Chapter 36: The Leader’s Final Choice
"Why is Konoha's leader taking so long to be decided? The village is practically built, yet we still don't have a leader?"
"It has to be someone from the Uchiha clan! Who else could it be?"
"Exactly! What is there to even consider? Since ancient times, leadership has always been determined by strength. And right now, the Uchiha are the strongest in Konoha. Does anyone have any objections?"
In the Uchiha compound, the sentiment was unanimous—there was no doubt in their minds that Konoha's first leader should be an Uchiha. They had fought through the bloody battlefields of the Warring States Period, carving out their reputation with sheer power. To them, strength was the only qualification that mattered.
However, the other clans remained hesitant. It was clear they were unwilling to accept Uchiha dominance. Despite the peace agreement, fear of the Uchiha's power still lingered.
Among the Senju clan, only Hashirama believed the Uchiha should take the leadership role. The rest, including Tobirama and the other Senju elders, staunchly opposed the idea.
---
Tobirama stood firmly, arms crossed, his expression resolute.
"Brother, listen to me," Tobirama said coldly. "I will never agree to Uchiha Madara becoming Konoha's leader. It's absolutely impossible. Not only me—none of our clan members will support it. The Yamanaka, Nara, Akimichi, Sarutobi, and Shimura clans won't either. You're wasting your breath."
Tobirama turned away, dismissing his brother's request with a rare defiance. This was the first time he openly disregarded Hashirama's opinion.
Hashirama furrowed his brow, clearly frustrated.