Sarutobi's Ruthlessness, Danzo's Blame: Allies and Enemies as Undercurrents Stir in the Ninja World

"What do you all think?"

Sarutobi Hiruzen finished speaking and stared at them.

After a moment's deliberation, Danzo spoke first. "Fine. I'll send them over later." He had no objection to this sort of thing; in fact, he strongly approved. What puzzled him was that the suggestion had come from Sarutobi Hiruzen, the man universally regarded in the Ninja World as a kindly old pushover.

With the top two in agreement, did the remaining pair's opinions even matter? Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu's hearts bled.

Mitokado Homura said, "I'll go back and select the personnel." Damn it, every one of those youngsters is a treasure. You rotten bastard.

Utatane Koharu said, "So will I." She kept in step with Mitokado Homura, and she did not dare contradict the Third, either.

That should be everything now, they thought, preparing to leave and select subordinates and clan members with a talent for sealing jutsu.

But then came a surprise.

Sarutobi Hiruzen spoke again. "Danzo, the recent battle affected many people, and many heroes sacrificed themselves for Konoha's peace. Go pay your respects to them on my behalf."

Send Danzo to honor the fallen? It sounded like a joke, but on closer consideration, it was steeped in murderous intent. How much blood from unspeakable deeds stained Danzo's hands? How many of those fallen heroes had died because of him? No... no, could it be... The name of a forbidden jutsu flashed through their minds like lightning.

No way...

Mitokado Homura clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white; Utatane Koharu lowered her eyes, concealing the alarm within them.

They suddenly realized that perhaps they had never truly understood their old friend.

His usual warmth and generosity were merely tools for wielding power. Once Konoha's foundations were threatened, he could resort to the most