Madara temporarily used the pretext of the next Hokage to suppress his proud and arrogant clansmen.
That was to keep them from causing trouble after he left the village.
He had clearly seen the Uchiha Clan's rapidly expanding influence.
Their desire for the position of Hokage would erupt sooner or later. It was better to set off this ticking bomb himself in advance.
On a hillside outside Konoha early that morning, lazy sunlight filtered through the branches and shone upon those who had come to see him off.
There were only four of them: Hashirama, Tobirama, Rikusei, and Kaku.
"Heh."
Madara, with the Flame Gunbai strapped to his back, could not help but laugh when he saw the strange gleam in Hashirama's eyes.
He could read the intense envy there, and Hashirama's expression told him he was right.
"The Hokage can't just leave the village whenever he wants."
The teasing tone did not have the effect Madara had expected.
Hashirama did not look dejected. Facing the rising sun, he said expectantly, "Once you return, the entire Land of Fire—no, the entire world—will undergo earth-shaking changes."
"Don't say such foolish things. One village has already exhausted you enough, let alone the Shinobi Alliance and the Land of Fire." Madara steadied the gunbai on his back, and his tone suddenly sank. "Sorry. I'm leaving the village at a time when we desperately need people."
Tobirama shot his elder brother, who was so moved he was nearly in tears, a disdainful glance and said flatly, "The village's affairs are just as important as the truth hidden within the mist."
Madara nodded slightly and curled his lips at the only disciple among them who knew the truth.
Has my acting improved considerably?
"Kaku, I'll leave the Uchiha Clan to you for the time being."