In the process of teaching, Uchiha Shisui would often pause like he was seeing a monster when looking at Uchiha Hui, thinking to himself: "Even if our Uchiha clan is surprisingly talented in this regard, this is beyond belief. The Great Elder once said that my talent in illusion is unmatched, something that could only be described as demonic. Yet, Uchiha Hui's efficiency is at least ten times greater than mine. Isn't that inhuman?"
Uchiha Hui himself was equally surprised. Learning illusions came so easily to him that before Shisui could finish explaining a technique, Hui had already mastered it. It felt as natural as eating or drinking.
Shisui gazed at Uchiha Hui in awe, admiration clear in his eyes. He looked Hui up and down before sincerely praising him, "In terms of illusions, I'm far inferior to you. You're the most gifted person in this field that I've ever met."
His tone was honest, without a hint of exaggeration.
Uchiha Hui hadn't expected such a reaction. He had simply intended to maintain their relationship and keep asking Shisui for illusion techniques after his graduation.
Now this unexpected praise had him wary. Doubt flashed in Hui's eyes as he questioned Shisui's intent: "I don't want my father to know about my progress in illusions just yet. Can you keep it a secret for me?"
His talent was too exceptional, and if the Uchiha clan learned of it, it would undoubtedly be publicized. That kind of attention wasn't ideal. Aside from the potential danger in being hailed as a genius, individuals like Danzo in Konoha Village would certainly seek to either destroy or manipulate someone beyond their control. Hui had no desire to become a target so early on.
Shisui was taken aback, frowning thoughtfully as he studied Hui before slowly nodding his agreement.
...
While Uchiha Hui was learning illusions, in the Hokage's office, a group of Jonin had been summoned.
The Third Hokage sat in his chair, pressing down his cloak as he addressed the gathered shinobi with a solemn expression. "Although news of the disappearance of the Third Kazekage has spread in the Sand Village, we cannot rule out the possibility that it's a diversion. War may still break out at any time. Regardless, you are still responsible for training the next generation. The children assigned to you are talented—protect their lives, but also ensure they gain experience quickly, ideally within three months."
The Third Hokage glanced at the academy's class roster. The student allocations were still a month away from being finalized, but the Jonin team assignments were mostly unchanged.
"Take turns meeting with the students you'll be leading," he instructed, "and prepare your teaching methods in advance."
After the Jonin took turns examining the roster, the Third Hokage dismissed them, leaving only his own disciple, Orochimaru.
The Third had hoped Jiraiya would also guide a promising batch of students, but Jiraiya was currently preoccupied with his "Child of Prophecy" obsession and gathering material for his book. Since Konoha wasn't in immediate need of extra mentors, no new students had been assigned to him. Tsunade was away from the village, leaving only Orochimaru available for this role.
Orochimaru narrowed his snake-like eyes, pointing to the shortest line on the roster with a sly smile. "Sarutobi-sensei, your memory is as sharp as ever. It's been nearly ten months."
The roster Orochimaru pointed to held just two names: Uchiha Hui and Yuki Yuyan. Because there was a vacancy for a third team member, their line appeared the shortest.
The Third Hokage took a puff of his pipe, chuckling. "I'm not so old that I'd forget. Those two were assigned to you, along with Mitarashi Anko's team, as you requested."
Orochimaru lowered his hand, gazing toward the academy as if watching something particularly interesting. A twisted smile crept across his face as a glint of fascination flashed in his eyes. "Interesting... truly remarkable talent. At this rate, it won't be long before Uchiha Hui uncovers my snake. But by then, I'll already be his teacher, so I won't need to rely on such tactics."
These thoughts flickered through his mind before Orochimaru bowed slightly to the Third Hokage. "Thank you for your consideration, Sarutobi-sensei. I should prepare for training my new students."
The Third Hokage's gaze softened with pride as he nodded in satisfaction. Among his three students, Orochimaru was the most dependable, and he had always shown great respect for his teacher.
Knowing Orochimaru likely had his own motives, the Third Hokage sighed helplessly and shook his head. "This isn't special treatment—Minato's class was arranged the same way back then. If you have matters to attend to, go on."
With the Third's permission, Orochimaru said, "Then I'll take my leave."
He turned and walked out the door, disappearing into the corridor.