Comeback of Senju Clan

Chapter 23: Hokage

After a few more days of travel, the group finally returned to Konoha. The village was bustling with activity as always, but today, there was an extra layer of excitement in the air. News of Tsunade's return had spread quickly, and many villagers were eager to catch a glimpse of the legendary Sannin.

As they walked through the gates, people cheered and waved. Tsunade tried to hide her embarrassment but couldn't help smiling at the warm welcome. Tetsuya, walking beside her, felt a deep sense of satisfaction. Bringing her back was a victory for the village, and it felt like a step towards healing old wounds.

"Welcome back, Tsunade-sama!" a group of young medical-nin called out, their eyes shining with admiration.

Tsunade nodded in acknowledgment, her heart swelling with pride. For the first time in a long while, she felt like she was home.

The next few days passed lazily for Tetsuya. He spent his time training Itachi, who was rapidly improving under his guidance. Itachi's potential seemed limitless, and Tetsuya enjoyed the challenge of pushing the young Uchiha to his limits.

When not training Itachi, Tetsuya hung out with Naruto. The boy's boundless energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and Tetsuya found himself looking forward to their time together. Naruto's dreams of becoming Hokage reminded Tetsuya of his own ambitions and the importance of nurturing the next generation.

In the evenings, Tetsuya indulged in a guilty pleasure: reading the "Icha Icha" series recommended by Kakashi. Written by Jiraiya, the books were far from high literature, but Tetsuya found them amusing and surprisingly engaging. He often chuckled to himself as he read, much to Naruto's confusion.

One afternoon, as Tetsuya was lounging in the Senju compound with an "Icha Icha" book in hand, an ANBU appeared before him.

"Tetsuya-sama, the Hokage requests your presence," the masked shinobi said.

Tetsuya nodded and closed his book, tucking it away. "Lead the way."

In Hiruzen's office, the Third Hokage greeted Tetsuya with a warm smile. "Welcome, Tetsuya. I hope you've been enjoying your time back in the village."

"I have, Hiruzen. It's good to be home," Tetsuya replied.

Hiruzen's expression grew serious. "I have an important matter to discuss with you. In three days, you will officially become the Fifth Hokage."

Tetsuya blinked in surprise. "That soon?"

"Yes," Hiruzen said with a nod. "The village needs a strong leader, and you are the best person for the job. Your return has already boosted morale significantly, and your leadership will ensure our continued strength and prosperity."

Tetsuya felt a mix of emotions. Becoming Hokage had been his dream, but the reality of it was daunting. "I'll do my best, Hiruzen. Thank you for your trust."

Hiruzen smiled. "I know you will. You have all the qualities of a great leader, Tetsuya. The village will be in good hands."

As Tetsuya left the office, he felt the weight of his new responsibility settling on his shoulders. The next three days were a blur of preparations and final tasks. He continued to train Itachi, knowing that his young apprentice would be a key figure in the future of Konoha. He spent time with Naruto, enjoying the boy's infectious optimism and dreams.

On the day of his inauguration, the village gathered in front of the Hokage Tower. Tetsuya stood beside Hiruzen, who wore a look of pride and satisfaction.

"Today, we welcome our new Hokage!"