The Hokage's office was dimly lit by the gentle glow of lanterns, casting long shadows across the walls lined with scrolls and books. Outside, the village rested under a blanket of stars — quiet and peaceful.
Inside, however, the mood was focused.
Hiruzen Sarutobi sat behind his desk, pipe in hand but unlit. He stared thoughtfully at the two jōnin before him — Kakashi Hatake and Arata, the recently appointed instructor of Team 1.
"Thank you both for coming," Hiruzen said calmly. "I wanted a personal briefing on the Uzumaki twins. They've grown rapidly — and they're no ordinary genin."
Kakashi, leaning back casually with his hands in his pockets, gave a nod. "Naruto… is loud, impatient, and reckless. But he's also loyal, determined, and getting stronger. The bell test proved that. He's still rough around the edges, but he's learning."
Arata, ever composed, added his thoughts next. "Ren is… composed. Focused. Surprisingly mature for his age. He doesn't lead for praise — he leads because he knows where to go. He already understands teamwork better than many chūnin."
Hiruzen exhaled slowly, considering both reports.
"They've walked the same path, and yet so different."
Arata nodded. "Yes, Hokage-sama. Ren's discipline comes from observation. He analyzes everything — even his own teammates. Today, he seamlessly supported their specialties while leading the exercise. It wasn't loud or flashy, but it was effective."
Kakashi gave a rare, soft chuckle. "Naruto… well, let's just say I'll have my hands full. But I can see his heart. And I understand why his brother believes in him."
The room was quiet for a moment.
Then Hiruzen looked out the window, watching the village below.
"The Will of Fire burns in both of them — in different ways. One through quiet purpose. The other through sheer spirit."
He turned back to the two jōnin.
"Watch them closely. Protect them when necessary. But more than anything… guide them. They'll shape the future of this village — together."
Both instructors nodded.
And somewhere, deep in the peaceful heart of the Hidden Leaf, two brothers slept — unaware of just how many eyes were watching… and hoping.