Yes, the Hokage

“You can’t even get a decent meal when your wife’s not home, and you’re still here being the Hokage.” Feng Lan rolled his eyes. “Luckily, I recently managed to poach some funds from the Elders’ Council, which is more than enough to find you a chef.”

"Hey, do you want all the villagers to think that the first thing I did after taking office was to find myself a cook?" Minato was a little annoyed.

“We can keep it a secret from them.” Feng Lan smiled slightly. “The Hokage’s income must be made public, but the Hokage’s office does not, and neither do the advisors. Just think of it as someone I hired to cook for me, and I’ll let you have a bite to eat while I’m at it.”

"Anyway..." Before Minato's mouth could be stuffed full of noodles, he changed the subject in time, "The first decision you will have to make after becoming Hokage is undoubtedly this."

Fenglan slammed a document on the table: "Determine whether to spend a large sum of money to rent Shukaku's jinchūriki, Bunfuku, from Sunagakure..."

His expression turned extremely sarcastic: "Strengthen the defenses?"

"It's mainly because of Kushina..." Minato sighed. Although he didn't say it outright in front of Shisui and Itachi, Fenglan naturally knew that because Kushina was about to give birth, the Nine-Tails seal had become extremely unstable. Now she was busy reinforcing it day and night and didn't even have time to cook for her husband, let alone go to the battlefield.

The problem is... she didn't go during the Third Shinobi World War either? Looking at the four Shinobi World Wars in Naruto, apart from the fourth one where the power of Jinchuriki was used extensively because of the protagonist Naruto, in which of the other wars didn't the Jinchuriki be hidden away as soon as the war started?

Even at the very beginning of the Fourth Shinobi World War, the Five Kage held the same view: to keep the Eight-Tails and Nine-Tails hidden and let the regular army fight them.

The Jinchuriki of this world are roughly equivalent to the nuclear bombs before Feng Lan's transmigration; they serve a deterrent purpose and rarely appear on the front lines. Clearly, the purpose of the person who initiated this document could not have been to truly consolidate the defenses.

"Who initiated this plan?" Feng Lan flipped to the end to see the signature. As expected, it was blank, but often the absence of any signature already speaks volumes.

He glanced at Minato, who guiltily turned his head away, which only solidified his belief: "Let me guess... it's the Third Hokage, isn't it?"

“The Third Hokage was doing this for my own good,” Minato said softly. “If war breaks out again, as a husband, I can’t let my wife go to the battlefield. But as the Fourth Hokage, I have to protect the village and its people by using Jinchuriki. If we could rent Shukaku from Sunagakure, we could…”

“Who said that protecting the village necessarily requires using a Jinchuriki?” Feng Lan scoffed. “During the recent Third Shinobi World War, many people suggested using the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, but the Third Hokage forcefully suppressed them.”

"That's because of Kushina..."

“Minato, you’re just letting your concern cloud your judgment.” Fenglan interrupted him again. “I admit you’re a good husband, but now you’re the Fourth Hokage. You need to consider things from the Hokage’s perspective. Let me assume that the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki wasn’t Kushina, but just a simple tool of war… Excuse me, let me use another word, just an ordinary member of Konoha.”

"And you, my Hokage, clearly have great faith in the threatening power of Jinchuriki, don't you?"

“Of course.” Minato frowned. “Otherwise, the First Hokage wouldn’t have distributed the Tailed Beasts to the Five Great Nations.”

"Let's set aside whether the First Hokage's method of distributing the Tailed Beasts was right or wrong for now. Who do you think the Jinchuriki can threaten?" Feng Lan continued the topic. "Iwagakure? Kumogakure? Or Sunagakure, which is willing to lend Shukaku to us?"

"Iwagakure has the Four-Tails and Five-Tails, and Kumogakure has the Two-Tails and Eight-Tails. They are clearly more mature, shrewd, and capable than the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki. You have actually fought against them, so you should know that their power is not like Kushina's... I mean the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki. That power is controllable." (Minato fought the Four-Tails and Five-Tails in Minato Chronicles, and the Abby brothers in the Third Shinobi World War.)

Seeing that Minato was about to say that it wasn't Kushina's fault, Fenglan quickened his pace and continued, "Then let's turn the topic back to this question. As the Fourth Hokage, when would you make up your mind to use the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, a power that is terrifyingly destructive yet extremely uncontrollable, capable of harming both the enemy and yourself?"

"Well, that's when things get really urgent..." Clearly, the newly appointed young Minato hadn't considered these issues.

"So here's the question: what constitutes a critical moment?" Feng Lan guided her gently. "Does it mean the enemy has reached the village's doorstep?"

"Maybe... it will be a little earlier," Minato said uncertainly.

“That’s it.” Feng Lan smiled. “Looking at the three Shinobi World Wars in history, let alone reaching the village gates, the enemy couldn’t even get halfway into the Land of Fire, right?”

"You mean... there's no need to rent the One-Tailed Beast?" Minato frowned. "But the One-Tailed Beast from Sunagakure is more controllable than the Nine-Tailed Beast. If a war really breaks out, perhaps we can activate the One-Tailed Beast sooner." (Bunpuku is one of the few Jinchūriki whom Shukaku acknowledges.)

“If the One-Tailed Beast is really that reliable, why would Sunagakure be willing to rent it? Is it just because they are poor and short of money?” Feng Lan waved his finger. “No, it’s because they already know the rules of the game between villages, and they know that most of the time, the Jinchuriki is just a symbol, and it’s better to keep them locked up in a cell.”

He was absolutely right. If you count the time, Bunpuku, who became a Jinchūriki during the Second Kazekage's time, should be in prison by now.

Although Minato didn't speak, his expression clearly showed that he wasn't convinced.

So Fenglan continued, "Let's not discuss how much of the huge sum of money for renting Shukaku can actually be paid to Sunagakure, or how much ends up in the hands of people inside Konoha. Now, let's assume the following situation."

"If the Hidden Cloud Village announces that thieves have appeared on the border of the Land of Fire, and they openly cross the border under the guise of capturing thieves who have plundered the people of the Land of Lightning, would you directly use the Jinchuriki?"

Minato frowned: "No, that's too much of an exaggeration."

"Next, the Cloud Village's operation to apprehend the thieves caused considerable damage and a large fire. The neighboring Iwagakure also came over under the guise of putting out the fire to 'help.' Will you send out your Jinchuriki?"

"Probably not."

"Then, these two ninja teams stopped leaving and brazenly occupied the Land of Fire's territory. Your choices are: one, send out a ninja squad to drive them away; two, use a Jinchuriki to blast them."

"Of course it's number one. I'm not a person who enjoys killing."

“That’s it.” Feng Lan spread his hands. “The sausage tactic. They will never push you to the brink of desperation, where you have to use a Jinchuriki. Instead, they will slowly erode the Land of Fire, one small piece at a time. They will make you feel pain but not break your bones. The day when you are supposed to use a Jinchuriki will probably never come.”

"Hearing you say that, it seems that the concept of a Jinchūriki is meaningless."

"No, of course there is. The Jinchūriki give the Five Great Nations the power of 'Today, I am sure to die, but you will not live either,' so they will not really go all out to start a war."

"It's either a tug-of-war along the border, or it's a war fought on the territory of a small country like Amegakure... That's the rule of the game between the five great ninja villages. There's no need to risk your life; it's all about interests."

"Having a Jinchuriki grants one the right to gamble and to sit at the table for a meal, that's all. Sunagakure knows this, so they'd love to rent Shukaku for money."

"So what's your suggestion..." Minato finally got to the point.

Feng Lan said seriously, "Cancel the lease order and use the remaining money to train the standing army. Now that the Third World War has just ended, every village is severely weakened, so even if Kushina has no deterrent power, there will not really be another war."

"Everyone is taking this opportunity to strengthen their military, but if we waste our money and resources on the pointless rental of Jinchūriki... well, who knows what the next war will look like?"

“Standing army, intelligence system, scientific ninja tools… I personally believe these are what we should pursue. Of course…” Feng Lan made a gesture, “You are the Hokage, and the one who ultimately decides this matter is you.”

"I..." Although Minato was already tempted by what Feng Lan said, he still took a deep breath and tried to keep himself calm. "I need to think about it carefully."

Feng Lan smiled with satisfaction: "Yes, Hokage."

Chapter 15: Fainted from the shock of Konoha's friendship

The atmosphere in the office became heavy for a moment. Minato was thinking, and the two Uchiha were thinking even more. Feng Lan's series of insights today were really unconventional, and were blind spots that were hard for people like them who liked to think the best of others to reach.

Feng Lan wasn't in a hurry at all. Minato was indeed a staunch believer in the Will of Fire, so there were many things he didn't say clearly: for example, the Third Hokage's intention in producing this document was ill-intentioned, and how much of the money involved in renting the One-Tailed Beast would end up in his own pocket...

Given Minato's current personality, even if Fenglan lays the evidence on his face, he'll still just say, "The Third Hokage meant well."

However, he genuinely cared for Konoha and wanted to make changes. His suggestion was clearly better than renting the One-Tailed Beast. Minato just needed some time to figure things out.

After a long silence, Minato slowly spoke: "Feng Lan, have you been trying to win over the Uchiha clan in preparation for building a standing army?"

Feng Lan: "..."

To be honest, his aim in winning over the Uchiha clan was entirely to cultivate a private army. However, since Minato was somewhat influenced by this, Feng Lan continued along this line of thought: "Indeed, the redundant middle-level personnel cut from the garrison forces can be directly incorporated into the training of the standing army. With the Uchiha taking the lead, other clans won't have so many complaints."

“I see…” Shisui’s eyes lit up as well. “This is indeed a win-win solution. Lord Fenglan, you kept saying you weren’t in a hurry. So you were waiting for the proposal to establish a standing army?”

Although Itachi didn't speak, his writing speed noticeably increased, clearly indicating that he was recording something.

"This is just the ideal scenario; in reality, it will be extremely difficult to get through." Feng Lan shrugged. "Especially regarding scientific ninja tools, countless ninja clans will feel their interests are being infringed upon and will vehemently oppose it until we withdraw the entire plan."

Scientific ninja tools would be like upgrading ninjas from fighting with cold weapons in ancient times to fighting with firearms on the battlefield. Everyone knows how satisfying it is to sweep away swordsmen with a gun. So why is the promotion of scientific ninja tools still so difficult even in the Boruto era? Boruto, the protagonist, was even disqualified from the Chunin Exams because he used scientific ninja tools.

The answer is naturally because this thing affects the interests of the major ninja families. If they regard it as a core secret and their secret ninjutsu passed down from generation to generation can be used with a ninja tool, then wouldn't our families lose their foundation?

Aburame, Yamanaka, Akimichi... which of these families doesn't make a living by using secret techniques? If you make everyone know their secret techniques, who wouldn't fight you to the death?

"It won't be withdrawn." But at that moment, Minato suddenly stood up. "Feng Lan is right. I can't make the wrong decision just because I care about Kushina. This plan... must be carried out. This is my firm determination as the Fourth Hokage!"

Feng Lan smiled and nodded again, saying, "Yes, Hokage."

Although it was only a small part, he managed to get Minato to break free from the Will of Fire and start thinking for himself.

Of course, don't think that Feng Lan genuinely wants Konoha to improve. His only reason for advocating against renting Shukaku is that he can't profit from it, and that he would have plenty of opportunities to intervene if a standing new army were established. That's all.

After leaving the Hokage's office, Feng Lan looked up at the sky and let out a long sigh. He then instructed Shisui beside him, "Take my invitation to the Nara clan's residence and tell them that I'd like to invite Mr. Nara Shikaku to have a couple of drinks tonight."

Since Minato was determined to establish a standing new army, he, as the advisor, had to help with the initial arrangements, and Nara Shikaku was undoubtedly the key figure in this process.

The Ino-Shika-Cho trio has always worked together, and Nara Shikaku, with his exceptional intelligence, clearly plays the role of the brains among them. In addition, as the leader of the Konoha Jonin team, he has a deep understanding of the middle-level structure. Furthermore, as a Konoha strategist, he even has the authority to participate in some high-level roles, making him a very important figure who connects the top and bottom levels.

If Minato could get Shikaku's support, his plan would be much smoother to carry out... but it's easy to imagine that this top strategist of Konoha is not as easy to deal with as Fugaku.

"Yes!" Zhi Shui realized that Feng Lan was preparing to take action, and immediately accepted the order and left.

Itachi also looked at Feng Lan expectantly, hoping that he could assign him some tasks. He was very willing to do his part to make the village better, such as persuading his father to reduce the Uchiha's security forces.

"call!"

Feng Lan, however, swayed and almost fell. Today, he had something to deal with, so he not only didn't let Itachi participate in training, but he also chose to keep his main body in the office while his clone trained with Dai. You can imagine how tired he was.

While one can rest and replenish fluids when tired during physical cultivation, the moment the clone disappears, all the fatigue of the entire day is poured in, making it far more difficult to endure than physical cultivation.

But he gritted his teeth and persevered. Although his body was already so weak that it needed the help of Weasel, who was still a child, his mind remained clear: "Take me to Obito's house."

Tomorrow is the day he goes to see Orochimaru, and it's also the day Obito, this "meat bun," has to beat the dog. Logically and emotionally, he has to have a heart-to-heart talk with Obito tonight, even if it's just to gain the other's trust.

"Yes."

……

Led by Itachi, Fenglan quickly arrived at Obito's house, but was told by his grandmother that he was not home. Fenglan thought about the original plot and soon found him near the swing near the Ninja Academy (where Naruto often sat).

At this moment, Obito was accompanied not only by Rin, but also by his best friend Kakashi Hatake. The relationship between the three was quite delicate. Obito had a crush on... no, it was almost an open crush on Rin, while Rin had a crush on Kakashi. As for Kakashi...

He acted like a cool and aloof god in front of Rin, but became a tsundere in front of Obito.

Fenglan: "...man, what can I say?"

I was so shocked by the friendship in Konoha that I fainted.

"Lord Fenglan."

Despite his aloof and solitary personality, Kakashi deeply respects Feng Lan, who saved him.

"Yeah, you're back from your mission." Feng Lan greeted him with a smile, then sat down next to Obito. "You're going to Orochimaru for experiments tomorrow, are you nervous?"

"Who, who's nervous!" Obito, of course, didn't want to show weakness in front of his two friends, especially Rin. "I'm not scared at all! Uchiha Obito wants to become Hokage someday, this little obstacle is absolutely, absolutely..."

His voice gradually faded. No matter how much Obito tried to appear strong and optimistic, he was still just a twelve-year-old child. It was impossible for him not to be afraid of Orochimaru's experiments, which sounded incredibly morbid. Besides, Fugaku had already informed him that the success rate was at most 30%.

"If you're afraid, just say it. There's nothing to be embarrassed about. Before I was rescued by Minato, I was so scared of a robber that I couldn't even walk." Feng Lan patted his shoulder with a smile. "People grow up, and in the process, they inevitably encounter hardships and torments. It's normal to feel fear and terror. It's also good to show your vulnerable side to your companions."

"me……"

Obito muttered a few words, then sat down on the ground dejectedly: "Okay, I was actually very scared. Before, at the Kannabi Bridge, I felt like I was going to die. My heart was filled with resentment and regret. I had just become friends with Kakashi, and I hadn't even..."

He stole a glance at Rin, then quickly lowered his head again: "This time too, the thought of possibly dying terrifies me. I'm afraid I'll never see Grandma again, afraid I'll never be able to fight alongside Kakashi again, afraid I won't be able to protect Rin properly, afraid... I won't be able to realize my dream of becoming Hokage."

"Obito".

Kakashi and Rin listened with concern, and instinctively grabbed his hands, one on each side.

"So, shall we stop here?" Feng Lan asked seriously. "I will go and explain things to Lord Orochimaru, and this matter should end here..."

"Of course not!"

Obito excitedly raised his head: "Although I might die from the experiments, I'd rather die than spend the rest of my life as a cripple! I will definitely stand up again and become a ninja, I will definitely protect Kakashi and Rin, and I will definitely become Hokage!"

Overwhelmed with excitement, he involuntarily activated his Sharingan, and under the moonlight, his crimson pupils appeared even more alluring and ominous.

"Well done!" Feng Lan patted him on the shoulder. "For your courage, I'll treat your team to a big meal today, and tomorrow I'll see if I can ask Miss Shizune to come and help out, and... let Kakashi and Rin accompany you the whole time!"

"real?!"

The three of them were immediately overjoyed. Miss Shizune was Tsunade's attendant. After returning last time, she was asked by Fenglan to stay in the village. She was currently the most skilled medical ninja in Konoha. Having her around was at least a psychological comfort.

If Kakashi and Rin could go to the side, to put it bluntly, if something were to happen to Obito, at least they could accompany him on his final journey.

"Oh my gosh! I'm going to eat until I'm stuffed to death!"

"Idiot, don't run so fast!"

Obito tried to mask his fear with his appetite and got up to run ahead first, while Kakashi followed closely behind, worried about his health. Only the thoughtful Rin stayed behind and bowed deeply to Fenglan: "Lord Fenglan, thank you so much!"

And Fenglan did indeed have something to say to Lin: "Lin, do you want Obito to be safe and sound?"

“Yes!” Lin said without hesitation, “I am willing to do everything in my power to help him!”

Feng Lan then leaned down and whispered in her ear, "Well then, I have a way that might come in handy at the most crucial moment..."

Chapter 16 Orochimaru

Early the next morning, Feng Lan led a large group of people to Orochimaru's experimental base. Besides himself, there were Uchiha Shisui and Uchiha Itachi, Konoha's current chief medical ninja Kato Shizune, as well as Obito, Kakashi, and Rin.

Hidden on the edge of Konoha, this place is usually eerie and terrifying, shrouded in a persistent mist even in broad daylight. It is truly a place rarely visited by humans. The moment they stepped near the base, the three little ones couldn't help but shiver and rub their skin, which was covered in goosebumps.

"Wow, what a grand affair!"

Orochimaru had clearly received the news beforehand. He stood alone outside the base, arms outstretched in a welcoming gesture: "Fenglan-kun, who are these children?"

“This is Uchiha Obito.” Feng Lan patted Obito next to him. Although the latter tried to maintain his courage, he couldn’t help but tug at the former’s clothes. “He is also the war hero that Lord Danzo asked you to treat.”

"These two are Kakashi and Rin, Obito's companions, who volunteered to come and keep them company."

“This is Ms. Kato Shizune.” Feng Lan turned to the other side. “I paid a considerable price to get her to come and help.”

Orochimaru's pupils twitched slightly, clearly indicating that he also recognized Tsunade's lover's niece.

"And these two, Uchiha Shisui and Uchiha Itachi. Itachi will come back with me in a bit, while Shisui will stay behind to record the whole process."