Konoha—
The village streets were decorated with lanterns and banners, filled with a festive atmosphere.
News of Uchiha Yusuke leading the allied forces to a decisive victory over Kumogakure had already spread far and wide.
The villagers, who longed for peace, were overjoyed.
Yusuke's contribution was undeniable.
Before the war had even fully concluded, he had already sent word ahead to Uchiha Fugaku.
Through Fugaku's arrangements, news of Yusuke's great victory spread to every corner of Konoha in an instant.
Before Yusuke even returned—
His heroic deeds had already been woven into stories, eagerly retold among the people.
The higher-ups of Konoha were a step too late.
Even if they wanted to suppress the news now, there was no way to erase Yusuke's radiant image in the hearts of the villagers.
At this moment, Uchiha Yusuke had earned the title of "Hero of Konoha."
A title like that could easily sway public opinion.
Before becoming a hero, Uzumaki Naruto had been nothing more than a pariah.
Even with Jiraiya as his teacher, he had been largely ignored.
But after becoming Konoha's hero—
Naruto's popularity in the village soared to its peak.
With public support like that, even Konoha's leadership would have to think twice before acting against Yusuke.
To move against a hero without cause—
Was to invite drowning beneath a tide of condemnation.
On the streets of Konoha—
Two members of the Uchiha Police Force were passing by when several shopkeepers surrounded them enthusiastically.
"The Uchiha are amazing!"
"Is Clan Head Yusuke returning soon?"
In the past, many had found the Uchiha's pride off-putting.
But after hearing of Yusuke's exploits, their views had completely changed.
The Uchiha were gifted and powerful.
If they were a little proud—wasn't that natural?
They didn't bully civilians or abuse their authority.
A bit of arrogance was hardly a crime.
"Hehe…"
Faced with the sudden warmth, the two Uchiha officers could only scratch their heads awkwardly and grin.
They still weren't used to it.
Since when had the Uchiha become this popular?
After thinking about it—
It was all thanks to Clan Head Uchiha Yusuke.
Hokage Tower.
Hokage's Office.
The Konoha F4 sat gathered in silence, the atmosphere heavy.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, stared blankly at the photograph of Minato Namikaze on the wall.
Could Uchiha Yusuke truly rival the Fourth Hokage?
Why wasn't he from my faction?
Though the detailed battlefield report had yet to arrive, news of Yusuke defeating the AB Combo had already spread across Konoha.
Hiruzen knew very well the strength of the Fourth Raikage A and Killer B.
For Yusuke to defeat them—
Meant he was no weaker than Minato Namikaze had been.
They had not been informed.
Yet the news had spread everywhere.
Hiruzen didn't need to think to know—
This was Yusuke's doing.
It also revealed something else.
Yusuke held deep wariness toward the higher-ups.
But now—
He had become a household name. A hero.
Even Hiruzen found himself uncertain how to deal with him.
Yusuke had public support.
His strength rivaled theirs.
If they moved rashly against the Uchiha again, Yusuke might seize the opportunity to retaliate openly.
Hiruzen held only the aging authority of the Hokage.
He did not have confidence in suppressing the Uchiha outright.
If Yusuke truly clashed with them—
Konoha itself might suffer devastating consequences.
Hiruzen Sarutobi had enjoyed a lifetime of esteemed reputation.
He would rather concede part of his authority—
Than tarnish his legacy in his later years.
The Hokage's name must endure in glory.
Infamy was Danzō's burden to bear.
After reaching his conclusion, Hiruzen spoke calmly.
"Uchiha Yusuke has just rendered great service."
"For now… we will set aside matters concerning the Uchiha."
Once the Third Hokage made his stance clear, the two advisors immediately nodded in agreement.
Danzō, who had always advocated relentless pressure against the Uchiha, found himself isolated once more.
Seeing that resistance was futile, Danzō snorted coldly.
"Your indulgence toward the Uchiha will be regretted."
The Konoha F4 dispersed on uneasy terms.
Danzō departed with resentment simmering in his heart.
Hiruzen did not wish to see Yusuke rise—
But he lacked the means to stop him.
He had done what he could.
Who could have predicted that, without support, Yusuke would defeat Kumogakure head-on?
If anyone was to blame—
It was Kumogakure's incompetence.
The Fourth Raikage and the Eight-Tails' jinchūriki—
Unable to handle one Uchiha Yusuke?
And they dared call themselves the strongest combo?
Tch.
After several days of travel, Yusuke led the allied shinobi forces back to Konoha.
At the village gates—
The Third Hokage was already waiting with an honor guard.
Though he harbored deep caution toward Yusuke, appearances had to be maintained.
Yusuke had just won a great victory.
Naturally, Hiruzen would personally step forward to offer commendation.
Notably—
Upon hearing that Yusuke was returning, many villagers had spontaneously gathered to join the welcoming procession.
Though Hiruzen felt a flicker of dissatisfaction, he did not order the ANBU to disperse the crowd.
To do so would risk a reputation for disregarding public sentiment.
The venerable Third Hokage valued his image above all.
He would not allow such a blemish.
Under countless watchful eyes, Hiruzen stepped forward with a gentle smile.
He lightly patted Yusuke's shoulder.
"I've heard everything."
"You did very well."
"Konoha's victory over Kumogakure—your contribution stands foremost."
Yusuke smiled politely.
"You flatter me, Hokage-sama."
"Protecting Konoha is my duty."
After addressing the commander, Hiruzen turned toward the allied shinobi.
"You have all worked hard."
"Rewards will be distributed according to merit."
"Those who were wounded or fell in battle will receive compensation according to regulations."
"The names of the fallen will be engraved upon the Memorial Stone."
"Those who gave their lives protecting the village are Konoha's heroic spirits. They shall be remembered forever."
Hiruzen's heartfelt speech moved many to tears.
From the crowd, cheers erupted.
"Long live Konoha!"
"Long live the Hokage!"
Watching the surging emotions of the villagers, Yusuke slightly curled his lips.
He had fought tooth and nail to earn his reputation.
Yet Hiruzen had merely spoken a few stirring words—
And effortlessly drew the spotlight.
It seemed—
The Third Hokage truly was formidable in his own way.
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