Hokage Tower, office.
A sharp knock cut through the quiet.
The Third Hokage startled, his attention snapping away from the crystal ball. He coughed once, waved his hand, and the image vanished. By the time the door opened, he was already sitting straight, pipe in hand, the picture of calm authority.
"Come in."
Iruka stepped inside and bowed. "Third Hokage-sama."
The Hokage smiled gently. "Iruka. What brings you here?"
"It's been a month since the term started," Iruka said, presenting a file with both hands. "This is my class report."
The Third Hokage accepted it and flipped through the pages, eyes scanning scores, notes, and observations.
"Classes going smoothly?"
"Yes, sir. No major issues."
He nodded, turning another page. When he reached Uchiha Sasuke's profile, his fingers paused.
"How is Sasuke doing?"
Iruka hesitated before answering. "His personality has changed."
The Hokage gave a small nod. He had expected that much.
"Before," Iruka continued, "Sasuke came off as aloof and proud. But it felt like a child putting on a front. Now…" He searched for the right words. "Now he's too calm."
The Third Hokage took a slow draw from his pipe. "Explain."
"I believe he's closed himself off," Iruka said carefully. "He's polite. He responds when spoken to. But he never initiates conversation, never joins activities, never lets anyone get close. On the surface, he's easier to deal with. But inside, he's built walls."
Iruka lowered his gaze.
"There's a distance in his eyes. Like he's looking past everyone."
The Hokage fell silent.
He could picture it clearly. Sasuke attending class on time every day. Leaving without lingering. Training alone in the Uchiha district until nightfall. No trouble. No warmth.
After a moment, he set the file down.
"Iruka," he said softly, "the village exists because people stand together. The Academy doesn't just teach techniques. It teaches bonds. I want you to help Sasuke understand that again."
He met Iruka's eyes. "You were like him once."
Iruka stiffened, then nodded. "Yes, sir."
"I'm counting on you," the Hokage said. "I want him to grow into someone who can truly inherit the Will of Fire."
Iruka bowed deeply. "I won't fail you."
The Hokage smiled, then added, "And Naruto? How is he?"
Iruka couldn't help but sigh. "Still the same. Loud. Reckless. Always causing trouble."
The Hokage chuckled. "Sounds like you've accepted him."
Iruka paused, then nodded. "I have."
He spoke more quietly. "Naruto is lonely. He wants to be acknowledged. He just doesn't know how to ask for it yet."
The Third Hokage laughed, long and warm, smoke curling into the air.