NOVEL NEXT Chapter 92: The Truth
Later that day, we discussed how to handle the aftermath, planning to meet with the clan leaders tomorrow to ensure transparency. This meeting would reveal who might oppose us, allowing us to address potential dissent later. I suspected only the Sarutobi and Shimura clans would resist, while others might support us if they learned the full truth of Hiruzen's and Danzo's actions.
By next week, the news of Hiruzen's arrest and that of his close associates would be formally announced to the villagers gathered outside the Hokage's office.
A Week Later
The upcoming announcement was bound to stir turmoil in the village, but I knew we could manage it. "Tsuna, are you ready? Be honest and hold nothing back," I reminded her.
"I understand, Naruto," she replied, determined.
Together, we headed to the Hokage's office, where villagers had already begun gathering. The four detainees were brought from the jail to witness the events unfolding before them—events they had tried to control for decades. Clan leaders and their members stood assembled, all eyes on Tsunade.
I stood beside her, ready to support. "You've got this, Tsuna," I encouraged.
"Thank you, Naruto," she replied, then addressed the crowd.
"Good morning, everyone. I realize many of you are wondering why I've called this announcement," she began, her voice commanding attention. Murmurs rippled through the crowd as villagers speculated.
"You all remember that the previous Hokage was recently detained, along with three of his allies," she continued.
"Yes," the crowd murmured in unison.
"I'm sure you're confused as to why a Hokage would be arrested," she said, capturing their attention further.
"They committed serious crimes that led to the deaths of countless people," Tsunade said firmly. "Some of you may recall the Uchiha massacre six years ago—the event that branded Itachi Uchiha a traitor."
The crowd was silent, some still reeling from the shocking claim. She continued, "But Itachi didn't act on his own whim. His actions were directed by none other than Hiruzen Sarutobi and his closest allies."
"What?" gasped the villagers.
"No! You're lying!" some shouted, disbelief spreading among them. But Tsunade's unwavering gaze met theirs, the truth settling uncomfortably in the air.
The crowd was in an uproar, disbelief and anger simmering among the villagers. Some were too shocked to react, while others were visibly upset, calling out accusations and demanding explanations. Tsuna stood firm, her gaze unwavering as she waited for the noise to subside.
I leaned over and whispered, "Stay strong. They need to hear everything."
With a nod, she continued, raising her voice to cut through the crowd's protest. "I understand your anger. It's difficult to believe that the leaders you trusted could be responsible for such a tragedy. But I am here to reveal the truth, not to protect anyone. The Uchiha clan was wrongfully accused and massacred based on the orders of Hiruzen, Danzo, Homura, and Koharu. They believed this was a necessary action to prevent a possible coup."
The villagers were slowly absorbing her words, the reality of it sinking in. Some looked horrified, while others were murmuring among themselves, realizing the weight of the betrayal.
One elder spoke up, his voice quivering. "Why would the Third Hokage allow this? We trusted him…"
"It's a harsh truth to face," I said, stepping forward to support Tsuna. "But these are the facts. Their actions led to unnecessary bloodshed, mistrust among clans, and a breakdown of unity within our village. But we're here to repair that. Tsuna is Hokage now, and she's committed to transparency and justice. That's why we're telling you everything."
Another voice in the crowd shouted, "And what of the Uchiha? Will they be accepted back?"
Tsuna nodded. "Yes. The Uchiha clan has returned and will be treated as equal citizens of Konoha. They were victims in this situation, just as many of you were. We ask that you give them the same chance for peace that we all deserve."
Some villagers looked uneasy, while others nodded, seeming to understand.
Finally, Tsuna addressed the punishment. "As for Hiruzen, Danzo, Homura, and Koharu, they will face justice for their actions. Their crimes cannot be ignored, and they will answer for the lives they affected and the trust they broke. This will serve as a new beginning for Konoha—a village that values honesty, peace, and unity above all."
The crowd was quiet, absorbing the impact of her words. The announcement had shaken them, but Tsuna's resolve and commitment to change seemed to reassure many.
After a moment of silence, the murmurs turned to nods of acceptance, as the people of Konoha began to understand the truth behind their past. This day marked the beginning of a new era, where justice and unity could finally prevail.
"And it doesn't end there," Tsuna continued, her voice steady. "For years, Danzo and his organization, Root, conducted countless covert operations that endangered Konoha, including experiments on our own shinobi, stealing clan secrets, and actions that undermined our village's peace. All of this was hidden from you."
A hush fell over the crowd. The gravity of Tsuna's words left them speechless.