Nowadays, being asked by Sarutobi Toru about the flaws in the Will of Fire he had believed in his entire life left him feeling strangely lost.
"A new era naturally brings new ideas. The current Will of Fire can no longer guide Konoha forward—or rather, the old Will of Fire can no longer lead Konoha's ninja. A new Will of Fire will emerge soon enough." Sarutobi Toru looked at the chattering new students of this class after Sarutobi Hiruzen stepped down from the stage and spoke.
"Looks like I really am getting old. Have I already fallen behind the new era?" Sarutobi Hiruzen looked toward the new students below the stage as well and spoke with a sigh.
"Uncle Hiruzen, you're already in your forties, nearly fifty, aren't you?" Sarutobi Toru said with a smile. "So hurry up and retire. Hand the Hokage position over to the younger generation."
"Hmph, hand it to Tsunade?" Sarutobi Hiruzen glared at Sarutobi Toru, irritation rising in his chest.
"Isn't that only natural? I don't think there's anyone more suited for it in all of Konoha Village." Sarutobi Toru had no intention of hiding his thoughts as he spoke with a cheerful smile.
"Hehe, not necessarily. And even if I quit, we'd still have to wait for..." Sarutobi Hiruzen rolled his eyes, but before he could finish, Sarutobi Toru suddenly cut in. "Hehe, I don't think Sakumo would make a good Hokage. A gentleman can be manipulated through righteousness; his personality is a little too upright."
Sarutobi Hiruzen choked, his expression turning peculiar. "Why would you think of Hatake Sakumo? I've never mentioned him before!"
Sarutobi Toru's expression remained calm. "For the position of Hokage, either your ability must be beyond reproach, or your character must be beyond reproach. Between Tsunade and me, whether