(Edited)
The classroom was silent as everyone listened intently to Tobirama's explanation of the ninja way. These children were born to be ninjas, and there was no other path for them. Becoming a great ninja was their ultimate goal. However, the path to greatness was still unclear to many, and Tobirama's teachings provided a much-needed direction.
Fumori Masaki had always believed that his life's purpose was to be a ninja, living and dying by the code. But after glimpsing the way of life in another world, he began to feel disillusioned with the ninja profession. If he had never seen that other world, he might have never questioned the ninja way. But now, he couldn't help but see the flaws in the very foundation of their existence.
Ninjas are warriors for hire, bound to fight for their employers, no matter the cause. If they stop fighting, their purpose ceases to exist. This cycle of violence ensures that war is inevitable—only through conflict can ninjas maintain their value.
Even the Fourth Hokage, Namikaze Minato, once said, "As long as there is a ninja system in this world, there may be no real peace." While he didn't capture every reason, Minato recognized that ninjas were a significant factor in the ongoing strife. In a truly peaceful world, there would be no need for ninjas. How, then, could they survive?
Tobirama was undoubtedly a genius, but even he couldn't escape the confines of ninja thinking. In assisting his brother Hashirama in governing the village, he managed Konoha as a military organization, which was necessary given the times. However, the Konoha of later generations that Masaki glimpsed no longer resembled a military force but rather a small society. Despite this evolution, the village leadership still clung to outdated notions, preventing Konoha from advancing further.
Masaki admired the other world he had seen—at least in its civilized nations, children weren't sent to battle at the age of twelve or younger, and citizens enjoyed legal rights and protections. Unlike the ninja world, where rights depended on strength, Konoha Ninja Village could not have been established without the raw power of Hashirama and Madara.
For now, Masaki accepted the reality that the ninja were still emerging from the shadows and that societal change would take time. But the Konoha he saw sixty years in the future remained stagnant, still subservient to feudal lords who looked down on them. The Land of Wind's Fourth Kazekage even plotted to attack allies due to budget cuts imposed by the daimyo. This wasn't a result of weakness but a consequence of Ninja Villages still viewing themselves as mere contractors, never imagining they could overthrow their feudal masters.
Previously, Masaki would have dismissed the idea of ninjas producing goods or taking control of their country as ridiculous. But now, he firmly believed that feudal remnants like the daimyo should be swept away. With chakra, ninjas could do much more than just fight—why couldn't they be the ones in power?
If it were up to him, Masaki would immediately transform Konoha into a more civilized society, bringing the entire Land of Fire along with it. However, he knew this was unrealistic. Such a shift required not only advanced systems but also new ways of thinking. And the current generation of ninjas was too grateful to the daimyo for allowing them to step out of the shadows. They would never consider opposing their benefactors.
If Masaki openly opposed the current system, he would be crushed. Traditional power structures don't change easily, and he lacked the means to challenge them. In fact, his very survival depended on these traditions, without which he would have long perished.
As Masaki listened to Tobirama's lecture, he couldn't help but sigh, longing for the life he had glimpsed in that other world. Sitting next to him, Uchiha Kagami noticed his sigh and wondered if Masaki was feeling uncertain about his future as a great ninja.
Kagami was the heir of the prestigious Uchiha clan, a status that afforded him privileges far beyond those of smaller clans like the Fumori. However, he had heard of Masaki's determination to restore his family's honor. Rumor had it that Masaki once delayed a marriage into the Senju clan, choosing instead to wait until he could prove himself. Such resolve impressed Kagami, and he couldn't imagine Masaki giving up now.
Yet rumors are just that—rumors. Kagami wondered if Masaki had changed, if perhaps he was losing his resolve. Feeling it was his duty to support his classmate, Kagami decided to reach out.
Soon after, Tobirama concluded his lecture. "I'll stop here for today. Now that you understand what it means to be a ninja and the purpose of this school, go home and rest. Tomorrow, we begin training. Make sure you get enough sleep tonight."
The thirty-eight students rose to their feet, bidding farewell to Tobirama, who nodded slightly before leaving the classroom. As Tobirama departed, the students eagerly discussed the lecture, marveling at his brilliance. It was no wonder he was Hashirama's trusted advisor.
Masaki, however, was lost in thought. Tobirama's words had only deepened his desire to become Hokage, not just to prevent future tragedies but to guide Konoha into a brighter future. He dreamed of a day when the entire Land of Fire could be reformed from top to bottom.
"Masaki-kun," a voice called from behind. Masaki turned to see Uchiha Kagami approaching him.
Surprised, Masaki wondered why Kagami had sought him out. Although Kagami was known for his kindness, it was unusual for a member of a prestigious clan to pay attention to someone like him.
"What's the matter, Kagami-kun?" Masaki asked.
"I hope we can work hard together in the future," Kagami said with a smile. "I've heard about you, Masaki-kun. I admire your determination. I hope we both become disciples of Hashirama-sama and Tobirama-sama. If you ever need help during our studies, don't hesitate to ask. I'll do my best to assist you."
Masaki was taken aback by Kagami's offer. Though surprised, he found himself liking Kagami even more. "Thank you, Kagami-kun. I'll keep that in mind."
"Great," Kagami nodded. "See you tomorrow, Masaki-kun."
"See you tomorrow."
As Masaki walked home, he thought carefully about his plans for the future, determined to achieve his dreams.
When he arrived home, the smell of dinner greeted him. A faint smile crossed his face as he pushed open the door. Inside, Rimi was busy cooking. Hearing the door, she glanced back and said, "You're back just in time. Dinner's almost ready. Take a seat and wait."