Reborn In The World Of Naruto

SLAM

The heavy oak table shook under Hiruzen Sarutobi's fist, the resounding crack echoing off the stone walls of the Hokage Tower's meeting room. His sharp eyes, usually softened by age, burned with an intensity that immediately silenced the room.

"Enough! Both of you!" Hiruzen's voice thundered, piercing through the thick tension that hung like a storm cloud.

Fugaku Uchiha's eyes narrowed, the Sharingan in full display, the three tomoe spinning like whirlpools of controlled fury. He clicked his tongue but restrained his temper, sinking back into his seat with a measured exhale. Across the table, Danzo Shimura's fingers drummed a slow, calculated rhythm, his face carved from stone but his eyes never straying from Fugaku. His silence spoke volumes—dangerous, lurking thoughts woven into the web of his mind.

The air was electric, charged with the unspoken weight of the Third Hokage's announcement. Clan leaders exchanged furtive glances, eyes flickering with doubt, curiosity, and thinly-veiled apprehension. Koharu and Homura, Hiruzen's long-time advisors, exchanged worried looks, their usual composure frayed by the unexpected turn of events.

Hiruzen's voice cut through the murmur of uncertainty like a blade through silk.

"I understand your shock," he began, his weathered gaze sweeping across the room, pausing on each clan leader as though measuring their resolve. "But this crisis demands more than my resignation. We need to forge a new path, one that restores faith and unity in Konoha."

His words hung in the air, heavy with implication. Silence stretched, taut and expectant.

"Therefore, I propose a solution—a Hokage Competition to determine my successor."

The room erupted into murmurs, gasps, and a few startled exclamations. Fugaku leaned forward, his crimson eyes glinting with a dangerous interest. Hiashi Hyūga arched a brow, skepticism shadowing his usually impassive features. Even Shikaku Nara, known for his perpetual indifference, leaned forward slightly, his sharp mind already dissecting the implications.

Danzo's jaw tightened, his face an unreadable mask of stone. Yet, the flicker of darkness in his eyes betrayed his discontent. This was an unexpected twist in a game he thought he had already mastered.

Choza Akimichi's voice broke through the noise. "Why a competition, Lord Hokage?"

Hiruzen's gaze softened, but his voice remained firm. "The village is divided, and many have lost faith in the current leadership. A public competition allows the people to witness the capabilities of each candidate firsthand. The winner would gain legitimacy and support from the populace, ensuring that whoever becomes Hokage has the backing of the majority. This transparency can help restore trust in the system."

Shikaku's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. 'In essence, the competition is a tactical move to prevent chaos, restore public faith, and ensure that the next Hokage is someone who has earned the right to lead—not just someone who seized power through force or manipulation. Not a bad move.'

One by one, the clan leaders voiced their agreement. Shikaku raised his hand first, followed by Fugaku, Hiashi, and the others, even Danzo—though his compliance was as reluctant as it was calculating.

Hiruzen's expression was grave but resolute. "Good. We proceed."

He paused, letting the weight of the decision settle before continuing. "The competition will consist of three challenges. The first is a Public Speaking Trial, the second, a Leadership and Strategy Test, and the final challenge—a Combat Tournament."

The air in the room thickened as each leader absorbed the implications. Choza, ever the practical one, spoke up again. "Could you elaborate on the challenges, Lord Hokage?"

Hiruzen nodded. "The Public Speaking Trial will assess each candidate's ability to communicate their vision for Konoha. A short speech—two to three minutes—addressing the future of the village. It's not about debate but clarity, inspiration, and conviction."

Heads nodded in agreement. This test was straightforward yet revealing.

"The Leadership and Strategy Test," Hiruzen continued, "will simulate a mission. Each candidate will lead a small team of shinobi, navigating unexpected challenges and demonstrating tactical acumen. It's a test of decision-making, adaptability, and teamwork."

Danzo's eyes flickered, his mind already racing through possible outcomes.

'A trap or an opportunity?'

"And the final challenge?" Choza prompted.

"A Combat Tournament," Hiruzen said, his voice steady. "One-on-one battles. Not merely to showcase strength, but to demonstrate control, restraint, and tactical prowess. A true leader knows when to fight—and how to win without unnecessary destruction."

Murmurs of approval spread through the room. The challenges were balanced, each testing a critical aspect of leadership.

"What about the candidates?" Inoichi's voice carried a note of curiosity. "How will they be selected?"

Hiruzen's eyes hardened. "Only Jonin-ranked shinobi may compete. Five candidates total. Each must have a proven record—only those with the highest mission success rates will be considered."

Tsume Inuzuka interrupted, her voice sharp. "But Lord Hokage, Konoha has many talented Jonin. How will you choose just five?"

Hiruzen's gaze settled on her, stern but not unkind. "I was about to address that," he said, his tone reprimanding but patient. Tsume flushed, looking down.

"The candidates must be among those with the highest mission success rates. This will narrow the field considerably."

Shikaku's eyes sharpened. 'A calculated restriction. He's trying to limit this to clan leaders and elders—those he can control. But, there is one thing you've overlooked.'

But Fugaku's voice cut through the speculation. "Then it seems I will be participating."

The room tensed. The Clan Leaders turned to look at the Third Hokage. They couldn't believe he'd give Fugaku a chance to participate. Everyone knew that he always tried his best to keep the Uchiha in check, so this move of the Third Hokage was unexpected. Even Hiruzen couldn't mask his reluctance.

'There's no choice,' he thought. 'Fugaku's popularity has surged due to the recent incident. Denying him would only deepen the divide. If I don't let him participate, the villagers might really start a revolt. Haah... this is so tiring.' Hiruzen thought to himself.

However, he quickly calmed himself. The Third Hokage's voice was steady, but a shadow of weariness crept in. "Each clan may field one candidate. Who among you will stand?"

Five hands rose—five contenders ready to stake their claim to the title of Hokage.

The room held its breath, the weight of the decision pressing down like an impending storm.