"Aoba!" "What should I do?" "Do you have a concrete plan?"

After a brief inner struggle, Minato Namikaze resolved to confront the Third Hokage and seize the position of Hokage for himself. Though mentally prepared, he needed help figuring out how to execute his plan. Becoming Hokage was no easy task, especially when challenging the Third Hokage.

"The enemy is hidden, and I am exposed." "We can't act rashly." "First, we need a transition from overt to covert." "In other words, we need to force the opponent into the open while we operate in the shadows." "This will turn our passive stance into an active one, putting the initiative in our hands."

Aoba spoke in a low voice, his mind racing. He wasn't just advising Minato but also planning the overall approach to control the situation. His ability to create and orchestrate narratives was now crucial. Aoba enjoyed creating stories, and this situation felt like crafting another tale. The real-world scenarios often didn't satisfy him, so he altered and retold them, finding immense pleasure.

"We must rely on the incidents exposed by Orochimaru and Danzo." "We don't need irrefutable evidence to bring down the Third Hokage immediately." "Though he has agreed to resign, he hasn't completely relinquished his position, indicating his lingering attachment." "We need to stir up public opinion and keep the controversy alive. Allowing the turmoil to die down would be disadvantageous." "Our first step is to keep the whirlwind of public opinion spinning. The second step is to find Orochimaru or Danzo to clarify their revelations further, though this is difficult since they have disappeared." "However, I suspect they haven't left Konoha and might be hiding within the Third Hokage's jurisdiction, ready to act during the inauguration ceremony."

Aoba outlined his thoughts, believing Orochimaru and Danzo were still within Konoha, under the Third Hokage's control. This provided a basis for their strategy.

"If we can't find Orochimaru, we might turn to the two Konoha advisors, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado. As comrades of the Third Hokage and Danzo, they likely know much of the truth. They could be our last resort." "However, targeting the advisors is a last resort, as failure would mean our downfall. We could be seen as the perpetrators rather than victims."

Aoba's cautious explanation aimed to ensure Minato understood the gravity and complexity of the situation.

"I understand," Minato nodded, realizing the critical point was to locate Orochimaru and Danzo. Their presence or testimony could decisively expose the Third Hokage's deeds. However, finding and leveraging them remained a significant challenge.

Minato clenched his fists, his anxiety palpable. The conflict with the Third Hokage intensified, and any misstep could jeopardize his claim to the Hokage title.

"I need to think about it," Aoba responded, meeting Minato's gaze with a determined look. He avoided divulging too much detail to prevent raising suspicion.

"Minato." "Give me three days." "Meet me at Ichiraku Ramen in three days, and I will have a detailed plan." "Until then, avoid alerting the Third Hokage." "We must ensure he remains unaware of our knowledge to maintain our advantage."

Aoba's words were meant to buy time and craft a flawless plan, avoiding unnecessary risks.

"Alright!" Minato agreed, understanding the need for caution. He realized that maintaining the Third Hokage's underestimation of them was crucial.

"Then, in three days, we meet at Ichiraku Ramen!"

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by lotustale.com