Tap, tap, tap...
A soft, unhurried footstep echoed from the darkness at the end of the passage. It drew closer, then suddenly stopped.
"Nonō, what are you standing there for?" Danzo's voice was cold and hoarse, like a night owl's, carrying a hint of merciless intent.
"Lord Danzo!" Yakushi Nonō slowly walked forward. As she stepped into the dim yellow light, her figure looked utterly haggard.
She dropped to one knee. The restless movement of her fingertips betrayed her unease.
"Your next mission is very simple," Danzo said in a low voice. "Assassinate the Uchiha Clan's genius!"
Yakushi Nonō gritted her teeth.
"Uchiha Houka!" A cruel smile spread across Danzo's face. "That child is terrifying. He seems innocent, but in truth, he's a spy the Uchiha Clan planted beside the Third Hokage! As an elder and advisor of Konoha, I have a duty to eliminate him. I don't care if I have to bear the blame for it!"
Yakushi Nonō trembled slightly. For the first time, she voiced her opposition. "Lord Danzo, I... I refuse!"
Danzo's pupils contracted sharply, and a violent fury blazed in his eyes!
Root was the foundation of his power. He would never tolerate anyone in Root defying him!
No matter how exceptional Yakushi Nonō was, death was her only fate!
But first, he had to get the most out of her.
As a ruthless schemer, Danzo knew how to restrain himself. He quickly suppressed his anger and slowly approached Yakushi Nonō, his voice turning devilish, full of temptation. "I know you taught him Medical Ninjutsu. He trusts you deeply, so if you make the attempt, you're guaranteed to succeed! Complete this mission, and I'll set you free. Isn't that what you've wanted all this time?"
Yakushi Nonō still shook her head, her gaze resolute. "Lord