Chapter 65: Status

Logically, the Hokage's succession ceremony should focus solely on the newly appointed Hokage, capturing the attention of the entire world. However, this time, an unexpected event occurred, shaking Konoha and the entire ninja world to its core.

Even after the ceremony concluded and the villagers dispersed, the lingering shock on their faces was evident. Yet, among the older villagers, there was a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation. Overheard conversations revealed their astonishment and remarks such as:

"I never imagined witnessing the Wood Style that my father spoke of during my lifetime."

"That's the First Hokage's Kekkei Genkai, a legendary power reemerging after decades to bring peace to troubled times."

"Sato, I recall that name. Is he a descendant of the near-extinct Senju clan?"

"It must be. The emblem on his left chest bears the Senju clan symbol. I remember seeing it when the Senju clan still thrived."

"Amazing! Master Tsunade, no... Master Hokage, has returned and brought us a Wood Style ninja. The village will undoubtedly flourish once again, reclaiming its former prosperity!"

Tsunade's appointment as the Fifth Hokage had already boosted the village's morale significantly. However, the arrival of such a powerful Kekkei Genkai, it exponentially increased their spirits. This is the profound impact of wood release on Konoha, and a testament to the influence of Senju Hashirama on the village.

Senju Hashirama had quelled tumultuous times with Wood Release, establishing Konoha as the most formidable power. Now, with the resurgence of Wood Release, the villagers naturally hoped for a return to their golden age, where no one would dare to challenge them.

Tsunade proposed a revision to the succession ceremony's location, allowing Sato to showcase his Wood Release in a prominent manner. This idea arose during Tsunade's journey back to the village.

Initially, Tsunade had reservations, akin to Konoha's directive to keep Naruto's status as the Nine-Tails Jinchūriki concealed until he matured. Similarly, Sato, who had recently awakened his Wood Release, was in a vulnerable stage but also in need of significant growth.

According to political tactics, individuals in Sato's position should be nurtured in secrecy and only revealed once they become a strategic asset. However, after careful contemplation, Tsunade dismissed the notion of clandestine training for Sato.

Reason being, Sato's future practice of Wood Release would inevitably attract attention from the village. Rather than risking panic and exposing him to potential harm from malicious individuals, Tsunade decided to publicly announce that Sato was a descendant of the Senju clan.

By doing so, Sato would gain recognition from the villagers, civilian ninjas, and factions throughout the village. Even the daimyo would acknowledge his potential, securing his future as a Hokage. Under this halo, no one would dare harm Sato, as doing so would equate to betrayal against Konoha.

As Konoha's Child of Hope, Sato would enjoy privileges inaccessible to others. Tsunade, as Hokage, could utilize her authority to teach Sato Forbidden Techniques from the library and sealed books, with the elders of Konoha conveniently turning a blind eye. This would ensure a sense of balance among the lower-ranking ninjas and bolster morale.

Enhancing morale, creating a protective halo around Sato, allowing him to openly practice and employ Wood Release, and paving the path for his future as Hokage... All these objectives converged through Sato's revelation of Wood Release at the succession ceremony, offering multiple benefits.

Tsunade's intentions proved remarkably successful. The villagers' reactions were merely secondary in comparison.

The reaction of the major ninja clans and even the daimyo was crucial. As Sato had anticipated, donning the vest that proclaimed him a 'Descendant of the Senju Clan' and a 'Wood Release Ninja' transformed his image in the eyes of the clans. He was no longer seen as a talented commoner, but rather as a nobleman with noble blood, a descendant of Konoha's wealthiest family, and the Hope of the Leaf.

This change in status granted Sato the instant fulfillment of Naruto's long-standing dream. As he walked down the street, he felt the warmth and enthusiasm of the villagers. He became the object of affection and admiration for girls his age and even older, beautiful girls.

Ninjas, be it Genin, Chūnin, or Jōnin, regarded Sato with utmost respect. When the Anbu sought him out, they addressed him as Master Sato. To sum up Sato's current treatment in six words: he was a winner in life.

"Sato, you really kept us in the dark..."

After revealing his Wood Release, Sato became a true leader within the close-knit circles of Team 8 and Team 10, both in terms of strength and background. However, Shikamaru and the others did not erect any barriers just because Sato had exposed his Kekkei Genkai and suddenly became an incredibly esteemed individual in Konoha .

Shikamaru, with his characteristic nonchalant expression, looked at Sato when he joined them for a dinner party and complained, "You've been hiding your awakened Kekkei Genkai, Wood Release, from us for over a year, you sneaky fellow."

"That's right... You've been disrespectful, Sato," nodded Chōji in agreement.

"Sato, what an amazing surprise you've given us!"

Ino gesticulated with excitement. "When you performed the Wood Release on stage earlier, Teacher Kurenai and Father were completely astounded. Their expressions were truly amusing."

Even Hinata, who rarely voiced her opinion, nodded in agreement. She had her father, sister, and Neji with her during the succession ceremony. Hinata observed her family's expressions, especially Neji's, who had been beaten into a state of aloofness by Sato but was now returned to his previous demeanor.

The memories of their expressions filled Hinata's heart with... joy!

That pleasure surpassed the feeling she experienced when her father praised her for the first time upon grasping the Eight Trigrams Palms Revolving Heaven. At that moment, Hinata felt a sense of accomplishment in her heart. This was the person she admired, still shining brightly even after graduation from the ninja academy.

"Sorry, sorry..."

Sato was oblivious to the thoughts of Team 8 and Team 10.

Regarding Shikamaru and Chōji's 'complaint,' Sato offered insincere apologies, placing the blame on Tsunade. He said, "This was Master Hokage's decision. She believed that Wood Release is of great significance, and until the appropriate time comes, I shouldn't use or reveal it without authorization."

"When I visited her a few days ago, she mentioned that the succession ceremony would be the perfect occasion, so I thought of surprising you all today."

"Now it seems my surprise wasn't too bad, right?"

As he finished speaking, Sato revealed an unusual smirk.

"It's certainly impressive; you've stolen the limelight."

Shikamaru glanced suddenly at the three Ino girls and remarked, "After exposing Wood Release Sato's background and future surpass Uchiha Sasuke's by far. I bet he'll be pursued by countless girls wherever he goes in the future, right?"

"Tsk tsk, it's truly envy-inducing. He's truly a winner in life!"

With those words, Shikamaru suddenly grew irritated. Sato looked at the three girls, who appeared shocked by Shikamaru's comment, and couldn't help but feel speechless.

What a narrow-minded guy!