Chapter 108

Koharu, Homura, and Danzo were all taken aback by the unexpected turn of events. They had never anticipated that Tatsuya would intervene to halt Nawaki. The trio assumed that Nawaki acted under Tatsuya's direction, voicing his thoughts aloud. Hiruzen, however, remained silent in the quartet, his thoughts hidden from the others.

"In short, let's proceed immediately to the succession ceremony for the new position of Hokage, and Daimyo-sama will also be invited to attend," Tatsuya declared as he stood up.

"I see. I also hope that Konoha can once again showcase the glory of the First Hokage during the tenure of the Fourth Hokage," responded the Daimyo, acknowledging the situation.

The Daimyo was aware that both Tatsuya and Tsunade might not match up to Hiruzen's capabilities of politics. However, with no other hidden agendas at play, he wasn't overly concerned. Yet, curiosity lingered—would Hiruzen willingly relinquish control after three decades in power?

Upon reflection, he realized the situation was unchangeable and that everyone had accepted it. The ongoing Iwagakure vs. Sungakure war and the negotiations with Kumogakure led by Tutai were minor concerns compared to the transition of Hokage in Konoha.

Kirigakure, under the Fourth Mizukage Yagura, was grappling with the aftermath of losing the seven Ninja swordsmen, a recovery that seemed distant.

While the land of water remained relatively quiet, Tatsuya, the astute observer, understood the complexities beneath the surface. Uchiha Madara, the crafty and insane strategist made a puppet like Third Mizukage. Even if there was only one before, Madara could swiftly create another.

After concluding their meeting with the Daimyo, Tatsuya and his companions returned to Konoha Village. Simultaneously, the Ino-Shika-Chō tribe and other front-line forces, having completed post-war negotiations with Kirigakure, also made their way back.

As the village embraced a long-awaited celebration, news spread rapidly throughout Konoha, the entire Land of Fire, and the Ninja World—Tsunade Senju would ascend to the position of the Fourth Hokage.

Although Hiruzen is still alive, with the assistance of Tatsuya and Tsunade's character. How could the establishment of the two-kage ninja village occur, similar to the original Namikaze Minato?

Upon returning to the village, Tsunade promptly issued a directive to transfer all personal belongings of the preceding Hokage to the Sarutobi clan, particularly items associated with cigarettes, as she could not tolerate the smell of tobacco.

Nawaki, transitioning from a ninja school teacher to Hokage's assistant, exhibited even greater courtesy. He directly replaced all items used by the Hiruzen to express their dissatisfaction with these outdated possessions.

A Chūnin or Chūnin elite daring to treat the former Hokage in such a manner naturally angered the four members of the elders' group. Despite their frustration, they refrained from direct confrontation.

Concerning the family land and Hiruzen's residence, the issue was brought to the forefront.

"Hiruzen! Are you willing to hand over the Konoha that Tobirama-sensei entrusted to us to Tsunade?"

Koharu, upon being offered tea by Hiruzen, didn't bother tasting it, her face flickering with anger. If Tobirama were to hear this statement, it might not sit well with him. Considering Tsunade's current strength and aptitude, she had the strength and fame to be Hokage, even if Tobirama were still alive.

If Tobirama is indeed alive at this time, let him decide on the heir. Assuming his mind is still rational, he shall choose Tsunade.

"Are you really angry or are just instigating me to seize power?"

Hiruzen, appearing much calmer than his three furious counterparts, squinted his eyes and said, "Isn't the case?"

Koharu and others instantly quieted down, as if doused with cold water. Seizing power? Of course, that's their desire. However, the method to achieve it is another matter.

It's just talk; everyone knows how difficult it is to say it amusingly, as if it doesn't matter if they want to unite the Ninja World.

Hiruzen poured another cup of hot tea for Mitokado Homura and Danzo and spoke solemnly, "If you're contemplating it, it aligns perfectly with Hatake Tatsuya's plan; he awaits your move to seize power and then kill us once and for all."

"What did you say?" Koharu and Homura's expressions changed in shock.

"Why do you think he dissuaded Nawaki at the Daimyo Mansion meeting before? Was it truly because he couldn't bear to remove you from your positions?"

Hiruzen shook his head, explaining to this group of individuals, "He believes that merely removing us from our posts isn't sufficient; he seeks an opportunity to eliminate us all politically without leaving a single smudge on Tsunade's reputation."

At this moment, in a garden. Tatsuya, clad in casual attire with a straw hat atop his head and a hoe by his side, holds in one hand the Orochimaru's covert messages. He sent his snakes to him. On the other hand, he indulges in a rice ball, savoring its flavor.

Surrounding him are Rin, Kurenai, and Terumi Mei, along with a gathering of Summoning Beasts from the Hatake family. With a rice ball in each hand.

The three girls have transitioned from ninja attire to more casual clothing due to the dirt accumulated while assisting in plowing the land. They somewhat resemble farm girls, but their natural beauty not only doesn't detract from their appeal but adds a unique flavor.

Indeed, Tatsuya has relocated his vegetable garden to the Hatake clan land. For him, this activity has transformed from a leisurely pastime to a distinctive form of relaxation.

Originally, a significant number of clan members perished at the end of the First Ninja War, leaving a substantial amount of vacant land within the tribe. Reluctantly, Tatsuya utilized a tiny portion of the 10 billion taels paid by Rock Shinobi to acquire this vacant land.

Observing the intelligence scroll in Tatsuya's hand the three girls feel a twinge of fear. Is Tatsuya-san still in contact with Orochimaru? Could it be that Orochimaru's defection was orchestrated by the elders? Their worldviews seem to be crumbling.

Terumi Mei, unreservedly addressing the situation, remarks on the darkness that has enveloped Konoha. The world of Shinobi is indeed a dark reality.

Tatsuya, amused internally, "Kirigakure, have been under the influence of Uchiha for two generations of Mizukage. Now that is truly dark."

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