Chapter 13: Namikaze Minato
The Third Great Ninja War was now looming on the horizon.
At this point, it was only a matter of which faction would snap first. And once that happened, the rest of the ninja world would fall like a chain of dominoes—just like the previous two wars. The ninja villages of each country were tied together in a precarious web. If even one of the Five Great Nations ignited conflict, the other four would be pulled into the ensuing chaos, whether by force or necessity.
Under the leadership of Hiruzen Sarutobi, Konohagakure had long adhered to a strictly defensive strategy. Delay if possible. Defend if necessary. That had always been the village's stance.
Which was also why Konoha had become every other village's favorite first target.
Sure, the wealth of the Fire Country and the prosperity of Konoha were tempting. But more importantly, Konoha was a target that wouldn't fight back aggressively. They rarely initiated attacks. Even if they managed to rout enemy forces, they would often let them retreat unpunished. What better "soft target" could there be?
Naturally, Sarutobi Hiruzen never saw any flaw in his strategy. To him, this was the ideal path to preserving the village's strength and protecting its interests.
But now, Kumogakure and Kirigakure had already made the first moves. If nothing else, Sunagakure had to be placated—or, at the very least, closely monitored to uncover their true intentions.
"Yes, Lord Third. I understand. I won't let you down," Minato replied solemnly, his expression calm and respectful.
"I've arranged for Shikaku and Choza to accompany you," Hiruzen continued. "Your goal is to investigate how deeply the Sand has involved itself in the affairs of the small country of Rōran. And whether they pose a threat to Konoha. But remember—this must be done discreetly. Avoid provoking conflict. This mission will test your judgment as much as your strength. You understand what I mean, don't you, Minato?"
The old Hokage's words carried a layered weight—masked concern and carefully restrained aggression. It was the very definition of hypocrisy. He wanted clarity, strength, and decisive action—but without any of the consequences. This kind of order was a reflection of a specific kind of arrogance.
An arrogance cloaked in strategic restraint.
It was as if the enemies of Konoha would obediently follow the script that Hiruzen envisioned.
Minato, ever perceptive and wise beyond his years, could hear the deeper implications hidden in the Hokage's tone. He sighed inwardly but didn't voice any disagreement. He was still bound by his role and his position. It wasn't yet time to challenge such ideals.
Following orders—that was Namikaze Minato's duty.
"Yes, Lord Hokage," he replied without hesitation, accepting the mission. Though it began as an A-rank assignment, it was clear to him that it had the potential to escalate into an S-rank crisis.
"I trust you'll handle this with the care it requires." Hiruzen gave a nod of satisfaction.
Even at only eighteen years old, Minato had already demonstrated the poise and potential of a future cornerstone of the village. In ability, temperament, and vision, he was easily the most outstanding of the new generation. Hiruzen had even, for a moment, privately wished his own children could have matched Minato's brilliance.
While the next Hokage would likely be chosen from among his current students, the generation after that was wide open. And Minato? He was already a frontrunner.
After all, he was Jiraiya's only personal student—a man raised under the will of fire itself.
And for that reason alone, Hiruzen placed immense trust in him.
"If you need assistance before your departure, feel free to speak with Shikaku. I've already instructed him to cooperate," Hiruzen added, picking up his pipe—a subtle gesture signaling the meeting's end.
Minato had already been preparing to take his leave, but just as he turned, a thought struck him. He paused, then respectfully turned back.
"There is one request, if I may, Lord Hokage."
"Hm? What is it?"
Minato's unexpected words gave Hiruzen pause. He set down his pipe and looked at the young man with a hint of curiosity.
Minato may have been young, but after mastering the long-lost Flying Thunder God Technique, his strength had already surpassed most seasoned jonin. That was one of the reasons Hiruzen had such high hopes for him.
With Minato's skill, and the powerful support of Akimichi Choza and Aburame Shibi—both seasoned jonin and specialists in large-scale combat—they already had a task force capable of executing an S-rank mission.
Who else could he possibly want?
"I'd like to bring one more person," Minato said gently. "Kakashi Hatake. I hope to take him under my wing. With your permission, of course."
"Kakashi?" Hiruzen blinked in surprise.
He hadn't expected that.
But it actually aligned with something he himself had considered. It was obvious Minato wasn't just talking about temporary mentorship on this one mission—he wanted Kakashi as a permanent subordinate, perhaps even as a disciple.
Hiruzen didn't doubt Minato's sincerity.
After all, Minato and Sakumo Hatake had known each other to some extent.
And knowing Jiraiya's soft-hearted ways, it wasn't hard to imagine where this proposal had originated.
If it had been earlier, Hiruzen might have readily agreed.
But now...
"I'm afraid Kakashi's currently assigned to another task," he replied with a shake of his head, his voice calm but resolute. "If an opportunity arises in the future, we'll revisit the idea."
Minato was momentarily taken aback. But he didn't question it. He simply bowed.
"Understood, Lord Hokage."
With that, he turned and quietly left the Hokage's office.
Behind him, Sarutobi Hiruzen returned to the growing pile of emergency scrolls on his desk, already consumed once more by the crises of the looming war.