What a headache...
Shinki, who was pressed down onto a chair by Tsunade, glanced at a document, his brow twitching.
"Why do we have to submit even reports on stalking suspects to the office?"
Tsunade, leaning against the desk, responded matter-of-factly, "To prevent power abuse. The Anbu has too much power, and if not well-regulated, someone could exploit it, leading to major issues."
Shinki was silent; this was indeed a valid concern within the Anbu. Unfortunately, the Anbu was a special unit with significant authority that couldn't be easily curtailed. Reducing certain privileges could turn the Anbu into a secondary police force, ineffective and redundant.
With great authority came the need for stringent oversight.
"Alright, I get it, but I'll need Senior Shukako's assistance."
The old man, Nara Shukako, might want to retire, but that wasn't an option.
"I helped you throughout the camp, now you're back in the village, so it's your turn."
"Fine," Tsunade agreed to Shinki's request.
Tsunade could assist with many things, but Shinki needed to familiarize himself with the Anbu roster quickly; a leader uninformed about their subordinates' intelligence would be ineffective. Thankfully, the number of ninjas in the Anbu was manageable, so gathering their information wasn't too daunting.
The war had claimed many lives, which alleviated some of Shinki's pressure but also brought its own set of challenges: filling the ranks. The Anbu, the village's most mysterious and powerful unit, was always sought after, and the annual stack of applications was always overwhelming. But filling positions in haste wasn't the priority—securing the Anbu's operations was.
In the Hokage's office, the members of the advisory group sat together.
"Hyuga Shinki resigned from Konoha Hospital and was brought into the Anbu by Tsunade as the deputy director. Tsunade will soon leave for the battlefield," the Third Hokage explained, leaning back in his chair and observing his two old partners.
Utatane Koharu's eyes brightened. "Hiruzen, once Tsunade leaves, can we..."
"No," Mitokado Hamura interrupted anxiously. "We cannot meddle with the Anbu's authority, especially during wartime."
The significance of the Anbu was unquestionable. Weakening its authority now would be disastrous for the village's strength.
"But..." Koharu pressed, discontented. With Tsunade present, challenging her would have been risky; without her, why couldn't they act?
The Third Hokage's eyes were steady. "Koharu, Hamura is right. In wartime, we cannot afford actions that diminish our own power. Any Anbu issues will be addressed after the war."
Although he had contemplated curbing the Anbu's power, the Third Hokage wasn't reckless.
"Then why call us here?" Koharu asked, irritation creeping into her voice. If everything was off the table, why gather them?
"We need more manpower," the Third Hokage hinted.
Koharu and Hamura exchanged glances. "Danzo?"
The meeting wasn't about weakening the Anbu in Tsunade's absence but about bringing Shimura Danzo back into the fold. Tsunade's watchful eye had kept him sidelined. The Third Hokage had no desire to oppose Tsunade outright, maintaining an uneasy balance instead.
With her departure, this precarious dynamic shifted; Shinki's stance would surely be less rigid.
Shimura Danzo, unpredictable and willing to make harsh decisions, was a tool—a shield for deflecting blame. If things went awry, they could point fingers at him.
Koharu hesitated, chewing on her thoughts. She worried that bringing Danzo back would provoke Tsunade.
Mitokado Hamura sighed. "We should be more concerned about Hyuga Shinki's response."
"Hmph," Koharu scoffed. "With Tsunade gone, would Hyuga Shinki really dare challenge us?"
The Third Hokage's steady gaze met hers. "Koharu, don't underestimate him. Shinki is no longer the inconspicuous figure he once was. And remember, the Anbu is under his command."
"But some risks are necessary."
Outside the Hokage office, Koharu voiced her doubts. "Are you against Danzo's return, or afraid Tsunade will come back from the battlefield in a rage?"
Hamura shook his head. "No. Tsunade is deeply committed to the village and won't abandon her responsibilities. What concerns me is Shinki's reaction."
"What's there to worry about? It's not as if he would confront us head-on," Koharu insisted.
Hamura remained silent, watching her confidence with a touch of concern. He hoped she was right.
Three days after Shinki entered the Anbu, Nara Shikako returned. Before he could rest after handing in his report, the Anbu summoned him.
Learning that he was to assist Shinki in managing the Anbu, Nara Shikako's face darkened.
"Senior, Shinki is capable but young. He needs an experienced hand for guidance. I hope you understand my intentions," Tsunade said, pressing her case.
Sitting at the desk, Shikako felt a surge of frustration. He had just returned to the village and hadn't even caught his breath, yet here he was, roped into more duties.
After Tsunade left, Shikako slammed his fist on the desk. "Spit it out. What's your real reason? Don't tell me you can't handle it."
Shinki, known for his strategic mind, had proven his competence at the front lines, managing the medical unit seamlessly. This, too, demonstrated his capability.
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Up to Chapter 290 available on Patreon.com/c/GGFanfiction :)
Gimme power stonesssss
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