Chapter 51: The Beginning of the Clan's Annihilation
Konoha Year 56, July.
Itachi found Tobi in a dense forest.
So far, Tobi had never worn an Akatsuki Robe. When he was in the Akatsuki, he wore black clothes and a Uzumaki mask. After arriving in Konoha, however, he had changed to a red-patterned Madara mask.
"Hey!"
Itachi called out to Tobi.
Tobi turned around. His eyes beneath the mask showed no emotion as he quietly looked at Itachi.
"I need you to do me a favor."
Tobi remained silent, merely looking at Itachi and signaling for him to continue.
Itachi spoke simply and directly.
"I need you to help me exterminate the Uchiha."
Inside a room.
Danzo and the Third Hokage sat facing each other.
"We can't let the Uchiha launch a coup. At least on this point, you and I have reached a consensus, haven't we?"
Danzo was the first to speak.
The Third Hokage nodded in response.
"Mm."
However, after hearing the Third Hokage's answer, Danzo immediately stood up, as though he had already obtained the answer he wanted, and prepared to leave.
The Third Hokage found this strange. Normally, how could a matter be settled after only two sentences? He hurriedly stood and spoke.
"Wait. Nothing has been decided yet."
Danzo turned around and looked at the Third Hokage.
"Since the Uchiha have already made their preparations, we must make ours as well."
There was nothing wrong with those words, but the Third Hokage felt that Danzo's meaning was not so simple. Thus, he spoke in warning.
"Remember, it can only be preparation, Danzo."
Danzo said nothing and left the room.
In the dense forest.
"Tonight."
"All right. As agreed, I'll help you."
"Then we'll do as planned."
Itachi turned around and prepared to leave.
Tobi crossed