Tsunade, the Fifth Hokage

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Afternoon

Natsume stepped into the hallway, leaving Shizune behind in the living room. Spotting her, he asked with a hint of curiosity, "Where's Tsunade-nee?"

Shizune glanced up from the scroll she was reading. "An ANBU operative came by just now. They informed her that Jiraiya has returned, and Lord Hokage has called a meeting."

Natsume's expression shifted slightly, realization dawning. Jiraiya's back already? That means… the Fifth Hokage will be decided today.

He inwardly chastised himself for forgetting about his planned meeting with the Fire Daimyo. Yesterday's events had kept him too occupied. But there was still time.

"Sister Shizune, I'm heading out to train," he said, moving toward the door.

As he slipped on his shoes, Shizune called after him, "Wait, you're not going to eat breakfast? I made it this morning!"

"Next time for sure," he replied with a quick grin before vanishing in a blur.

With a flash, Natsume activated the Flying Thunder God Technique, reappearing instantly at the Daimyo's Residence. The grand mansion in Konoha, reserved for the Fire Daimyo during his visits, loomed before him.

He let out a quiet breath of relief upon sensing the Daimyo's presence. Katsuragi Haruto, the Fire Daimyo, was still leisurely finishing his breakfast.

In the original timeline, the Daimyo didn't favor Danzo. But knowing Danzo's manipulative nature, I can't leave anything to chance.

Activating his Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan, Natsume cast Kokugan on the Daimyo—a subtle genjutsu that avoided the distinctive chakra signature of Kotoamatsukami. For the next week, the Daimyo would forget any promises made to Danzo while still remembering the importance of appointing the Fifth Hokage.

Moments later, the Daimyo rose, dressed for the occasion, and departed for the Hokage's office under the escort of his guards.

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In the Hokage's office, the tension was palpable. All relevant parties were present—save for Orochimaru.

"We searched Lord Orochimaru's residence," an ANBU operative reported, kneeling. "But he wasn't there."

Danzo's frown deepened. This isn't part of the plan.

Unknown to him, Orochimaru had no interest in the Hokage title. To him, the position was meaningless, especially after it had once belonged to Minato, Jiraiya's favored apprentice.

"That's enough," Hiruzen declared, his voice firm. "Orochimaru's absence changes nothing."

Danzo interjected sharply, "I disagree. Orochimaru is one of the legendary Sannin. His consent is essential for a smooth transition."

Jiraiya leaned back in his seat, smirking. "Consent for what, exactly? You think Orochimaru would object to Tsunade becoming Hokage?"

Danzo's tone sharpened. "The Hokage decision isn't final yet. She's not the only candidate."

Jiraiya scoffed. "Still clinging to that dream, Danzo? Haven't you given up yet?"

Hiruzen's gaze narrowed. Danzo's insistence felt off, even for him. Is he working with Orochimaru? No, that doesn't align with Orochimaru's goals. But if Danzo's planning something…

Before Hiruzen could dwell further, a voice from outside the chamber announced, "The Daimyo has arrived!"

All rose as the Fire Daimyo entered, taking the seat at the head of the room.

"Let's begin," he said calmly. "We will decide the Fifth Hokage now."

Danzo wasted no time. "I nominate myself."

Jiraiya chuckled softly, shaking his head. "I vote for Tsunade."

"We vote for Danzo," Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado declared, their loyalty to him evident.

Hiruzen frowned but remained composed. "I cast my vote for Tsunade."

All eyes turned to the Daimyo, who leaned back in his chair, his gaze sweeping over the candidates.

For a brief moment, the Daimyo felt a subtle unease as his eyes landed on Danzo. After a pause, he spoke. "I believe Tsunade is the most suitable choice for Hokage."

Danzo's face twisted in disbelief. "What did you say?!"

"Danzo!" Hiruzen's voice boomed, commanding authority. "Compose yourself!"

But Danzo was far from calm. His fury boiled over as he shouted, "How dare you betray me!"

The room tensed as his chakra flared. Even the Daimyo, unaccustomed to such displays, recoiled.

"Enough!" Hiruzen's chakra surged, his aura quelling the room. His robes billowed with the force of his presence. "Danzo, do you intend to disgrace yourself further?"

Danzo's hand tightened on his cane, but he knew better than to escalate. Outnumbered and outmatched, he forced himself to bow slightly. "I… lost my composure. My apologies."

He turned and left the room, his retreat marked by silent fury.

Hiruzen exhaled quietly, the tension easing as he addressed the Daimyo. "I apologize for the disturbance, Lord Daimyo."

The Daimyo huffed, visibly irritated. "If the Hokage can't control his subordinates, it's clearly time for him to retire. The handover ceremony will be tomorrow. I won't remain in Konoha longer than necessary."

With that, he left, his guards trailing behind.

Hiruzen watched him go, his expression unreadable. Inside, however, he felt a sense of relief. Danzo's schemes had failed—for now.

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