Never before has the central square of Konoha held both such a cacophony of voices and such a solemn, tense atmosphere.
On the high platform erected in a single day, the Konoha Ninja's vortex symbol hangs solemnly, reflecting a cold, hard luster in the rising sun.
Around the square, crowds thronged, shoulder to shoulder, their faces a mixture of excitement, anticipation, and a touch of natural trepidation about the unknown changes.
Today, we will decide who will wield power in Konoha and lead the village into the Mirai.
Among the crowd, Minato Namikaze's figure remained as upright as a pine tree, sunlight shining on his golden hair, creating a warm halo.
He was dressed in the standard Konoha Jonin vest, with his usual gentle smile on his face.
However, only the Coral Uzumaki, standing right next to him, could feel the slight sweat on his palms and the barely perceptible stiffness.
The surrounding noise inevitably rushed into his ears.
"It must be Lord Chiyo! Is there any doubt about that?"
Who can compare to him in the credit for End of War?
"But Lord Minato also very powerful; the title ' Yellow Flash ' is well-deserved!"
"Yes, Lord Minato is more approachable, more like the Hokage we all know and love..."
"Don't be silly, what the Hokage needs is absolute power and prestige!"
"..."
The voices supporting Chiyo surged like a tidal wave.
But beneath this main theme, there is also an undercurrent, though not grand, that is firm and persistent.
Many ninjas from commoner backgrounds, as well as some villagers who had personally benefited from Minato or were impressed by his personal charisma, still quietly expressed their support and expectations for him.
Minato responded to all the discussions with a smile, calmly accepting the gazes that held encouragement, regret, or complex emotions.
He gently squeezed Coral's hand to indicate that he was alright, but his gaze involuntarily drifted to one side of the platform.
There, a small group of people, led by the Sarutobi Clan, were staring intently at him.
On the high platform, the core of Konoha's power was already in place.
Shimura Danzō, leaning on his cane, resembled a snarling old eagle. His single eye gleamed with a sharp light as he coldly surveyed the entire audience. The invisible pressure caused those near the stage to unconsciously lower their voices.
Beside him, representatives of the major clans, including Hyuga Clan Leader Hyuga Sakon, Shikaku Nara, Inoichi Yamanaka, Choza Akimichi, and Aburame Shibi, stood solemnly. Their silence itself was a powerful declaration of strength.
Hatake Sakumo was stationed at the Anbu Headquarters, conducting remote monitoring to ensure absolute safety.
"Quiet!"
Danzo's Danzo voice, infused with chakra, was like a muffled thunderclap, instantly sweeping across the entire plaza and forcefully silencing all the noise.
The square fell silent instantly, and countless eyes were focused on the high platform.
Danzo forward, his single eye flashing like cold lightning.
"Today, we have gathered the entire village here for one important matter concerning the Mirai of Konoha!"
The Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi, has formally resigned due to declining health and a deep sense of inadequacy in his ability to continue shouldering the responsibilities of Hokage.
A suppressed, complex uproar arose from the audience.
Although the news had been circulating for some time, the official announcement still had a huge impact.
Danzo didn't pause, and his voice suddenly rose in pitch.
" Konoha cannot be without a Hokage for even a day! After an emergency meeting with representatives from various clans and the Jonin Commander, it has been decided to publicly elect the Fourth Hokage here today!"
Candidates must possess both virtue and talent, outstanding achievements, exceptional abilities, and the capacity to lead Konoha to an even stronger Mirai!
His gaze swept across the entire room.
"Now, let's begin the nominations!"
Almost the instant he finished speaking, Hyuga Sakon immediately stood up, his Byakugan flashing coldly, his voice resolute.
" Hyuga Clan, nominate Chiyo Uchiha!"
Lord Chiyo ended the Third Shinobi World War, captured two Kage alive, his achievements surpassing all others in the Shinobi World. His strength is unfathomable, and he is the one everyone has hoped for!
" The Nara, Yamanaka, and Akimichi clans second the proposal!"
Shikaku Nara's voice was steady and powerful, representing the unwavering support of the Ino-Shika-Cho.
" The Aburame Clan seconded it!"
" The Kurama Clan seconds this!"
I second that!
"..."
The voices of support from various clans surged like giant waves, one higher than the next, instantly creating an overwhelming momentum that seemed unstoppable. Cheers from the audience supporting Chiyo also followed.
However, amidst this seemingly monolithic cacophony, a different voice rang out, somewhat abruptly yet with extraordinary determination!
" The Sarutobi Clan Minato Namikaze!"
An elder of the Sarutobi Clan, his face flushed with excitement, spoke in a loud voice.
"Although young, Minato Jonin has a distinguished record of battle achievements, and his name ' Yellow Flash ' is renowned throughout the Shinobi World!"
He is upright and honest, possesses the Will of Fire, and is deeply loved by young ninjas and villagers! We believe that Minato is also an excellent candidate for the Fourth Hokage!
This nomination was like a pebble thrown into a calm Lake Surface, instantly creating ripples!
"That's right! Lord Minato!"
"We support Lord Minato!"
" Lord Minato is the true inheritor of the Will of Fire!"
"..."
Immediately afterward, many ninjas in the crowd below the stage, especially some Commoner Jonin and Chunin, as well as some members who were clearly from the Sarutobi Clan, echoed loudly. Although their voices could not compare with the wave of support for Chiyo, they were full of sincerity and enthusiasm.
Their eyes all turned to the Minato below the stage, filled with expectation, encouragement, and even a hint of pleading.
They wanted him to step forward, to represent them, to represent a different possibility.
This scene caused the representatives of the major clans on the stage to frown slightly, and Danzo's one eye narrowed, flashing a hint of coldness.
The atmosphere suddenly became somewhat subtle and tense.
All the pressure instantly converged on Minato Namikaze alone.
He felt the burning gazes from the Sarutobi Clan and their supporters, gazes that carried their beliefs and hopes.
He also felt the invisible yet immense pressure emanating from the high platform, as well as the "general trend" represented by the silent majority below.
Coral Uzumaki gripped his arm tightly.
Minato took a deep breath, his sunny smile fading slightly, replaced by an extremely solemn expression.
He gently patted Coral's hand, and then, under the watchful eyes of many, Earth Run the platform.
He first bowed deeply to Elder Hiruzen, who had nominated him, and to the ninjas who supported him.
This move rekindled a glimmer of hope in the eyes of its supporters!
However, after Minato straightened up and faced the entire arena, he spoke in a clear and steady voice, uttering words that stunned all his supporters and plunged them into silence.
"Thank you, Elder Hiruzen, and thank you to everyone who has supported me. Minato will always remember this trust and is deeply grateful."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the supporters whose eyes still held a glimmer of light, and his tone became even more firm and sincere.
"However, I, Minato Namikaze, hereby solemnly declare that I relinquish my nomination for the Fourth Hokage and withdraw from this election."
"What?!"
" Lord Minato?!"
"..."
A chorus of incredulous gasps and disappointed sighs erupted from his supporters in the audience.
The elder of the Sarutobi Clan stared wide-eyed, his face filled with astonishment and confusion.
The sound of the Minato grew clearer and clearer, echoing in every corner of the square.
"My decision to give up is not out of humility, nor out of fear."
Rather, it stems from a rational judgment of Konoha's Mirai and a profound sense of responsibility!
His gaze shifted to the sea of people below the stage, then to the representatives of the various clans on the high platform, and finally, as if piercing through everything, he looked towards the direction of the Uchiha Compound.
"Senior Chiyo Uchiha was the true hero who ended the Third Shinobi World War."
It was he who, with unparalleled power, forced the four great nations to sit down and negotiate, winning precious peace for Konoha. His achievements are as immeasurable as mountains, unmatched by anyone!
"His strength is unfathomable, enough to deter all external enemies and Protect Konoha."
"His prestige was built on the battlefield of blood and fire, and it is evident to all the Konoha Ninja!"
"Looking at the Shinobi World today, and at the entire village of Konoha, there is no one else who can be chosen as the Fourth Hokage except for Chiyo!"
His words were powerful and resonant, filled with heartfelt admiration for the strong and a clear understanding of reality.
"I, Minato Namikaze, may have achieved some minor merit, but I am grateful for everyone's kindness."
However, compared to Senior Chiyo, he is far inferior in terms of achievements, strength, and prestige.
The Hokage Position is a matter of life and death for the village; it cannot be taken lightly.
How can we disregard the overall interests of the village for the sake of personal feelings or the interests of a small group?
He turned again to those who had initially supported him but now looked disappointed or even pained, his tone becoming incredibly sincere.
I appreciate everyone's support.
But please believe me, and please believe in Chiyo- senpai.
With him leading Konoha, Konoha will surely move towards an even stronger Mirai!
And isn't that what we all share?
"I, Minato Namikaze, hereby swear that I will do everything in my power to assist the Fourth Hokage Chiyo Uchiha, and contribute all my strength to the prosperity and strength of Konoha!"
After he finished speaking, he bowed deeply again.
silence.
There was a deathly silence in the audience.
The excitement, disappointment, and confusion on the faces of those who had initially supported Minato gradually faded, replaced by a complex silence.
They were deeply moved and persuaded by Minato's words, which demonstrated his consideration for the greater good and his selfless and open-mindedness.
Despite lingering regret, I have to admit that what he said... was right.
The elder of the Sarutobi Clan opened his mouth, but all his words turned into a long sigh, and he sat back down helplessly.
Such is the way things are; there's nothing we can do but lament.
A hint of satisfaction flashed in Danzo's eyes. He stepped forward at the opportune moment and slammed his cane down heavily.
" Jonin Minato Namikaze of great integrity and considers the bigger picture; he is truly a blessing to Konoha!"
Since that's the case, there's no objection to the selection of the Fourth Hokage! It will be— Chiyo Uchiha!
" Lord Chiyo!"
" The Fourth Hokage!"
"..."
After a brief silence, the voices supporting Chiyo erupted with even greater force, completely drowning out all other noises.
However, the platform remained empty.
At the height of this fervor, as everyone's eyes searched for the new Hokage.
A figure appeared silently, as if it had been standing there from the very beginning, at the very center of the high platform.
Without warning, without fluctuation, it was like an illusion solidified.
He wore a simple, dark-colored Kagami Robe, its hem fluttering even without wind.
With black hair and black eyes, his face was as calm as a deep ancient well. His gaze slowly swept across the audience. Everyone who was touched by that gaze, no matter how fervent they had been before, couldn't help but feel awe and hold their breath.
Chiyo Uchiha!
His mere presence was enough to envelop the entire area with an invisible yet immense pressure, silencing all sound.
Danzo, the Clan Leader the various clans, and all the Jonin on the stage bowed slightly.
Minato Namikaze in respect.
Chiya's gaze lingered briefly on Minato Namikaze, and she nodded slightly, a hint of barely perceptible approval in her eyes.
Then, he looked down at the audience.
Trust is the beginning of responsibility.
His voice rang out calmly, not loud, but clearly imprinted in everyone's heart.
"The title of Hokage is not a crown of glory, but a heavy responsibility."
" To Protect Konoha today, and to create Konoha's tomorrow, this responsibility, I, Chiyo Uchiha, will shoulder."
His words were not at all passionate, yet they carried an absolute power that seemed to determine destiny.
"The old era has ended; the turmoil and constraints should go with the past."
"The rebirth of Konoha needs no further explanation; simply move forward."
"Regardless of the Clan Crest or the past, strength and loyalty will be the only passports."
" The Konoha I lead will surely surpass all old acquaintances and reach the pinnacle of the Shinobi World!"
Only absolute power can forge absolute peace and order!
"And this Mirai— "
His voice suddenly became incredibly clear and resolute, like a final judgment and pronouncement.
"--Created by our own hands!"
The moment the words left his mouth, a sudden change occurred!
"Sizzle! Sizzle! Sizzle!"
Several beams of cold light, carrying a sharp killing intent, shot out from several extremely cunning and hidden corners at the edge of the square!
Single goal
--Thousand Chiyo on the High Platform!
Its speed far surpasses that of a typical Jonin!
This was clearly a meticulously planned, deadly trap!
"Enemies!!"
"Protect the Lord Hokage!"
"..."
A chorus of exclamations erupted Jonin on the platform paled in horror, those who reacted quickly already Hand Seals.
No one expected an assassination attempt during such a ceremony!
However, Chiyo, who was at the center of the storm, did not even flinch.
It was as if those deadly attacks were nothing but illusory phantoms.
Just as the attack was about to strike.
A scarlet skeleton instantly enveloped Chiyo's body.
It precisely and flawlessly blocked all attack trajectories!
Jingle bells!
All the poisoned Kunai and shuriken struck Susanoo with a crisp sound before falling limply to the ground.
The next moment.
Before anyone could see clearly, a blurry figure wreathed in ominous black flames flashed three times rapidly outside the arena.
"Ah--!"
Three brief, extremely piercing screams came to an abrupt end almost simultaneously from three different directions.
The shadow vanished, Susanoo disappeared.
Everything happens in the blink of an eye.
From the outbreak of the assassination attempt to the swift counterattack.
Then everything returned to calm, as if it were just a collective illusion.
Chiyo remained standing in the same spot, his dark Kagami Robe spotless.
He even slowly raised his hand, as if simply to straighten his cuffs.
Dead silence!
A suffocating, deathly silence!
Everyone was utterly terrified by this divinely punishing power that far exceeded their comprehension!
Then came a deafening roar, a mixture of fear and utter fervor!
" The Fourth Hokage!!"
" Uchiha!!"
"Powerful!!"
"..."
Absolute power crushed all remaining doubts and wishful thinking.
Danzo was the first to kneel on one knee, his voice loud and devout.
"Welcome, Fourth Hokage!"
"Welcome, Fourth Hokage!"
"..."
Like a mountain collapsing and a tsunami crashing down, everyone on and off the stage, including the ninjas who had once supported Minato, knelt down with heartfelt admiration and awe, offering their absolute loyalty and reverence to their new Hokage.
Minato Namikaze gazed at the figure receiving the worship of the masses like a god, the last trace of complexity in his eyes vanished, leaving only clear recognition and unwavering devotion.
He also knelt down on one knee, lowering his proud head.
Chiyo calmly accepted everything, his deep eyes reflecting the entire subjugated Konoha.
That night, at the Uchiha mansion.
The warm glow of the DVD player dispelled the chill of the night, and the dining table was laden with exquisite dishes, their aromas filling the air.
Mikoto Uchiha gently set the table, Kushina Uzumaki was gesturing wildly as she described the thrilling events that had unfolded in the plaza during the day, her face flushed with excitement.
Tsunade leaned against the doorframe with Tsunade arms crossed, listening to Kushina's exaggerated description, a lazy smile playing on her lips.
Today, Chiyo becomes the Fourth Hokage.
Tsunade arrived uninvited.
The door was opened, Chiyo walked in.
He had changed into a comfortable dark yukata, washing away the daytime's imposing demeanor, and his brows carried a hint of languor and warmth.
"I'm back."
"Welcome back, Chiyo-niichan."
"Welcome back, Chiyo- ge!"
"Welcome back, our Lord Hokage!"
Three different greetings, yet all conveying the same warmth.
Mikoto stepped forward and took his outer robe, speaking softly.
"You've had a tough day... it must have been quite thrilling, right?"
There was unconcealable worry in his eyes.
"A few flies are nothing; they can't disrupt the overall situation."
Chiyo smiled, reached out and gently stroked her nose, the gesture intimate and natural.
Those assassins were nothing more than Chiyo's Shadow Clone.
Firstly, it serves as a deterrent; secondly, it allows them to use such incidents to their advantage against other countries in the future.
Kushina hopped over, her eyes sparkling.
"Brother Chiyo! You're amazing! That red skeleton! And that black flame!"
Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! All those bad guys are done for! You're Hokage now! The strongest Hokage ever!"
Tsunade snorted and handed over a cup of sake.
"You didn't let me down... well... you didn't bring shame to Konoha."
But you're going to be busy from now on, you rascal. Let's see how you slack off then."
Chiyo took the wine glass, laughed loudly, and sat down in the main seat.
He looked at the three people sitting around him with a gentle gaze.
" Hokage is a responsibility, but here..."
He pointed to the floor beneath his feet, his tone becoming low and warm.
"It's home. It's a place where you can shed all responsibilities and pretenses."
He picked up his chopsticks and skillfully placed some sashimi, Mikoto's favorite, on her plate, scooped up a generous amount of soft tofu for Kushina, and then placed a delicate piece of fish roe sushi on Tsunade's plate.
"No matter how fierce the wind and rain or how loud the thunder outside, when I come back here, only the aroma of food and your laughter matter most."
" The Mirai may still hold turbulence, but as long as we watch over each other, this place will be Konoha's strongest fortress and its warmest refuge."
Mikoto nodded gently and served him a bowl of hot soup.
Kushina happily ate the tofu, mumbling indistinctly, " Chiyo- nii is the best."
Tsunade raised her wine glass and lightly clinked it against Chiyo's. Their eyes met, and everything was understood without a word.
The lights were warm and inviting, and laughter filled the room.
Outside the window, the night sky above Konoha was serene and profound.
A new moon gently shone down, illuminating the newly carved portrait of the Fourth Hokage on the Hokage Rock, which was being worked on overnight.
A powerful era belonging to Chiyo Uchiha officially began amidst the warmth of this dinner and the cold, crashing sound of rocks in the distance.
Its Mirai is destined to be filled with power, order, and infinite possibilities.
Its ruler, meanwhile, was peacefully enjoying the fruits of his conquest.
The most precious thing--
The warmth of home.