Danzo, who was suddenly given the task during an emergency, took on the responsibility without a second thought. He immediately called a meeting with the high-ranking officials and the heads of the major clans at the Hokage Building.
It didn't take long for the clan leaders, representing the key powers in Konoha, and the top decision-makers to arrive one after another.
Leading the charge were the four major clans—Ino-Shika-Chō, Sarutobi, Uchiha, and Hyuga—followed by some smaller families. Elite Jonin like Orochimaru were also present.
Konoha's strongest forces were all gathered now. Though their faces showed different emotions, they all shared an unspoken understanding as they silently focused on Danzo.
Danzo, once the head of the Root, had now stepped into the role of interim Hokage.
His new position made many uneasy, especially the Uchiha clan. Fugaku's eyes were cold and hostile, reflecting the long-standing tension between his clan and Danzo.
As the situation continued to unfold, reports started flooding into the Hokage Building.
Sitting in the Hokage's seat, Danzo read through the blood-stained scrolls. His expression grew darker with each piece of information.
The situation was far worse than he had imagined!
To the southwest, the Sand Village, which had been leaning towards Konoha, suddenly broke the treaty. They sent hundreds of Sand ninja across the Land of River, advancing directly toward Konoha.
In the northwest, Iwagakure, always unpredictable and waiting for the right moment to strike, launched a full-scale attack. Even the Tsuchikage was leading the charge, as if determined to destroy Konoha.
In the northeast, Hidden Cloud Village was gathering its forces, sending a small elite team toward the Land of Hot Springs, close to Konoha's borders.
Lastly, in the southeast, Mist Village, separated only by the ocean, had already sent thousands of Mist ninja to clash with Konoha's forces at the border.
The intelligence made it clear—Konoha was facing its greatest crisis since its founding.
If they weren't careful, the village could fall, and countless lives could be lost!
Danzo pinched his furrowed brows, feeling his temples pounding. He was somewhat regretful; he should have dealt with this situation earlier. If he failed to manage it properly and Konoha Village was destroyed, he would be left in disgrace.
Clearing his mind of distracting thoughts, Danzo remained composed, tapping his index finger on the table. He cast a cold glance over everyone and said slowly, "We are facing the greatest crisis in Konoha's history. I need everyone to contribute their suggestions instead of staying silent."
Nara Shikaku spoke up first, "We should consider negotiating for peace. The simultaneous declaration of war by the four major ninja villages is overwhelming. We need to find a way to win over at least one ally."
Danzo nodded, recognizing the value in this suggestion, and asked, "Which village do you think we should pursue?"
"Sand Village," Shikaku replied. "First, the Sand Village is strong, though not as strong as the two major villages of Cloud and Rock. Second, there is no deep animosity between us and the Sand Village. We could offer them some benefits to convince them to ally with us and reduce the pressure in the southwest."
"Very well, you handle it," Danzo approved the plan and added, "However, negotiations alone aren't enough. We need to show our strength. The Yamanaka, Nara, and Akimichi clans will provide 500 ninjas."
Shikaku nodded and immediately stood up, "We should leave now; this is urgent."
Danzo then turned to the remaining members, "The southwest issue is temporarily resolved. Now, what about the Cloud Ninja, Rock Ninja, and Mist Ninja? What are your thoughts?"
The leader of the Hyuga clan spoke calmly, "I suggest we recall Jiraiya and Tsunade immediately. Konoha needs more high-level combat power right now."
"I've already sent for them," Danzo replied gravely. "But Jiraiya and Tsunade's locations are uncertain. Even if we recall them, it will take time. We can't rely solely on them."
Orochimaru, observing coldly from the side, felt a deep sense of boredom. He suddenly realized that his previous ambition of becoming Hokage was a waste of his life.
Hokage? Haha... in the end, it's just a tool of power.
Danzo suddenly focused his attention on Orochimaru. He had called this meeting both to plan a strategy and to control those who were unhappy with him.
Orochimaru and Uchiha Fugaku were the main targets.
"Orochimaru, I'm assigning you to the Iwagakure front," Danzo declared. He explained that Orochimaru was the only one qualified for the task and praised him as one of the "Legendary Sannin," showing his trust in him.
The sudden high praise surprised everyone, and Orochimaru's eyes narrowed with a cold glint.
Everyone knew that Orochimaru was vying for the Hokage position. However, when Sarutobi Hiruzen faced problems, he gave the power to Danzo instead of Orochimaru. This was unexpected.
Just as people thought Orochimaru would be angry, he instead smiled, showing his teeth, and said, "Alright, no problem."
Danzo was surprised by how easily Orochimaru accepted the assignment.
"If there's nothing else, I'll leave," Orochimaru said disinterestedly. "I have experiments to work on. I'll set out once the ninjas are ready."
With that, he left, leaving everyone in shock.
After a moment, Danzo snapped out of it and refocused. There were more important issues to address.
"Next, we need to discuss a proposal," Danzo said, crossing his arms and giving everyone a cold stare. "It's about how to handle Uchiha Sogetsu."
Hearing this, Fugaku slammed his hand on the table, stood up with anger showing on his face, and demanded, "Danzo, what do you mean?"
"It's just a discussion," Danzo replied calmly.
Danzo had a neutral expression, seemingly ignoring Fugaku's anger. He tapped the table lightly and said calmly, "Uchiha Sogetsu, he assassinated the Mizukage and killed the Raikage, which indirectly started this Third Ninja World War. Don't you think he should take responsibility?"
"You're ridiculous!"
Uchiha Fugaku glared at Danzo, his frustration evident. "It was clearly Kirigakure and Kumogakure who provoked us first. Sogetsu was only following the Hokage's orders. Besides… Sogetsu took down both Kages on his own—doesn't that make him a hero? Danzo, I know you have a personal grudge against him, but that doesn't justify your attempt to punish him!"
"Uchiha Fugaku, mind your language."
Danzo sneered. "Regardless of the reasons, he killed two Kages. Because of that, the four major ninja villages declared war at the same time. He must face the consequences. Otherwise, how can we end this war?"
"Then let's fight!"
Fugaku, with the determination of a hawk, replied firmly. "We've fought against the four major villages before!"
"Very well."
Danzo smiled, clearly anticipating this response. "Since Uchiha clan head Fugaku is so confident, we'll leave Kumogakure Village to you. The problem caused by Uchiha Sogetsu will be your responsibility to handle."
********
Hey Guys, due to lack of supporters I am planning to stop translating this fic. If you like this fic do consider supporting me.
Support me on my patreon and read upto 15 early chapters.
https://www.patreon.com/Unique_Writer