When he became stronger—strong enough to stand shoulder to shoulder with the powerful, or even surpass them—the position of Hokage would naturally fall into his hands through genuine ability.
Relying on manufactured hype, boasting, and flattery would only leave someone truly exposed. That would be the real tragedy.
"So I believe... if we are to choose the Fourth Hokage, Teacher Sakumo is the most suitable candidate."
After Akira Sarutobi finished speaking, he fell silent.
"..."
Danzo and the others' expressions darkened unpredictably.
They had to admit that their plan to harm Hatake Sakumo had failed.
But this matter would not end so simply.
"Koharu... Hiruzen is still in his prime. It is too early to discuss the election of the next Hokage."
Danzo stepped in to smooth things over.
At the same time, he snuffed out the possibility of Hatake Sakumo taking office as Hokage anytime soon.
"In times of peace, development is what matters. Once we have finished digesting the spoils gained from the Second Shinobi World War..."
The Third Shinobi World War would begin before long.
When that time came... the truth would reveal itself!
"Mm, well said." Utatane Koharu nodded, agreeing with Danzo's view.
"I also agree with what Danzo said." Mitokado Homura adjusted his glasses.
Watching the three old foxes at work, Akira Sarutobi knew the matter would not end so easily.
However, since he had already taken the first step, the many steps that followed would naturally come next...
To let Hatake Sakumo completely escape danger, he would ultimately have to become the Fourth Hokage.
Whether it was to prevent him from being persecuted or because he was the most suitable candidate...
Just as Akira Sarutobi was thinking this—
Text flickered before the retina of his right eye.
A system notification, absent for a long