After the Anbu extra left, silence permeated the air. Uchiha Ruri sat respectfully in her chair, clad in a gorgeous kimono, her long white hair cascading down her back like a silver waterfall.
This kimono was traditional attire for the Uchiha Clan, featuring a deep blue base embroidered with the golden clan crest and intricate patterns.
The collar and cuffs of the kimono were adorned with delicate white silk ribbons, adding a touch of elegance and grace.
Ruri's long hair was combed neatly, resting gently on her shoulders and forming a sharp contrast with the color of her kimono.
Her face was devoid of expression, like an iceberg, making her difficult to approach.
Ruri smiled faintly, watching the Third Hokage, a unique glint flickering in her eyes.
Her smile was warm and kind, as if it could instantly bridge the distance between them.
The Third Hokage was touched by her smile; he puffed on his pipe and recalled the past.
He still remembered that genius young ninja who had been the center of attention at the Ninja Academy.
That was Ruri. Back then, with her exceptional talent and intelligence, she had stood out at the Ninja Academy, becoming the focus of everyone's gaze.
Her talent was reflected not only in her study of ninjutsu but also in her unique insight and judgment.
However, just when everyone thought she would soar to greatness and become a future star of the Ninja World, the unexpected happened.
Ruri's grades suddenly took a noticeable dip, and she even began to make frequent mistakes in basic ninjutsu tests.
This left everyone confused and baffled; after all, with her talent and strength, such errors were nearly impossible.
"Ruri, how time flies. You've grown up so much, haven't you?" the Third Hokage said slowly, his tone revealing a deep sense of nostalgia.
He gazed at the young woman before him, his eyes flashing with complex emotions.
Ruri smiled slightly and nodded gently, "Yes, Third Hokage. Time really does pass quickly. Since graduating from the Ninja Academy, I have been training hard, hoping to become an outstanding ninja."
Her voice was soft yet firm, revealing a sense of confidence and determination.
"Hmm, I can see that you have been working hard." The Third Hokage nodded, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes. "However, you haven't held any other positions since graduating as a Chunin, have you?"
He asked tentatively, seemingly wanting to learn more about Ruri's situation.
Ruri shook her head gently, "No, Third Hokage. I have been focusing on my own training, hoping to better master ninjutsu and combat techniques. I feel that only by constantly improving myself can I better contribute to Konoha."
Her gaze was firm and persistent, as if she had already found her direction and goal.
The Third Hokage listened to Ruri's response, a glimmer of satisfaction in his eyes. He took a deep breath and said slowly, "Very good, Ruri. Your determination and courage show me the makings of a future elite ninja. However, you also know that the village needs more than just powerful ninjas; it needs talent capable of holding important positions and devising strategies for the village."
His words revealed a sense of encouragement and expectation.
Upon hearing the Third Hokage, Ruri's lips curled into a professional, high-society fake smile. It looked flawless, yet it betrayed a hint of imperceptible mockery.
She lifted her head slightly, looking the Third Hokage straight in the eye, her tone carrying a trace of disdain: "Why not just tell me to join the Anbu? Why all these roundabout lies?"
Ruri's words caught the Third Hokage off guard; he hadn't expected this seemingly gentle young woman to express her dissatisfaction so directly.
However, he did not get angry or lose his temper; instead, he took a deep breath, trying to steady his emotions.
Could it be that the annihilation of the Uchiha Clan had left her feeling disappointed in the village?
He knew that Ruri was not an easy person to deal with. Born into a prestigious family, she had received strict education and training from a young age; both her ninjutsu and her intellect far surpassed her peers.
More importantly, she possessed keen insight and judgment, allowing her to easily see through others' thoughts and intentions.
Therefore, trying to deceive her with schemes or lies was nearly impossible.
The Third Hokage was silent for a moment, took a puff of his pipe, and spoke slowly: "Ruri, you have misunderstood me. I did not intend to deceive or manipulate you; I only hoped that you would gain a more comprehensive understanding of the village's needs and the responsibilities you bear as a ninja."
Ruri smiled lightly and said nothing. She knew the Third Hokage wasn't lying, but his words certainly hid something.
These things might be his expectations for her, his worries for the village, or his plans for the future.
But regardless of what they were, Ruri had no desire to delve deeper. Perhaps Konoha would be an enemy in the future, but for now, it was merely the environment where she resided.
In fact, before Ruri transmigrated, the original body was seen by many outsiders as an elegant and dignified ninja. Her manners were impeccable, and her speech and conduct exuded a noble temperament.
"Third Hokage, if possible, I would like to join the Ninja Academy and apply to be a teacher." Ruri's voice echoed in the empty Hokage office, her eyes shining with a firm light. She took a deep breath and continued, "You know what happened to the Uchiha Clan last night. The entire clan was wiped out, leaving only Sasuke as a child."
A flicker of pain and sorrow crossed the Third Hokage's eyes, but he quickly suppressed it.
The destruction of the Uchiha Clan was a massive blow to Konoha, and Sasuke was a decision he had promised to Itachi Uchiha.
He stared at Ruri, his eyes flashing with complex emotions as he contemplated her request to become a teacher in Konoha.
Ruri lowered her eyes slightly, her long lashes casting faint shadows on her cheeks, as if adding a touch of realism to her feigned tearfulness. Her voice trembled slightly, carrying a hint of heartbreaking fragility: "Third Hokage, please grant me this small request. Sasuke is still just a young child who has lost all his relatives and support. I... I really want to take care of him and give him some warmth and love."
The Third Hokage looked at Ruri, and a complex emotion surged in his heart.
He knew Ruri was an outstanding ninja with powerful strength and talent.
Yet, at this moment, she displayed a softness and tenderness unique to women, which caught him off guard.
He was silent for a moment, as if weighing the pros and cons.
He knew that letting Ruri take care of Sasuke was indeed a good choice.
After all, Ruri not only possessed excellent ninjutsu and insight but also a kind and gentle heart.
She could provide Sasuke with motherly love and care, helping him emerge from the shadows of his heart and find the courage and direction to live again.
More importantly, Sasuke's growth truly required someone to look after him, and Ruri, standing before him, was the most suitable candidate.
However, the Third Hokage also understood that this decision was not so easily made.
He had originally intended for Uchiha Ruri to join the Anbu, but a position as a teacher at the Ninja Academy seemed more appropriate.
Uchiha Sasuke's situation was indeed somewhat unique; he needed more than just care for his daily life—he required emotional solace and support.
"Very well, I grant you permission to become a teacher at the Ninja Academy." The voice of Hiruzen Sarutobi echoed through the office, his eyes revealing firmness and resolve.
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked deeply at Uchiha Ruri and continued, "Your benefits will be specially arranged, so you need not worry about your livelihood. I know that you have sacrificed much of your own time and opportunities to care for Uchiha Sasuke. However, please believe me, Konoha will not forget your contributions and sacrifices. We will provide you with sufficient support and assistance so that you may teach Uchiha Sasuke with peace of mind and lay a solid foundation for his growth and future."
Upon hearing this, Uchiha Ruri was stunned. Good grief, it actually worked?
She had expected to fail and had several more "Uchiha Young Lady" skills lined up to use.
It was only the first step, and I already succeeded? Things will be much easier from now on!
Uchiha Ruri knew that Hiruzen Sarutobi was a man of his word; as the Naruto of Konoha, he would certainly honor what he had said.
Hiruzen Sarutobi paused before continuing, "Furthermore, some of the inheritance of the Uchiha Clan will be provided to support your life and that of Uchiha Sasuke. Although the Uchiha Clan is no more, their assets and belongings still belong to their descendants. You and Uchiha Sasuke are the last bloodline of the Uchiha Clan, and this inheritance rightfully belongs to you. I will arrange for specialists to liquidate and process it, ensuring you receive your due share."
Hearing this, Uchiha Ruri felt a surge of surprise and emotion. She had not expected Hiruzen Sarutobi to be so considerate regarding her and Uchiha Sasuke's living situation, even taking the Uchiha Clan's inheritance into account.
"Good, good, good. I just finished inspecting my home and noticed the furniture was gone; so it really was taken by you people?" Uchiha Ruri smiled faintly on the surface.
Yet, inwardly, her thoughts were turbulent. She cursed silently, These old schemers! They didn't even leave behind the leftovers?
Watching Uchiha Ruri's firm and grateful expression, Hiruzen Sarutobi felt a sense of relief and satisfaction.
He knew that as the Naruto, he bore the heavy responsibility of protecting the village and its people.
Her ability and character were outstanding, which filled him with trust and anticipation regarding Uchiha Ruri.
"Uchiha Ruri, I know you may have some dissatisfaction and doubts in your heart." Hiruzen Sarutobi spoke slowly, his voice revealing a sense of composure and authority. "But please believe that everything I do is for the benefit of the village and its people. Sometimes, we must make difficult decisions to ensure the safety and stability of the village."
Uchiha Ruri listened to Hiruzen Sarutobi and nodded frantically, her heart filled with complex emotions.
Oh, yes, yes, yes, she chanted internally, you have the highest authority, everything you say is correct.
In this village, the word of the Naruto was law, the rule; she could neither refute nor resist it.
But I can flee the village at any time!
"Mm-hmm, mm-hmm." Uchiha Ruri made vague sounds of agreement, keeping a smile on her face while her heart remained cold as ice.
Hiruzen Sarutobi watched Uchiha Ruri's reaction, feeling a bit puzzled. He sensed that she had not fully accepted his explanation and decision, yet she appeared so obedient and respectful on the surface.
This made it difficult for him to grasp her true thoughts.
However, Hiruzen Sarutobi did not have much time to dwell on Uchiha Ruri's mind.
He had many matters to handle and many decisions to make. He could not let one person's emotions affect the operation of the entire village.
"That will be all." Hiruzen Sarutobi waved his hand, signaling that Uchiha Ruri could leave. He took a puff of his pipe, inhaled deeply, and then exhaled slowly.
Smoke permeated the air, obscuring his face and making it impossible to read his expression.
"You may go." Hiruzen Sarutobi's voice sounded weary, as if he were issuing an order.
He knew his words might seem cruel to Uchiha Ruri, but he had not chosen to express them in a gentler manner.
Uchiha Ruri stood up, bowed slightly, and bid farewell gracefully: "Farewell, Third Hokage."
Her voice was calm and firm, as if she had not been affected at all. Then, she turned and left the Hokage building.
"Uchiha Clan... Uchiha Sasuke... Uchiha Ruri." Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly recited these names, his eyes revealing a complex and profound emotion.
As the Naruto of Konoha, he had witnessed the rise and fall of the Uchiha Clan and had personally participated in some of the decisions and actions involved.
Now, as he mentioned this once-glorious family again, an inexplicable sense of melancholy welled up in his heart.
Hiruzen Sarutobi took a deep breath, attempting to calm the turmoil within.
Just then, Danzo walked in. His gaze was deep, his face wearing his usual stern expression as he walked straight toward Hiruzen Sarutobi.
"Hiruzen, I heard you just spoke with that Uchiha girl." Danzo's voice was low and powerful, revealing an unquestionable authority.
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded slightly, his brow furrowed: "Yes, Danzo. I have agreed to let Uchiha Ruri join the Ninja Academy as a teacher. I believe she is capable of handling the position and can take good care of Uchiha Sasuke."
A flash of complexity crossed Danzo's eyes. He remained silent for a moment before speaking slowly: "Hiruzen, you know I have always held reservations about the Uchiha Clan. Is it truly appropriate to let their descendants remain in the village and hold such an important position?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi took a deep breath, his eyes revealing firmness and resolve: "Danzo, I understand your concerns. But Uchiha Ruri and Uchiha Sasuke are innocent children; they have not committed any crimes. We cannot discriminate against them because of their bloodline, nor can we deprive them of the right to live. I believe that as long as we provide them with enough love and guidance, they will surely become people who contribute to the village."
Danzo was silent for a moment, seemingly contemplating Hiruzen Sarutobi's words. Then, he slowly raised his head, his gaze fixed on Hiruzen Sarutobi's eyes: "Very well, Hiruzen. Since you have made your decision, I will respect your choice. However, I hope you will closely monitor the movements of Uchiha Ruri and Uchiha Sasuke to ensure they do not pose any threat to the village."
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded: "I understand what you mean, Danzo. I will do my best to ensure the safety and stability of the village."
"Diplomatic Politician Internship Manual for the Uchiha Young Lady" Article 1: Interacting with Konoha's high-level politicians. "On the complex political stage, as the young lady of the Uchiha Clan, you represent not only yourself but the glory and dignity of the entire family. Therefore, before embarking on the path of a diplomatic politician internship, you must deeply realize this." "The Uchiha Clan has a long history and a prestigious reputation; it is a force in the ninja world that cannot be ignored. Every word and action of yours may affect the image and status of the family abroad." "..."
Uchiha Ruri walked along the streets of Konoha. On both sides of the street, the surroundings were completely deserted; it was already late at night.
Liuli, however, seemed to be in another world, fully focused on flipping through the items she had purchased from the system.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, the system shop is truly magical; it has everything." Liuli muttered to herself.
"With these items, I don't have to worry about any of the troublesome matters in the village at all." The corners of Liuli's mouth curled up, revealing a satisfied smile.
She knew that these items purchased from the system shop would become her most capable assistants, helping her cope with all kinds of challenges and difficulties.
Just then, a flash of white light streaked by, and the book in Liuli's hand vanished instantly, returning to the system inventory.
She was slightly taken aback, but immediately felt relieved.
She knew this was the wonder of the system; whenever and wherever she needed them, these items would appear in her hands at once.