**Chapter 45: Sarutobi Hiruzen’s Conspiracy!**

For a time, the patriarchs of many clans began to understand the true purpose of the meeting. This wasn't about electing a Hokage; the top brass of Konoha had already decided on their candidate. They were simply informing the clan leaders through this gathering.

"Orochimaru's qualifications and strength, along with his contributions to the village, make him a suitable candidate for Hokage," Homura declared in support of Orochimaru.

Danzo remained silent, knowing that this matter had already been discussed among the higher-ups. He planned to stay quiet unless something unexpected arose.

"I believe Hatake Sakumo would be a better choice. His performance in this war was outstanding, especially with the successful assassination of the Kazekage," another ninja suggested, voicing an opinion that surprised the gathered crowd.

Hatake Sakumo was taken aback. He hadn't even considered running for the Hokage position, especially after the explosive fallout from previous events that had left him wary of such ambitions.

"I also recommend Hatake Sakumo-sama. His role in our recent missions has been invaluable, and his insights can guide the future of the village," another ninja chimed in.

Touched by the unexpected support, Sakumo stood up. "Thank you for your kind words, but I have no intentions of running for Hokage. My focus is on doing what I can for the village, and I support Orochimaru's candidacy."

Seeing Sakumo's reluctance to take the position, the atmosphere in the room shifted. Many shifted their support toward Orochimaru, who wore a warm smile at the unexpected turn of events.

"Everyone seems to agree…" Sarutobi Hiruzen began, but before he could continue, Uchiha Tani interrupted.

"I want to run too," he declared.

"Uchiha Tani? You wish to be Hokage?" Hiruzen responded, taken aback by the interruption.

The other ninjas murmured among themselves. It was well known that while the Uchiha clan was powerful, their longstanding feud with other clans would hinder their chances.

"Doesn't the Uchiha clan have the right to participate in the election?" Uchiha Tani retorted, his dissatisfaction evident. As the head of the village's security department, he felt he had earned the right to run.

Sarutobi Hiruzen considered Tani's words. "Of course, if you feel responsible, we support your candidacy. So, we now have confirmed candidates: Orochimaru, Uchiha Tani, and Jiraiya. The next six months will serve as your assessment period, after which we will hold a unified election."

The room was silent for a moment as the clan leaders processed Hiruzen's announcement. Jiraiya? Many were puzzled; he was currently away from the village, his reputation lacking.

"Why add Jiraiya to the candidates?" Homura questioned, brows furrowing. "Isn't he close with Uchiha Tani and Fugaku?"

"That's precisely why," Hiruzen replied, his tone steady. "Those who support Orochimaru will be the majority. Including Jiraiya will help ease Uchiha Tani's vigilance, allowing us to maneuver more freely."

A sinister smile crept onto Sarutobi Hiruzen's face, revealing his ulterior motives.

"You mean to give the Uchiha clan a challenging mission?" Danzo interjected, his instincts sharpening as he grasped Hiruzen's intent. The Sandaime was clearly plotting something.

"Yes. Your Root organization has become quite prominent recently; let's assign some work to their security department," Hiruzen explained, producing a scroll and handing it to the others.

As they read the contents, the scroll disintegrated into ashes. "If we allow Uchiha to handle this, we'll gain considerable maneuverability. With these tasks, they'll be preoccupied. By the time this is over, they won't even have the capacity to run for Hokage," he concluded, his voice laced with confidence.

Turning to Koharu, he said, "I need you to manage the Uchiha issue carefully. There can't be any mistakes."

After a moment of silence, Koharu nodded approvingly, a satisfied smile on her face. "Being aligned with someone as cunning as you is quite enjoyable!"

"Let's proceed as you suggest, Hokage-sama," Danzo said, sensing the opportunity for power consolidation.

"Homura, you and Danzo will collaborate on Orochimaru's campaign," Hiruzen instructed. "Koharu, you handle the Uchiha situation. This is crucial."

Hiruzen's expression turned resolute, revealing his determination to solidify their control over Konoha. If they executed this plan successfully, their positions would be unassailable.

In a village as powerful as Konoha, the temptation to control was immense. And Hiruzen was more than ready to seize that power for himself and his allies.

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