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Tsunade sat in a quiet corner of the restaurant, a stack of files spread across the table. Shizune sat beside her, sipping tea as they reviewed the reports on the Genin who had participated in this year's Chunin Exams.
After flipping through several files, Tsunade finally came across one that made her pause. Inoiki.
As she read through his record, her brows lifted in surprise. "This boy's mission history is on par with the prodigies from the Shinobi World Wars. To have such an impressive track record at his age… that's remarkable." She tapped a finger on the file. "And his strength—what do I even say? During Orochimaru's attack on Konoha, he managed to kill a Jonin, two Special Jonin, and twenty Chunin. That's not just impressive for a Genin—it's a feat that even some Elite Jonin would struggle to accomplish."
Shizune nodded. "Yes. And from what I've heard, he possesses a rare and powerful Kekkei Genkai. That's likely the key to his extraordinary abilities."
Tsunade glanced back at the file, her expression thoughtful. "Psychokinesis," she murmured, reading the name of his bloodline limit. She closed the folder with a sigh. "Still, having a gifted Kekkei Genkai doesn't change the fact that his raw talent and accomplishments speak for themselves. We can't overlook his strength just because he was born with an advantage."
Shizune nodded in agreement. "Hmm."
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, considering. This boy was no ordinary Genin. And she had a feeling he was only getting started.
Tsunade pondered for a moment before speaking. "Shizune, after the Hokage ceremony, summon Inoiki's teammates to my office. I'd like to meet them—I need to talk about Inoiki."
Shizune gave a firm nod. "Understood. I'll arrange it."
In the days that followed, life in Konoha steadily returned to normal. Tsunade devoted much of her time to researching ways to heal Lee, the memory of his unwavering determination still fresh in her mind. Meanwhile, more and more shinobi returned to the village, eager to witness the official Hokage ceremony—the moment when the Fifth Hokage would formally take her place.
Finally, the day arrived.
Before a gathered crowd, Tsunade stood atop the Hokage Building, wearing her usual attire with the newly bestowed Hokage cap. Koharu and Homura, the elder members of Konoha's council, had just handed her the official title.
She stepped forward, gazing down at the villagers, her voice firm and unwavering.
"I am the Hokage."
Simple. Direct. No unnecessary words.
For a brief moment, there was silence—then the crowd erupted in cheers. The village roared in celebration, welcoming their new leader.
Among those in the crowd stood Inoiki, his family by his side. As he watched the woman who now led Konoha, something inside him stirred. This was the dawn of a new era.
The next day, Tsunade summoned Inoiki to her office. When he arrived and stepped inside, he found Kakashi, Asuma, and Kurenai already present, standing alongside Izumo and Kotetsu. Their presence made it clear—this was not just a casual meeting.
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, studying him for a moment before speaking. "So, you're Inoiki—the one I've been hearing so much about. I've gone through your file."
Inoiki met her gaze and gave a respectful nod. "Yes, Lady Hokage."
Tsunade picked up a sheet of paper from her desk and began reading aloud. "Fought and defeated a Chunin at the age of six. At twelve, eliminated an entire team of rogue ninjas led by a Jonin during your first B-rank mission. Faced off against Orochimaru, landed two serious blows that forced him to use his body replacement technique. Killed the giant boa he summoned—something an entire squad of ninja failed to subdue." She set the file down, exhaling slightly. "And that's just the highlight reel."
She folded her hands on the desk and met his eyes. "Your strength and your rank don't match. What do you think about that?"
Inoiki answered without hesitation. "I did what I had to because I had the strength to do it—and the village needed me at the time. That's all. But, of course, I hope my actions will be recognized and counted as achievements toward my promotion."
Tsunade studied him for a long moment. There was no arrogance in his voice, only calm confidence. He had no doubt in his abilities, nor did he seek unnecessary praise. That, she noted, was a rare trait.
Tsunade nodded, her sharp gaze fixed on Inoiki. "I like your bluntness," she said. "I spoke with your teammates, and after hearing them out, I've come to a conclusion—during missions, you do all the work, while they… well, they're just along for the ride. What do you have to say about that?"
Inoiki's expression remained calm. "It's not that they're incapable. The issue is that we're limited to B-rank missions. If we had higher-ranking assignments, they'd have more critical roles to play."
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