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Chapter 44 - A Hokage’s Duties, A Father’s Concerns

Yes, Hiruzen is married.

His wife, Sarutobi Biwako, was originally from the dispersed Senju clan. After their marriage, she took on his surname.

Hiruzen hadn't planned to follow the arranged matches suggested in the original story—he believed such things were up to fate. However, ever since he became the Hokage, Uzumaki Mito had been persistently arranging blind dates for him, bringing up the topic every few days. Out of obligation, Hiruzen met a few potential matches, but none left an impression on him.

That changed when Tsunade's younger brother was born. As the Hokage, Hiruzen needed to visit the newborn. During his visit to the Senju clan's territory, he encountered Biwako, a senior kunoichi from the Sealing Class who had also come to see the baby. She scolded him on the spot for smoking near an infant, leaving Hiruzen utterly embarrassed.

Naturally, he couldn't retaliate against a female ninja, but he did look into her background. Discovering that she was an experienced member of the Sealing Class, he used his authority to push forward a new policy: the Proposal on Strengthening the Security of Konoha's Barrier. Under this new regulation, the Sealing Class was required to patrol Konoha's barrier every morning and evening.

With Konoha's population nearing 100,000 peoples the village was quite large. A single patrol covered significant ground, including training fields and the Forest of Death—about a 10-kilometer trek. Though it was not exhausting for ninjas, it was tedious. However, since it was framed as a security measure, no one could argue against it. Eventually, the Sealing Class approached the Hokage, requesting to reduce patrols to once a day due to a shortage of personnel.

Hiruzen, however, refused. He sternly reprimanded Biwako, claiming they were neglecting Konoha's safety. His lecture lasted an hour before he relented, assigning more personnel to the Sealing Class—but instead of reducing patrols, he increased them to three times a day.

Biwako wasn't one to back down. She retaliated by reporting patrol results to him in person every morning, noon, and night. Hiruzen, fed up, tried to avoid her multiple times, only to be caught and criticized for neglecting the village's safety.

Over time, the two became familiar with each other. Hiruzen eventually dropped the pretense and continued making life difficult for the Sealing Class—but all within official regulations. Their constant back-and-forth continued until Uzumaki Mito finally stepped in to mediate. Surprisingly, after all the arguments, they ended up becoming friends.

After two years of this dynamic, they finally got married last year.

Sakumo hesitated, "Should I eat at the Anbu cafeteria first, then head home?"

"What? You don't like my wife's cooking?", Hiruzen replied.

Sakumo panicked, "No, it's not that! I just don't want to keep you both waiting if I'm late."

Hiruzen smirked, "Call your two brothers and the three little ones. It's a mission now."

"Understood, Master."

Economic Maneuvering —

Hiruzen turned his attention to another pressing matter—Fire Country Trading Co., Ltd.

Although Konoha held shares, it hadn't received any profits for years. The Daimyo's government treated the village as mere enforcers—using its shinobi for missions while ensuring that wealth remained concentrated among the nobles.

Danzo had been tasked with handling the matter, but progress was sluggish. Hiruzen realized he needed another sharp mind to take on the challenge.

He called for Shikaru, "Shikaru, how long have you been working at the Hokage's office?"

"Four years, Lord Hokage."

Hiruzen smiled. "Do you have any interest in training for a different role?"

Shikaru stiffened. Had he done something wrong?

"I will follow your orders."

"Stay calm. I need you at the Fire Trade Company," Hiruzen said firmly. "The Daimyo's government has been withholding our share of the profits. Your job is to correct that. If necessary, I'll have the Security Department and Customs apply pressure."

Shikaru let out a deep sigh. "My son just turned a month old…"

Hiruzen gave him a reassuring look. "I'll approve three days off each month so you can spend time with your family."

Shikaru rubbed his temples. "What a drag…"

Hiruzen smirked. "I'll also raise your fieldwork allowance by 30%."

Shikaru exhaled through his nose, shaking his head. "…Fine, I'll go."

A Hokage's Burden —

That evening, Hiruzen stood atop the Hokage Monument, watching over Konoha.

The village was growing—stronger, more stable. But there was still much to do.

In time, the ninja clans would integrate fully. In time, Konoha would prosper beyond mere military might.

For now, he pushed those thoughts aside.

It was time to go home since Biwako was waiting.

The Return of the Disciples —

As soon as he stepped inside, Biwako frowned, her expression making it clear—she wasn't happy.

Noticing her expression, Sarutobi Hiruzen shook the water off his hands and stepped closer. Wrapping his arms around her waist from behind, he rested his chin on her shoulder and spoke softly.

"When the young eagles grow strong, they must take a flight. If we keep them grounded for too long, they'll see us as chains rather than guidance. It's better to let them spread their wings and face the ninja world on their own terms."

He paused, then added with a small smile, "Besides, I assigned Sakumo as their examiner. With his personality, he won't go easy on them."

Biwako sighed. "And little Tsunade? You're letting her graduate too?"

"They all applied for early graduation. As long as they meet the requirements, I won't interfere. They could have graduated years ago, but I held them back with the academy system. Now, there's no reason to stop them. Let them graduate together and placed in the same team. That way, I'll feel more at ease."

Just then, the heavy sound of a stone door shifting echoed through the house. They quickly stepped apart, composing themselves.

Soon after, the familiar sound of sparring rang out in the yard.

"Master! Master's wife! We're back!"

Hearing the call, Hiruzen removed his apron and stepped outside. His disciples stood gathered in the courtyard, their faces filled with energy after the day's training. Among them was a small boy with striking purple and white hair.

Hiruzen's gaze landed on the unfamiliar child. "Is this Dan? Welcome."

Kato Dan looked flustered. "Lord Hokage!"

Hiruzen chuckled, patting his shoulder reassuringly. "There's no need to be nervous. Right now, I'm just a parent welcoming my child's friend. Come, have a seat."

He guided Dan to a spot in the yard just as an impatient voice interrupted.

"Oi, old man! We're back!" Jiraiya, ever the loud one, grumbled with exaggerated dissatisfaction.

Hiruzen scratched his ear, pretending to be annoyed. "I can hear you just fine. Now, why don't you pour some tea for your classmate? Show some manners."

Dan quickly waved his hands. "Oh, no, that's not necessary!"

Meanwhile, inside the house, Biwako heard Jiraiya's loud voice coming from the yard. Stepping out, she glanced at the group and asked, "Hiruzen, what's going on with Jiraiya?"

Hiruzen shook his head with an amused sigh. "Nothing. They just brought a classmate home."

Biwako turned to Dan and offered a warm smile. "Welcome to our home. Dinner will be ready soon."

With that, she returned to the kitchen, leaving the group to their conversation.

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