After Shinichi and Tsunade returned to Konoha, they each went home to rest.
Shinichi lay in bed with his hands behind his head, staring at the ceiling as he considered whom to choose for a practical combat test.
"An opponent for a spar... who should I pick?"
Tsunade? No, no. She just mastered Sage Mode and is brimming with confidence. If she loses, she'll probably fly into a rage and punch me straight into the sky.
Orochimaru? He's either doing research or out on missions, spending every day in his lab. Who knows what bizarre jutsu he might pull out in a fight? Better not.
Danzo? Shinichi gave a cold chuckle. With Danzo's current strength, I'm honestly afraid I might accidentally kill him.
After turning it over in his mind, Shinichi finally sighed and muttered lazily, "Forget it. I'll just ask my senior, Sarutobi."
Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, the Professor, hailed as the Shinobi World's "Doctor of Ninjutsu"—his combat experience and strength both made him the ideal opponent. Besides—
"I can give the Konoha F4 a warning while I'm at it."
The corners of Shinichi's mouth lifted slightly, a sly gleam flashing in his eyes.
Konoha seemed peaceful on the surface, but he knew very well that since old Tobirama's death, Sarutobi's faction had steadily grown in power. The Uchiha Clan's future prospects were far from certain.
"I'll give the Third a little reminder first. Let him and the Konoha High Command know that I, Uchiha Shinichi, am not a pawn they can push around."
With that thought, Shinichi rolled over, pulled the blanket over himself, and closed his eyes contentedly.
"Whew... I'll challenge him tomorrow. For today, a good night's sleep comes first."
The following morning, in Konoha's Hokage Office.
Morning sunlight spilled through the window onto