At this moment.
There were only two people in the conference room.
The atmosphere was somewhat stifling.
No one knew how much time had passed.
Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled faintly and personally poured Danzo a cup of hot tea before pouring one for himself as well. In a gentle tone, he said, "It seems it has been quite some time since I last saw you."
His manner was calm and unhurried, with a hint of nostalgia, as though he were chatting casually with an old friend he had not seen in a long time!
After speaking.
Danzo glanced at the bounty notice on the corner of Hiruzen Sarutobi's desk. After a moment of silence, he nodded indifferently. "Recently, I have gained a few insights into ninjutsu and have been in seclusion."
However.
That glance made Hiruzen Sarutobi chuckle awkwardly. He hurriedly grabbed a document from the side and covered the bounty notice, as if nothing had happened. Then he clasped his hands beneath his chin and said with a solemn expression, "There is no other reason I asked you to stay. I merely wanted you to understand!" After a pause, his tone became slow and weighty. "I am the leaf bathed in sunlight, while you are the root hidden in darkness! No matter what, you are my dearest friend. I, Hiruzen Sarutobi, will never do anything to harm you! Nor will Konoha ever forget your contributions!"
After speaking.
Immediately.
"Hiruzen..." Danzo's heart trembled slightly as he looked into Hiruzen's affectionate eyes.
He was completely stunned.
He.
Could not help recalling that day.
Their teacher had died.
Hiruzen had assumed the role of Hokage at a critical moment, but because it had happened so suddenly, many problems had arisen within the village. Then... Hiruzen had come alone to the Shimura Clan estate...