---
**Inside a ramen shop.**
"The issue is clear," Obito began, stirring his noodles thoughtfully. "The senior members of our clan aren't accustomed to helping others. Add to that the reputation the Uchiha Security Department has earned over the years, and it's no surprise the villagers naturally reject us."
He paused, sighing heavily. "As a genin, I don't feel the same resistance because I'm young and inexperienced in their eyes. But for the elders, it's an uphill battle. Changing the villagers' perception of Uchiha will take time."
The Security Department, once a source of pride for the Uchiha clan, had become a symbol of friction under Hiruzen Sarutobi's leadership. Its rigid and authoritative role created a wedge between the clan and the villagers. Despite their significant contributions, like defending against Kirigakure during the Second Great Ninja War, these achievements were underreported, leaving the Uchiha's heroics unrecognized.
"Now, with this sudden shift toward kindness and the whole 'find your guardian object' initiative, it's no wonder the villagers are uneasy," Obito concluded.
---
Madara, seated across from Obito, leaned forward, his expression intense. "If the problem is clear, then what's the solution?"
Obito straightened up, feeling the weight of Madara's gaze. "The solution is simple but gradual," he explained cautiously. "We need to find a few approachable elders within the clan. I'll guide them on how to engage with villagers in a way that doesn't scare them. From there, we can slowly shift the public's perception of the Uchiha. But this won't happen overnight."
Madara nodded thoughtfully. "Very well. Do it your way. We'll select the right individuals to assist you." Then, with a rare approving tone, he added, "Obito, I'm entrusting this task to you."
Obito blinked in disbelief before straightening up. "Understood! I won't let you down!" A surge of pride filled his chest—he had earned recognition from Uchiha Madara himself, an honor few could claim.
---
**In the Hokage's Office.**
Namikaze Minato, now acting Hokage, had made significant progress in reorganizing Konoha. Within just ten days, he had implemented major changes:
- **Hatake Sakumo** joined village leadership, taking charge of key administrative matters.
- **Yamanaka Inoichi** assumed full control of the Intelligence Department, gaining decision-making authority.
- Members of the **Nara clan** were integrated into the Medical Corps, overseeing the supply of medicinal herbs and assisting in pharmaceutical development alongside Tsunade.
- **Nara Shikaku** was recruited as a direct advisor to Minato, ensuring strategic governance.
- The **Security Department** underwent a major overhaul, with roles expanded to include village gate security and garrison tasks outside Konoha, with cooperation from the Hyuga clan.
Minato's reforms had not only streamlined village operations but also gained approval from many clans, reducing the inequality that had plagued Konoha under previous administrations.
---
Tsunade entered the office, looking curious. "You called for me, Hokage?"
Minato rose from his desk, his expression sincere. "Tsunade-sama, the daimyo has requested an audience. I need to travel to the Land of Fire's capital, and I'd like you, Orochimaru, and Jiraiya to accompany me."
Tsunade raised an eyebrow. "A meeting with the daimyo? Should we head to the capital directly, or is there another plan?"
"Directly to the daimyo's mansion," Minato confirmed. "But we must be discreet. With the Third Hokage and Danzo gone, Konoha's current leadership appears vulnerable. I'd like you all to accompany me as ordinary jōnin to avoid drawing attention. Roy will join us as well."
"Understood," Tsunade replied. "When do we leave?"
"In five days," Minato said. "I still have some matters to finalize here, and the daimyo needs time to prepare for our arrival."
Tsunade nodded but noticed Minato hesitating. "Is there something else?"
After a brief pause, Minato handed her a document. Tsunade recognized it immediately—it was a trade agreement drafted by Reiki under the Third Hokage's administration, outlining the sale of medicinal potions.
Tsunade's eyes narrowed. "What are you planning with this, Minato?" she asked, suspicion creeping into her tone. "Are you trying to exploit this now that you're Hokage?"
Minato shook his head, his tone earnest. "Not at all. I think it's inappropriate to sell these potions within the village. Instead, I propose incorporating them as mission rewards. By doing so, we can encourage ninja to take on more missions while ensuring they have access to the medicine they need. It's a win-win."
Tsunade considered his suggestion, her stance softening. "Hmph. That's not a bad idea," she admitted grudgingly.
---
As plans unfolded for the trip to the daimyo's mansion, Konoha's gears turned. The Uchiha clan embarked on their journey of transformation, guided by Obito's efforts. Meanwhile, Minato's reforms continued to reshape the village's foundation, building a stronger, more unified Konoha for the future.