Ryota looked at the list of students who were in the exams. He had been there and had seen the fights. He reviewed the list, thinking about which ones should be promoted to chunin, and honestly, he could only pick one of them. Shino didn't get into a fight, so Ryota was not able to judge him properly and set his name aside. Sasuke was a like scenario as he hadn't seen the full fight, and it was messed up because of the attack. Shikamaru also didn't fight because he had a bye, and was impossible to judge too.

Next, he considered Naruto and Kaza, who had similar problems. The two of them won a fight but went all out and were wounded. Normally, this would mean they wouldn't be able to fight again, but they had fought after being wounded during the attack on the village. Ryota set their names aside as well.

Then he looked at the files for the losers of their matches, Ino. Their matches were both great, showcasing the mental abilities and skills worthy of chunin, but they lost. However, they both had a hand in the fight against the Sand ninja.

There was also Sakura, who was an easy pass, and Ace, who was an easy pass as he had done well and shown his worth in the finals and against Gaara. The other candidates were trickier in terms of deciding who would pass and who would fail.

Ryota looked over at Amon, knowing he wasn't unbiased when it came to his own son, Kaza. "Sir, Amon, I want your opinion on which of these four are worthy of being chunin."

Amon looked thoughtfully at the files Ryota had laid out, considering each student's performance and potential. He understood the weight of this decision and the importance of choosing the right candidates for promotion.

"Ryota," Amon began, his tone measured, "let's break it down. Shino's absence from a fight makes it hard to judge his capabilities, but he's always been a reliable and intelligent ninja. Still, without a concrete assessment, it's difficult to promote him fairly."

He moved on to the next files. "Naruto and Kaza both demonstrated immense strength and resilience. They pushed their limits and fought bravely, even after sustaining injuries. This shows not just physical prowess but also a strong will, which is crucial for a chunin. However, their recklessness in pushing themselves to such extremes could be seen as a lack of strategic thinking, which is equally important."

Amon picked up the files of Ino next. "Ino might not have won their matches, but her fight against Sakur and her support abilities and contributions during the Sand attack were significant."

Finally, he turned to the files of Sakura and Ace. "Sakura was an easy pass, and Ace, as your son, has proven himself time and again. They've both demonstrated the skills, intelligence, and resilience needed for a chunin. They're strong candidates."

Amon paused, weighing his words carefully. "If I were to recommend the most deserving candidates, I'd suggest Ino for his improvement and growth in her fight and her maturity as a kunochi, and Sakura for her all-around capabilities, her impressive genjutsu abilities. Ace, despite being your son, has shown exceptional talent and maturity. Kaza, while also deserving, might benefit from more experience to temper his impulsiveness. Naruto has the potential but needs to refine his strategic thinking. I have no doubt Shikamaru and Shino are worthy but the lack of fights prevents them from advancing. Sasuke would be worth it too, but I think he needs to learn better teamwork before he advances."

Ryota nodded, appreciating Amon's insights. "Your points are valid, Amon. I'll take these into account as I make the final decision. It's crucial we promote those who will strengthen the village and uphold its values."

Ryota looked at the names and the one that was the impossible one for him to decide on was again his son, Kaza, he knew that Kaza wanted this so much, and he knew that no matter what his son was going to most likely always keep that reckless streak within himself. He was so much in a way like his late uncle Kazanori in this regard. The talent, the abilities and the sheer recklessness all combined into a talented ninja.

"I agree mostly, but I don't think I cannot pass my son, I know his weakness, he knows his weakness, and I think his strengths makeup for those weaknesses, I think he can handle leadership and missions, and just have to hope that in time, he improves, and he doesn't end up like my brother did," Ryota said as he looked up at Amon.

Amon nodded, understanding the weight of Ryota's decision. He had seen and knew firsthand the complexities and challenges of being both a leader and a father. It wasn't easy, as his grandfather had been a hokage long ago.

"Ryota, you know Kaza better than anyone," Amon said thoughtfully. "If you believe he has what it takes to be a chunin and that his strengths outweigh his weaknesses, then your judgment holds significant weight. Your insight into his character and potential is invaluable."

Ryota appreciated Amon's support. "Thank you, Amon. I know it's a difficult choice, but I trust Kaza to rise to the occasion. He's shown immense growth, and with the right guidance, he can avoid the pitfalls that claimed Kazanori. Then again Kazanori died in war, holding off an impossible enemy for multiple days of battle that most likely saved countless lives."

Amon placed a reassuring hand on Ryota's shoulder. "Then it's settled. We'll trust in Kaza's potential and continue to support him as he navigates this path. He's in good hands with you as his father and Hokage."

With a final nod, Ryota returned his attention to the files. "Ino, Sakura, Ace, and Kaza. These four will be promoted to chunin. I'll make the announcement later today."

Amon smiled, satisfied with the decision. "A strong group. The future of Konoha looks promising under their leadership and your guidance, Ryota."

As Ryota stood before the group, his eyes scanned the faces of the new chunin. He could see the anticipation and pride in their expressions, especially in Kaza and Ace. The weight of his responsibility as Hokage and as a father was evident, but so was his pride.

"Today is a significant day," Ryota continued. "You've each demonstrated remarkable courage, skill, and determination. You have shown yourselves to be great ninja. You have shown the abilities that are needed to lead, and be a chunin of Konohagakure . You all can stand proud as I believe you are the future of this village. Kaza, Ace, Sakura, and Ino,,stand tall and stand proud, for you have made all your family, and friends proud with your efforts."

He looked at Kaza, his son, with a special kind of pride and warmth. "Kaza, you've shown incredible growth and resilience. Your determination and spirit remind me of your late uncle Kazanori. I believe in your potential and know you will make us all proud."

Turning to Ace, Ryota smiled. "Ace, your strength and leadership have been evident in your actions. You've faced Dosu, and Gaara, and in both situations showed your abilities, and determination, your talents are remarkable by boy. You are a true asset to our village, and I am proud to be your father."

He then looked at Sakura. "Sakura, your intelligence and dedication are unparalleled. Your fight against Ino was one that showed your smarts, but also your growth as well. Your help with the Gaara situation confirmed this as well. You are a talented and skilled kunoichi, and I believe you are destined for great things.."

Finally, he addressed Ino. There was something nice about being able to promote her. She was the daughter of one of his best friends. He also knew she had grown and very much deserved this rank. "Ino, your abilities have improved a great deal. You have proven yourself an asset to Konohagakure. You might have lost your fight, but your performance showed you to be a splendid kunoichi, and a talented young woman. Your support in the fight against the attack, only confirms this fact."

Aoba, standing nearby, beamed with pride. His students had come a long way, and this moment was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Ryota took a deep breath and held up the official headbands, symbolizing their new rank. "By the power vested in me as the Hokage, I hereby promote you to the rank of chunin. Wear these headbands with pride and honor and continue to protect and serve Konohagakure with all your heart."

He handed each of them their new headbands, starting with Kaza, then Ace, Sakura, and finally Ino. The crowd, which included their friends, family, and fellow ninja, erupted in applause and cheers.

As soon as the ceremony ended, Ryota, Kaza, Ace, Sakura, and Aoba made their way back to the Togusa home. Tia had been busy, cooking up a feast with ramen, soba, curry, and various other dishes. When the new chunins got home they found many of their friends waiting for them. They were there to celebrate their advancements and the victory against the invaders as well. The night was filled with laughter, shared stories, and a profound sense of accomplishment. With the Hokage as their clan head and two newly promoted chunin, the Togusa Clan was beaming with pride.

For a week, life in the village remained peaceful. However, this calm was shattered late one night when Ryota received an urgent message. It was bad news: Sasuke Uchiha had left the village with a group of Otogakure ninja, apparently headed to meet Orochimaru.

Ryota quickly reviewed the list of available teams. Many were out on missions, leaving the village with limited options. Sasuke's team was incomplete, with Shizuka on leave to help with her family's harvest. Team Aoba was also short-handed, with Aoba himself away on a mission. Ryota let out a sigh, knowing the gravity of the situation.

Late that night, Kaza and Ace stood before Ryota, their father's face serious and focused.

"Boys, I have a mission for you, one that may be above your heads," Ryota began. "Sasuke Uchiha has left Konoha with a group of Otogakure ninjas. We believe he intends to defect to Orochimaru. This cannot be allowed. We're short on available ninja, so I need you to act quickly. Gather who you can in the next hour and form a small team, no more than five or six members. Move fast."

Kaza and Ace exchanged determined glances before nodding. They knew the importance of this mission and the urgency it demanded.

"We won't let you down, Dad," Kaza said, his voice steady.

Ace added, "We'll bring Sasuke back."

Kaza and Ace walked out as they looked at each other, "Ace find the team, I will get the supplies and meet you at the gate in thirty minutes, I will figure something out for the plan if Shikamaru isn't here," Kaza informed Ace before taking his leave.

Ace nodded his head as he watched his brother too. Where to first, that was obvious. He went to the Haruno home and knocked on the door. He knew Sakura was home and she would help. She was part of their team after all, and she would want to bring Sasuke back. As he walked, he ran into Naruto on the way.

"Naruto, Sasuke is making an attempt to defect to Naruto, we need your help, I am on my way to get Sakura, do you know if Shikamaru or Shino happen to be in town right now. I know Ino, and Choji aren't, so I assume Shikamaru isn't as well."

Naruto's eyes widened in shock and determination replaced his usual carefree demeanor. "Ace, I knew something like this might happen. I'm in! I just saw Shikamaru at the training grounds a while ago. I'll go get him. You get Sakura, and we'll meet you at the gate."

The two of them went their own ways, Naruto going to find Shikamaru and Ace moving quickly to find Sakura. He knew that this was an important mission and not having Sakura by his side was not something he wanted. He knocked on her door to find Mebuki, Sakura's mom there.

"Ace, what's going on?" Mebuki asked, figuring that Ace was there for a reason, he didn't seem the type to come and disturb someone's sleep that late.

"Mebuki, it's urgent! I need Sakura's help; Sasuke is trying to defect to Orochimaru. We need your help to bring him back. I need her help with this."

Sakura appeared behind her mother, her face paling at the news. "I'll be right there, Ace." She turned to her mother. "I have to go."

Her mother nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Be careful, Sakura."

As Sakura grabbed her gear, Ace filled her in on the details. "Naruto is getting Shikamaru. Kaza is gathering supplies and will meet us at the gate in thirty minutes. We need to move fast."

The two of them quickly made their way to the main gain, where Kaza had secured enough supplies for whomever went. He had a box of explosive tags, shuriken, kunai, and other items that would be needed already put into multiple backpacks. He went with six as he guessed that would be the total leaving on this mission.

Naruto and Shikamaru came up a moment later, as that would give them a total of five members for their team. Kaza looked over at Shikamaru as he seemed half asleep. He knew he could trust his mind though to think up something.

"It is us right now anyone else out there that we can find quickly," Shikamaru commented as he thought about it for a moment. I know Ino is out of town with her father, as is Choji. They are a no go; Team Guy and Team Kurenai I think are out on missions as well. So, it would seem that it is us five for this one"

Kaza nodded as he unpacked the last bag and repacked the extra supplies into the other five bags, quickly. "We have to get going. We have to do our best to not get into stupid one vs one fights if possible. Shikamaru since you're here. I'm going to trust in you and I'm going to leave this planning up to you," Kaza said as he would follow Shikamaru's lead in this situation.

"We need a plan," Shikamaru said, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. "But first, we need to know who's available."

Ace quickly ran through the list. "Ino and Choji are out of town. Shino might be around, but I haven't seen him. We could use his skills if we can find him."

"I got it,"Shikamaru sighed, before taking up his thinking pose. He quickly calculated the various possible scenarios in his head. "I can come up with a plan, but we need to move quickly. If Sasuke reaches Orochimaru, it'll be almost impossible to get him back."

"Kaza take point, Naruto second, Sakura hold down third spot, I will hold down fourth, and Ace takes up the rear guard," Shikamaru said firmly as the five of them were ready to move out and go after Sasuke. The danger that awaited them was at that moment yet to be known.