Sarutobi Hiruzen stroked his beard disapprovingly, then smiled and nodded.
"Ha ha ha, really? That's wonderful!" Mirai cried out excitedly. Then, as though he had only just reacted, he asked Tanaka, "By the way, Uncle Tanaka, can I study under Grandpa Huo Ying?"
"If Lord Hokage is willing to teach you, then of course you can study under him. You should know that this is an incredibly rare opportunity!" Tanaka said, unable to hide the excitement in his voice, though there was also a trace of unease and envy.
Tanaka knew very well what it meant for Mirai to become Sarutobi Hiruzen's disciple. First of all, the Third Hokage was known as the Professor of Ninjutsu and was exceptionally skilled at teaching disciples. One only had to look at his former students—the Legendary Three, who were known throughout the ninja world and all stood at its peak.
This also meant that Mirai, a child favored by Sarutobi Hiruzen, might one day become someone like them. That alone was enough to excite Tanaka.
Secondly, Sarutobi Hiruzen was already old. Could his disciple Mirai possibly become the next Hokage?
Though the chance was slim, Tanaka was willing to gamble on it and help Mirai with everything he had.
Because if it succeeded, it would bring unprecedented benefits to the Yamanaka family. The Yamanaka family might even grow into a great clan like the Bo Yousi and Ri clans, which played important roles in Kiba.
"Grandpa Huo Ying, I want to train with you. Please accept me as your disciple!" After receiving Tanaka's approval, Mirai bowed respectfully and made his request with sincerity.
"Ha ha ha, I never expected to take on another disciple!" Sarutobi Hiruzen first laughed and sighed, then said cheerfully, "Get up, Mirai. I'll do everything I can to train