Ghostly Figure

Chapter 8: The Discussion

-3rd Person-

~Flashback~

The soft light of the afternoon sun filters through the windows of the Hokage's office, casting a warm glow over the room. Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, sits behind his desk, his wise eyes flickering between the two shinobi standing before him. Kakashi Hatake and Kurenai Yuhi, both seasoned and respected, wear expressions of concern that don't go unnoticed by the elder Hokage.

Hiruzen leans back in his chair, his fingers steepled as he considers their shared worry. "The new academic year is approaching," he begins, his tone calm but firm.

"It's time to consider Yui's future in the village."

Kakashi shifts slightly, his usually relaxed posture betraying a hint of unease. "Hokage-sama, Yui's... abilities are still not fully understood. Enrolling her in the Academy might expose her to situations she isn't ready to handle."

Kurenai nods in agreement, her brow furrowed. "Yui has made progress, but she's still fragile, especially around people she doesn't know. The Academy is a very social environment... I'm not sure she's ready for that level of interaction, not to mention the potential danger if something triggers her ability."

Hiruzen listens intently, the weight of their concerns evident in his thoughtful expression. "I understand your concerns," he replies, his voice tinged with empathy.

"However, Yui needs to learn how to control her abilities in a safe and structured environment. The Academy can provide that, along with the socialization she desperately needs."

Kakashi's gaze hardens slightly. "But what if something happens? She could unintentionally hurt her classmates or herself. We can't risk her being overwhelmed."

Kurenai interjects, her voice soft but firm. "She's still so young, Hokage-sama. If she feels cornered or frightened... I'm worried about how she might react."

Hiruzen nods slowly, fully grasping their concerns. "I've thought about this carefully," he says, "which is why I plan to place Yui in the same class as Naruto and Sasuke. They are both strong in their own ways, and Naruto has already become a friend to her. I believe that being with them might ease her transition."

Kakashi's visible eye narrows slightly, considering Hiruzen's words. Naruto's unwavering optimism and Sasuke's quiet strength could indeed provide a stabilizing influence for Yui. But still, there's a gnawing worry in the pit of his stomach. "And what if that isn't enough?" he asks quietly, almost to himself.

Hiruzen offers a small, reassuring smile. "I have faith in Yui's resilience, and in the care both of you have shown her. She won't be alone. We will ensure she is supported every step of the way."

Kurenai bites her lip, her heart aching at the thought of Yui struggling in such a public setting. "Naruto and Sasuke are strong, but they're also children. They might not fully grasp Yui's situation. Are you sure this is the best course of action?"

Hiruzen's expression softens, and he stands, walking around the desk to place a reassuring hand on Kurenai's shoulder. "Kurenai, I've seen many children with burdens far greater than Yui's find their way in this village. With your guidance, and Kakashi's, Yui will find hers too. The Academy will be challenging, but it will also give her a chance to grow, to find her place among her peers."

Kakashi exchanges a glance with Kurenai, both of them still uncertain, but trusting in the Hokage's wisdom. "We'll do everything we can to prepare her," Kakashi finally says, his tone resigned but determined.