Evil Experiment

Root Base Camp.

Sai accepted Danzo's assignment with a fake smile plastered across his face: monitor Naruto, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki.

After Sai left, more than a dozen Root members emerged.

"How are things over there?"

"Lord Danzo, everything is normal."

"Good. But stay vigilant. Do not let anyone discover you!"

"Yes. But Lord Danzo, forgive me for speaking frankly—do we really need to rebuild Konoha?"

"Of course. Jiraiya and Kakashi's naïve ideals and methods, inherited from Hiruzen Sarutobi, are driving Konoha into a dead end! At a time like this, what we need is a strong-handed, iron-blooded, ruthless leader. Come to think of it, if I could become the leader... Hmph. Those two old fools only know how to consider the bigger picture. Damn it!"

Danzo's expression darkened. He had long despised Hiruzen Sarutobi's gentle approach, and Jiraiya and Kakashi were no different.

Even Kirigakure had restored the title of Mizukage, while Konoha had not only failed to restore the title of Hokage, but even the people within the village had lost heart. Konoha now was like a rotting old tree. Unless it was torn down and rebuilt, new green leaves would never grow.

As long as I can become the leader, endure! I must endure for now!

Danzo believed that his era would surely arrive!

Only he, Danzo, could make Konoha great again!

Peach Country.

Underground research facility.

On the experimental table, a beautiful woman with her hands and feet bound struggled without pause. Shiraishi Yoshijo watched her quietly and said expressionlessly, "Mizuguchi Kyoko, formerly a jonin of Yugakure. You secretly rallied the former citizens of the Land of Hot Water in Peach Country, preparing to launch a rebellion and overthrow my rule. Unfortunately, you failed. In the name of the Emperor of Peach Country, I hereby sentence