Tap, tap...
Restored to his youth, Sarutobi Hiruzen cut an imposing figure worthy of the name Shinobi Hero. He strode into the center of the Arena and folded his arms across his chest, looking as though he stood above the entire world.
"Hm?!" His sharp gaze swept over every face present, exhausted yet still resolute.
The representatives from the other ninja villages shuddered inwardly. Damn, was this the Shinobi Hero in his prime?! His presence seemed even stronger than Lord Tsuchikage's—or the Kazekage's, Raikage's, Mizukage's... Seriously?
No one dared meet his eyes.
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded in satisfaction.
(Qingwu: Well, this was rare. The Old Monkey finally showed some backbone. Not bad, not bad. Worth praising. Maybe Orochimaru would let you keep your dignity and give you a heroic "retirement.")
His voice lost its earlier gravity.
Reassurance and composure took its place. "Everyone, this Cursed Seal incident gave us quite a scare, but fortunately, it has been brought under control for now. Thank you all for your efforts and hard work."
Those words opened the conversation.
Whispers began spreading through the crowd.
He lowered his hand to urge everyone to remain calm and continued, "I know Kabuto Yakushi and Orochimaru's appearance has left you uneasy. But rest assured, here on Konoha's soil, I will never allow their schemes to succeed."
"As the largest ninja village in the Ninja World, Konoha has both the strength to protect its own people and the resolve to shelter its allies. Therefore, the Chunin Ninja Exams will continue."
The people from the Four Great Ninja Villages looked displeased at Sarutobi Hiruzen proclaiming Konoha the foremost ninja village. But faced with the youthful Shinobi Hero, they could not deny his overwhelming presence and killing intent.
Sarutobi Hiruzen was genuinely furious.
He had lost every shred of face