Chapter 17 : Temporary Hokage

"Shikaku?"

Sarutobi Hiruzen looked up at Nara Shikaku upon hearing the announcement on the Golden List. He had been caught off guard by Senju Hashirama's words while still basking in his flawless performance. His mind buzzed momentarily.

Being the longest-serving Hokage, the first to step down from power, the first to adopt a "listening to politics" stance, and the first to become the Hokage twice, he had accumulated a fair share of dark pasts.

He certainly didn't want to face the bad reputation after his dismissal from the position of Hokage because of the First Hokage.

His thoughts raced, considering how to counter Senju Hashirama's proposal. If it wasn't for the live broadcast, he would have immediately convened with Uchiha Ran and Nara Shikaku to strategize.

However, Nara Shikaku had surprised him by suggesting a temporary replacement.

Why?

Sarutobi Hiruzen was momentarily baffled.

Unbeknownst to him, Nara Shikaku's move was just the beginning.

[ Senju Hashirama: Nara? The family known for its wisdom during the Warring State Period, I recall your suggestions often carry weight. Do others agree or disagree? ]

At that moment, Senju Hashirama radiated the aura of a legendary ninja, even Senju Tobirama refrained from speaking up.

"Hashirama remains dependable in critical times."

"Let that old monkey continue and Konoha's reputation will definitely suffer."

In the Land of Fire, Uchiha Madara's eyes gleamed with admiration.

Upon hearing this, Uchiha Izuna said with a tinge of jealousy, "Elder brother, it seems like you care about Konoha. Is it because of Hashirama?"

"Absolutely not!"

Uchiha Madara played the old tsundere, swiftly denying it.

"Izuna, you don't understand. Hashirama and I founded Konoha to end the era of wars. I named it Konoha, representing the Senju, while the Hokage title symbolizes Uchiha's Fire Style."

"That's the story, elder brother!" Izuna nodded, not entirely convinced.

Uchiha Madara turned away with a huff.

"Hmph, that meddling monkey!"

"No, the world is dirty, but that won't matter once Project Infite Tsukuyomi succeeds."

"Hashirama, your mistakes will be rectified!"

[Akamichi Chōza : If Ran-kun is in favor, the Akamichi clan agrees.]

[Yamanaka Inoichi : If Ran-kun agrees, the Yamanaka clan stands by it.]

Ino-Shika-Chō, who always sticks together, follows Nara's lead. Their support for this decision isn't surprising.

[Senju Tsunade: I believe I also have a say. I stand by my junior brother's side.]

[Jiraiya: In that case, count me in as well.]

Tsunade's disdain for Sarutobi Hiruzen had been long standing. Had Konoha not been Senju Hashirama and Senju Tobirama's accomplishment, she might have defected sooner, even before Orochimaru did.

Jiraiya, who had observed Sarutobi Hiruzen's actions for so long, saw his guilt towards Namikaze Minato and his sympathy for Naruto. This led him to firmly stand with the cause.

[Yamato: I agree.]

[Hatake Kakashi: I support this on behalf of the Hatake family.]

[Might Guy: Kakashi, my closest rival, I'm with you on this.]

[Yakushi Kabuto: As Vice President of Konoha Shinobi Hospital, I stand for all medical ninjas in agreement.]

Yakushi Kabuto had been personally selected by Uchiha Ran, so he knew how to make a prudent decision.

It's worth noting that Uchiha Ran also concurrently held the position of hospital dean.

The inclusion of medical ninjas tilted the scales heavily toward approval.

[Genin Hiroki: I'm aligned with Ran-sama's words!]

[Chūnin Kazuma: Ran-sama saved my life with kindness, so I stand by this!]

[Agree!]

[Hyuga Hiashi: On behalf of the Hyuga family, I'm in favor!]

Countless affirmations followed suit. Even Konoha's current clan head couldn't help but agree.

Uchiha Ran, living up to everyone's expectations!

A chill ran down Sarutobi Hiruzen's spine. He finally realized that his once-prized political tactics and oratory skills appeared as mere theatrics to those who possessed inside knowledge or keen intellect.

In the past, he had the upper hand with the Hokage position, the ANBU answering directly to him, and Danzo's Root under his control. Even when Danzo took the fall, it hadn't been too complicated.

But the present had rewritten the rules.

The emergence of Uchiha Ran had offered them a fresh alternative.

Background-wise, as Third Hokage's closest disciple, a junior of the Konoha Sannin, and now a member of the Uchiha clan, he had solid foundations.

Strength-wise, the moniker "Black Flash" held significant weight, and his use of Flying Thunder God bestowed Kage-level combat abilities.

Qualifications-wise, becoming a Genin at ten, Uchiha Ran had accomplished many A and S-level missions and saved numerous lives at the Ninja Hospital within the past six years.

Network-wise, he guided the next generation of Ino-Shika-Chō and became friends with Sannin. When Sarutobi Hiruzen had tried to groom him before, he had subtly indicated his support to Nara Shikaku and others. Hyuga Hiashi also had some sort of connection with Uchiha Ran. Kakashi and Yurenai, as well as Might Guy, had ties with him.

The only drawback to Uchiha Ran was his age; sixteen implied a lack of experience.

However, with Senju Hashirama's endorsement and the widespread support, the age concern was easily overlooked.

"I never expected him to have such influence behind the scenes."

"Except for the ANBU loyal only to me, the Jōnin with dubious loyalties, and the Sarutobi family's Jōnin, nearly everyone else supports him."

"Half of the Jōnin's support can sway any decision, and two-thirds can even remove the Hokage from power."

"Ran... Uchiha Ran, I've underestimated you!"

Sarutobi Hiruzen, now conscious of his predicament, regained his composure.

Reflecting on the past, he saw things more clearly.

At that moment, he sensed the sting of betrayal and division.

And this, he realized, was partly his own doing.

[Senju Hashirama: Hahaha, I didn't anticipate Ran gaining such popularity. He's almost on par with me. Therefore, Uchiha Ran will temporarily assume the role of Hokage.]

[Uchiha Ran: Since everyone supports Shodai's intentions, it's hard for me to decline. However, I'm still young, so I request Mr. Sarutobi's guidance as an elder.]

Uchiha Ran didn't shy away. He accepted the responsibility.

While he held this temporary post, he wouldn't disappoint anyone.

Naming Sarutobi Hiruzen as an elder was merely a sign of respect for his mentor and a gesture of humility.

The old monkey wouldn't be ousted so easily.

"Phew..."

Sarutobi Hiruzen, unaware of Uchiha Ran's inner thoughts, breathed a sigh of relief.

At least, he had a chance to reclaim his authority.

Meanwhile, in the world of the Pure Land, countless Uchiha clan members were puzzled.

The coveted Hokage seat... going to an Uchiha?

"Perfect!"

Uchiha Sasuke waved his hand in excitement.

Becoming Hokage was another significant stride toward reviving the Uchiha clan.

At that instant, Uchiha Ran interjected, "Let's focus on the Golden List for now. Naruto, you're running out of time."

After Sarutobi Hiruzen's performance, the countdown was down to ten seconds.

Naruto's selection was a mere ten seconds away.

"Ah, ah, time's slipping away! What should I do!?"

**********

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