After Kazuku defeated Gengetsu, Mist sent no more ninja.
The Land of Waves' daimyo implemented her new policies smoothly.
Kazuku's victory over Gengetsu spread across the nation.
Everyone was shocked that a seven-year-old wielded such power.
His presence gave the people hope.
Maritime transport was established.
The daimyo realized her dream of opening the country.
Whether her ultimate vision would succeed was up to time.
Kazuku wasn't optimistic.
A man named Gato would later control her maritime network.
A true capitalist.
Ultimately, Kazuku received the promised two million ryo and returned to Konoha.
He didn't rest, heading straight to the Hokage Tower, dismissing the team.
He could handle the report alone.
Hiruzen and the others had no objections.
Kazuku was now a Konoha celebrity.
Especially among the Anbu guarding the Hokage Tower.
They all knew the seven-year-old was promoted to Special Jonin.
Such a rapid rise shocked them.
When Kazuku appeared, an Anbu promptly escorted him.
Two minutes later, he reached the Hokage's office door.
Knock, knock, knock.
The Anbu rapped rhythmically.
"Come in."
With Tobirama's permission, the Anbu opened the door, gesturing for Kazuku to enter, staying behind.
As Kazuku stepped in, the Anbu closed the door.
Tobirama looked surprised seeing Kazuku.
"You're back, Kazuku."
"Yeah." Kazuku nodded, placing a suitcase on Tobirama's desk.
"What's this?" Tobirama blinked, understanding. He opened it.
Inside was the daimyo's payment.
Two million ryo!
"Mission accomplished," Kazuku said softly.
To him, the two million was earned easily.
He only faced Gengetsu once.
No other ninja appeared.
Most of the time, he was with the daimyo.
A beautiful young girl.
Kazuku had a relaxed, carefree time.
And got paid.
"If there are more missions like this, give them to me."
Kazuku added after a thought.
"Kazuku…" Tobirama blinked, touched.
Though only seven, Kazuku was a capable ninja!
He not only completed the mission flawlessly but showed such responsibility!
Wanting to take on dangerous tasks!
However…
Due to the Five Great Villages' peace treaty, such missions were rare.
Even if Tobirama wanted to assign Kazuku, opportunities were scarce.
"By the way, Kazuku."
Tobirama suddenly recalled something important. "You haven't been home, right?"
"Hm?"
Kazuku nodded. "No, why?"
Tobirama's abrupt question caught him off guard.
Did something happen at home?
Could it be…
Kazuku's eyes widened, questions swirling.
Tobirama's seriousness…
Was it about Hashirama…
Something happened?
His illness worsened?
Or…
He was gone?
No way.
Kazuku remembered Hashirama lived until Tsunade's birth.
Her gambling habit came from him.
Most critically!
If Hashirama died, the First Ninja War would erupt!
"Kazuku…"
As Kazuku's mind raced, Tobirama's expression grew graver.
This made Kazuku even more nervous.
Did his transmigration cause a butterfly effect…
Altering the timeline?
Hashirama's death, brought forward?
"Starting today…"
Tobirama took a deep breath, his voice low.
Kazuku: "???"
Come on, don't keep me in suspense!
What happened?
I'm dying here!
As Kazuku's anxiety peaked…
Tobirama, usually stone-faced…
Smiled warmly.
His eyes even sparkled.
Kazuku had never seen this expression on Tobirama.
Unbelievable.
The next second…
Tobirama revealed the truth.
"You now have someone to protect, though not a brother."
Kazuku: "???"
What?
Someone to protect?
Not a brother.
A sister?
Wait!
A sister?!
Kazuku blinked, his mouth agape, gasping.
Thinking about it, he'd been away from the village for a while.
While protecting the daimyo…
Tsunade…
Was born?
Kazuku pictured Tsunade.
The Tsunade with… uh, very fair skin!
Without hesitation, he bolted from the office.
This was newborn Tsunade!
Less than a year old, no teeth yet!
"This Kazuku."
Tobirama was stunned, not even blinking before Kazuku vanished.
Too absurd!
Was a sister that exciting for a boy?
Tobirama shook his head. Their family was all boys.
"Hm?"
Mid-thought, Tobirama frowned.
A strange idea popped up.
Izuna looked kind of girlish.
If Izuna were Madara's sister…
"What am I thinking? Ridiculous…"
Tobirama scoffed, banishing the thought.
Just then, Danzo reached the office, seeing the half-open door, knocking symbolically.
"Danzo?"
Tobirama looked up, noticing Danzo at the doorway.
"What's up?"
"Lord Tobirama." Danzo took a deep breath, striding in, presenting a prepared bottle containing flesh in nutrient solution.
"What's this?" Tobirama frowned. "Where'd you get it?"
"Hozuki Gengetsu." Danzo spoke truthfully, explaining how he obtained it.
In his heart…
He revered Tobirama most, aspiring to inherit his will.
(End of Chapter)