The Shadow Hokage [DISCONTINUED]

CHAPTER 3: TAICHO (EDITED)

A year had passed since Naruto's promotion to ANBU, and initially, his fellow ANBU members were skeptical of his inclusion. After all, who would allow a six-year-old to enter the ranks of ANBU? Despite their initial doubts, Naruto quickly forged friendships with his comrades known as Dog, Weasel, and Raven. Outside of their ANBU duties, Dog revealed himself to be Kakashi Hatake, Naruto's father's former student. Naruto had discovered a picture frame featuring his father and Kakashi together, along with two other individuals he considered irrelevant. Weasel turned out to be none other than Itachi Uchiha, and Naruto couldn't help but fangirl over the talented boy who appeared to be close to his age. Raven, on the other hand, was revealed to be Shisui Uchiha, another skilled Sharingan user. Naruto was thrilled to be friends with Sharingan users, as he believed they could provide valuable training and guidance. Shisui even taught Naruto the finer techniques of body flicker, given his reputation as Shisui of the Body Flicker.

Naruto was never one to boast, so he primarily relied on his skills in Kenjutsu (swordsmanship) and Taijutsu (hand-to-hand combat). This proved to be more than sufficient for his ANBU duties. He only showcased his abilities to Kakashi, Itachi, and Shisui, who had become his brothers in all but blood. Kakashi had treated Minato as a second father after the death of his own father, Sakumo Hatake. Itachi and Shisui, both being Uchihas, also formed a close bond with Naruto. These three individuals were the only ones privy to Naruto's heritage, his mastery of Mokuton (Wood Release), and his Sharingan abilities.

In an interesting turn of events, Naruto, Itachi, and Shisui were assigned to the same ANBU platoon under Kakashi's leadership. Their team became an invincible force, capable of handling various missions ranging from border patrols to high-profile assassinations. Naruto particularly enjoyed the missions involving assassinations, finding them personally fulfilling.

Presently, Kakashi summoned the team to the Hokage's office for an important announcement. Despite the urgency, the team arrived two hours late, much to Kakashi's frustration.

"You're late!" Kakashi reprimanded sternly.

"You shouldn't talk," Naruto deadpanned in response.

Itachi interjected, "What is the reason for this meeting, Hokage-sama?"

Kakashi took a deep breath and began, "Hokage-sama, I wish to step down as the Platoon Leader." The statement elicited a resounding "HUH?!" from Naruto and gasps from the two Uchihas.

However, Kakashi quickly clarified, "I still desire to remain an ANBU and a member of Special Team Red." He bowed respectfully.

Curious, Hiruzen asked, "And who do you propose as the new Team Leader?"

With a hint of amusement, Hiruzen already knew the answer but wanted to hear it from Kakashi.

"Naruto Uzumaki, sir," Kakashi mumbled while still bowing.

Naruto couldn't contain his shock and blurted out, "What the hell?"

"Why not Ita-nii or Sui-nii? They have more experience in ANBU than I do!" Naruto protested.

A heated discussion ensued when Kakashi, Itachi, and Shisui proposed Naruto as the new leader of their ANBU team, despite their own extensive experience. Naruto, in disbelief, expressed his opinion that Itachi or Shisui would be more suitable for the position given their seniority. However, Kakashi, speaking up, presented his reasoning for entrusting Naruto with the leadership role.

He clarified that his decision was not a reflection of Itachi and Shisui's capabilities, but rather a recognition of the immense potential he saw within Naruto. Kakashi believed that by nurturing and expanding Naruto's abilities at a young age, they could unlock his full potential. Itachi concurred with Kakashi's assessment, and Shisui added his support as well.

Kakashi emphasized that his intention was not to emulate Danzo, a controversial figure known for his questionable methods, but rather to elevate Konoha to a level reminiscent of its founding era when Hashirama Senju and Madara Uchiha were at the helm. He envisioned Naruto as a symbol of the village's strength, not just a mere weapon but a true shinobi.

Turning to Naruto, Kakashi gave him an encouraging smile and pledged his commitment to following Naruto's lead as the new team leader. Despite initial resistance, Naruto eventually relented, waving off their objections. Hiruzen, the Hokage, nodded in approval, officially appointing Naruto as the platoon leader despite his youth. Hiruzen urged the team to show the same respect and loyalty to Naruto as they had demonstrated towards Kakashi.

After the meeting, Shisui celebrated Naruto's newfound position, playfully draping his arm around Naruto's shoulder. Naruto expressed gratitude to Shisui, addressing him as "Sui-nii." Itachi chimed in, proclaiming his ambition to become the Hokage while envisioning Naruto as the commander of their future endeavors. Naruto responded with a sheepish laugh, suggesting that perhaps the divine power of the gods, Kami-sama, might bring their aspirations to fruition.

Amidst their lighthearted banter, Shisui boldly declared his desire to become a platoon leader as well. However, both Naruto and Itachi swiftly dismissed his proposition, insisting that he would not evade his share of responsibilities. Itachi sported a mischievous smirk as he playfully assigned Shisui to assist with the tedious paperwork. Shisui's face paled at the prospect, while Kakashi chuckled, finding amusement in the dynamic among the trio.

Thus, with Naruto at the helm, the team embarked on their future missions, driven by their shared aspirations and unwavering commitment to the village. Their journey would test their bonds and push them closer to their respective goals, as they navigated the intricate world of ANBU and pursued the path to greatness.

~~~

Yay! I finished it! There's no wifi currently and i fucking hate it. I'm sorry for the short chapter, I couldn't think of anything else that can connect to the title.

Anyway I don't really know what's Shisui's personality (cuz I skipped it, no wifi so I can't watch too), and I just take inspo from other fanfics about him, sorry about that!

The next chapter will also be a timeskip to when Naruto became the commander, I cannot confirm that it'll be the last time skip for awhile though.

Also the time Uchiha massacre happened wasn't told in canon so I'm gonna assume it happened when Naruto and Sasuke were 9.