Traveling through three generations: Making Konoha great again!

Chapter 92 I Will Not Keep This Glory to Myself

Following the direction Hiruzen Sarutobi pointed.

All eyes of the Konoha ninja and the general public turned to it.

Was he a ninja who made outstanding contributions to Konoha?

Who will be the first one?

Danzo felt a chill run down his spine; this was his location!

Combining what Hiruzen Sarutobi said to him before leaving the table—

But Danzo was still very uneasy.

Would Hiruzen really share this glory with himself on such an important occasion?

Frankly speaking, if he were in Danzo's shoes, he felt he couldn't do it—

Isn't this just giving away your prestige to others?

That's way too generous!

But if Hiruzen Sarutobi knew Danzo's thoughts, he would just smile and shake his head.

Prestige does not strictly adhere to a zero-sum game, where it is a matter of one person losing and another gaining, and the total amount is fixed.

His attitude of "not seeking credit" will amplify Hiruzen Sarutobi's personal prestige.

The purpose of highlighting achievements is to elevate the Hokage's authority once again, rather than to disclaim credit.

Because everyone knows that the Hokage is in charge of all of this.

"With the Hokage's assistance, Shimura Danzo!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi finally uttered his name.

"It played an indelible role in eliminating enemies from Konoha, maintaining and rectifying internal discipline, and in its deep cooperation with the Land of Fire!"

The intense atmosphere suddenly fell silent.

Danzo Shimura's reputation in Konoha was not exactly stellar.

Many well-informed Konoha ninja knew Danzo's style of doing things—

I usually avoid him when I see him.

Danzo maintained his smile with slight embarrassment, unsure of what to say for a moment.

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled.

He thought of something funny—

Given the stubbornness and obstinacy characteristic of ninjas, if he hadn't helped Danzo out of this predicament, who knows how long Danzo would have spent dwelling on it after returning home—

He might even turn slightly evil! He feels the Konoha ninjas don't understand his sacrifices—

"Well, even if he didn't do anything great, he still put in the effort—besides, it's not like he didn't do anything at all," Hiruzen Sarutobi thought to himself, not wanting to let Danzo continue to feel awkward.

"Our assistant, who is also the current head of Konoha's Anbu, has been working tirelessly behind enemy lines in a tense environment, gathering intelligence for the village and repelling the enemy day and night—"

"As a result, his style of doing things is usually a bit rough, and he has also engaged in self-criticism about this."

Hiruzen Sarutobi cleared his throat and spoke loudly.

And so on.

Many ninjas who didn't know Danzo but were whispering amongst themselves as the atmosphere fell silent cast admiring glances at him.

Despite being an assistant, he still frequently performed frontline missions.

Truly admirable!

Danzo possessed a cold and hard temperament honed from years of immersion in the shadows of the Dark Side.

This perfectly confirms Hiruzen Sarutobi's words.

A ninja who has lived in darkness for a long time, inevitably stained with some indelible malice, yet always keeping Konoha in his heart.

In the training ground, quite a few young ninjas cast admiring glances at him.

This kind of rhetoric—half-fallen into darkness yet yearning for light—sounds a bit like youthful, idealistic chuunibyou (a Japanese term for someone with delusions of grandeur).

Yet it perfectly aligns with the spirit of the ninja world, stirring the bloodlust and respect deep within the ninjas.

Danzo was taken aback. When did he start criticizing Hiruzen?

The intense gazes directed at him made Danzo feel somewhat lost, and this long-lost dark ninja felt a strong urge to escape.

But after a short while, Danzo immediately grew to like the feeling.

Suddenly, he thought of Hiruzen Sarutobi and what he had said.

"I've seen all your contributions—I'll bring you to the forefront."

Danzo took a deep breath, amplifying his voice with chakra, but still maintained his cold, deadpan expression, with a slightly unpleasant smile: "I—"

As soon as he opened his mouth, he was reminded of the speaking style that Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu commonly used now—

You have to start by mentioning Naruto!

"I will follow the Hokage's instructions, fulfill my duties diligently, and continue to fight for Konoha and the village!"

"That's how it is, and I hope you all feel the same way," Danzo said succinctly and forcefully.

Orochimaru, who was standing to the side, couldn't help but snort coldly.

He simply couldn't believe that Danzo, with his limited intellect, would actually initiate self-criticism with his teacher.

It's only because the teacher is kind-hearted and worried about embarrassing him that she saved his face; otherwise, the atmosphere would have been awkward long ago!

On the other hand, Orochimaru was also slightly wary.

Danzo did not launch into a long speech, maintaining his cold and aloof style, even in front of others.

This shows that they have accurately identified their own value proposition.

This change actually gave it some competitiveness, so it wasn't completely useless.

If Orochimaru were to adopt Hiruzen Sarutobi's style, he wouldn't even give Danzo a second glance.

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled slightly and said loudly, "Let's give Danzo a round of applause!"

Thunderous applause resounded in the training ground.

Danzo's face remained cold and hard, but his eyes pierced through the crowd and fixed intently on Hiruzen Sarutobi.

He knew perfectly well that Hiruzen Sarutobi had just come to his rescue.

It also found an excuse for some of his past problems, and subverted them in a way that elevated the issue—

"I won't let you fall behind—" Danzo thought to himself, "You did it, and so will I!"

He was referring to the conversation between the two in the forest after they returned from their cooperation with the Daimyo of the Land of Fire.

Danzo stated frankly that before becoming Hokage, he would be the sharpest blade in Hiruzen Sarutobi's hands.

"Second place, Orochimaru!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi continued, "He made great contributions to Konoha's scientific research and revenue generation, and also performed exceptionally well in various missions and wars—"

Orochimaru rose gracefully: "Serving the village is a virtue I've cultivated since childhood, thanks to the Hokage, my teacher—"

"I will continue to work hard to further protect the village's ninjas using technology."

Orochimaru's appearance didn't require any explanation from Hiruzen Sarutobi.

As one of the battlefield leaders of the Second Shinobi World War, Orochimaru is known to most ninjas in the village as a mysterious and powerful figure, and has always been extremely popular.

"Next, we will present the list of groups to be recognized."

"They are Tsunade, Hiruko, Jiraiya, Nara Shikayama, and Akimichi Torifu!"

"They actively participated in the village's income-generating projects, working tirelessly day and night, and selflessly sharing their research findings with the village!"

Those whom Hiruzen Sarutobi pointed out were all key participants in the "Holy Land Maru" and future research projects.

The five of them stood up together, waved to the cheering crowd, and were all beaming.

Who doesn't want their efforts to be recognized?

Especially in such a lively atmosphere and occasion.

Even Tsunade, who was used to seeing great figures, was filled with emotion as she gazed at the Hokage Rock in the distance—

Meanwhile, Hiruko's breathing became rapid.

He received more attention in his entire life than on this one day combined—

And that's exactly what he wanted!

Hiruko enjoyed the cheers for a while, then fixed his gaze on Hiruzen Sarutobi.

It's Naruto—

This gave him this opportunity!

In fact, Hiruko did not feel that his "cell fusion" technology deserved this honor.

If that's the case, then this is the Hokage's earnest expectation and trust in him—

After these five people have all appeared.

Hiruzen Sarutobi then pointed to both sides of the platform: "Warriors who are always protecting Konoha and fighting bravely against the enemy!"

"Sakumo Hatake and Hizashi Hyuga!"

The Konoha ninjas searched for a while before discovering that the two were wearing ANBU uniforms and masks.

They are currently on duty at a high vantage point.

The two removed their masks and waved to everyone.

They were greeted with enthusiastic cheers as a tribute to their continued work.

On one side of the training ground, Kakashi, who was preparing to go into battle, couldn't maintain his cool demeanor when he saw his father being praised like this.

He jumped and clapped for his father, and waved vigorously to Sakumo Hatake from the high point.

Sakumo Hatake smiled slightly, looking at his son as well, and responded to Kakashi with a very nonchalant air.

Meanwhile, Hyuga Hizashi, standing to the side, maintained his aloof demeanor and gave a slight nod in greeting.

He glanced subtly at the Hyuga clan members' reactions before looking at Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Seeing this, Danzo frowned slightly.

No, after working and living in Konoha for so many years, this is the first time he has ever seen someone copy someone else's character design!

Is that correct?

You copied Ninja Darkness too? You really think this is something to learn?

But Danzo was helpless.

Hizashi and Sakumo were like two of Hiruzen Sarutobi's most trusted lieutenants, never compromising their principles in any way.

If they discover anything amiss, they should bypass him, the head of the Anbu, and report directly to the Hokage.

Therefore, Danzo is currently very well-behaved.

When he first sat down, he had considered that since Jinzhan had elevated his prestige so much, perhaps he could slightly expand his influence and cultivate a group of people who were relatively loyal to him.

Danzo's intention was not to fight Hiruzen, but to deal with Orochimaru.

But the thought of Sakumo and Hizashi extinguished Danzo's interest in that area.

He certainly didn't want to find a ninja clan and then, when he reported back to Hiruzen the next day, be met with a barrage of joking teasing, telling him to be careful in the future—

"Hiruzen, you're doing a better and better job as Hokage these days—" Danzo looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi and shook his head with a sigh.

He was actually annoyed by the restriction of his power.

However, Danzo was no longer angry after discovering Hiruzen's ingenious deconstruction of the Anbu.

As the Hokage, you have to both limit his ability to assist others and allow him to get things done!

In a sense, it's a case of "the more they fight, the more I admire them"—

And among the Hyuga clan's audience.

Hyuga Tenzo looked at his youngest son, whose face was as cold as ice, and sighed softly.

He truly hadn't expected that Hizashi, despite being from a branch family, would be so highly valued by Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Hinata Takashi stared longingly at Hizashi's figure, listening to the cheers in his ears.

My last line of defense crumbled.

When Hyuga Takashi was appointed as a committee member that day, he was already so distressed that he couldn't sleep.

When they met at the clan's territory, even he, as the head of the clan, had to lower his head and respectfully address him as "Daily Commissioner."

The thick barrier between the two sides has been reversed from this moment on.

And now he's being honored by the Hokage in such a grand occasion!

Hyuga Takashi secretly glanced at Hyuga Tenzo and made up his mind.

There's no future in hanging out with that old man Deng.

I need to find a way to curry favor with the day laborers and see if I can put in a good word for them with the Hokage, so I can get a decent job myself.

Staying in the main family all the time is really not a good thing!

While separating from the family is like a caged bird, the original family, being in the cage, isn't exactly free either.

Hiashi Hyuga sighed slightly, but still clapped for his younger brother first, his hands turning red from clapping.

"And, Uchiha Homura!"

"Having lived through the Warring States period, he still steps forward when the village needs him, actively passing on his experience to the younger generation. Two months ago, he even led a team to capture a large number of Kusagakure spies—"

"Holding bones like torches, they illuminated the village and future generations!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi uttered a name that surprised everyone.

Uchiha?

It was actually an Uchiha!

It wasn't Fugaku or Isshin, but an unknown old Uchiha man—

Among the Uchiha clan spectators, many clansmen stared at him in shock.

Guangyu Zhiha Yan said that the Hokage once gave him a pack of cigarettes.

Everyone thought it was just bragging!

Given the awkward relationship between the Hokage lineage and the Uchiha clan, this whole thing sounds incredibly unlikely.

It seems this is actually true—

Uchiha En was also experiencing a great deal of internal turmoil.

He wanted to maintain the Uchiha's traditional aloofness, so he gave a curt reply.

But as soon as he stood up, he couldn't help but smile and wave to everyone.

On the training ground, Minato Namikaze gave him a thumbs-up and waved to him.

Uchiha Isshin's heart sank.

If the Uchiha clan wasn't mentioned, given the clan members' personalities, they would definitely feel dissatisfied.

This is where we can make a statement.

If it were Fugaku or himself, Isshin would also find a way to internalize that reputation.

But it just so happens to be Uchiha Homura from the patrol unit!

This old bastard has been getting really close with that brat Minato Namikaze lately, and he even inexplicably unlocked the three-tomoe form—

They have already been categorized as pro-Naruto.

But in the hearts of most Uchiha, Yan was a veteran hawk who had come from the Warring States period—

This is cutting off his right to speak as the head of the Uchiha clan!

Uchiha Isshin felt exhausted.

When fighting Hiruzen Sarutobi in the arena, it always seems like I'm hit without warning—

Nobody has gone to complain!

Isshin glanced at Fugaku, who was clapping and cheering for Uchiha En, and was about to explode with anger.

How can a successor who is this stupid possibly manage to govern the Uchiha clan well?

Is there really no one who can help him?

"good--"

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly, extended his right hand, and clenched it slightly.

The noisy and bustling martial arts arena immediately quieted down and returned to silence.

"These ten people are those who have performed relatively well in the village recently, and those who haven't been mentioned—"

"For example, our Xiaochun and Yan advisors led the administration department to build a solid bridge with the Land of Fire."

Koharu and Mitokado felt a warmth in their hearts.

It has to be Hiruzen; he took such good care of her. He's always been a kind and considerate person, from childhood to adulthood.

"And there are also ninjas and students who are serious about missions, work, and training. As long as everyone does their job, they are contributing to the development of Konoha—" Hiruzen Sarutobi made a dumpling.

The applause was still thunderous.

"good--"

"I originally intended to say just a few words."

"But once you start talking, you can't stop, right? Everyone's probably tired of hearing it, aren't they?" Hiruzen Sarutobi joked humorously. "Well then, let's welcome our main guest for today!"

"First, let's talk about the little geniuses at the Ninja Academy. With the great help of your parents, they're already showing promise—"

"My unfilial son even started some kind of Green Dragon Gang—"

Everyone burst into laughter.

Asuma blushed slightly; she didn't even feel ashamed to talk about this kind of thing at the Ninja Academy.

But in public, it's a completely different story.

"Their opponent is Minato Namikaze, who made great contributions in resisting the invasion of Kumogakure—" Hiruzen Sarutobi took on the role of host, stirring up the emotions of the audience.

This is a rare moment of relaxation for a ninja who is under immense pressure.

"So, who exactly defeated him—the so-called Azure Dragon Gang?"

"Or were the ninja academy students reorganized into the Azure Dragon Study Group?"

"Please allow both sides to enter!"

Minato Namikaze and more than fifty children stood facing each other.

Mito Uzumaki watched this scene with a smile, nodded slightly, and said to Biwako beside her, "In some aspects, I think Hiruzen does a better job than Tobirama—"

Biwako quickly shook her head, but a smile played on her lips: "How could that be! Lady Mito, what are you saying—"

At Hiruzen Sarutobi's instruction, Biwako would often visit Mito with baby supplies and homemade dishes, chat about parenting experiences, and help with some housework.

Over time, Biwako and Mito developed a very harmonious relationship.

I've been able to spend more time with Mito now.

And in a place far away from Konoha.

Madara Uchiha was controlling a White Zetsu, broadcasting this scene to him.

Madara Uchiha didn't actually want to do it himself.

However, if Mito is nearby, there's a risk of something going wrong if he doesn't handle it himself.

"Tobirama Senju's apprentice is quite interesting—"

"Besides the Senju and Uchiha, they are considered to have some ability."

"But the upper limit is already locked, so there's no point in messing around with it anymore."

Madara Uchiha was watching the holographic image while turning the oven in front of him.

There are some meat patties on top.

The solitary life of elderly people living alone is so simple, unadorned, and uninteresting.

Besides watching TV, I also read newspapers.

This program that Hiruzen Sarutobi created—

Even so, it's still much better than the "Frog Squad is a loving family"—

"Obito—"

Madara Uchiha took a bite of the grilled pork chop.

Although he doesn't need to do this because of the demonic statues of heretics—

However, eating allowed Madara Uchiha to feel a sliver of life remaining in his body: "Let me see if you're qualified."