The next day.
Konoha's Jonin gathered in the conference room of the Hokage Building.
The Third entered coldly, accompanied by Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura.
Only afterward did Danzo arrive, leaning on his cane, each step landing with a "thud, thud."
"Everyone, I believe you already know why we have gathered here today. Even if I explain what happened with the Uchiha, you may not believe me, but I must still say it: I was framed jointly by the Kazekage, Raikage, Tsuchikage, and Mizukage. I said long ago that the Uchiha Clan was part of the village, and I have always treated the Uchiha equally. The conflict between the village and the Uchiha was merely an internal conflict. The reason I ordered that no immediate reinforcements be sent was also because of this internal conflict. Of course, I admit that I overthought matters. In that moment, I failed to realize that the Uchiha's main force was already in Kirigakure, which led to the Uchiha Clan's destruction. For that, I am willing to resign from my position as the Third Hokage as an explanation." The Third spoke eloquently, swiftly casting aside the accusation of colluding with outsiders and leaving behind only the responsibility for a mistaken decision.
However, the Third had long held great authority. On top of that, he was about to step down, and the Uchiha had never been particularly well-liked to begin with. Thus, no one spoke up for the Uchiha, and everyone tacitly accepted the outcome, including Danzo.
Because today's true main event was not this. After all, the Uchiha had already perished, and the dead had no rights.
"Enough, Hiruzen. Get to the point," Danzo urged impatiently.
"Very well. We will now move on to the main matter: the nomination of the Fourth Hokage after my