Whenever Natsuhiko sought Minato Namikaze out for a discussion, it would invariably cause Minato's mood to sink—and his blood pressure to rise.
It couldn't be helped.
Every piece of intelligence Natsuhiko had provided concerned the darkest corners within Konoha.
Even though Minato had only received information from him twice, after verifying portions of it, he couldn't help but feel that way each time.
So when he heard Natsuhiko say he had something to discuss, his brows instinctively furrowed.
That reaction even left Natsuhiko slightly puzzled—it seemed a bit excessive.
Still, he didn't dwell on it.
There truly was something he needed to discuss with Minato properly—namely, the position of ANBU Third Division Commander.
Natsuhiko didn't know what choice Minato would ultimately make, nor did he know the current opinions or intentions of those higher up.
But for the sake of his own plans, he had to act.
Otherwise, eliminating Kusunoki would have been for nothing.
Moreover, Minato had already begun developing certain thoughts of his own.
His current situation likely wasn't ideal.
In that case, an ANBU commander willing to cooperate with him, follow his directives, and provide further intelligence would be extremely valuable.
And Natsuhiko was certain that if Minato didn't take action now—
There was a high probability that the commander's position would slip from Natsuhiko's grasp.
He was indeed a strong candidate.
But he wasn't the only strong candidate.
"What is it? Go ahead," Minato said, steadying himself and appearing much calmer. "Why didn't you bring this up earlier?"
"Because before, I was still thinking about whether I should say it at all," Natsuhiko replied with his usual gentle smile. "And before this, I didn't feel qualified. But now…"
As he spoke, he glanced at the kunai in his hand—the one already bearing the Flying Thunder God formula.
Rather than lacking qualification, it would be more accurate to say his bargaining chips hadn't been sufficient to force a decision.
But now, Natsuhiko had completed the two most difficult steps of the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Most importantly, if he were to attempt spatial traversal, it would essentially mean he had mastered the basic form of the technique.
However, he would not attempt it now.
He knew that if he did, Minato might notice something.
To display such mastery without any buffer of time would be exposing his secret.
He would never lightly attempt anything that could reveal him.
The reason he dared to expose his sealing technique was because he had sufficient room to explain it—no matter how busy he was, he could claim he had practiced in his spare time.
As for the Flying Thunder God Technique, although Natsuhiko had not yet demonstrated actual teleportation, to someone like Minato—who was exceptionally proficient in it—it was clear that Natsuhiko was only one step away.
Even saying that Natsuhiko had already mastered it wouldn't be an exaggeration.
Minato seemed to understand his implication.
Mastering the Flying Thunder God Technique, possessing a powerful summoning beast as a partner, and having respectable personal strength—
These were indeed formidable bargaining chips.
"You want…" Minato was extremely perceptive. After only a brief moment of thought, he grasped Natsuhiko's intention. "The position of Commander of the ANBU Third Division?"
"Yes."
Though Natsuhiko's expression remained gentle, his tone this time was unwaveringly firm.
"I want the commander's position."
"Give me a reason," Minato said, taking a deep breath as his brows knit together. "If it's purely about strength, I can arrange for you to compete, but—"
"This position holds immense significance—for you, Lord Hokage, and for me."
Natsuhiko interrupted him before he could finish.
"You should already know that Kusunoki had, in truth, drawn close to Root."
"With his death, I believe neither you, Lord Hokage, nor the Third Hokage would allow another Kusunoki to appear. Am I right?"
Minato nodded slightly at Natsuhiko's words.
Indeed, during this period he had discussed the vacant ANBU commander position with the Third Hokage. The two of them had tacitly excluded Danzo from consideration.
The candidates they discussed were all individuals within the ANBU who possessed sufficient experience and strength.
However, in those discussions, Hiruzen Sarutobi had held an absolutely dominant position.
Minato had his own ideas.
He had considered using this commander position to win over certain people.
But unfortunately, within the ANBU, the only ones truly aligned with him were Natsuhiko and Kakashi.
"State your full thoughts," Minato sighed softly. "I want to hear everything you're thinking. No reservations."
"In truth, Lord Hokage is worried that taking action might anger the Third Hokage, isn't that so?"
Natsuhiko smiled gently. He still appeared calm, completely at ease despite discussing something so significant.
"After all, there was already the precedent with Kakashi. And you are unwilling to have a direct confrontation with the Third Hokage.
So in this selection, you're likely feeling somewhat caught in a dilemma. After all, there aren't many people within the ANBU whom you can fully trust.
But I believe I am absolutely one of them.
In terms of seniority, I've served in the ANBU for five years. I believe that meets the minimum requirement.
As for strength—although my chakra reserves are limited due to my age and may not yet be entirely satisfactory—
I believe it won't be long before I fully master the Flying Thunder God Technique.
Beyond that, I also have Lizardmaru as my partner. Within the ANBU, there are not many I would lose to.
Though I am still young, I believe that given time, I will grow stronger—and become even more satisfactory to you, Lord Hokage."
At this point, Natsuhiko paused briefly.
Minato nodded slightly.
The information Natsuhiko presented did indeed prove that he possessed the necessary bargaining chips to become a Commander.
Service record. Strength.
Both were crucial qualifications for the position—and Natsuhiko met them.
Beyond that was the potential he had demonstrated.
Such potential would tempt anyone.
And it was indeed one of Natsuhiko's strongest advantages in competing for Commander.
"Furthermore…"
Seeing Minato's expression, Natsuhiko's smile grew brighter.
"I believe you also wish to have a force within the ANBU that truly belongs to you.
There are currently three divisions in the ANBU. Two answer to the Third Hokage. One had previously been close to Root.
Now that this position is vacant—even if you show a bit more resolve and secure it for yourself, the Third Hokage may be displeased, but he would not openly turn against you.
He controls too many resources. And with Kakashi already joining your side, he was mentally prepared for such shifts long ago.
Moreover, Lord Hokage—if I become commander, I can provide you with more intelligence.
More accurate. More detailed.
Isn't that right?"