Vice Minister of the Anbu

Sarutobi Hiruzen was handling documents at the moment.

It seemed that every time Uchiha Mai came to the office, Sarutobi Hiruzen was handling documents.

Though the old man had fallen from his peak, he still possessed Shadow Level strength. His ears and eyes were sharp, and handling... fighting all night was no problem for him.

Uchiha Mai and Kakashi had exchanged a few words outside the door just now. As a top-tier powerhouse, there was no way Sarutobi Hiruzen had failed to hear them.

Uchiha Mai had every reason to suspect that Sarutobi Hiruzen was putting on an act, pretending to be busy.

Uchiha Mai had been inside for quite some time, yet Sarutobi Hiruzen never looked up. After finishing one document, he casually took another from the stack beside him.

Judging by his unhurried manner and the mountain-like pile of documents beside him, it would take at least another two or three hours to finish them all.

Making me wait, huh? Fine.

Uchiha Mai was remarkably patient. He did not interrupt or remind Sarutobi Hiruzen, nor did he even find a sofa or chair to sit on.

Without saying a word, he simply stood by the door for three or four hours, displaying considerable patience.

Only after all the documents had been dealt with did Sarutobi Hiruzen raise his head. Seeing Uchiha Mai, he froze slightly, then exclaimed in surprise and delight, "Mai?

When did you return?"

What masterful acting.

"I returned not long ago," Uchiha Mai answered.

Sarutobi Hiruzen slapped his forehead as though he had suddenly remembered something and said, "Right. After Kakashi left, someone did knock and enter.

There have been too many matters to handle lately. For the village and the warriors at the front lines, I cannot afford to waste even a moment.

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