Naruto: Konoha’s Trickster, Starting as the Seven-Tails Jinchūriki

These past few days, Kazuyama had noticed a peculiar routine: Kushina would rush home, grab Pakura, and vanish into her room for the rest of the day. He knew exactly what they were up to—not just the two of them, but also Mikoto Uchiha.

Weren't they just making those special military ration pills for Minato and Fugaku?

In theory, Minato should not have returned by now. When he did, there was bound to be some excitement.

With a cheerful heart, Kazuyama headed straight to the Ninja Academy. The graduation exams were approaching, and the Chūnin Exams seemed set to coincide with them. He was listed as an assistant proctor for the exams.

When he arrived, he noticed all the students and teachers gathered on the playground, split into two groups—one large and one small. Curious, Kazuyama walked over to join the teachers' group.

"Huh? Sensei's back at the Academy after being away for a while!"

"Wait, isn't that Naruya-sensei? But, what's going on with him?"

Kazuyama approached a familiar teacher—a kind, middle-aged man respected for his wealth of knowledge despite being a Chūnin of modest strength.

"I heard the principal is being replaced. The new one is supposed to be really strong, and this ceremony is to welcome him."

A new principal? Kazuyama hadn't heard about this. His curiosity grew. Judging by the anticipation in the air, the incoming principal was likely a formidable figure. Admiration for strength was a given at the Ninja Academy, even in a relatively peaceful Konohagakure.

As he pondered the situation, the sound of enthusiastic cheers pulled him back to reality.

"Welcome, new principal!"

The loud applause from both students and teachers echoed across the playground. On the makeshift stage, where only the old principal had stood, another figure now appeared.

The sight left everyone stunned, their disbelief written all over their faces.

The new principal had a refined presence, even with the signs of age. His short silver hair stood out, and a calm smile rested on his lips—a sharp contrast to the sternness one might typically expect. The traditional half-sleeve was gone, replaced by an air of composure and approachability.

"Sakumo?!" Kazuyama blurted out.

The next second, everyone glared at him angrily.

"Kazuyama-sensei, this is Lord Sakumo! How can you call him by his first name?!"

"Lord Sakumo is the new principal of our school and your superior. Treat him with the respect he deserves!"

The old principal turned red with anger, but Sakumo laughed heartily and raised a hand, stopping the headmaster from speaking.

"Kazuyama, are you surprised? I did mention I'd come teach at the Ninja Academy."

Kazuyama felt his heart flutter the moment he saw Sakumo. At last, he understood why the people of Yugakure had called him the White Fang. This man's One Thousand Years of Death technique wasn't just a physical blow—it struck the heart, leaving an impact that could never fade.

Seeing Kazuyama's dazed expression, Sakumo chuckled lightly. Turning his gaze to the gathered students and teachers, he addressed them again.

"I'm sure most of you know who I am, so I'll keep this short. I'm Sakumo Hatake, your new principal."

"I look forward to working with all of you."

Just three simple sentences sent the stands into an uproar.

"Oh my god! I can't believe it—Konoha's White Fang is our new principal! This is incredible!"

"Haha! With Principal Sakumo leading us, we'll definitely become the best ninjas!"

"Too bad for those who already graduated—what terrible luck!"

As the students cheered, Kazuyama's face twisted into a strange expression, and he sighed inwardly.

You're all so young… You have no idea that this man is a wolf who can be ruthless even to his own son.

Back then, one of you graduated early because he arranged for a Jōnin to personally test his own child.

And you think you're lucky? Poor kids, your hard times are just beginning.

"Everyone, calm down! Principal Hatake still has something to say."

The old principal stepped in to restore order as the crowd below grew restless.

When the noise settled, Sakumo gave a small smile and spoke again.

"The graduation exam is approaching," he began. "I have some thoughts on this."

"For a long time, the content of the graduation exam has been focused solely on ninjutsu assessments, which I believe is unfair. Ninjas shouldn't be judged on ninjutsu alone. Genjutsu, Taijutsu, and even Stealth Techniques are all essential skills for a ninja to master."

"Therefore, the graduation assessment will be reformed in the near future."

"I personally believe more students should have the chance to showcase their unique strengths. If someone can excel in their chosen field, then they have what it takes to become a ninja."

The crowd fell silent at his words.

Kazuyama widened his eyes, staring at Sakumo. He had never expected him to take such a bold step. Reforming the Ninja Academy's graduation system was a massive undertaking.

To put it bluntly, this was overturning the old decree of the Second Hokage. Yet, it was the right thing to do. Human potential varied across disciplines, and to generalize was to stifle talent.

Who says Taijutsu can't make someone a Kage-level Ninja? Wait 20 years and watch Guy open seven gates and kick someone's ass. If they can't wait that long, they can test themselves against Might Duy right now.

Who says stealth techniques can't dominate the battlefield? Say that, and someone will steal everything you own and disappear without a trace.

"Yes!!! Long live Principal Hatake!"

The first to cheer was Might Guy, his face flushed with excitement.

"I think Principal Hatake is absolutely right!" Guy's enthusiasm was contagious. "My Taijutsu has long surpassed most people's, but because the exam is always about ninjutsu, I've never been able to graduate!"

"I support him!"

Obito Uchiha, Guy's friend and rival, also spoke up.

Soon, someone shouted, "Principal Hatake is brilliant!"

The teachers exchanged glances, discussing the proposal. Gradually, they agreed it was a good idea.

Voices in support of Sakumo grew louder.

"Great, really great. Sakumo Hatake truly lives up to his reputation as the number one under the Hokage. No one else has this kind of courage!"

"Finally! I was wondering how Guy could pass this time. What a relief!"

Kazuyama looked up at Sakumo on the stage, filled with admiration and genuine respect for the man's vision.

But the grudge still stands, he thought bitterly. The humiliation of One Thousand Years of Death must be avenged!

If not, I'll be scarred for life!