"...
Without the blazing flames of our heroes, there would be no green shoots of the next generation!"
As Hiruzen Sarutobi finished his closing speech, everyone bowed slightly, bringing Konoha's memorial service to an end.
Just as everyone was about to disperse, Hiruzen Sarutobi removed his Hokage hat and made a momentous announcement!
"I, Hiruzen Sarutobi, took office as the Third Hokage more than thirty years ago, entrusted by the Second Hokage and bearing the hopes of the people of Konoha!
Now, I have grown old, while the new forces of a new era are flourishing!
I willingly step down as the Third Hokage to make way for the Fourth!
In one month, the inauguration ceremony will be held at the Hokage Building. Anyone interested, please submit your candidacy promptly!
Dismissed!"
The Third Hokage was stepping down. For the younger generation, this was certainly earth-shattering news!
Danzo was already itching to act!
But Hiruzen Sarutobi's remark about a new era had clearly been aimed at him!
No! I need to do something to raise my standing...
That's right!
Wasn't there some newly rising peace organization in Amegakure?
If I label them dangerous elements and eliminate them promptly, that would count as a major achievement in international diplomacy!
Not only would it demonstrate my strength, it would also win me Hanzo's friendship!
It's time to start planning!
My path to becoming Hokage is about to begin!
This certainly won't be an easy road...
Among the Uchiha Clan, someone approached Fugaku from behind.
"Clan head, should we try to get you elected as the Fourth Hokage?"
"Silence. Do not bring this up again."
Fugaku had already become the clan head. His goal was to make either Minato or Xuanhui the Hokage.
But Xuanhui wasn't interested, so he could only support Minato.
Meanwhile,