Comeback of Senju Clan

Chapter 17: New Apprentice

Tetsuya sat comfortably in Hiruzen's office, the familiar surroundings bringing a sense of nostalgia. The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, leaned back in his chair, a pipe in hand, smoke curling lazily towards the ceiling. He had a warm, grandfatherly smile as he looked at Tetsuya.

"So, Itachi won," Hiruzen began, a hint of pride in his voice. "Haha, I knew this kid was good. What can you tell me about the others? Is there anyone else worth promoting to chunin?"

Tetsuya nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Both of Itachi's teammates, Tenma Izumo and Shinko Inari, have shown exceptional skill and maturity. They are both worthy of being promoted to chunin."

Hiruzen stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Good, I will make sure to promote them. It's always encouraging to see such promising young talent."

A brief silence settled over the room as Hiruzen puffed on his pipe, the air thick with contemplation. Tetsuya broke the silence, his tone more serious.

"Hiruzen, is it true about the Uchiha clan being dissatisfied with their situation in the village?"

Hiruzen sighed heavily, his eyes showing the weight of many years. "Yes, that's sadly true. After Minato died, and with the Kyuubi attack, people started discriminating against the Uchiha. They were blamed, and now there's a growing unrest within the clan. They feel marginalized and distrusted."

Tetsuya frowned, understanding the gravity of the situation. "That's troubling. The Uchiha are an essential part of Konoha's strength. We cannot afford such divisions."

Hiruzen nodded in agreement. "I know, Tetsuya. I've tried to maintain balance, but it's been difficult. The wounds from that night run deep."

Tetsuya's eyes lit up with an idea. "I have a proposal. Let me take Itachi as my apprentice. He has shown exceptional promise, and by mentoring him, I can bridge the gap between the village leadership and the Uchiha clan. It might help to ease some of the tensions."

Hiruzen considered this, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "Itachi as your apprentice... It could work. He's already highly respected among his peers, and your guidance would only strengthen his skills and resolve."

"And," Tetsuya added, "it would show the Uchiha clan that we value their contributions and are committed to their integration within the village."

Hiruzen smiled, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "Very well, Tetsuya. I trust your judgment. If you believe taking Itachi as your apprentice will help, then I support you fully."

"Thank you, Hiruzen," Tetsuya said, a sense of purpose filling him. "I will speak with Itachi immediately. This is a crucial step towards healing the rift within the village."

As Tetsuya stood to leave, Hiruzen's voice stopped him. "Tetsuya, be careful. The situation with the Uchiha is delicate. Handle it with the utmost care and respect."

Tetsuya nodded, understanding the gravity of the task ahead. "I will, Hiruzen. I promise to do everything in my power to bring the village together."

With that, Tetsuya left the office, his mind already working on how to approach Itachi and the Uchiha clan. The road ahead would be challenging, but Tetsuya was determined to foster unity and strength within Konoha.