Konoha Year 36, June..
The forest's climate grew hot and oppressive.
It had been three months since Shiraishi left the village on his mission.
During that time, he encountered a total of eleven waves of enemies. Aside from the initial encounter with five Jonin, Suna troops he faced afterward proved to be weak in combat.
Sometimes, Sakumo didn't even need to intervene as a Jonin. He could simply stand back while Shiraishi and the others effortlessly wiped out enemies outnumbering them several times over.
With each battle, Shiraishi and his team gained more experience and improved their cooperation.
To develop new tactics, Shiraishi gathered materials from the environment to make smoke bombs.
Fortunately, he had some basic tools sealed within a scroll. During his rest periods, Shiraishi would take them out and create smoke bombs.
Sakumo was no stranger to this.
While Ruri and Ayane focused on building their strength, Shiraishi stood out as the one with the greatest knowledge and flexibility of mind among the three.
Sakumo appreciated Shiraishi's calm and methodical approach to studying and self-improvement during the war.
Thus, Sakumo proposed a special training for Shiraishi.
He would teach Shiraishi Kenjutsu.
Although he couldn't assist Shiraishi in the field of medical ninjutsu and research, as a Jonin skilled in Kenjutsu, Sakumo believed he could impart kenjitsu to Shiraishi, enabling him to defend himself effectively.
By doing so, the overall combat effectiveness of the team, with Ruri and Ayane included, would greatly increase.
Shiraishi was surprised when Sakumo proposed the special training, but he didn't refuse.
During his free time, he practiced swordsmanship with Sakumo.
His weapon of choice was a standard ninja sword, slightly longer than the White Fang. However, when it came to chakra conduction, it paled in comparison.
Ordinary weapons couldn't undergo changes in their chakra properties like the sophisticated White Fang could, making them more vulnerable and prone to breaking.
On a hot afternoon, with the sun bearing down on them, Ruri and Ayane approached Shiraishi, holding fresh clothes.
"Just a reminder, please don't come to peek while we bathe" Ruri said, emphasizing the need for privacy.
Shiraishi assured them, "Don't worry, you can go ahead. Even if I die, I'll prevent Sakumo-sensei."
"I'm referring to you, not Sakumo-sensei."
"..."
No matter how foolish he may be, Shiraishi would never dare to peek at a twelve-year-old girl bathing.
Ruri's watchful eyes pained him.
"It wouldn't matter if Shiraishi-kun were to peek. If he does, I'll ensure he's no longer a man" Ayane said with a soft smile, hinting at something deeper.
Though her words sounded gentle like a spring breeze, they sent shivers down one's spine.
Watching Ruri and Ayane walk away, Shiraishi sighed and said, "Honestly, it's only bathing, not a camping trip."
"We have no other choice. These past few months have been filled with battles or constant movement. It's better to let them relax. Besides, we're closer to a guard post in Konoha, making it safer than the other areas," Sakumo added.
Shiraishi had no choice but to agree with Sakumo's reasoning.
In the dense forest, a gentle breeze mixed with an irritating warmth blew through. Under these circumstances, Shiraishi sought solace in taking a peaceful nap in the shade of a tree.
"Do we still have no clarity on the situation at the front lines?" Shiraishi asked as he sat beneath the tree, sipping water from a cup.
"Well, Orochimaru and the others are there, but they're up against Suna's Kazekage himself. It won't be an easy victory" Sakumo replied, settling down beside Shiraishi.
While the overall quality of Konoha's ninjas on the front lines may be superior to that of Suna forces, the absence of decisive and powerful ninjas on par with the contemporary Five Kage contributed to the stalemate.
"In such a situation, if Hokage-sama were to appear, perhaps they could single-handedly turn the tide of battle," Shiraishi suggested.
Shaking his head at Shiraishi's idea, Sakumo responded, "Konoha is different from the other four ninja villages. The Land of Fire is located in the middle of the continent, surrounded by four major powers. There are numerous factors to consider. If the Hokage were to personally rush to the battlefield, it would be an act of last resort."
"It's no easy task being a Hokage..."
"Yeah, that's the life of a Hokage."
"Sakumo-sensei, have you ever thought about becoming a Hokage?" Shiraishi suddenly asked, hoping to engage in an interesting conversation to pass the time.
With nothing else to do, discussing such topics would help kill time.
Sakumo chuckled wryly and replied, "No, not for me. I wouldn't survive as Hokage—I don't understand politics at all."
"That's not entirely true. Sakumo-sensei could be the voice conveying the Hokage's message, even louder than the Sannin," Shiraishi remarked.
"Having said that, the Hokage is still formidable. But becoming Hokage is something I've never seriously considered," Shiraishi said, nodding in understanding.
The reputation of the Third Hokage in Konoha Village is indeed excellent. According to Ruri, even the Uchiha clan has a harmonious relationship with the Third Hokage and they engage in prosperous business transactions.
But... how long can this kind of compassion and courage last?
The current Third Hokage is 46 years old. If he remained in the position of Hokage for another ten years, he will reach the age of retirement and make way for the next generation.
As people grow older, their concerns multiply.
The ambitions they held in their youth become more challenging to pursue as they age.
The Uchiha clan holds more power than the Hokage's direct subordinates, the Anbu.
This is not only a testament to the trust placed in the Uchiha clan but also an expression of caution and counsel.
Currently, the third Hokage was not concerned because their strength is formidable and their influence is significant. Even if any issues arise with the Uchiha clan, they are confident in their ability to resolve them, even by force.
However, this confidence cannot last indefinitely.
Therefore, selecting a new Hokage within the next ten years to assume the role of the third Hokage is the true path for Konoha to become a strong village.
At that time, Sakumo would be in his thirties, the prime age for a ninja.
It is estimated that his strength at that time would surpass his current capabilities.
With his reputation, strength, loyalty, and character, even if Sakumo himself doesn't aspire to become Hokage, everyone will make every effort to persuade him to take up the position.
"Regardless, if Sakumo-sensei were to contend for the position of Hokage, it would undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the village."
"You know, I'm not interested in becoming Hokage anymore. I believe my life is good as it is now. If I were to become Hokage, I wouldn't have the same freedom to go on missions and fight alongside my fellow villagers."
"What a shame..."
Shiraishi sighed.
"I'll go find something to eat. There's not enough food in the backpack. I'll leave the task of looking after those two to you."
"Understood."
Shiraishi watched Sakumo's retreating back for a while before withdrawing his gaze.