Are You Still My Match, Hiruzen?

"Getting more timid with age, aren't you, Hiruzen..."

Danzo's gaze flickered as he pondered something.

Then he sent for Kinoe and B.

The two quickly appeared before him and bowed respectfully. "Lord Danzo."

"Mm. I called you here this time to announce something."

Danzo had completely regained his composure, once more carrying the authority of Root's leader.

"Lord Danzo, just give the order. I'll definitely complete the mission this time!" Simu immediately promised.

For some reason, Danzo's scalp tingled as he looked at the resolute Simu before him.

Still, he said seriously, "Starting today, you are no longer members of Root. From now on, you will become ANBU ninja directly under the Third Hokage. Understood?"

Kinoe said nothing, while Simu instantly bristled.

"Why are we being transferred to the ANBU? Is it because Shisui Uchiha escaped from my hands? I'll go wipe out the Uchiha Clan right now!"

After blurting that out, he radiated astonishing killing intent and turned toward the Uchiha Clan Grounds.

"Stop right there!"

Staring at Simu's back, Danzo explained somewhat helplessly, "It has nothing to do with Shisui Uchiha. The ANBU has been short on manpower lately and needs you two to help out."

Only then did Simu calm down a little.

"Will we be transferred back to Root later?"

Danzo shook his head. "That's uncertain. In any case, work properly under the Third Hokage for now."

Simu's expression changed again. Staring seriously into Danzo's eyes, he asked, "Lord Danzo, tell me honestly. Are you abandoning us?"

Danzo found Simu's persistence rather troublesome, yet he also felt a trace of satisfaction. It seemed his brainwashing over the past six months had been very effective.

He said, "Of course not. I won't abandon any member of Root."

Having received that reassurance, Simu narrowed his eyes slightly and