[h2]13. [url=http://blogs.c.yimg.jp/res/blog-5e-eb/kanako0822volleyball/folder/689722/37/15403937/img_6?1276936408]Zeno Hakarasu[/url][/h2]

[i]The Hokage elected almost immediately after Mariko's resignation, he was more or less the "default" Hokage meant to maintain someone at the peak of executive power and keep some control over the village's actions. Although praised for representing the diversity of Konoha's modern population by being the first Hokage with pure Kumo heritage (though he was born in Konoha), his performances could be considered stagnant to say the least. His predecessor gained the title of worst Hokage the village had ever known, but he did not take as many initiatives as she did, making it less damaging for public opinion and the city's finances. 

Some good things came from his reign, however, as he managed to strengthen international relations even more and ease exchanges in terms of people (shinobi exchange programs) and trade opportunities. Economically the leaf had known a slightly growth, but socially the plague of Downtown and the never ending complaints of the people often fell at deaf's ears. It didn't help that he was part of these Hokage who were not renown for being one of the stronger individuals of the shinobi line but simply someone with a lot of popular backup. His credibility hit an all time low the year of his assassination. 

Ayame and Fujitora Choko, two individuals close to him, have seized the chance in changing the ways work in the village and promptly assassinated Zeno 12.5 years into his mandate. He will go down as the third Hokage who died in battle as he was on the throne, second to be assassinated in front of his people. His legacy is still to be determined as only history will judge his actions in the long run.[/i]