Konoha.
Root.
Hatake Sakumo held White Fang as he took the lead at the very front of the Anbu ranks, sweeping through every area of Root.
Root, with its grim and terrifying atmosphere, was one of the most mysterious facilities and regions in Konoha.
Even ordinary Jonin were unwilling to get too close, lest they draw Shimura Danzō's attention and invite disaster for no reason.
But tonight, Konoha's White Fang had received Hiruzen Sarutobi's orders and led the Anbu shinobi in tearing away that veil of mystery.
So-called Root was nothing more than a branch division of the Anbu.
Yet under Shimura Danzō's indulgence, Root used the power of the group to abuse individuals, using this behavior—bullying in essence—to establish his own prestige...
With Hatake Sakumo leading the Anbu, the Root shinobi who still resisted could not stop their advance at all.
And so, Root's secrets were completely laid bare.
The door to a laboratory opened, and Orochimaru slowly emerged. He narrowed his eyes as he examined Hatake Sakumo holding White Fang, then frowned as he thought:
"Did Shimura Danzō somehow anger the old man without realizing it? Why is he giving him so little face, suddenly sending Hatake Sakumo to lead a raid on Root? This is quite a heavy move..."
"This is troublesome. I won't have an easy time dealing with this man either..."
Hatake Sakumo stood at the front without expression.
Hiruzen Sarutobi's orders to him had been clear: he was to ignore Orochimaru if he encountered him.
Orochimaru folded his arms and swept his gaze over the Anbu shinobi who had already turned Root upside down. "Everyone, this is my laboratory. There is nothing here that violates the rules."
"Sakumo, what are you looking for? Perhaps you could ask me..."
"Orochimaru, I received the Third Hokage's