Chapter 171: Chapter 171: Reform
The scope of the proposed reforms was immense, touching every aspect of life in the village.
"Expanding the academy, improving educational quality, professionalizing the ninja forces… Establishing the Konoha Department of Medical and Public Health, reforming the Police Force… Founding the Konoha Construction Group… Prioritizing economic growth and technological advancement… This is a bold move to break free from the Daimyō's control entirely!" Sarutobi Hiruzen muttered, his hands trembling as he reviewed the comprehensive plan.
Akira's proposal wasn't just ambitious—it was radical. It threatened entrenched clan interests and openly aimed to sever Konoha's reliance on the Fire Country's Daimyō.
"If this goes through, Konoha will no longer be the Daimyō's Konoha. Instead, the Fire Country will become Konoha's Fire Country…" Nara Shikaku exhaled sharply, his eyes narrowing.
"If successful, these reforms will undoubtedly elevate Konoha. At that point, the only voice in the Fire Country will be Konoha's…" Yamanaka Inoichi silently calculated, his mind racing.
"These plans look good on paper, but can they truly succeed? The risks are enormous, and the Daimyō will not sit idly by…" Utatane Koharu voiced her concern, her brows furrowed deeply.
"If anyone has thoughts or suggestions, please speak up now. This is merely a draft—it doesn't mean every reform will be implemented simultaneously. I understand the need for a gradual approach," Akira declared confidently.
His words caused several council members to exchange uneasy glances. Good cop, bad cop—he played both roles masterfully. What else could they add?
Hiruzen finally broke the silence, his tone cautious.
"Fifth Hokage, these proposals are no small matter. I believe we should deliberate carefully. There's no need to rush."
"Rest assured, Third Hokage," Akira replied with a nod. "These reforms will be implemented step by step, tailored to Konoha's unique situation. This meeting is to gather your insights and identify any potential pitfalls before we proceed further."
Akira's measured approach did little to ease the tension in the room. Konoha's current circumstances demanded reform, but patience was crucial. Hasty actions could lead to disaster.
"What do you believe we should prioritize?" Akira asked, his sharp gaze sweeping across the room.
Shikaku responded gravely, "Hokage-sama, I believe the first priority should be addressing Konoha's economic issues. Every other reform, especially those involving military changes, requires substantial funding."
'He's aligning himself with the Fifth Hokage…' The unspoken thought rippled through the room.
Akira's reforms posed challenges for many clans, particularly those reliant on secret techniques. While bloodline clans would be affected to a degree, the impact on secret-technique families would be far greater, especially with an expanded academy and improved educational quality.
"I agree with Shikaku. Strengthening the economy is vital. Without it, further progress will be impossible," Yamanaka Inoichi added.
His endorsement confirmed it—the Ino-Shika-Cho trio had firmly sided with the Fifth Hokage.
"Excellent. The economy is indeed a priority and aligns with my plans," Akira nodded approvingly.
Watching the scene, Mitokado Homura's thoughts churned.
Breaking free from the Daimyō's control… Uchiha Akira is unlike any Hokage before him. To him, the Daimyō is no different from any ordinary citizen.
Homura was certain Akira would take extreme measures to ensure the success of his reforms. In his mind, Akira shared similarities with Uchiha Madara—only more radical.
After a moment of silence, Akira continued, "If we're all in agreement, we'll prioritize economic reforms. Shikaku and Inoichi, I'll have you lead this effort. Refine the draft into a detailed, actionable plan. We have many idle shinobi—this is the perfect time to put them to work."
Shikaku and Inoichi rose and bowed. "Understood, Hokage-sama. We'll begin immediately."
"Good." Akira smiled, then shifted his focus. "As for the academy and the police force, they'll undergo reforms as well. However, changes to the ninja corps will be postponed for now. Any thoughts on these?"
The academy reforms were extensive—expanding its size, enhancing educational quality, and creating specialized tracks for combat and non-combat roles. Graduation timelines would be extended, and students would face stricter assessments. Only those who met rigorous standards would be allowed to graduate.
Police force reforms, on the other hand, were simpler. Previously the exclusive domain of the Uchiha clan, it would now be an open institution, with positions available to all qualified shinobi.
"Hokage-sama, does our current budget allow for academy reforms?" Hiruzen asked, a clear warning in his tone.
Akira understood the concern. "Rest assured, Third Hokage. This will be a modest expansion, more of a trial run to gather experience—not an all-at-once overhaul."
Hiruzen nodded slowly. "That's a prudent approach. I have no further concerns."
The police force reforms drew no objections. The Uchiha relinquishing exclusive control was seen as a positive change.
"Very well. If there are no further concerns, these matters are settled," Akira concluded. Turning to Hiruzen, Koharu, and Homura, he added, "I'll need you three to oversee the academy reforms—draft plans, select qualified instructors, and develop a comprehensive curriculum."
The three advisors exchanged glances before nodding solemnly.
"Understood. We'll handle it."
"One more thing," Akira interjected. "The curriculum must reflect our new direction. Students without combat aptitude should be funneled into other fields. This will be a significant departure from previous methods."
He handed a document to Hiruzen. "Here are my suggestions for the new curriculum. It may provide some guidance."
Hiruzen accepted the document, his expression serious. "Education is paramount. We'll ensure it aligns with the village's needs."
"Good. I trust you." Akira's gaze softened, though his resolve remained firm.
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Pls Drop some Power Stones
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