บท 113: Chapter 114 : Awakened Hokage!
Kazuhiko proceeded with the understanding that he might face expulsion from the Sarutobi clan. After all, the injuries inflicted on the Third Hokage made it necessary for him to check on the situation. Even if the Sarutobi clan members desired their removal, the higher-ups in Konoha would likely oppose it.
Kazuhiko hurried to his destination, driven by the urgency of finalizing the transfer of the four islands won by the Uzumaki clan. It required the official signatures of both parties, with Sarutobi Hiruzen's endorsement being crucial.
While Kazuhiko was indifferent to these bureaucratic matters, having the official transfer signed was better than leaving it unresolved. This would prevent potential complications in the future, ensuring the stability of the newly acquired territories.
Arriving at the Sarutobi clan compound in record time, Kazuhiko encountered the aftermath of his confrontation with the Third Hokage. The injured leader was being treated within the clan premises, and Tsunade, opting to stay overnight, was diligently overseeing the Hokage's recovery.
As Kazuhiko entered, his distinctive red hair and samurai sword caught the attention of the Sarutobi clan members at the gate. They recognized him as the focal point of discussions within the clan over the past two days. Despite their dislike for him due to the harm inflicted on their Hokage, they hesitated to obstruct his path and respectfully saluted him.
Despite the strained relations, they acknowledged Kazuhiko as a young sovereign and a remarkable talent who had defeated the Hokage, gaining fame throughout Konoha. A teenager capable of defeating the Hokage was a genius among geniuses, earning him respect wherever he went.
Kazuhiko, aware of their aversion, reciprocated the formalities with a bow, sardonically noting that he appreciated their simultaneous dislike and forced respect.
He mused, "This is the allure of strength! Only through strength can one command respect, even if others harbor animosity. Your own strength is paramount."
Guided by members of the Sarutobi clan, Kazuhiko swiftly made his way to the clan hall.
At this moment, the hall was already filled with a multitude of people.
Besides the six elders who anticipated the arrival of Kazuhiko, every elder from Konoha had gathered as well.
Danzo, with a bandage still covering his right eye, revealing his left one, stood in the midst of the assembly with a somber expression.
The sudden and swift recovery of the Third Hokage displeased him greatly. Apologies, but he couldn't help but feel genuine frustration at the Third Hokage's rapid resurgence.
Danzo had harbored thoughts that if Sarutobi Hiruzen did not awaken after two days, he could rightfully assume the role of acting Hokage. Even if Sarutobi Hiruzen lingered in his slumber a bit longer, by then, Danzo would have solidified his control over Konoha.
Even if Sarutobi Hiruzen did not meet his demise, Danzo intended to find a way to confine him to the hospital bed indefinitely.
Alas, Danzo's aspirations had barely taken flight when news spread within two days that the Third Hokage had awakened, leaving Danzo truly disappointed.
Internally, Danzo couldn't help but lament to Kazuhiko, "Why couldn't that single strike be more potent?! It's proving difficult to keep Sarutobi Hiruzen down a bit longer!"
Aware that Danzo was also scheming for the Hokage position, his despondent countenance was skillfully hidden from view.
Only Utatane Koharu, positioned beside Danzo, coughed twice as a discreet reminder to be mindful of Kazuhiko's presence.
Only then did Danzo lift his head to behold the arrival of this handsome young man.
The elders of the Uzumaki clan were the first to notice Kazuhiko's entrance.
Excitedly gathering around him, they exclaimed, "Clan Head, Third Hokage has finally awakened! Wonderful! We were concerned that he might not recover, and Konoha would unleash its fury upon us!"
The three elders spoke joyfully, their minds weighed by the troubling prospect of having their leaders slain in another village.
Should Sarutobi Hiruzen truly meet his demise, Konoha might unreservedly retaliate, potentially leading to the annihilation of the Land of Whirlpools.
Kazuhiko nodded calmly, the ominous atmosphere from the previous encounter at the Konoha guardhouse now absent.
"How is Third Hokage? Why is everyone gathered outside?" Kazuhiko inquired casually.
"Third Hokage has awakened, as confirmed by Princess Tsunade herself. Currently, he is finalizing matters within the residence."
"I heard that he plans to join us shortly, and we are all waiting here for his emergence."
The remaining eldersof Uzumaki clan swiftly filled Kazuhiko in on the details. In contrast to Kazuhiko, who nonchalantly indulged in drinking, carousing, and sleeping a mere 5.7 hours after injuring Third Hokage, they were terrified. The fear of potential sudden developments weighed heavily on them.
If by any chance Third Hokage did perish, they were ready to escort Kazuhiko out of the Land of Fire even if it meant their demise.
Hence, they lingered in anticipation, poised to inform Kazuhiko the moment any news broke. Even if the worst had happened and Third Hokage had truly perished, they were primed to raise a clamor, alerting their Clan Head.
As the tense wait persisted, Third Hokage emerged slowly, donned in his Hokage robe. Yet, an air of bewilderment swept through the group as they took in his peculiar attire.
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