Nawaki wanted to preserve his teacher's dignity, and everyone present was shrewd enough to understand his intentions.
A trace of gratification appeared in the Third Hokage's eyes. He nodded with a smile. "That's right. The Shinobi Army at the front lines needs you more. Let this old man guard the home for you one last time. Once the war is over, I'll place a peaceful village into your hands."
"Then I really have to thank you, old man!" Nawaki nodded solemnly in thanks, then mischievously winked.
Seeing Nawaki's comical expression, the Third Hokage shook his head with a helpless smile. "You, honestly..." Yet inwardly, he was deeply gratified. How long had it been since this disciple had joked with him so intimately?
Seeing that the two had reached an unspoken understanding, Konoha's higher-ups all breathed a sigh of relief. Although the Third Hokage's resignation was now inevitable, delaying it until after the war was still a good thing. That would give them ample time to adjust their plans and prepare for the impact of Nawaki taking office.
As the atmosphere eased somewhat, Koharu seized the opportunity to probe with a smile. "Lord Nawaki, from what you said earlier, do you intend to continue military action abroad? Could we resolve this matter through diplomatic means instead?"
Nawaki asked in surprise, "What? Does Advisor Koharu believe we shouldn't launch a campaign against Kirigakure? That we should negotiate peace with them instead?"
"No, no, no!" Koharu hurriedly shook her head in denial, explaining with a beaming smile, "Of course we must demand justice from Kirigakure.
It's just that this mediation involves the Four Great Shinobi Villages. Furthermore, the Kirigakure delegation has already been entirely wiped out by mysterious individuals, so there is now no evidence left to confirm anything. If Konoha goes directly