"This is not the Hokage's fault. The arrival of war is something none of us could have anticipated. Our responsibility and duty as medical ninjas is to save more people during times of chaos. It's for this reason that I chose the path of a medical ninja. But I also have to thank the Hokage for valuing our medical ninja community and giving us the status we have in the village today."
Hakushi said firmly.
In the past, medical ninjas in Konoha were not given much importance, and their status generally couldn't compare to combat personnel.
It wasn't until the medical reform that the village elevated the status of medical ninjas, a change later emulated by other villages.
Tsunade indeed exhausted herself for the village's development. In this aspect, no one in Konoha can compare to her contributions.
Now, most of Konoha's new generation of medical ninjas have received guidance from her to some extent.
These medical ninjas she trained went on to save countless ninjas and villagers in the village. It's easy to understand Tsunade's esteemed status in the village.
"This is all due to Tsunade's efforts, and it doesn't have much to do with me as the Hokage."
Hiruzen shook his head with a smile. Seeing his disciple hold such a high reputation in the village brought great joy to his heart.
Only in this way can the village maintain stability.
His three disciples are truly indispensable.
Hakushi stood there with Hiruzen, watching the students playing ninja games on the playground in the distance, and said, "Kids these days are truly fortunate, unlike a few years ago, when upon graduation they might be sent directly to the battlefield."
"Indeed, protecting these children is the greatest legacy of the Will of Fire left to the village by Lord Hashirama."
"The First Hokage was a great man, a goal I aspire to. The Will of Fire he passed down is a grand vision that leaves all inspired."
Hakushi stated adamantly.
Hiruzen laughed silently, and after a while, he said, "By the way, what do you think of the Uchiha people?"
Hakushi thought for a moment and said, "Although some people are a bit arrogant, I don't think they're inherently bad. It's just that the Security Team often receives complaints from villagers."
At this, a hint of helplessness appeared on his face.
Hiruzen chuckled and said, "That's right, the Uchiha also inherit Lord Hashirama's Will of Fire. I hope that one day those villagers will also accept the Uchiha clan as family."
"Is the Hokage here to ask me about Ruri?"
Hakushi pondered briefly and then asked Hiruzen.
Hiruzen remained silent.
"I'm quite worried about her current state."
"I knew it. Why would the Hokage, who is always busy with affairs, bother with someone as insignificant as me?"
Hakushi smiled wryly, giving an impression of carefreeness as if he didn't take this matter to heart.
"I told you not to belittle yourself. Being esteemed by a genius Jonin of the Uchiha clan undeniably proves your excellent and sincere qualities. In my eyes, you're already an outstanding Konoha ninja inheriting Lord Hashirama's Will of Fire."
"Just kidding, Hokage, please don't take it seriously." Hakushi chuckled, then after pondering for a moment, responded to Hiruzen, "Ever since Sakumo-sensei passed away, Ruri's emotions haven't been very stable. To be honest, I was also very angry about Sakumo-sensei's death at that time, but the deceased are gone, and Sakumo-sensei wouldn't want us to become like this."
"Sakumo was an outstanding Konoha ninja..."
"Yes, exactly because of that, I can truly understand Sakumo-sensei. Until his death, he made that decision with a heart full of love for Konoha. And as his former disciple, we just need to understand, inherit his will, and live on. After all, passing down a teacher's will is our duty and goal as students."
Hakushi stretched out his hand towards the sky, as if trying to grasp something.
Looking at Hakushi's bright, unfazed smile, it was a smile and gaze that only someone with a pure heart could possess.
Hiruzen was momentarily absent-minded.
He felt a bit emotional about how the young Hakushi could already think about problems with such an all-encompassing mindset.
This mindset is precisely a precious quality needed by the Hokage.
Hiruzen had a feeling that if it were this person, he might be able to truly integrate the Uchiha clan into the village, becoming one family.
"Looks like I was worried for nothing."
Hiruzen smiled wryly yet felt much relief in his heart.
He indeed worried too much. With such an excellent man who has a Hokage's mindset by her side, that Uchiha genius is certainly not going to stray down the wrong path.
Hiruzen had this confidence.
"When you get married, I'll be there on time and prepare a gift for you."
"Ahem...Hokage, you're joking. It's still early for me and Ruri."
Hakushi blushed.
"Seventeen is not young. When I was your age, I was almost engaged to Hiruzen."
Seeing Hakushi's slightly shy reaction, Hiruzen smiled internally, finding him a lovable and genuinely thoughtful young man.
As for that Uchiha genius girl, there seems to be no need for concern at all.
Indeed, it's exciting to anticipate the bright future where the village becomes a harmonious and joyous family.
◎
"You're really late today, almost missed it."
"Apologies, Tsunade-sensei, I ran into the Hokage in the hallway and chatted for a bit."