Early the next morning, an endless stream of ox carts arrived outside Konoha's gates, carrying nobles and high-ranking officials from various countries.
Sarutobi Hiruzen had not slept all night. He had intended to have Danzo come out and receive Raikage A and the others as well, only to discover that the vast Root headquarters was completely deserted.
After investigating the traces at the scene, the Anbu found only blood all over the ground. Tests confirmed that it belonged to Summoning Beast Baku.
But the nobles from various nations and the leaders of the ninja villages had already arrived. Today's Chunin Exams had to continue.
Sarutobi Hiruzen could only suppress the unease in his heart and rise to receive the guests.
After arranging for the daimyo and other nobles to take their seats in the stands, Sarutobi Hiruzen returned to the viewing platform for the Three Kage.
The Kazekage and Raikage were already seated there, with their respective guards standing at their sides.
However, beneath the Kazekage's mask was Orochimaru, controlled by Kabuto Yakushi behind him.
When Sarutobi Hiruzen arrived, Raikage A said, "The Hokage is truly occupied with countless affairs. You must be terribly busy."
"Not too bad. These old bones of mine can still hold up." Sarutobi Hiruzen took his seat.
"At your age, you should give the younger generation a chance. Yet you still cling to the position of Hokage." The Kazekage mocked.
Sarutobi Hiruzen turned his head away. "Hehe, whenever I see young people like the Kazekage, I feel full of vitality. I can keep working for another decade or two."
"Craving power is hardly a virtue a leader should possess," the Kazekage continued.
"It is merely that I have yet to see a leader worthy of entrusting the position to. I do not dare choose one