The morning sun rose, spilling shafts of sunlight over the land.
Under that sunlight, the darkness shrouding Konoha gradually dispersed, revealing the scars of last night's battle.
The entire village was silent.
The gates of the great clans remained tightly shut. A child had barely poked their head outside before being dragged back into the courtyard, followed by the sounds of a beating and tearful cries.
The morning air was heavy and tense.
Only the Uchiha Clan was different.
"We did it!"
"Our coup succeeded! Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi and Danzo have both been driven out!"
"The Elders Council just issued an announcement approving Clan Head Fugaku's succession as Fifth Hokage."
"Spring has finally come for the Uchiha!"
A clamor of voices rang out, echoing throughout the Uchiha courtyard.
River sat to Uchiha Fugaku's left with a smile on his face. Behind him stood Naruto and the members of the Shikotsu Clan.
From where he sat, he could clearly see the Uchiha Clan Head's joy.
This was undoubtedly the crowning moment of the clan head's life. He had led his people toward a bright future, bringing them to heights they had never reached before.
"Fugaku, it's time to decide!"
River patted his shoulder, reminding him.
Uchiha Fugaku immediately shuddered, then nodded hastily.
After taking a deep breath, he spoke with his face flushed.
"Yes, it's time to decide!"
Then he raised a hand and pressed it downward.
The clamor filling the courtyard instantly fell silent. Everyone gazed at their clan head with excitement and reverence, waiting for the words that would seal their victory.
"I will assume the position of Fifth Hokage in three days!"
Uchiha Fugaku spoke in a deep voice.
Cheers erupted!
"Wonderful!"
"Congratulations to our clan head! Congratulations to the Uchiha!"
**"From this moment on, the Uchiha