Konoha
In Root's underground base
This place was hidden on the outskirts of Konoha, making it convenient for Danzo to carry out his dirty dealings.
The Root base resembled a massive well, with layers upon layers of rooms and connecting staircases stretching up and down like a giant anthill.
Danzo was in exceptionally high spirits, sipping sake in his room alongside a few snacks.
For no other reason than that tomorrow marked the start of the Konoha Crush Plan—and the day his old friend Sarutobi Hiruzen would die. All he had to do was wait for Orochimaru to leave, then take over Konoha and ascend to the position of Hokage.
In Danzo's eyes, Kabuto Yakushi's sudden visit was nothing more than an attempt to negotiate terms. Orochimaru was merely a rogue ninja; how much trouble could he possibly stir up?
He could only obediently serve as my pawn.
In his view, Sarutobi Hiruzen had only attained the position of Hokage through a momentary scheme.
Konoha's continual decline was proof enough of Sarutobi Hiruzen's incompetence.
He alone was the man truly capable of leading Konoha back to its peak.
A knock sounded at the door, followed by the voice of Danzo's guard, Yamanaka Fu. "Lord Danzo, Orochimaru's subordinate is already waiting outside."
So Orochimaru has arrived, Danzo thought.
Danzo ordered, "I know. Tell him I'm busy with something."
Danzo intended to leave him waiting for a while, so that they could negotiate properly later and make him understand that a rogue ninja needed to know his place.
The next second, a figure smashed through the door and kicked Aburame Torune flying before appearing in front of Danzo.
Hyuga Kei blurred forward, swift as the wind, and threw a vicious punch into Danzo's stomach. His right hand clamped onto Danzo's hair like