On the same evening, after everything was prepared, Shikaku, Choza, and Inoichi made their way to the Hokage's office. The trio had a specific purpose for meeting with Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Third Hokage of Konoha.
As they entered, Hiruzen gestured for them to sit. "Please, take your seats." His tone was calm but knowing. Once they were settled, the Hokage's sharp eyes scanned each of them before speaking again. "You've all arrived together, which leads me to believe you've made a decision regarding the 16th generation of the Ino-Shika-Cho. Am I correct?"
There was a hint of certainty in his voice. Hiruzen, always known for his sharp intellect, had clearly already pieced together their purpose.
Shikaku, ever the composed strategist, nodded. "You're absolutely right, Hokage-sama. We've come to inform you about the new generation of the Ino-Shika-Cho formation."
Hiruzen smiled faintly, unsurprised by the confirmation. "Let me guess then... the team consists of Inoiki, Shikamaru, and Choji, correct?" His voice held confidence, yet there was a glimmer of curiosity behind it.
Inoichi spoke this time, shaking his head slightly. "Actually, no, Hokage-sama. There's been a slight change. Inoiki will not be part of the 16th generation. Instead, Ino will be taking his place."
The news took Hiruzen aback. His calm demeanor faltered for a moment as his eyebrows rose. "Oh? This is... unexpected." His mind immediately flashed to Inoiki and the recent developments surrounding him. Hiruzen's expression softened with understanding as he remembered what had happened. "Is this because of his newly awakened Kekkei Genkai?"
Inoichi gave a solemn nod, confirming Hiruzen's thoughts.
"Yes, that's the main reason Inoiki chose to step away from the Ino-Shika-Cho trio," Shikaku explained, his voice steady but thoughtful. "According to him, he's nearly perfect ninja with his Kekkei Genkai, so he believes it's better for his sister to take his place in the team."
Hiruzen wasn't surprised by this revelation. He already knew about Inoiki's Kekkei Genkai awakening. Inoichi had informed him the very next day after it happened, a precautionary move on their part. In Konoha, there were always individuals like Danzo, whose hunger for power made them dangerous. Danzo had a history of coveting ninjas with rare abilities, especially those possessing Kekkei Genkai. If he couldn't recruit them, he often sought to control or eliminate them entirely.
The trio was no stranger to the darker side of Konoha's politics. They understood the delicate balance of power and the ruthless ambition of certain factions. They had witnessed enough of the village's shadowy dealings to know that hiding Inoiki's abilities would only invite suspicion and potential disaster.
One day, Inoiki's Kekkei Genkai would inevitably be exposed to the wider world. When that time came, Danzo might resort to his usual underhanded tactics. In such a scenario, they would need Hiruzen's protection. But if they kept this secret from him, it could lead to a dangerous breakdown of trust—not just with Hiruzen, but with future Hokages. It was a risk they couldn't afford.
So instead of hiding the truth, they chose to publicize Inoiki's awakening. By making it known, they put a safeguard in place. Anyone, even Danzo, would have to think twice before making a move on Inoiki, knowing that the Hokage himself was watching. It was a strategic decision, borne out of experience and a deep understanding of the political currents that ran through the village.
"It seems Inoiki's Kekkei Genkai is quite extraordinary to give him such confidence," Hiruzen said, his voice laced with curiosity. The Third Hokage's eyes gleamed with interest, clearly probing for more information.
Shikaku, always one to tread carefully, responded with a calm and measured tone, "It is unique, Hokage-sama, but even we don't know much about it. Inoiki has been... selective with what he's shared." He offered a polite smile, subtly deflecting the inquiry. Shikaku knew exactly what Hiruzen was after—more details about Inoiki's rare abilities—but he wasn't about to disclose everything. Though their loyalty lay firmly with the Hokage, that didn't mean all secrets would be laid bare.
Shikaku's mind was already considering the future. If Inoiki's potential was nurtured properly, he could grow into a force to be reckoned with—perhaps even rivaling the Hokage one day. The thought wasn't far-fetched. Inoiki's Kekkei Genkai had power, the kind that could elevate him to a position just below the Hokage in strength and prestige, if not above.
Hiruzen, a seasoned leader who had seen many things, immediately caught the unspoken message in Shikaku's words. Shikaku was withholding details, and Hiruzen understood why. The Hokage let out a small sigh, realizing there was no point in pressing further. Shikaku had deftly drawn the line, and Hiruzen, ever the wise tactician, knew when to step back.
With their purpose fulfilled, Shikaku, Inoichi, and Choza rose from their seats. "Thank you, Hokage-sama," Shikaku said, bowing slightly in respect. Inoichi and Choza followed suit.
"You are dismissed," Hiruzen said with a nod, his tone neutral but contemplative. He watched them as they exited, his mind already weighing the potential of this new generation and the hidden power that lay in the shadows.
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