Joining the Anbu means being close to the power and political center of Konoha. The Anbu are the Hokage's most trusted operatives, directly carrying out classified missions and acting as his personal enforcers. Because of this, many of the major clans in Konoha push to have their members join the Anbu, hoping to secure influence and protect their family interests.
But for Kazuki, the idea of joining the Anbu was far from appealing.
He had no interest in the dark and treacherous political struggles within the village. The old system that Hiruzen Sarutobi maintained was corrupt and decaying. To Kazuki, joining the Anbu would be nothing more than a waste of time. He would rather dedicate himself to crafting ninja tools, refining his skills, or… anything else.
Only a fool would willingly step into that mess.
"Kazuki, don't be so hasty in your decision."
Sarutobi Hiruzen's aged face was marked with deep wrinkles, yet his smile remained gentle as he spoke.
"Joining the Anbu isn't just an opportunity for personal growth; it's also a way to better protect your family. As an Anbu, you'll gain firsthand knowledge of the village's internal affairs, the Land of Fire's security, and even the movements of the other great nations. You'll also receive critical intelligence before anyone else.
And remember, the families of Anbu members receive priority protection during emergencies. This is one of the key advantages of joining."
He paused for a moment before adding with a knowing smile,
"Beyond that… I can offer my personal assistance."
Kazuki narrowed his eyes slightly.
"Your family runs a ninja tool shop, does it not?" Hiruzen continued. "If you join Anbu, I can ensure that all official orders for ninja tools—those meant for the Anbu, the Konoha Military Police Force, the Torture and Interrogation Unit—are directed to your family's business."
Kazuki's mind immediately processed the implication.
Intimidation and temptation.
Sarutobi Hiruzen was truly a cunning old man.
First, he subtly pressured Kazuki by bringing up his family's safety, implying that joining Anbu would guarantee their protection. Then, he dangled a lucrative offer in front of him.
Kazuki knew very well that while his family's shop was Konoha's largest supplier of ninja tools, it had only operated in retail. The bulk supply of weapons to the village's core institutions had always been monopolized by the Sarutobi clan behind the scenes. The contracts Hiruzen controlled were worth far more than standard sales.
If he could secure those orders, his family's business would double in size overnight. It could dominate the ninja tool market in Konoha, perhaps even forming a near-monopoly.
Kazuki's resolve wavered.
After all, Hiruzen Sarutobi wouldn't be around much longer.
In just two years, during the Chunin Exams when Naruto and his peers graduated, Orochimaru would assassinate Hiruzen during the Konoha Crush.
Kazuki wouldn't have to serve under him for long.
And Danzo Shimura—another schemer still lurking in the shadows—was always a threat. While Kazuki doubted Danzo had set his sights on him or his family, becoming an Anbu operative would at least add an extra layer of security.
After weighing his options, Kazuki smiled.
"Thank you for your guidance, Lord Hokage. I understand now."
The wise man knows when to adapt.
"I will join the Anbu."
"Good. Very good."
Hiruzen nodded approvingly before turning to Kakashi Hatake.
"I'll leave him in your hands. Handle his assignments as you see fit."
Kakashi's visible eye flickered with uncertainty.
"Lord Hokage…"
But before he could voice his concerns, Hiruzen cut him off.
"Kakashi, don't question my decision. Once Kazuki joins the Anbu, he will prove his worth."
Kakashi remained silent for a few moments before finally nodding in understanding and replying respectfully,
"Yes, Hokage-sama."
…
That evening, Kazuki returned home.
At the dinner table sat Kazuki, his younger sister Tenten, their father Takeshi, and their mother Keiko. The atmosphere was warm, and the meal was particularly lavish.
Tonight's dinner was a celebration—Tenten and her classmates had successfully passed Might Guy's assessment, officially forming Team Guy, also known as Team 9.
Starting tomorrow, the three of them would begin their missions under Might Guy's leadership. However, no one in the family was yet aware of the significant development in Kazuki's life.
As they ate, Kazuki suddenly placed his chopsticks down and stood up, his expression serious. His voice carried a weight that instantly drew everyone's attention.
"Father, Mother, Tenten… I'll be joining the Anbu starting tomorrow."
Clatter!
The chopsticks in Takeshi's hand slipped from his fingers, falling to the floor with a dull sound. He froze, completely stunned.
Keiko's hands covered her mouth, her beautiful eyes widening in shock.
Tenten had the strongest reaction—she jumped up from her seat, her mouth gaping wide enough to fit an entire rice ball.
"Brother… what did you just say?! Where are you going tomorrow?"
Wasn't this reaction a bit too much? Were they really that shocked to hear he had joined the Anbu?
If they knew he had initially rejected the Hokage's offer and only accepted after certain concessions were made, wouldn't they be even more dumbfounded?
Kazuki had no choice but to repeat himself.
"I'm reporting to the Anbu tomorrow."
Bang!
Takeshi abruptly stood up, slamming both hands on the table. His eyes were sharp as he sought confirmation.
"Son, you're not joking, are you? You were actually recruited into Anbu?"
Kazuki sighed, unsure whether to laugh or cry. He could only nod.
"Of course. Why would I lie about something like this?"
Takeshi's emotions surged between disbelief and overwhelming joy.
Shock—because Kazuki was only twelve years old. He had never heard of a ninja joining the Anbu at such a young age. Could his son be the youngest Anbu member in Konoha's history?
Joy—because both of his children had become ninjas, and his eldest son, at only twelve, had already been recognized by one of the village's most elite organizations.
This was proof of Kazuki's extraordinary talent and strength!
It was an honor that would bring prestige to their family name.
Ten years ago, a young boy from a humble civilian family had risen to greatness in Konoha.
With exceptional talent, he became a disciple of Jiraiya, one of the Legendary Sannin. Through his mastery of ninjutsu, he developed techniques that shone brightly in the Third Shinobi World War. His speed on the battlefield was so legendary that enemies feared him, calling him Konoha's Yellow Flash.
That boy later became the Fourth Hokage—Namikaze Minato.
Even though more than a decade had passed since his tragic death, Minato's legacy remained etched in the hearts of many, especially those of the older generation. His strength, brilliance, and noble spirit were unforgettable.
And now, Takeshi saw a similar spark in his son.
Though Kazuki came from an ordinary background, he had already proven himself with remarkable talent and powerful ninjutsu.
Could his own son one day rise to such heights… perhaps even become Hokage?
The thought alone made Takeshi's blood surge with excitement.
A Celebration to Remember
"Tenten! Hurry up and tell your Second Uncle and the others!" Takeshi suddenly shouted.
Tenten blinked in confusion. "Tell them what?"
"Tell them that your brother has joined the Anbu! This is a huge event! Our family should share this joy with everyone!"
He paused, then added, "Oh, and tell them to free up their schedules this weekend! We're hosting a big family gathering to celebrate!"
Takeshi's face was flushed with excitement, as though he had just finished a victorious battle.
Tenten sighed but smiled. "Alright, alright, I got it."
And with that, the news of Kazuki's Anbu enlistment began to spread among the family.
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