Maliciousness of Ryuken

Let's delve into the core figure of the Hokage lineage – Sarutobi Hiruzen. Popular perception among fans paints him as a conniving, power-hungry individual. But is this truly the case? As Hokage for over three decades, was Sarutobi Hiruzen simply that?

First, we need to consider the role of a leader. "A leader is a captive king, elevated to the highest point by contending forces, yet powerless to resist!" This quote aptly captures the essence of leadership.

Whether in the Naruto world or Aizen's previous life on Earth, this principle holds true. Leaders wield outward power, yet remain chained to the various factions within their organization. Their core function is to balance these conflicting interests and broker compromises – a skill Sarutobi Hiruzen demonstrably mastered.

During his reign, Konohagakure enjoyed relative stability. He navigated the complex dynamics between different factions with reasonable success – a key factor in the Hokage lineage's longevity. This pragmatism is likely why Senju Tobirama did not choose Mitarashi Zashi as his successor.

While Mitarashi Zashi clearly represents the new faction, prioritizing his own interests and those of his group, his ascension to power would ignite a massive conflict with Konohagakure's major clans.

Now, let's dissect Sarutobi Hiruzen's character. Is he purely power-hungry and manipulative?

The answer is complex. The series hints at this when Orochimaru accuses Hiruzen of choosing Minato as the Fourth Hokage to maintain control, essentially ruling through a puppet. Additionally, after Orochimaru's Edo Tensei - Impure World Reincarnation, he confesses Hiruzen's past support for Danzo's actions. Hiruzen's manipulation of Naruto's childhood as a container for the Nine-Tails further fuels fan criticism.

However, we can't ignore Hiruzen's genuine love and dedication to Konohagakure. He's willing to sacrifice himself for the village's sake. This apparent contradiction reflects the human condition's intricate nature. We can't categorize people as simply good or bad.

Consider Aizen's previous life on Earth – History is filled with figures who made significant contributions to the nation. Yet, how many were purely benevolent? Many likely harbored self-serving motives, yet their actions undeniably benefited the country. Some may have even displayed idealism alongside their ambition.

Similarly, Hiruzen embodies this complexity. He possesses both genuine love for Konoha and a thirst for power. This duality defines his leadership and explains Senju Tobirama's choice of successor.

Even feudal bureaucrats and emperors weren't all self-serving; some demonstrably dedicated themselves to the greater good. This holds even truer in the shinobi world. Hiruzen's past sacrifices – for Tobirama and others in his youth, and ultimately against Orochimaru – showcase his deep affection for Konohagakure. Moreover, some of his policies yielded positive results for the village.

In essence, Sarutobi Hiruzen is a complex individual. He craves power, possesses a shrewd political mind, yet harbors genuine love for Konohagakure, even making personal sacrifices for its well-being. He is also a skilled political operator, adept at balancing the interests of Konoha's various factions. When necessary, he can ruthlessly prioritize the village's needs, as evidenced by the Uchiha clan massacre. This ruthlessness and decisiveness are hallmarks of the Hokage lineage.

Jiraiya embodies this perfectly. He threatened to kill Tsunade if she healed Orochimaru. When it comes to Konohagakure's interests, Jiraiya's ruthlessness rivals Sarutobi Hiruzen's. As he himself once admitted, he's no more than a butcher with blood on his hands.

His abilities are another matter. As Hiruzen's chosen successor for the Fifth Hokage position, Jiraiya's leadership skills were initially endorsed by both Danzo and Koharu.

Tsunade, the eventual Fifth Hokage, also demonstrates governing aptitude through the measures she implemented upon taking office. Additionally, during Pain's assault on Konohagure, she maintains composure even after learning the truth from Pain. She counters his justifications by arguing that large nations were also affected, not just smaller ones.

Objectively, Pain's vengeance against Konohagakure is understandable. However, Tsunade's self-righteous reprimand reveals a level of hypocrisy that arguably surpasses even Hiruzen's.

The lineage of Hokage, from the First to the Seventh, reveals a pattern of concentrated power. This isn't solely due to Sarutobi Hiruzen's influence, but rather a characteristic embedded within the Hokage lineage itself. Leaders are expected to be decisive and ruthless, prioritizing the village's well-being above all else. This approach has arguably ensured Konohagakure's long-term stability.

Furthermore, the Hokage lineage has consistently produced talented individuals. From the First to the Fourth Shinobi War, Konohagakure's elite often hailed from this lineage.

Currently, the Hokage lineage's influence extends to select ninja, a smaller Anbu division, and some administrative and logistical control. However, once the Sannin fully mature, this dynamic is likely to shift significantly.

Suddenly, a cold, authoritative, yet carefully veiled gaze snapped Aizen out of his contemplation. It was a subtle sensation, easily missed without Aizen's exceptional perception.

Maintaining a composed exterior, Aizen mentally searched for the source of this animosity. It felt like a fleeting glance, not specifically targeting him.

Unfazed, Aizen feigned deep thought while remaining cautiously vigilant. In such a high-level meeting, prolonged eye contact would be impolite. Jiraiya, for one, wouldn't be so blatant.

However, if the source held malice towards him, another scan was inevitable. Aizen simply needed to be patient.

Indeed, after ten minutes, the same malicious gaze swept over him again. With a seemingly casual glance, Aizen identified the source.