Naruto: Uchiha's Resolve

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"Tomita, who are these people?"

Having assumed the role of clan leader, Uchiha Hirito had moved into Uchiha Tomita's former quarters, beginning his duties.

"Clan Leader, these are the Uchiha accountants."

Uchiha Tomita gestured to a line of accountants, all professionals hired by the Uchiha but not part of the clan itself. After all, the Uchiha excelled in combat, but handling complex finances and accounts was not their forte.

At Tomita's nod, the accountants began to report on the Uchiha clan's recent financial situation.

"Clan Leader, our weapons division is operating at a deficit. Konoha owes us over 530 million ryō for shuriken, kunai, detonating tags, and other items."

"Master Clan Leader, our shops are also in trouble. Over 30% of our tenants have been overdue for six months, totaling 130 million ryō."

"Additionally, compensations for fallen clan members have yet to be paid, causing some unrest among their families."

"…"

One by one, each accountant presented bleak financial reports. Hirito's expression tightened; every summary pointed to the same conclusion—the family urgently needed funds.

"Enough. Sum it up for me. How much cash flow do we have, and how long can we hold out?"

The head accountant responded, "Around 150 million ryō, Clan Leader. Assuming no new issues, we'll last a month."

A chill went down Hirito's spine—only a month.

"Tomita, how did it come to this?" Hirito asked, staring at the outgoing leader in disbelief.

"War has strained every clan, not just ours," Tomita replied. "All of Konoha has put their best people on the front lines. Mission income has dried up, and nearly every resource has gone toward the war effort. We've poured everything into the defense of Konoha."

Hirito sighed. "And what about the Daimyō? Surely he's aware of the situation?"

"The Daimyō provides Konoha with a budget of 20 billion ryō annually, increased to 25 billion ryō during the war."

"But…?" Hirito probed, sensing there was more to this answer.

Tomita's tone turned grim. "But the war expenses have eaten up nearly all of it. Maintaining the troops, feeding them, providing medical supplies—it all costs a fortune. Every kunai, every shuriken thrown in battle is ryō down the drain. It's hard to imagine, but Konoha's on the edge."

Hirito clenched his fist. Konoha couldn't keep hemorrhaging money like this. It was no longer sustainable.

"Fortunately, the Daimyō and Senju Tobirama discussed a reconstruction fund. Once it's allocated, we should see some relief," Tomita added.

"And how much is that exactly?"

"It's confidential," Tomita replied with a shrug.

Hirito felt a flicker of suspicion. The absence of a specific figure suggested some power play involving the Senju clan.

The thought of losing control of such a crucial fund made Hirito resolve to secure the Hokage position. "If we let the Senju or their allies distribute these funds, the Uchiha will see nothing," Hirito thought.

Tomita gave him an encouraging look. "We need you to become Hokage, Clan Leader."

Hirito returned Tomita's stare, fully aware of the weight behind those words. Being Hokage was about more than prestige—it was about securing the future and resources of the Uchiha. In his mind, he pictured Konoha's descent under Sarutobi Hiruzen, a time when the clan was nearly wiped out.

"I will become Hokage," Hirito declared, both for his clan and for Konoha's future.

Tomita's face lit up. "I have no doubt, Clan Leader. No one in Konoha can stand against you."

"Then let's get to work," Hirito said, moving toward a pile of paperwork Tomita had prepared.

The documents were a collection of the clan's daily responsibilities: approving promotions, organizing street patrols, coordinating arrest operations, and arranging meetings with various officials and merchants.

Notably, a prominent merchant from the Fire Nation had an appointment set for two days later. He supplied raw iron for the clan's weapon manufacturing but had not been paid in six months. Tomita had managed to appease him with flattery and long drinking sessions, but it was clear Hirito would soon face a similar challenge.

It was all on his shoulders now.

End of the Chapter.

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