Chapter 26: I want to be Hokage
It was a pity that Naruto was influenced and constrained by the character he is playing, preventing him from taking the initiative or making the situation more acute. He had to passively observe the "act" put on by the Third Hokage's true intentions.
Naruto couldn't comprehend everything that was happening, let alone confront the issue directly.
However, the Hiruzen Sarutobi was an experienced individual. After initially displaying guilt, self-blame, and sadness, he quickly regained his composure, continuing to smile at Naruto as he asked, "I heard you've been exercising today. What prompted this sudden interest?"
Inwardly, Naruto couldn't help but snort at the "concern" of the Third Hokage. His true motivation was to eventually leave Konoha Village, but he wouldn't reveal that. Instead, he feigned seriousness and showed off the weights he had attached to his body, as if the village didn't exist at all.
"I'm still wearing these sandbags, Grandpa Sarutobi," Naruto stated with a sense of purpose. "Ever since I was in the Konoha Hospital, people have been secretly calling me the 'demon fox.' But I know I'm not the fox, so I want to prove myself. I am Naruto of Konoha Village, and I will protect everyone."
Third Hokage was moved by the Naruto's determination, gazing deeply at him.
Naruto hadn't allowed the injustices he faced to twist him. He hadn't grown resentful of the village, and he still sought the approval of its people.
"If you can," Naruto continued, lowering his head as if he were already the Hokage. "I still want to become Hokage. I've heard that the Hokage is the most powerful ninja in the village and the most respected person. So I want to be Hokage."
Third Hokage's eyes lit up with excitement, and he took a puff of his pipe to calm himself.
"That's a great goal, young Naruto," Third Hokage replied. "But you must remember what you've said today. Becoming Hokage means earning everyone's approval, not just seeking recognition."
Naruto nodded vigorously, but inwardly, he wore a smug expression. Who would actually want to be Hokage? It was better to go your own way. What kind of protection were they talking about? He had already experienced being hated and targeted by the entire village, enduring slander and malicious gossip, blatant exclusion, isolation, and even bullying.
Not taking revenge on them was already an act of mercy. He could even be labeled as overly compassionate. Seeking their approval? Who needed that?
In his mind, Naruto had a very different path in mind. He wanted to leave Konoha Village and live the life he desired incognito. The ninja world was vast, and he could explore the world and discover hidden places.
The world was expansive, and there was no need to dwell on his past. It was a huge world out there, and he intended to see it all.
So, everything Naruto was saying now was just for show. He didn't believe in becoming Hokage, it was all an act to deceive the Third Hokage.
Unaware of Naruto's true intentions, the Third Hokage looked at him with reassurance.
Naruto continued his act, even going so far as to act as if he wanted to be close to Third Hokage, inviting him to share the fish he had caught.
Sarutobi was continuously amazed by the child's abilities. Could an ordinary child make fire by themselves and catch fish, let alone clean and grill them on their own?
Naruto put on a smug expression and explained, "I watched a show on TV about starting fires by rubbing wood together, and I caught the fish while I was bathing in the river. Hehehe, am I good?"
He played the part of an innocent child perfectly.
The Hokage however, felt nothing but sorrow and sympathy. He knew that Naruto had no other choice but to do these things.
Despite this, he didn't immediately offer to provide for Naruto. Instead, he laughed, took the fish with a stick that Naruto handed him, and began to eat.
The fish lacked seasoning, not even salt, and tasted bland. The Hokage couldn't help but frown slightly. However, when he glanced at Naruto, he saw the child eating with relish. This was no pretense; Naruto had not eaten all day, and his hunger had made even plain fish a delicious meal.
The Hokage stayed with Naruto after eating. They sat together by the fire, looking up at the starry sky—two generations, one old and one young, side by side.
Suddenly, The Hokage spoke, "Little Naruto, this world is vast and wide."
In Naruto's heart, he knew he couldn't stay confined here. But he pretended not to understand and asked, "I heard that when people die, they become stars in the sky. Grandpa, who were my parents? Can you tell me?"
The Hokage's eyes revealed a mix of emotions, including guilt, but ultimately, he chose not to disclose the names of the Fourth Hokage couple. Instead, he changed the subject, cautioning, "Little Naruto, even though this place isn't far from the village, you shouldn't wander around."
Was this a warning not to venture into the back mountains again? But Naruto couldn't agree. He looked troubled and mumbled, "But I don't have money to buy food. If I don't catch fish, I'll starve."
The Hokage felt helpless. He could give Naruto money now, but he didn't want the child to develop the habit of spending recklessly. So, he refrained from offering any assistance.
Finally, as the night grew late, The Hokage stood up, signaling that it was time to leave. He also persuaded Naruto to come back with him before departing.
Naruto didn't resist or cause any more trouble. He had no objections. He planned to return home and sleep. After all, the bed at home was more comfortable and safer. He could always come back tomorrow if he wanted to.
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