"Looks like all the evidence points to the Uchiha Clan. This is bad," Utatane Koharu said gravely. "If we clash with the Uchiha, it'll spell disaster for all of Konoha. The village will certainly be thrown into turmoil, and it could even spark another Ninja World War."
Mitokado Homura hurriedly said, "It hasn't come to that yet. Let's not jump to conclusions. This is a serious matter, so I suggest the Anbu and Root work together to investigate in secret."
Danzo gave a cold snort. "At a time like this, what's there to investigate? The Uchiha have already raised their butcher's knives. We can't just sit around and wait to die. Besides, Koharu, you're giving them far too much credit. They're no longer the Ghost-God Clan that could sway the course of the Ninja World. Don't forget: ever since the Battle of the Valley of the End in the First's era, half of the Uchiha were taken away. Their clan's strength has continued to wane over time. With a sound plan, the power of Root alone would be enough to crush them in a surprise attack."
"You're being too extreme, Danzo." Hiruzen Sarutobi spoke calmly, exhaling a cloud of smoke as his eyes narrowed. "But we must prepare for the worst. Remember what I said: the Ninja World will never allow a second Konoha to emerge. That is our bottom line!"
His words were resolute, and the atmosphere in the conference room suddenly turned icy.
Hiruzen continued, "Still, Danzo went too far just now. We're nowhere near that point yet. I agree with Homura's proposal: first, investigate the Uchiha Clan thoroughly, then decide what to do next. I have a name here for you to consider. I think he's a good candidate."
As he spoke, he took out a prepared