The capital of the Land of Fire
The Daimyo's reception room
It was an enclosed, semicircular room. The Daimyo of the Land of Fire sat at its head, wearing a hat decorated with three flames. The enormous red backrest of his chair bore the character for "fire" in black.
To his left sat Hiruzen Sarutobi and Konoha's two former senior elders, Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura.
To his right sat the officials of the Land of Fire.
"So, Hokage Sarutobi is stepping down. That means we must choose a new Hokage."
The Daimyo gently waved his fan as he addressed Hiruzen Sarutobi, pretending to be unconcerned.
His feelings were rather complicated. Although he disliked Hiruzen Sarutobi immensely, at least Hiruzen would not interfere with his life.
He had no idea what sort of temperament the new Hokage would have, or whether it would affect him.
"Yes, we must appoint a new Hokage."
"We unanimously recommend Orochimaru for the position."
Sitting in his chair, Hiruzen Sarutobi gently picked up the cup before him. After taking a sip of warm water, he gave the Daimyo his firm answer.
His gaze was resolute, his tone forceful, as though he had come merely to notify the Daimyo of their decision.
Looking at him now, one would never have guessed he was the same man who had adopted such a respectful expression when discussing the Daimyo in front of Chihane and Orochimaru.
"Oh, that man."
A flicker of displeasure crossed the Daimyo's eyes, but he kept his expression composed, concealing half his face behind his fan as he feigned surprise.
"Orochimaru, come in!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi had no intention of answering him. As a top-tier fighter and Konoha's former Kage, why would he truly care about an ordinary person? He simply called out toward the door.