Without those three old troublemakers, Hiruzen Sarutobi, Utatane Koharu, and Mitokado Homura, all of Konoha seemed to have had a long-standing cancer removed, instantly bursting with unprecedented vitality.
On top of that, Gengetsu had led Konoha's army to utterly rout the Kumogakure Ninja at the border, achieving a victory without precedent or equal. Vast quantities of spoils and war reparations flowed back into the village, making Konoha more prosperous than ever before.
Throughout the streets and alleys, the villagers' faces shone with proud smiles. Everyone was filled with fervent admiration for the newly appointed Fifth Hokage, Uchiha Gengetsu.
The Hokage's office, on the top floor of the Hokage Building.
"Knock, knock, knock."
"Come in."
As a steady, commanding voice rang out, the office door was pushed open.
Kakashi Hatake strode into the office, approached the desk, and came to a stop.
"Lord Fifth! You wanted to see me!"
Looking at Gengetsu seated in the Hokage's spacious chair, Kakashi Hatake bowed his head slightly, his tone deeply respectful.
Although Kakashi Hatake and Gengetsu looked about the same age, and the two could be considered ninja who had grown up in the same generation.
Kakashi knew perfectly well that Gengetsu was now the rightful Fifth Hokage.
More importantly, Gengetsu had just led Konoha to an unprecedented victory. He had even crushed Hiruzen Sarutobi and the rest of the corrupt leadership with ruthless speed, demonstrating unparalleled strength and skill.
Kakashi Hatake now fully accepted Gengetsu as Hokage. He could even be said to have submitted wholeheartedly.
Gengetsu leaned against the broad back of his chair, looking calmly at Kakashi Hatake.
"Kakashi, take a look at this."
Without wasting words, Gengetsu took a top-secret document from his drawer and handed it to Kakashi Hatake.
Kakashi accepted the document with both hands, opened it in