Where was that pure, kind child who sought others' approval?
It had only been a few years?!
How had he become like this?
He then ignored Naruto, who was still saying, "Third Hokage Grandpa, I've always treated you like my real grandfather. I've missed you so much! Now that I'm back, can I become the next Hokage? Don't worry, I'll definitely become an outstanding Hokage!"
He took a hard pull from his pipe, stiffly raised his head, and looked at the other children who had gradually emerged as well.
There were nine in total.
It seemed... the Grass Ninja Leader planned to send one team from each of the three ninja villages.
And aside from that strange fellow whose entire body was black, the others all looked rather young, probably having only graduated not long ago.
Thinking of this, Hiruzen Sarutobi inwardly breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed... Kusagakure really had come only to participate in the Chunin Exam!
Although the arrival of two major troublemakers had been somewhat unexpected, it was not too terrible. He only needed to arrange for ninja to keep a close eye on them.
This time, Konoha only wanted the Chunin Exam to proceed and announce to the entire ninja world that the village had opened its doors.
Of course, Danzo had to be watched as well, lest he... get stolen from the village again!
As for everything else...
They could discuss it later.
Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled again at the Grass Ninja Leader. "They're all outstanding children~" Then he waved his hand. "Next, this old man will make arrangements for everyone..."
However.
Before he could finish speaking.
"Wait!" The Grass Ninja Leader stopped him, then looked at Obito Uchiha beside him and said, "There are more, right?"
"They're packing their luggage." Obito frowned slightly.