The Hokage's Chair Hasn't Even Warmed Up, and Danzo Is Already Weeping as the Tree Crumbles

(Rational sacrifices, ambitious Naruto story, dark age, System and political intrigue, Tobirama entrusts the village to him, Konoha's power reshuffle.)

After transmigrating as Shimura Danzo, destined to bear the blame, I find myself in a living hell from the very start: the Battle of Kannabi Bridge.

The Second Hokage dies in my arms, and his dying command is that I succeed him as Hokage!

My former classmate, Sarutobi Hiruzen, has lost his faith. Uchiha Kagami watches me coldly. All of Konoha is waiting to laugh at me, the “ambitious schemer.”

But they don't know that, to protect the village my teacher entrusted to me, I have already awakened a System. I intend to use the coldest rationality to place a bloodstained crown of thorns called “peace” upon Konoha.

[Reader's guide and content warnings]: This story focuses on dark realism and political intrigue. The protagonist puts reason above all else and acts decisively, killing without hesitation. He is no traditional noble hero. The System plays a supporting role; scheming takes center stage. The story features an ensemble cast, political maneuvering, and necessary sacrifices. The journey is bleak, and the ending is about survival. If that's your thing, welcome to the game.