Since he had seen through the Third Hokage's bottom line, Shuichi could naturally squeeze some benefits out of him. If he simply agreed to participate, he would be the one at a loss.
"Rest assured, Lord Hokage! Although I'm too young to participate, I'll definitely cheer with all my might for the village's seniors. Leave any other preparations to me!" Shuichi put on the appearance of someone wholeheartedly devoted to the village. I'm a brick of the village—move me wherever I'm needed.
The Third Hokage did not know whether to laugh or cry. How had such a good child from his Ninja Academy days turned into this in less than a year? He refused to believe Shuichi had not understood what he meant.
It seemed impossible to get Shuichi to participate willingly, but he had come prepared and directly revealed his trump card.
"I'll be direct with you. The village needs to display its ninja strength and potential in order to deter the surrounding nations. I hope you can participate in this Joint Chunin Exam."
Before Shuichi could say anything, the Third Hokage continued, "First, you don't need to worry about being alone. I'm appointing you directly as the team captain, and I've already found the other two members. I guarantee they won't hold you back."
"If you perform exceptionally after participating, I'll reward you according to the highest A-rank mission standard and record in your file that you independently completed an A-rank mission."
"I learned from Orochimaru that you possess four attributes. A-rank and above ninjutsu may be somewhat difficult, but I'll allow you to select a few B-rank and C-rank ninjutsu."
"Lastly, if you really find it too difficult, I can only pick people from the Anbu reserve corps! So, I'll ask you now—will you participate or not?"