From Naruto onwards, I've become a dreamer.

Chapter 211 Preparations Before Collapse
"Orochimaru, you must give me an answer today!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi, puffing on his pipe, exuded an imposing aura, his words carrying a hint of threat: "Right now, the people of Konoha are restless, and we desperately need a Hokage to reunite everyone's goals."

Whether it was concealing the cause of the Fourth Hokage's death or strongly recommending Danzo to take power, both caused great divisions within Konoha, and the people were filled with anxiety. Even many ninjas privately began to question whether the Will of Fire was truly correct, plunging him into a vortex of public opinion.

If left unchecked, the hard-won unity of the people will soon crumble.

Therefore, at this critical juncture in Konoha, it is imperative to elect a Hokage as soon as possible to quell this mess.

After careful consideration, Hiruzen Sarutobi ultimately chose Orochimaru over Minato Namikaze.

It wasn't because he was Orochimaru's "disciple," but because he knew Orochimaru's character well. Not only was Orochimaru ambitious and unconventional, but he also didn't mind the "darkness" of the process on certain political levels, which coincided with his own style and ideas.

Minato Namikaze is good, but he's too kind and always wants to solve problems through legitimate means.

The problem is that not everything can be solved by righteous means; otherwise, what would be the point of Danzo and Root's existence?
If it weren't for timing issues, Hiruzen Sarutobi's original plan was to have Minato Namikaze succeed as Hokage, and then Orochimaru inherit Danzo's position. The two would complement each other, one in the open and the other in the shadows, checking each other while guiding Konoha onto the right track.

But now, that idea has been shattered.

Minato Namikaze was quite resolute in his stance, unwilling to succeed as Hokage, and he had no dirt on him.

Ultimately, Hiruzen Sarutobi had no choice but to choose Orochimaru.

磕磕
Hiruzen Sarutobi tapped his pipe lightly, cleared his throat, and softened his tone slightly: "Orochimaru, you are my disciple. I know your abilities very well and have always thought highly of you. Now Konoha needs a Hokage, and you are the most suitable candidate. Therefore, I hope you will refuse again."

Simply forcing someone is not the right choice; a combination of carrots and sticks at the right time works well everywhere.

Clearly, Hiruzen Sarutobi believed that such an action could change some of his 'disciple's' mind.

"Ha, is this an ultimatum, teacher?"

Orochimaru twirled his knuckles, his snake-like eyes narrowed into slits, scrutinizing his once-respected teacher with a meaningful gaze: "I'm quite curious, why do you think you can threaten me with mere charges of human experimentation? Sarutobi-sensei."

Boom!
The solid wood tabletop, several centimeters thick, was slapped and left an imprint.

The loud noise made the already tense atmosphere in the room even more tense, and a chill filled the air.

Hiruzen Sarutobi's face was ashen, his expression shifting between anger and rage as he stared at Orochimaru. Veins bulged on his brow, and his deep voice carried a hint of irritation: "Watch your words, Orochimaru. I'm not threatening you, I'm just telling you the facts. Human experimentation is prohibited. You've violated Konoha's laws, understand?!"

"Ha~"

Orochimaru sneered inwardly: "Satori-sensei, speaking of human experimentation, you must have been involved as well, right?"

Breaking the law?

Now you're bringing up the law with him? Why didn't you say this when you asked for the Wood Release experiment?

Oh, so now that there's a need, you bring this up, right?
"First of all, I am the Hokage."

Hiruzen Sarutobi said calmly, "Secondly, I did not authorize you to conduct human experiments. All of this was a private transaction between you and Danzo without the Hokage's explicit permission."

"Oh, I got it."

Orochimaru nodded calmly, as if he had already expected his answer.

He also learned that anything risky should not be made public, so that if something goes wrong in the future, it's easier to shift the blame to someone else.

"Orochimaru, I remember you used to be a very good kid."

Hiruzen Sarutobi didn't want to ruin the relationship, so he softened his tone and said, "Although I don't know what changed your mind, becoming Hokage is definitely not a bad thing for you. For example, in some aspects, no one can control your thoughts anymore, understand?"

His reminder was subtle, but Orochimaru still understood it.

If he agrees to succeed as Hokage, then in the future, no one will hinder him in terms of funding, manpower, or anything else, whether it's human experimentation or research on the soul level.

It must be said that Hiruzen Sarutobi was truly adept at understanding people's hearts, always skillfully using words to break through a person's defenses. Orochimaru, for a moment, was genuinely moved.

But when he calmed down, he couldn't help but scoff inwardly. What a pity. He was no longer the same person he used to be.

"Since the teacher has said so..."

Orochimaru chuckled, a hint of mockery flashing across his pale face: "If I were to refuse again, it would be rather heartless."

"This is the choice of a smart person, Orochimaru."

Hiruzen Sarutobi finally breathed a sigh of relief. In fact, he was also afraid that if he pushed too hard, it would arouse Orochimaru's resentment.

However, the result is still satisfactory.

"The inauguration ceremony for the fifth generation is scheduled for three days from now."

Now that his goal had been achieved, Hiruzen Sarutobi was no longer willing to stay. He patted Orochimaru on the shoulder and said, "Keep up the good work. I believe in you. You will definitely become Hokage who surpasses me!"

Then, he hurriedly left, as he was going back to report to the second-generation leader.

As Orochimaru watched Hiruzen Sarutobi's disappearing figure, the coldness in his eyes intensified, almost becoming tangible. Finally, a chilling smile curved his lips: "Hokage. Heh, how does this boring political game feel?"

"It's very boring."

Suddenly, a figure appeared in the room; it was White Fang.

"How's the situation over there?"

Orochimaru glanced at him sideways and said calmly.

White Fang, dressed in a tight-fitting outfit, put on his short sword again. His body was surrounded by a strong killing intent. He shook his head expressionlessly and said in a deep voice, "As you expected, 'over there' is under close surveillance. There's no way to get in by ordinary means."

"That's normal, after all, he's the 'second generation'."

Orochimaru wasn't surprised. He said, "Known for his caution and keenness, he wouldn't leave this loophole. It seems we'll have to wait until three days later."

"What are you going to do?"

White Tooth asked.

"It's simple, use me to attract attention."

Orochimaru said casually, "Everyone must be present at the Hokage's inauguration ceremony. I will create a big commotion, and that will be your opportunity."

"Are you able to leave?"

White Fang looked puzzled; three Hokage had gathered there that day.

"Do not worry about me."

Orochimaru smiled slightly, tapped his fingertip lightly, and said, "I'm quite good at self-preservation, and besides, I consulted Mr. 'Adam' beforehand."

Looking at Orochimaru, who seemed to have everything under control, White Fang's heart stirred slightly: "Has that being agreed to take action?"

"No, they are merely mortals. Given Mr. Adam's status, why would he personally take action against them?"

Orochimaru gave a mysterious smile and said, "Anyway, don't worry about my safety. Just leave immediately after you find the 'Blasphemy Tablet'."

"understood."

White Fang paused for a moment, then nodded: "Then, let's meet at the designated location after it's all done."

(End of this chapter)