In the Hokage's office, Tobirama Senju regarded Hui, who was sighing dramatically in his chair.
"All right, Hui, tell me—what position do you want to take on?" Tobirama asked directly.
Hui rolled his eyes internally but gave a cautious reply. "What if I said I don't want any position at all?... Fine, maybe I could consider something... light."
Tobirama's sharp gaze silenced any further attempt at evasion.
"Actually, I was considering appointing you as the jonin team captain of–" Tobirama started.
"Absolutely not!" Hui exclaimed, rejecting the idea immediately. "Sarutobi-sensei is doing a great job with that. There's no need to replace him."
Tobirama nodded in agreement. "That's true. I ultimately decided against it for the same reason."
Hui let out a relieved sigh. The last thing he wanted was to manage a team of hyperactive genin, especially now that he was enjoying some hard-earned leisure.
"Instead, I've decided to appoint you as the Head of the Administrative Department," Tobirama announced.
Hui almost jumped out of his chair.
…
The Administrative Department was one of Konoha's six main divisions, alongside the ANBU, Education Department, Medical Corps, Interrogation Unit, and the Police Force. Each department had a crucial role in village governance.
While the other departments were relatively straightforward, the Administrative Department stood out.
It was the body responsible for assisting the Hokage in managing Konoha's governmental affairs, bridging the village and the Land of Fire's daimyo, and even wielding legislative authority.
In other words, the Administrative Department played a critical role in shaping Konoha's policies and ensuring its prosperity.
In the world of Naruto, this role was often referred to as 'the Advisor', a position of significant power and influence—one even more taxing than being a jonin team captain.
…
"Head of the Administrative Department? I'd rather be the jonin team captain!" Hui retorted.
Tobirama smirked. "That can be arranged. I'm sure Sarutobi wouldn't mind stepping aside."
"Grandpa Tobirama, I'm not even seventeen yet! Isn't it a bit much to ask a teenager to take on such a role? Let's face it, making someone my age the Administrative Department head would be seen as a joke. The other villages would mock us for sure!" Hui tried to negotiate. "How about we revisit this when I turn twenty?"
Tobirama remained firm. "You're an exception, Hui. You're not just any sixteen-year-old—you're the Demi-God of the Shinobi World.
"With your experience as ANBU Commander, any leadership role in Konoha is just a lateral move for you. No one would dare mock you, not with your reputation.
"Besides, by the time you're twenty, I plan for you to inherit the mantle of Hokage as Konoha's Third Hokage."
Hui froze. Tobirama's declaration left no room for argument. His future had been decided.
Sighing in resignation, Hui tried one last attempt to negotiate. "What about the Medical Corps? I hear they're understaffed and underfunded. I could help build it up. Plus," he added with a sly grin, "Tsunade's likely to end up there. It'd be nice to work with her."
Tobirama's unimpressed glare pierced through Hui's flimsy attempt at an excuse.
"Hui, don't play games with me. You know what you're destined for.
"My elder brother had immense power but was too idealistic. The peace he created crumbled after his death.
"I have the vision to lead but not the overwhelming strength to enforce my ideals. My era has been one of hard-won victories and survival.
"But you, Hui—you have both the vision and the strength to guide the shinobi world into a better future. You're the bridge between ideals and reality, and you must shoulder that responsibility.
"You've often quoted me, saying, 'With great power comes great responsibility.' Now it's time for you to live by it."
Hui was deeply moved by Tobirama's faith in him.
Taking a deep breath, he gave a firm nod. "I understand, Grandpa Tobirama. I'll take the role of Head of the Administrative Department."
Tobirama's expression softened as he gave Hui a rare smile. "Good. I'll give you ten days of leave. After that, your work begins."
Hui left the office, a sense of determination replacing his earlier slump.
Looking out at the village, he thought, Maybe I can make a real difference. Perhaps I can shape a better future for this world.
In the Hokage's office, Tobirama watched Hui leave, a hint of pride in his eyes.
"This boy," Tobirama murmured to himself, "has never let me down. I can't wait to see the world he'll create."
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