Konoha: The Honored One

Tsunade's amber eyes narrowed as she cast a glance at Gojo, a flicker of irritation crossing her face. "Strange feeling," she muttered under her breath. Could this be because he had been too merciful earlier?

Though Gojo often acted flippant, there was no denying his strength or the charisma that made him the subject of admiration among many female ninjas. His boldness and wit only added to his appeal, but Tsunade always knew one thing—he put her first, no matter what.

This unwavering devotion had shielded Tsunade from the jealousy of others, as most women knew better than to challenge her over him. She had grown used to the envious stares, the whispered comments.

Tsunade raised her chin slightly, a proud smile gracing her lips as she sent a provocative look toward Kurenai, who lingered nearby.

"Take me to the Hokage office," she commanded, gripping Satoru's hand tightly.

Her gaze softened as she thought, After all, he is the most important person in my heart.

Satoru looked between Tsunade and Kurenai, the corner of his mouth curling into a playful grin. "The Hokage office, huh? This could be fun," he said, feigning a sigh. "Women are so troublesome."

"Enough nonsense!" Tsunade snapped, though the slight blush on her cheeks betrayed her irritation. She tightened her grip on his hand.

Gojo shook his head, his smile widening. "My damn charm. What can I say?" He turned to the group of shinobi gathered nearby. "Everyone, let's make this ceremony unforgettable. Don't slack off!"

With that, Gojo teleported with Tsunade, leaving the others in stunned silence.

At the Village Gates

Back at the gates, Team 7 had finally arrived after an exhausting run. Naruto collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath. "I'm dead… so dead…"

Sasuke, kneeling a few feet away, was equally winded but refused to show weakness. His frustration only grew as he glared at Naruto, who had beaten him to the finish line.

"How is that idiot faster than me?" Sasuke growled, fists clenching.

"Looks like I'm not just faster," Naruto teased, sitting up with a cheeky grin. "Guess you're second place after all, huh, Sasuke?"

Sasuke's eyes darkened, his pride taking a hit. "Don't get cocky, Naruto. After this ceremony, we're settling this once and for all."

Naruto's grin faltered as he saw the fire in Sasuke's eyes. "You're serious?"

Sasuke smirked. "Afraid already, loser?"

"Guys, stop it!" Sakura pleaded, stepping between them.

Sasuke brushed past her, causing her to stumble back. "Stay out of this, Sakura," he said coldly, walking ahead toward the Hokage Square.

Naruto shot him an angry look, helping Sakura to her feet. "Are you okay?" he asked softly.

"I'm fine," she replied, forcing a smile. But her gaze lingered on Sasuke's retreating figure, her heart sinking.

The square was packed with villagers and shinobi alike, all gathered to witness the historic inauguration of the Fifth Hokage. The crowd erupted in cheers as Tsunade appeared at the top of the Hokage building, her cloak billowing in the breeze and the Hokage hat sitting proudly atop her head.

"I, Tsunade, hereby announce," she declared, her voice strong and resolute, "that from today forward, I will serve as the Fifth Hokage!"

The cheers grew deafening.

"Tsunade-sama will be amazing as Hokage!"

"We're in safe hands now!"

Outside the crowd, one voice muttered bitterly. "It was supposed to be me."

Danzo stood on a nearby rooftop, his cane firmly gripped in his hand, his expression dark as he watched the scene unfold.

"Again, Hokage has slipped through my fingers," Danzo murmured, his voice laced with venom. His thoughts drifted back to his youth, the day he failed to step forward and seize the position of Second Hokage's successor. That weakness haunted him even now.

"Still clinging to your regrets, old man?"

Danzo turned sharply to see Gojo perched lazily on the railing beside him, a lollipop in hand and his trademark blindfold glinting in the sunlight.

"Don't patronize me, Gojo." Danzo growled.

Satoru chuckled, twirling the lollipop. "Just calling it like I see it. You're still hung up on proving you're not the weakling you once were. But let me tell you something."

In a flash, Gojo was inches from Danzo, his lollipop pointing at the bandages covering Danzo's right eye. His tone turned sharp, dangerous. "If you ever think of troubling Tsuna-chan, I'll make sure you regret it."

Danzo slapped his hand away, but his heart raced. Did Gojo know the truth about his Sharingan?

Satoru's grin returned, though his eyes behind the blindfold bore a warning. "Just stay in your lane, old man. You're way out of mine."

Danzo scowled, turning to leave. "Don't get too cocky. You'll see."

As he disappeared into the shadows, Satoru leaned back against the railing, popping the lollipop back into his mouth.

"Man," he said to himself, "these Hokage ceremonies are way too much drama."