow: We respect all ninja clans and will not hold anyone accountable for their crimes.

Mei Terumi: Open-minded, wealthy, with her own non-ninja hobbies, and a support system in place.

This is their answer.

However, it might be out of genuine emotion, or perhaps it was for the sake of stacking armor.

Apart from Nakamaro, the other three also mentioned that Kirigakure is getting better and better and will not be weaker than Konoha in the future.

"It reflects their inner selves—"

"This kid named Kisame is not bad, interesting." Hiruzen Sarutobi's eyes flashed.

Hiruzen Sarutobi had an impression of Kisame.

Because of his morning training, Hiruzen Sarutobi could always see him and Might Guy silently competing—

Hiruzen Sarutobi had observed this Kirigakure ninja, who was young but looked like an adult and possessed enormous chakra, several times using a crystal ball.

The conclusion drawn is that this is an honest person who doesn't seem like a Hidden Mist Ninja.

"An honest person, when pushed to the limit and thrown into a rage, can be more ferocious than a madman—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled slightly and glanced at Danzo.

Making suggestions to higher-ups—isn't that referring to "Seisui" and Danzo?

If this matter is handled well, it will undoubtedly leave a deep impression on Kisame, giving him a wonderful fantasy, and perhaps he will try to replicate it in Kirigakure.

The Hokage, the leader of a mysterious force outside the Hidden Mist Village, is preparing to show the international students a textbook example of how to handle a situation!

After all, there's no harm without comparison.

Although, based on the information exchanged between Hyuga and Kaguya, Hiruzen Sarutobi didn't think Kisame would successfully offer advice to the Mizukage; he was more likely to be imprisoned as soon as he opened his mouth—

"We'll put pressure on them from the outside then. If Kisame really does it, we'll have to protect him."

Hiruzen Sarutobi gave Kisame and the others a good score as encouragement.

At that moment, Danzo suddenly slammed his hand on the table and shouted angrily, "Nonsense!!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi glanced at it and smiled inwardly.

I see, so they saw Tobirama-sensei's exam paper.

"Danzo, it's been a long time since you've slapped this table—" Hiruzen Sarutobi said quietly.

Danzo is much more polite now than before; he knows to knock when he comes in and close the door when he leaves.

Occasionally, such a snapshot would evoke a sense of nostalgia in Hiruzen Sarutobi.

"I wasn't filming you, Hiruzen!"

"That brat's gone mad! He actually dared to impeach me in the exam paper? Who does he think he is?"

"No matter how talented a kid is, he's still just a kid in the ninja academy, and besides, he's an Uchiha!"

"You dare to talk sarcasticly at me while you're still a student at the Ninja Academy? You'll be dreaming of becoming Hokage after you graduate!"

Danzo waved the exam paper in his hand, the paper rustling in the wind.

"Why won't they let us speak?"

"After all, it's just a test paper. Give high marks for correct answers and low marks for incorrect answers. Don't make a big deal out of it."

Hiruzen Sarutobi was mixing mud with mud for the first time in a long time.

"Look at Hiruzen! He even dared to name names, even if he had been more tactful!"

Danzo slammed Tobirama's exam paper in front of him.

"What you're saying actually makes some sense—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly: "However, the problems Root had in the past need to be addressed sooner or later—"

He reminded Danzo once again.

After all, it's not necessary to put old friends in such a difficult position; there are other solutions.

The effect will just be a little less—

Danzo gave a noncommittal snort: "Hiruzen, can you say Root is useless?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi shook his head: "Of course not. In fact, I have the idea of ​​restarting the Root, but I want to do it in a different way."

Tobirama Senju often used the phrase "born evil" to describe the Uchiha clan.

In the grand stage of the ninja world, such "naturally evil" individuals are not particularly few in number; they can be found even in Konoha.

They are born with a love for fighting, killing, or researching secret techniques that are not understood by others, and they have a reclusive personality.

For example, Shiro Aburame of the Aburame clan is passionate about researching nanoscale venomous insects. Even his own clan keeps their distance from him, and very few people associate with him.

For example, a very small number of members of the Uchiha clan—

After two-thirds of the Uchiha ninja returned to normal mission assignments, the feedback from the Konoha ninja was very positive; they all felt they had misunderstood the red-eyed ninjas before.

Powerful, reliable, and once a fight breaks out, they never back down but charge forward with a roar—

They were all very generous; their work in the police force allowed the Uchiha to accumulate savings that most ninjas envied, since working in the village involved virtually no losses.

However, there were still a few Uchiha clan members whose killing intent was so strong that it frightened their companions and caused some conflicts.

In Hiruzen Sarutobi's view, these people are the future candidates for Root.

They formed an elite squad of oddballs—special talents—and, with their honors and status, made them the village's sharpest knife, not a self-destructive bomb.

When freaks get together, they tend to share more common topics and traits, which can help them form bonds and be inspired by the Will of Fire.

"Really? Hiruzen, you're going to rebuild Root?"

Danzo was greatly surprised, his joy evident on his face: "When?!"

"We need to study this further. This time, we need to be more careful in selecting personnel. We need elite troops."

"You could still be the leader of Root, but—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at Danzo with a half-smile: "Could this be another Shimura clan army? After all, the Root clan was once surnamed Shimura—"

"Hiruzen, what kind of talk is that?!"

Danzo gave an awkward laugh: "Whether it's the Anbu or Root, aren't they all serving the Hokage? I think what happened before was a misunderstanding, let's not bring up the past—"

"It's not about serving me, it's about serving the village."

Even though it was just the two of them, Hiruzen Sarutobi still corrected Danzo's statement: "You are indeed suitable to be the leader of the new Root, but if you defy the supervision and violate the rules I set, then I can only say that I gave you a chance—"

After saying that, Hiruzen Sarutobi rubbed the tabletop with his palm with a sigh.

It wasn't as imposing as Danzo slamming the table.

But this made Danzo's heart skip a beat; he realized that Hiruzen Sarutobi was serious when he said that.

"Don't worry, Hiruzen!"

"Let's talk about this brat! Hiruzen, I'd give him a zero!"

Danzo changed the subject, and in a slightly flamboyant manner, drew a bright red circle on Tobirama's test paper.

Zero points!

Hiruzen Sarutobi was taken aback. Before he could say anything, he saw Danzo writing furiously on it.

Ambitious but lacking in talent, prone to empty talk and unrealistic theories, unlikely to achieve great things!

He even wrote his name on it and added a big exclamation mark.

Hiruzen Sarutobi took a deep breath and kept a straight face.

He never expected things to turn out this way—

At least give them some face; thirty or fifty yuan would be a way to save face.

The disciple gave the Second Hokage's Will of Fire a zero score—a score given by the Third Hokage's assistant to the Second Hokage.

Is such a thing even possible?

This is no longer a simple case of reversing the Heavenly Gang; we must strike hard!

"It's a good thing Danzo signed it, otherwise it would have been troublesome if people thought it was me—" Hiruzen Sarutobi pursed his lips tightly to avoid laughing.

He was truly at his wit's end. He had reminded Danzo several times already, and he had been quite kind to his old friend.

But to everyone's surprise, Danzo seemed to mistakenly think he was supporting Tobirama by simply mentioning the rebuilding of the Root, and casually used Tobirama's test paper as a way to change the subject.

"There will be a program to watch during my practice tomorrow—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi decided that he would continue to monitor the situation with his crystal ball while the exam papers were being handed out at the Ninja Academy.

I absolutely have to watch this live stream!

"Hiruzen, you seem to be smiling?" Danzo asked suspiciously.

"Yes, I'm very happy to think about the establishment of the new root—" Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly.

Danzo, unusually, laughed: "Me too!"

He did indeed have a special feeling for the roots.

Putting aside the fact that it was once his personal independent kingdom.

Being with some dark people made Danzo feel that he had a group of like-minded people with him, and that his path to becoming Hokage was not lonely.

Humans always need social interaction and recognition.

The saying goes, "Even Qin Hui had three friends."

#

Ninja School.

As Tobirama Senju sat in the classroom, watching the students hand out exam papers, a sweet taste suddenly welled up in his throat.

He has been doing this frequently for the past two or three months.

Although he was well concealed, he was still discovered by Obito and Shisui, who were extremely worried about him.

However, to avoid causing unnecessary trouble, Tobirama reassured them that everything was alright, just old wounds left by Kusagakure, which would heal with some time.

However, Obito and Shisui clearly didn't believe it; they thought it was because their brother Qingshui had trained too hard—

Tobirama Senju did indeed train diligently.

He needs to defeat Minato Namikaze so that he can, as the victor, put on a spectacular show against Hiruzen Sarutobi on the grand stage.

Although Tobirama Senju didn't think he would lose.

Minato Namikaze has only mastered the Flying Thunder God Technique for a few years.

The final interpretation of the Flying Thunder God technique rests with him!

However, having been ambushed once by Kinkaku and Ginkaku using the Six Paths Treasures, he became even more cautious in his second life, and he would not underestimate anyone!

Therefore, Tobirama Senju, who was striving to recover his power from his previous life, relied on his strength, appearance, and temperament.

Furthermore, the ninja academy students had long suffered under the evil, blond-haired monster, and desperately hoped someone would stand up for them and restore the glory of the Green Dragon Gang.

He has become the undisputed king of the ninja academy, and even Asuma, the former leader, follows his lead.

At first glance, Uchiha Aokiji has clearly become the sole core of the new generation.

"here we go again--"

"It's alright, it will get better in two or three months." Tobirama Senju savored the taste of blood.

This isn't a major problem.

In Tobirama Senju's self-assessment, one aspect was the normal reaction of the fusion of body and soul.

On the other hand, it was caused by using a forbidden soul technique to forcibly stimulate Uchiha Tsuru when he was just one step away from breaking through to the third tomoe realm in order to intimidate him in the clan territory.

The power of taboo always comes at a price.

Tobirama Senju nodded to the students who were handing out the exam papers.

With blood in his mouth, he couldn't speak easily.

It's best to get rid of bruises in a secluded place.

Tobirama Senju casually flipped through the exam paper.

He certainly didn't care about the score on the test paper. He had been Hokage before, so why would he care about such things?

This was just to let Hiruzen know that he was going to use Danzo as a stepping stone next.

"Um?"

Tobirama Senju narrowed his eyes as he saw a huge zero.

"What does 'Hiruzen' mean?"

"Are you even interacting with me? A zero score is just too embarrassing—"

Tobirama Senju continued reading and came across Danzo's arrogant comments and signature.

The person's aura instantly changed.

"Good lad—"

"So it wasn't Hiruzen, it was you who gave me a zero?"

"Serving as the Hokage's assistant is truly remarkable. Hiruzen asked you to participate in village affairs, and this is how you do it?"

"I haven't even laid a hand on you, and you've already started firing at me!"

Tobirama Senju's anger surged.

"Brother Qingshui, you must have gotten a perfect score, right?" At this moment, Asuma came over with a sigh and asked, "Father is so harsh, he only gave me seventy-five points!"

Tobirama Senju's Will of Fire was naturally widely recognized by the students of the Ninja Academy.

When the scores were released, most of the ninja academy students were asking questions and subconsciously assumed that Tobirama Senju would get a perfect score, wanting to learn his standard answers.

Kakashi, Might Guy, Shisui, Obito, and others also gathered around.

Nakamaro, Kisame, and others also arrived.

Suddenly, Tobirama Senju's heart stirred, and a cold glint flashed in his eyes.

"This isn't because I hit you too hard; it's just to demonstrate my authority as a teacher—"

"With your level of political acumen, how can you possibly be a good advisor to the Hokage?"

"I'm going to teach you a lesson—those in higher positions should not act arbitrarily against those in lower positions, at least not personally."

"A severe imbalance between costs and benefits, coupled with a potential backlash of collective empathy, would be even more terrifying—"

Tobirama Senju coughed suddenly, as if his chest was shaking.

The blood spurted from his throat and gushed out, staining the entire exam paper crimson!

The acting was so realistic that even Hiruzen Sarutobi, standing in the Hokage Building, felt a chill run down his spine.

However, the Hokage was immediately relieved.

Because if the blood was truly due to a health problem, given Tobirama Senju's shrewdness, he wouldn't have coughed it up; he would have held it back no matter what.

He knows his teacher quite well.

"You've really angered the teacher, Danzo—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi exhaled a thick cloud of smoke, sighing inwardly, "He's about to get a lesson!"

At the Ninja Academy.

Asma and the others panicked instantly, shouting, "Brother Qingshui, are you alright?!"

Shisui and Obito rushed over, the two Uchiha brats unconsciously activating their double-tomoe Sharingan.

"elder brother!"

"It's nothing—" Tobirama Senju forced a smile, his eyes fixed on the exam paper: "It's really nothing."

Asuma followed Tobirama Senju's gaze and saw that on the blood-stained exam paper, there was a huge zero marked at the top.

There are also red comments and Danzo's signature.

"Why zero points?!"

Asuma looked at Tobirama Senju with concern: "Brother Aozumi, even if it's zero points, we don't need to be this angry—"

"Although Shimura Danzo was the Hokage's assistant, he was the village's acknowledged misunderstanding of the Will of Fire. His words are not worth getting angry over."

Asuma was about to say that his paper was annotated by Hiruzen Sarutobi, but he didn't know why Aoisui's was annotated by Danzo.

But after thinking about it, he didn't say anything, after all, Danzo was the Hokage's assistant.

He's more than qualified to grade papers for a ninja academy.

The fact that the Hokage's assistant doesn't understand the Will of Fire is a consensus among most people in the village.

Even if the commendation ceremony has improved, stereotypes are not so easy to eliminate.

"Yeah, brother, it's just one grade!"

Obito hurriedly said, "Your health is the most important thing!"

"It's not about the grades—"

Tobirama Senju waved his hand weakly: "Look at the contents. I'm very worried about the village—this can't go on! We need to face the problem head-on—"

Asma and the others then came to their senses.

A dozen or so heads huddled together, jostling to see Tobirama Senju's answer.

The first two questions were naturally no problem; they both felt the writing was insightful.

A question arose: how could such a test paper possibly get zero marks?

And when they saw Tobirama Senju bombard Danzo.

Everyone fell silent.

"If you do something wrong, you have to admit it, even if it's with the Hokage's help!"

"What kind of nonsense is this, using your power to intimidate me? Are students at the ninja academy not allowed to voice their opinions to him?!"

"Although I came to Konoha late, I've asked many people, and the Root organization used to be almost like Kusagakure; most of the ninjas were forced into it!"

"This is not in accordance with the Will of Fire—"

Another stream of crimson blood flowed from Tobirama Senju's lips.

However, this time he forced it out himself using his own magic.

"elder brother!"

"Brother Qingshui!"

Kisame stared at Tobirama Senju, his expression turning extremely grim.

Although Kisame was unwilling to admit it, he believed that the future Kirigakure would be no worse than Konoha—

But deep down he didn't hold out much hope.

Kisame, who was doing his morning exercise, read through all the bulletin boards in Konoha word for word after Kakashi reminded him that day, and learned about a series of policies such as pensions, subsidies for the elderly and widows, and Konoha committee members.

They studied very diligently and even copied it down neatly in a small notebook.

Kisame couldn't help but sigh, compared to the Hidden Mist Village currently undergoing agonizing "bone-scraping treatment," it wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the ninjas of Konoha lived in paradise.

If Kisame hadn't seen it with his own eyes and experienced it firsthand, he would never have imagined that ninjas could live such a life.

Kisame thought that if he returned to Kirigakure, he would suggest that the Third Mizukage follow suit.

But if even in a place as good as Konoha, the higher-ups can't accept reasonable suggestions—

Can the Fog Concealment technique work?

At this moment, a tidal wave of sorrow erupted in Kisame's heart, as if the entire ninja world, as far as the eye could see, was now a scene of carnage—

"Kisame, what's with that look on your face?"

"Isn't this what happens when you go against the higher-ups?" Nakamaro sighed and said softly, "Actually, I don't think Root is a big deal. They just kidnapped a few ninjas. To be honest, what's that compared to the Blood Mist Village—"

Kisame was taken aback.

Yuki and Terumi Mei also sighed.

They could understand why "Qingshui" was so angry.

Because this is Konoha, the Roots' actions clearly violate the Will of Fire and cannot be tolerated.

But he felt even greater sorrow for himself.

In Kirigakure, things that could make Qing Shui so angry he vomit blood were just commonplace occurrences.

If it were in the past...

They would think that the Konoha ninjas were too pampered and couldn't even withstand this little bit of hardship, and were just useless!

But having lived in Konoha for so long—

Kisame and the others knew better than anyone the strength and living conditions of the Konoha ninjas. They lived a good life without ruining themselves; each and every one of them worked extremely hard!

"Is it the difference between people and tools?"

Nakamaro glanced at his companions' expressions and said calmly, "We are killing machines, they are human beings, and it's normal for human beings to have emotions—"

"How could you say something like that?" Mei Terumi said in surprise.

Where is the reckless man who was supposed to be controlled by murderous intent?

After staying in Konoha for a few months, his speech has even taken on a hint of wisdom—

"An orange grown in the Land of Water is sour, but grown in Konoha might be sweet—"

Nakamaro shook his head: "It was taught to me by Uncle Tenzo."

Kisame remained silent.

He now felt an urgent desire to see Konoha handle this matter properly—

In this way, Kirigakure will also have someone to learn from.

Unbeknownst to Kisame, Konoha had become a village he couldn't bear to see make mistakes.

Asuma and the others listened in silence as they heard Nakamaro and the others speak.

The implication is that life in Kirigakure isn't all that great.

I've never heard them mention it before—

"Brother Qingshui—" Asma hesitated before asking, "Is there anything we can do to help you?"

Kakashi, Might Guy, and others echoed their sentiments.

Qingshui, who vomited blood for the sake of the village, is undoubtedly very admirable!

"you--"

"If possible, please gather some evidence for me. If any members of the tribe were forcibly taken into the Roots by him, please testify for me on that day."

"It was Tobirama Senju who said softly."

Upon hearing this, many ninja academy students instinctively backed down.

A person's name is like a tree's shadow; Danzo is not someone to be trifled with.

Even students at the Ninja Academy had received constant admonitions from their parents.

"good!"

Asma shouted, "My father once said, 'Those who carry firewood for the masses should not be left to freeze to death in the snow!'"

"Brother Qingshui, I'll help you!"

When Asuma spoke, the other ninja academy students were all taken aback.

What does it mean?

The Hokage's son theoretically represents a portion of the Hokage's opinions.

In other words, the Hokage doesn't actually know some things about Root? But that's unlikely—

In any case, Asuma's stepping forward clearly gave the other ninja academy students a boost of morale.

"Son diplomacy" is making a comeback.

"I'll do it too," Kakashi said in a deep voice. "My father said that the Hokage is not afraid of others pointing out his mistakes, even if it's Danzo; he will handle it fairly!"

"For the sake of youth, we must support Brother Qingshui!" Might Guy nodded solemnly.

Inspired by this, many of the clan members who had previously joined the Root ninja students raised their hands: "We all support you, Brother Qingshui!"

Tobirama Senju unconsciously curled the corners of his mouth into a smile.

This is the hope for Konoha's future—

"Which day, Brother Qingshui?" Asma asked in a deep voice.

"The day I defeat Minato Namikaze for everyone!"

Tobirama Senju abruptly stood up, wiping the blood from the corner of his mouth: "I will win for everyone! I'm going to train!"

Asuma and the others stared blankly at Tobirama Senju.

It turns out that Brother Qingshui really did keep their words in mind all along—

And at this moment.

Shizuku and Oto were not present.

The two of them ran back to the Uchiha clan's territory as fast as they could and found Isshin.

"Clan Chief Isshin, my brother was so angered by Danzo that he vomited blood!"

Shisui said in a panic, "Please tell me what to do!"

Ichishin, who was humming a little tune and feeling quite content lately, suddenly stood up: "What did you say?"

But then, a thought struck him.

"Zhi Shui, don't rush—"

"This might be Qing Shui's way of evoking empathy; he's probably alright."

Tobirama Senju said he wanted to attack Danzo in front of the entire Uchiha clan.

For Qing Shui, acting in a play or something is normal!

"That's not how it is, Clan Chief Isshin!"

Obito said hastily, "We know that too, but my brother has been coughing up blood frequently lately. He thinks he's hiding it well, but Shisui and I both know!"

Shisui's voice trembled with a sob: "Clan Chief Isshin, my brother trains and works until the wee hours every night, and he's also planned many future developments for the clan and improved a great many ninjutsu!"

"I advised him to rest, but my brother said things couldn't be delayed—"

"Clan Chief Yixin, is my brother—"

Yixin's face suddenly turned extremely ugly.

This sounds exactly like someone making their final arrangements!

It was as if there was no time left.

"Could it be a bloodline disease? Oh my god!"

"No, please don't! Qingshui clearly has the blessings of its ancestors!"

"May the young clan leader of Izuna protect us, may the eldest clan leader protect us, Qingshui absolutely cannot be harmed—"

Unconsciously, Isshin activated his Sharingan, and the three tomoe began to spin involuntarily.

"Seisui said he would confront Danzo directly and take full responsibility for all the problems. Could it be that he knows he's about to die?"

I felt my heart being suddenly clenched.

"Let's go to the Ninja Academy!"

"No, I can't go—" Yixin bit his tongue. If he rushed off now, Qingshui would become too conspicuous and his plans would be exposed.

"What if it's a misunderstanding?"

"Take me to your house first, Shisui!"

Yi Xin said in a deep voice, "I'm waiting for him at home. Tell Qing Shui to come back quickly!"

Zhi Shui nodded quickly.

They arrived at Tobirama Senju and Shisui's house.

Yixin slowly walked towards Qingshui's bedroom.

Open the door.

There were stacks of scrolls on the table, as well as many sheets of paper covered with writing.

I slowly flipped through the pages.

"Ideas for Improving Uchiha Fire Release Techniques", "Sharingan Notes", "Sword Technique Summary"

"Some thoughts on the Uchiha clan in Konoha," "Restructuring of the police department," and "Further support for widowed and orphaned clan members"—

Each volume is substantial.

Not only did they make ingenious improvements to the techniques of the Uchiha clan.

They also made a very detailed plan for the clan's status in the village, and explained all the possible problems that might be encountered.

And these were indeed written by Tobirama Senju, and were not a disguise.

It was a work habit he developed during his time as the Second Hokage.

Born to be a workaholic—

But the more he looked at it, the more his hands trembled, until he could no longer hold the scroll steady.

Real hammer!

Qingshui must have contracted a bloodline disease; his health is in serious trouble.

Otherwise, why would you be in such a hurry to write down all your thoughts and ideas?

Isn't it all just to make a final contribution to the clan?

They even schemed against Danzo, all in an effort to unburden the Uchiha clan of their past.

"You're almost dead, why are you still carrying this burden alone?"

"How old are you anyway?!"

"You're making me, the clan leader, seem really useless. Why can't I do anything?" Uchiha Isshin unconsciously clenched his fists, and it seemed like blood was dripping from his eyes.

He's a smart Uchiha—

But if you only have brains but no ability to defy fate, you'll just be left helpless when something really goes wrong!

"Damn it, bloodline disease—what a load of rubbish about ancestral blessings! Why doesn't it protect Qingshui?!"

"If there truly is ancestral blessing, then please open your eyes and look at this child who has devoted himself to the Uchiha clan!"

Uchiha Isshin roared angrily.

At that moment, his three tomoe linked together, forming a kaleidoscope pattern!

Fifteen minutes later.

Surrounded by Shisui and Obito, Tobirama Senju reluctantly returned home.

Actually, he wanted to cultivate a little longer—

But when he opened the bedroom door, he was stunned.

A pair of Mangekyou Sharingan eyes were staring straight at him!

"Qingshui, you're saved!"

P.S.: Here comes a 10,000-word chapter!

Attached is a fan-made illustration by a talented reader, which I think is very cool.

It's a drawing of Tobirama Senju forcibly breaking through to the third tomoe realm and intimidating Tsuru Uchiha; it's from chapter sixty-one.

It can be eaten together!

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