With Shikaku and the ANBU traveling day and night, Shikaku brought back the Hokage's official appointment letter within five days. That meant Madara Uchiha had truly become the Fifth Hokage.
In Konoha's largest conference room, every ninja except those away on missions witnessed Madara take office.
"Now that I have become Hokage, I will not disappoint the Third Hokage or any of you. Before I became Hokage, I made a promise to my friend."
Madara Uchiha donned the Hokage's hat and Hokage Robe. Seated at the center of the conference room, he looked at the ninja gathered to witness his inauguration, his gaze finally settling on Hayato Hyuga and Neji.
"Itachi—no, Lord Hokage, you've only just taken office. You should familiarize yourself with the village's affairs first. Any changes can wait until later!"
Hayato Hyuga had been happy for Madara when he assumed the Hokage position, but once Madara's gaze fixed on him, he broke into a cold sweat.
There was no doubt that Madara was referring to their agreement to abolish the Caged Bird Seal.
Hayato hoped Madara could abolish the Hyuga Branch Family's Caged Bird Seal and give the other branch family members—or at least Neji—a body free of its shackles.
But challenging the Hyuga Main Family's long-established rules the moment he took office was far too risky. Right now, Hayato cared more about securing the foundation of Madara's authority than about the Hyuga Branch Family's freedom.
Standing beside Hayato, Neji also understood Madara's intent. At that moment, he too was more worried about the Hyuga Main Family impeaching Madara than about the branch family's freedom.
Over their years together, both of them had come to regard Madara Uchiha as their closest older brother.
"Hiashi, I'll let you explain this."
Madara gave Hayato and Neji a reassuring look,