Chapter 676: The Changes in Shikaku Nara
Before anyone realised it, half a month had passed.
During this period, the events in Konohagakure spread across the entire ninja world. Almost everyone knew about it, causing a worldwide sensation like a boiling pot of water bubbling enthusiastically. However, as time went on, the heat of the news began to cool down, much like water that had boiled and then was left to cool without continuous heating.
No more bubbles.
No more boiling.
This phenomenon mirrored the world's reaction to any significant event: starting from calm, reaching a peak of excitement, and settling back into tranquillity. Nothing remains hot forever; this was just another brief interlude in everyone's lives.
Even for the people of Konoha, the initial anger and emotional turmoil following the scandals' revelations had subsided. With the Third Hokage announcing his resignation, their feelings settled. Life continued as before, and they only sought a return to normalcy.
On this particular day, the advisors of Konohagakure returned from the Fire Daimyo's residence. Their arrival was met with little fanfare, which was a relief as they had been unsure how to face the villagers.
The scandals revealed by Orochimaru and Danzo did not directly implicate these advisors, but everyone in Konoha understood that such events were not solely the doing of one person. The high-level officials of Konoha and the leaders of various clans had all disregarded these matters, knowing more than they let on.
However, the matter was no longer being pursued. With the Third Hokage resigning and Orochimaru and Danzo leaving the village, the top echelons of Konoha's power were vacant, allowing for a fresh start. This resolution had already achieved the desired effect, and further investigations would serve no purpose.
Now, the main concern was who would become the Fourth Hokage. Many hoped it would be Minato Namikaze, a candidate who had earned their trust and demonstrated no negative traits. They had reasons to support Minato and no reason to help anyone else.
As the advisors, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado stood at the gates of Konoha, they exchanged glances filled with a shared understanding.
"Konoha is entering a new era," Koharu remarked, feeling a sense of inevitability. She had suspected Danzo's schemes and had warned the Third Hokage, who had dismissed her concerns. Now, she felt everything had come full circle.
"Indeed," Homura agreed. The results of the recent ninja war had drastically changed Konoha's leadership. He wondered about their future roles and if they would need to step down soon, acknowledging that the village was now for the younger generation.
"I'm not sure what our future will hold," Koharu said, lacking the arrogance she had shown when Tsunade became the Fifth Hokage. She felt uncertain and less confident, aware that the recent scandals had weakened their standing.
"We'll see how things go. If necessary, I might retire as well. It's time for the younger generation to take over," Homura sighed, feeling an unexpected sense of age and nostalgia.
As they walked back into Konoha, Shikaku Nara quietly followed, observing the two advisors. Throughout the journey, he had spoken little, instead reflecting on the events that had shattered his previous perceptions, including those of the Third Hokage.
Shikaku had always viewed the Third Hokage as a benevolent and wise leader. The recent revelations, however, showed a different side, revealing the darker aspects of his idol. This realisation made him question everything he had believed about Konoha's leadership.
This past year was transformative for Shikaku, a 17-year-old genius with a strong sense of judgment. He realised that many of his previous assumptions were flawed, and he began to see the complexity of human relationships and the multifaceted nature of people's actions.
Shikaku found himself thinking about Aoba, a peer who had taught him valuable lessons. He appreciated Aoba's influence, which had made him more cautious and deliberate in his decisions. Despite his doubts, Shikaku still wanted to believe in Minato Namikaze, feeling that Minato's consistent warmth and light were genuine.
"Are you coming with us, Shikaku?" Koharu asked, noticing his distance. She suspected Shikaku was trying to differentiate himself from them and align with the new generation.
"I'll pass," Shikaku replied, waving off the invitation. He wanted to go home and think things over, feeling fatigue and hope. Despite everything, he believed in Minato Namikaze and looked forward to the new era.
Shikaku turned towards the Nara clan's residence, ready to rest and reflect on his future steps.
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