Sarutobi Hiruzen set down his pipe. The tobacco smoldered quietly, wisps of smoke curling through the air. His clouded old eyes were like famed blades, piercing into people's hearts.
"What about Hatake Kakashi? As the son of the White Fang of the Leaf, he has rendered considerable merit in this war."
Mitokado Homura spoke up to recommend him. Danzo gave a slight nod. Hatake Kakashi was indeed a talent; unfortunately, his teacher was Namikaze Minato. Otherwise, Danzo would most likely have recruited him into Root.
"Hatake Kakashi has another mission recently. He is qualified to lead a team independently. The ninja squad signing the peace treaty with Kirigakure must be the finest of the finest. Won't your Root be sending anyone?"
Changing the subject, Sarutobi Hiruzen spoke loudly, the probing intent in his words nearly laid bare. Root's recent movements had been far too conspicuous.
"Forget Root. After such a great war, talent is scarce everywhere. Since you have no suitable candidate, how about I recommend an outstanding talent? Uchiha Hanazuki. What do you think?"
Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu exchanged looks. Uchiha Hanazuki going to Kirigakure? The peace treaty ceremony would probably turn into a declaration of war on the spot.
"Perfect. One of Kirigakure's conditions is the return of the seven ninja swords. We can also inform him afterward to name the compensation he requires. After all, they are his personal spoils of war."
As they spoke, Sarutobi Hiruzen suddenly interjected. This move of finally revealing the dagger made the veins on Danzo's forehead bulge at once.
"Once Uchiha Hanazuki finishes this mission, have him work under Namikaze Minato. I hear he is friends with Uchiha Obito. I imagine he would be quite willing to take Obito's place."
Sarutobi Hiruzen's intentions were obvious. Danzo's expression darkened further. He