The night was deep, yet the conference room in the Hokage Building was brightly lit.
The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, stood at the head of the table, lightly tapping the tabletop with his fingers, a rare look of ease on his face.
He swept his gaze across the room and slowly spoke.
"Everyone, good news has arrived from the front lines.
Chiyo's tactics were highly successful. The elite forces of the major clans coordinated seamlessly, Sunagakure's offensive has been completely contained, and Kikyo Castle has been defended!"
As soon as he finished speaking, low murmurs rose throughout the conference room.
Hyuga Sakon gave a slight nod, while the Clan Leader of the Aburame Clan also showed approval.
After all, under Chiyo's deployment, the ninjas of their respective clans had played crucial roles on the battlefield.
As long as nothing unexpected happened, once they returned to the village, it would count as military merit.
However, just then.
"Hmph, they merely held the defensive line."
Leaning on his cane, Danzo slowly rose to his feet, his voice low and hoarse.
His single eye swept over everyone before finally settling on Chiyo, a cold smile curling at the corner of the mouth.
"True victory should mean utterly crushing Sunagakure, not passively defending."
The atmosphere in the conference room instantly froze.
The Third Hokage frowned slightly.
"Danzo, what do you mean?"
Danzo took a deep breath and spoke seriously.
"Since this war has already begun, we should seek greater benefits for the village.
I believe Konoha needs more aggressive, more decisive command!"
He paused, narrowing his single eye as his tone turned grim.
"Therefore, I propose that I, Danzo, take over the battlefield against Sunagakure and personally command it."
Chiyo's gaze turned cold, and he sneered inwardly.
Danzo was clearly seeing that the battle