The Fifth Hokage

"Your organization will be transferred to my command," Shuichi said. "If nothing unexpected happens, Root and Anbu will be reunited. I hope you are mentally prepared."

"But... our mission requirements are very different from those of the Anbu, and our training methods are completely different as well," Aburame Ryoma continued.

"Given the current practices of the Anbu, those new recruits would likely struggle to withstand the brutal mental tests, and their missions would probably end in failure. To better protect the village's safety, some more clandestine methods are indispensable."

Shuichi replied seriously, "Of course I know that. That's why the people who join your special team in the future will be selected from ninjas with strong mental fortitude. If there are any difficult situations, I will personally take charge."

"..."

He had specifically discussed the matter of Root with the Third Hokage and others, and decided that letting Danzo bear the darkness of the village alone would have a huge impact on his character over time, causing him to become increasingly ruthless in his actions.

Although the number of inhumane missions will gradually decrease in the future, they cannot be completely eliminated outright.

Fortunately, the Root team's structure is still intact. Originally, their responsibilities included supplying talent to the Anbu, but now the Anbu members are replenishing them in return, continuing to carry out some very demanding missions.

As for the results, we'll only know after we do it. Shuichi will keep a close eye on the situation. He already anticipates that his days of being able to freely leave the village are numbered...

A few days later, the Third Hokage, whose injuries were quite severe, reappeared in his office, his Hokage Robe covering the bandaged wounds.

Many ninjas failed to notice anything amiss, and the Lord Hokage's tone remained as amiable as ever. Only a few observant individuals noticed that the wrinkles on his face had deepened, and his complexion appeared pale, as if he had lost much of its color.

On the rooftop of the Hokage Building, Shuichi stood leaning against the railing, with Sarutobi Hiruzen and two advisors behind him.

Multiple Anbu squads were dispatched, and the village quickly located Jiraiya's whereabouts. This major event was different from the past, especially with the appearance of the Rinnegan, which made him unable to wander around calmly.

Swish!

A tall, imposing figure leaped up the stairs, his wild white hair cascading down to his waist, the red marks under his eyes looking somewhat stiff, lacking his usual dashing and unrestrained air.

"Old man, you don't look well. Was it Orochimaru's doing?" Jiraiya's expression was grave. "And... about the Rinnegan, is it really as you all say..."

"I called you back here so you can explain yourself!" Utatane Koharu, slammed her cane on the ground and demanded sharply.

"During that long absence in the Land of Rain years ago, did you discover the Rinnegan but not inform the village? Did you secretly teach him Ninjutsu, leading to Danzo's tragic end?"

"Koharu, calm down." Mitokado Homura eased the tension by handing Jiraiya a Scroll. "This was left behind by Danzo before his death, along with a lot of information gathered from Root. Take a look."

Jiraiya immediately took it and began to examine it, his brow furrowing in an instant. "So many Rinnegan? How is that possible!"

"Moreover, not long after I left the Land of Rain, I received news that they had died..."

Jiraiya slightly deformed the Scroll as he acknowledged teaching the disciple, stating, "The only one who should possess the Rinnegan is Nagato."

"I do have some important information on this," Shuichi suddenly said. "Several years ago, I also fought against the Rinnegan."

The group looked over in astonishment.

"They attacked me... no, they attacked Hong. They seem to have recognized me and are looking for my weakness. There should be four attackers."

Mitokado Homura asked again, "Why didn't you notify the village at the time?"

"Because that encounter happened during wartime, nothing seemed out of the ordinary," Shuichi explained. "I killed two of them, and two others seemed to have been possessed."

"The opponent's individual strength wasn't particularly high, but their teamwork was quite good. However, compared to the legendary Rinnegan, its power was far inferior. I even examined the corpse afterwards..."

Shuichi took out Scroll from his shirt and opened it. Inside the transparent jar was a Rinnegan. "I collected both Rinnegan. After returning to the village and examining them thoroughly, I found that they were no different from ordinary eyes, completely lacking chakra and Dojutsu."

"Considering that it's impossible to wholesale a large quantity of such powerful eyes, I assume it's just a matter of resemblance in appearance."

However, this time Elder Danzo encountered six more people who seemed to possess the Rinnegan. Combining this with some details from back then, I roughly figured out their backgrounds.

"What is it?" Jiraiya asked eagerly.

"The attackers back then were masked, and they left a record after I killed them..." Shuichi then took out a scroll with two clear human faces on it: the ponytail-wearing man from the Animal Path and the long-haired man from the Human Path.

"I believe they are all just corpses! Puppetry controlled by the Rinnegan user."

"How is that possible?" The two advisors were shocked upon hearing this.

"This..." Jiraiya at the portrait, then his heart trembled violently. "I've seen both of these people in the painting before! Corpses? What's going on?"

Shuichi calmly pulled out a Black Rods. "These people are covered in these black iron rods. After my research, I discovered that this thing was probably created by fusing Yin-Yang Release. It can interfere with the flow of chakra within the human body."

"I didn't notice it when I killed the opponents, but now that I think about it, their corpses cooled down much faster than normal dead bodies; they became very stiff shortly after falling."

"Considering that the Lord Hokage encountered a remotely controlled Edo Tensei Body this time, and the previously mentioned phenomenon of it being summoned away, we can roughly deduce that there is actually only one Rinnegan user controlling the corpses; he is just hiding in the shadows and hasn't shown himself."

"You know, even a genius like Kakashi can barely withstand the Sharingan, so the user of the Rinnegan must have an astonishing amount of chakra."

Is this the Nagato you mentioned? Just double-check the information.

The group was overwhelmed by the massive amount of information, and Utatane Koharu, regaining her composure, immediately exclaimed, "Jiraiya..."

"You don't need to ask any more questions. Nagato is the last surviving member of the Uzumaki Clan, and he has exceptional talent in Ninjutsu."

Jiraiya gripped the iron bars so tightly they creaked, his heart heavy with sorrow. "Nagato, Yahiko, Konan... what has happened all these years? Why have you done such things...?"

"Leave this matter to me. I will definitely give the village an explanation!"

"There's no use in worrying now. If someone faces the Rinnegan alone, they're bound to encounter misfortune," Shuichi calmly analyzed. "The world is so big. After attacking Elder Danzo, they'll definitely try their best to hide their whereabouts, making it extremely difficult to find them directly."

"But it's not difficult to determine the identity of the Rinnegan holder. You can represent Konoha and go to Hanzo to discuss this matter directly with Amegakure."

If this is true, then Konoha and Amegakure have a common enemy, and they will likely choose to cooperate. Once the enemy's whereabouts are found, they can send elite forces to eliminate them.

"Shuichi is right."

The Third Hokage had seen many trials and tribulations in his life. Even though Jiraiya's student had killed Danzo, he still made the right judgment when he was mentally exhausted.

"Furthermore, Orochimaru's sudden targeting of me is likely related to the Rinnegan. Searching for clues through this route is far more effective than launching a reckless attack."

Jiraiya hesitated for a moment, then his deep voice slowly rang out. "I understand..."

Watching Jiraiya's departing figure, Shuichi wondered how the other man viewed the so-called Child of Prophecy.

Could it be that a massive upheaval in the world began with the deaths of high-ranking officials in Konoha?

"Wait a minute, that Old Toad seemed to have said something about it potentially causing a disaster..." Shuichi thought to himself, then muttered to himself.

"Damn, he's really cunning. He bets on both good and bad things, so his chances of winning are quite high, and he can change his mind at any time along the way. He truly lives up to his name as Toad..."

Shortly after Jiraiya left, as Shuichi was preparing to continue with village affairs, Mitokado Homura's voice suddenly called out to him, "Shuichi, wait a moment..."

Before he turned around, the Third Hokage and the two advisors had already nodded to each other in confirmation.

When Shuichi looked at them, Sarutobi Hiruzen spoke up, saying, "I plan to officially appoint you as the Fifth Hokage soon, and there are some preparatory tasks that require your cooperation."

Shuichi remained calm. The Medical Unit Captain had secretly told him that the Third Hokage's severe injuries at such an advanced age had seriously damaged his physical foundation, and he likely didn't have much time left to live, probably less than two years.

If he continues to be preoccupied with Hokage affairs for an extended period, it could exacerbate this process, making it imperative for a new Hokage to take over his duties.

Shuichi is younger now than when the Fourth Hokage took over, but everyone inside and outside the village, and even the entire Shinobi World, considers it to be his due, a reputation earned through a long and continuous string of amazing victories.

"I understand. Although I don't really like sitting in an office, I have to get used to it eventually..." Shuichi said something really irritating.

If the village children heard this, they would probably cry; this is the Hokage Position they've always dreamed of!

Knowing his personality, the Third Hokage smiled and said kindly, "I heard that Hong is several months pregnant. Aren't you planning to have a wedding?"

"Of course, I originally planned to make arrangements as soon as I returned from my travels, and now the timing is perfect," Shuichi smile.

He was actually a little helpless inside; he disliked those large, social gatherings.

I only wanted to invite my closest friends to have a small and intimate wedding with their heartfelt blessings, but unfortunately, that plan fell through.

For the next month, the village seemed unaffected and continued to operate as usual.

However, when many ninjas came to the Hokage Building to report on their missions, they would find Purple Aurora sitting behind the desk with the Third Hokage, and most ninjas immediately understood what was going on.

The new Hokage will soon take office. This move is a hint to all ninjas, indirectly spreading the news to generate discussion and see how public opinion shifts.

Also this month, a single-story building was built on the outskirts of the village. It was a temporary hall that Shuichi had funded himself, where his wedding with Hong would take place.

With a little renovation, it can be transformed into Konoha's first movie theater, not only for showing movies that have become popular in the last two years, but also for hosting theatrical performances, enriching the leisure life of the villagers.

In early June, as the sun sets, the fiery clouds on the horizon paint the Konoha red, and the afterglow of the setting sun casts long shadows of people, the soft light shining warmly on them.

Today is an auspicious day, and many long-time residents of Konoha have noticed that the central area is bustling with activity more than usual.

After making some inquiries, I learned that the Purple Aurora Wedding was being held on the edge of the village, and the heads and elders of all the major and minor ninja clans had been invited to attend, where hundreds of people had already gathered.

Most people offered their heartfelt blessings. Even those few with darker intentions who were extremely jealous wouldn't dare say it in public, otherwise they might be "disappeared"...

While the Konoha began to imagine how spectacular the wedding would be, Shuichi and Kurenai stood outside the hall like a pair of tools.

Behind him was a long line of people, including the Yūhi family, the Third Hokage, Kakashi, Might Guy, Ishikawa Tatsuki, Shisui, Itachi... all the men, women, and children he knew well, a huge and impressive group.

Ahead were two young girls dressed in kimonos, and at the very front was an old monk with a wrinkled face, wearing a simple kasaya, who was full of energy. He was a high-ranking monk from the Temple of Fire who was well-versed in etiquette.

Shuichi Montsuki, with a black kimono-style outer robe on top, printed with his own family crest in several places, and a plain gray striped Kutta on the bottom. He also had a white ball tied around his waist for some unknown purpose.

Red's attire is even more extravagant, her entire body wrapped in a thick white dress, with the back of the dress arching like a small pillow. Her hair is neatly styled and tied up, and she wears an oversized white hood, a style known as "Kakugakure" (Tsunokakushi).

It took me almost two hours to put on this Shiromuku, and by then all my joy and excitement had been worn away.

Adding to the heat was the fact that even a ninja like her was sweating profusely; it must have been tough on her, being a pregnant woman.

Once all the guests had arrived, the procession began following the strict procedures. As Shuichi mechanically followed the movements, she realized that this wedding ceremony was somewhat similar to Shinzenshiki from her previous life in an island nation.

However, in the Shinobi World, monks hold a very high status, which may be related to the fact that the Sage of Six Paths spread the Ninjutsu's ideology as a monk a thousand years ago.

As guests passed through the outer area and entered the hall, they stood neatly on both sides, warmly congratulating the newlyweds on their marriage... In reality, no one uttered a sound; their gazes were simply fixed on the couple!

"Probably..." Shuichi thought to himself, his eyes fixed straight ahead.

The wedding ceremony consisted of nine major steps, culminating in the exchange of tokens of love. Relatives and friends from both sides offered their congratulations and toasted each other, bringing the entire ceremony to a close.

Hong was finally able to go down and get some rest, but Shuichi was in a real bind, having to stay and entertain all the guests and communicate with them one by one.

The Third Hokage intervened in this wedding to create momentum for the new Hokage's ascension to the position.

Shuichi could take this opportunity to negotiate with all the ninja clans in the village, discussing his political views and the future distribution of benefits.

Then, he would take photos with many unfamiliar Jonin to ensure the Jonin trust vote passed without any risk.

The second objective was to mitigate the negative impact of Orochimaru becoming missing-nin, and to get married amidst everyone's blessings, deliberately showing off Kurenai's large pregnant belly.

Let me tell you all— Purple Aurora has completely settled down and taken root in Konoha. He definitely won't be as reckless and wicked as the Sannin. He's absolutely a qualified and good Hokage. Please rest assured, people.

Although Shuichi thought the Third Hokage was going to unnecessary trouble, he figured the other party was scared off by the previous competition, so he went along with it and handled everything properly.

In fact, after a month of discussion and fermentation, the village's public opinion was almost unanimously in favor of Shuichi becoming Hokage.

All the great Ninja Clan had members who had been his teammates, and his strength and abilities were already well-known. The strongest Hyuga and Uchiha, had even benefited from his kindness.

As for the Civilian Ninja, their thinking was even simpler and more brutal: in chaotic times, strength is everything, and there wasn't another top-tier ninja in the village who could single-handedly defeat Tailed Beast.

But Purple Aurora has done this more than once, so naturally, countless enthusiastic fans follow. "We... are completely at ease!"

Knowing all this, Shuichi wondered if he should thank the Tailed Beast. The results of fighting against powerful opponents were far inferior to defeating the Tailed Beast, as the latter had a much greater impact.

"What a bunch of... beasts! From now on, when you run into me, just stick to the head-patting trick. Try not to use that unfriendly move again."

He had originally researched Isshiki [Tailed Beast Pain Bomb], which involved creating a large cannon using Ice Release and blasting a cannonball filled with the life force of Wood Release into the Tailed Beast's body. Upon contact with the chakra, the cannonball would explode into countless sharp branches, guaranteeing that the Tailed Beast would cry out in agony.

Considering this action was too inhumane, Shuichi decided to give them some face and say no.

Another week has passed since the wedding.

In the Daimyo's Mansion, many high-ranking officials from Konoha and the Land of Fire sat facing each other.

Daimyo Shiji Shinden looked at the conference table with a sigh, the small, thin figure from more than a decade ago still vivid in his mind.

In the blink of an eye, I've gone from middle age to old age, and my facial muscles look somewhat sagging.

The purple-haired youth, however, was like the rising sun; his calm face and the body beneath it were filled with boundless power, making him the pillar of the Land of Fire.

"Shuichi-kun, congratulations on your marriage! My gift is a little late, but I'll make it up to you later," Shiji Shinden said with a smile, fanning himself. Then his expression turned serious.

"Since everyone has agreed, I hereby formally announce— Takeda Shuichi, you are hereby appointed as the Fifth Hokage of Konoha!"

Shuichi stepped forward in response, his eyes gleaming, "I will not fail in my mission!"

Upon returning to the village before noon that day, the entire village flocked towards the area below the Hokage Building, forming a dense, dark mass, their enthusiasm undiminished even after a long wait.

Above the rooftop, a few high-ranking Jonin watched intently as the Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi, solemnly handed over his straw hat.

Shuichi respectfully accepted the gift with both hands and slowly walked to the edge of the rooftop. The villagers below held their breath and looked up in awe.

He brandished the Hokage Hat in one hand, his booming voice clearly reaching everyone's ears, "From this day forward, I am the Fifth Hokage, protecting Konoha Village!"

Roar! Roar! Roar! --

A deafening cheer erupted from Konoha, carrying for miles before fading away...