For most people living in Konoha, becoming Hokage was a far-off dream, something children chanted with innocent enthusiasm.
But for someone at Danzo's level...
Becoming Hokage was just a simple matter of addition—
A respectable level of personal strength.
A list of impressive accomplishments.
A story fabricated to move the villagers.
And finally, control over public opinion.
With enough time, any Konoha Ninja could be transformed into an outstanding Hokage.
"If becoming Hokage is so easy, why don't you do it?" Lin Qing asked.
Danzo shook his head. "I'm not clean. If I took the position, many people in the village wouldn't accept me. But you're different, Lin Qing. You're clean.
"You have no complicated ties to powerful clans, no extensive dark history, and you have the strength to kill Orochimaru.
"If we work together, it won't take ten years—not even three. I can put you in power and make you the next Hokage."
Lin Qing picked up his teacup and took a sip. "And what do you get out of it?"
Danzo spread his arms, conviction carrying through his low voice.
"A more prosperous, more powerful Konoha."
Lin Qing could hear the sincerity in Danzo's voice. This truly was the ideal he had devoted his life to, and nothing else came close.
"Why me?" Lin Qing asked again.
Danzo refilled Lin Qing's cup. "The Third is old and frail now, with no ambition to move forward.
"Jiraiya has enough virtue, but not enough wisdom. He's indecisive.
"Tsunade is nowhere to be found. Besides, she specializes in Medical Ninjutsu. When powerful enemies attack, are we supposed to win them over with medicine?"
He speared a piece of pastry with a toothpick and dipped it in sugar. "As for the younger generation, aside from Kakashi, no one has made a name