"Konoha is not an ally."

"I know, so there’s value in investigating it. Isn’t that right, old man?"

Hakushi’s brow furrowed tighter and tighter, then quickly relaxed.

"I understand, but I need to discuss this with your mother. I can’t decide this alone. Plus, you need to take a special exam. If you can’t pass that exam, then that’s the end of it. Just study quietly at the Ninja School here."

"Okay."

Ichihime agreed readily.

If she couldn’t handle the exam arranged by the old man, it would mean there was still room for her to grow at this school.

◎

"You want to let Ichihime study temporarily in Konoha?"

In the Shikkotsu Forest, Hakushi found Ruri, who was training a few Uchiha Ninjas, and told her about Ichihime.

Hakushi nodded, speaking with a rather relaxed tone: "This is Ichihime’s own idea. As her father, all I can do is support her as much as possible."

"Why would she have such an idea?"

Ruri asked curiously.

"She feels that there’s nothing more to learn at the Ninja School here. So, to further hone herself, she has to go out and see a bigger world."

From a father’s perspective, Hakushi didn’t want Ichihime to leave his embrace so soon either.

But he couldn’t completely ignore his daughter’s own opinion.

As Ichihime said, her potential was determined at the DNA level.

The usual educational model had become tedious for her.

She no longer found room to grow here.

Of course, this growth isn’t just about strength. It’s about growth in a more comprehensive sense. Ichihime wants to train her abilities on a larger stage, broadening her understanding of the world.

The Ninja Village system originated in Konoha, along with the Ninja School system, the Anbu system, and so on. The origin is also Konoha.

Even the current Ninja School of the Land of Demons has many aspects that mimic the Konoha Ninja School.

In this regard, Konoha is undoubtedly a pioneer.

Even though Konoha is starting to decline, its past excellence can’t be denied.

Ichihime choosing this place as a target for practical training isn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision, but one made after careful consideration, to verify the knowledge she has learned by practicing in Konoha.

Hakushi believed that Ruri would understand by this point.

Sure enough, after hearing Hakushi’s explanation, Ruri’s reluctant expression eased.

"If that’s the case, I have no objections. But Ichihime’s safety must be well-guarded, and her identity needs to be settled properly, so as not to reveal any flaws."

"Rest assured, I’ll take care of these arrangements. I’ve placed people in Konoha Ninja School... As for the identity issue, I’ll talk with Mire Witch."

"As you wish, as long as you have it arranged. How’s Asuka doing? Are his grades still mediocre?" 𝙛𝒓𝓮𝙚𝔀𝒆𝒃𝓷𝒐𝓿𝙚𝓵.𝙘𝒐𝒎

After discussing Ichihime, Ruri turned her attention to Asuka.

Since she needed an heir here, she had chosen the male Asuka, who took her surname.

"He’s still not showing much improvement, even though he’s putting in plenty of effort."

Hakushi spoke truthfully without hiding anything.

Ruri’s expression was unsatisfied.

Though she adhered to the principle of the strong above all, she still hoped her son Asuka would become the next Uchiha Clan Leader of the Land of Demons.

If Asuka continues to stagnate, she’ll have to consider other options.

The Uchiha belongs to more than just her; Ruri has always been clear on the separation of public and private matters.

"I’ll personally guide him when I return."

Ruri sighed.

Even knowing that Asuka’s potential as a Ninja was limited, Ruri was unwilling to give up just yet.

"Doing so might not be very effective."

Hakushi stroked his chin and said.

"What do you mean?"

"Asuka doesn’t seem very interested in becoming a Ninja. I think we might focus on cultivating him in other ways. As a child, he loved playing with different toys and is quite curious about many things."

Additionally, he doesn’t seem to be the type who relishes fighting.

Hakushi trusted his judgment.

"What are you suggesting?"

"Next year, I’ll keep him by my side for one-on-one training. Being a Ninja isn’t the only path. As for the heir issue..."

Hakushi smiled, gently pulling Ruri into his arms, feeling her warmth.

"Perhaps having another child will yield an excellent heir. Should we do it?"

"You’re so improper."

Ruri rolled her eyes at him, breaking free from Hakushi’s arms and hurriedly walked away.

◎

"This year, the Daimyo gave us extra support at Konoha. So far, the budget has increased by about 40% compared to last year."

In the meeting room, the high-level leaders, led by the Third Hokage Sarutobi Hiruzen, gathered for a regular meeting.

The main issues discussed revolved around the village’s future development plans.

For now, the Third Hokage prefers internal stability, temporarily ignoring external matters.

This isn’t just because of the complex internal situation at Konoha, but Hiruzen feels physically weary and lacks the energy to focus on two fronts.

"As expected, post-war recovery requires significant funds. This doesn’t need to be brought up at the meeting. I’ve heard the Uchiha are causing a stir again."