Dusk.
Half the sky was bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, and the moon could be faintly seen in the sky. Konoha, which was usually bustling with people, was now almost deserted.
The Ninja Academy suddenly increased its testing, and the factory rushed to finish a large number of unfulfilled orders.
A few idlers were also drawn to the concert and arrived early at the stage set up on the edge of the village to wait.
The ninjas were in the same boat. The Konoha Military Police Force's rare large gathering had the ninjas toasting and drinking, and the arrival of Ren, who held the dual positions of Konoha Hokage and Konoha Military Police Force Director, made the atmosphere even more lively.
After raising his glass a few times, Ren left with some of the ninjas, most of whom didn't notice anything amiss.
The ninjas who sensed something was wrong were almost all intelligent. Intelligent people know when to remain silent and blend into the group without leaving a trace, no longer worrying about things beyond their control.
As the sun completely disappeared from the horizon, Konoha was plunged into darkness.
Outside the Advisory Council, a purple barrier quickly rose up; it was the Four Violet Flames Formation.
Such obvious Chakra fluctuations, coupled with that bright color, would undoubtedly alert the Sealing Squad and the sensory team under normal circumstances.
However, most of the staff were given the day off, and the few on duty were all their own people, who ignored this strange scene as if they were blind.
Outside the Four Violet Flames Formation, Ren looked at the barrier before him and said softly.
"Hiashi was really careless. This barrier is so obvious. How can we protect the safety of the advisors? Everyone, please help our Hiashi."
Several ninjas responded and dispersed in all directions. After taking their positions, they quickly Hand Seals, and then the bright light and Chakra fluctuations of the Four Violet Flames Formation disappeared.
Ren then stood quietly in place, waiting for the result.
Any outcome is acceptable!
Inside the Advisory Council, the moment the Four Violet Flames Formation rose, the two people in the courtyard reacted.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, what's going on?"
Utatane Koharu, but what he saw next made him pause again.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, you..."
At this moment, Hiruzen Sarutobi had already taken off his robe, revealing the black combat suit underneath. Scrolls and ninja tool pouches were hanging from his waist, and arm guards were tightly strapped to his hands.
As a veteran member of the team for decades, how could he not know why Hiruzen Sarutobi was dressed like that?
The only thing missing is a helmet.
Hiruzen Sarutobi, you really don't tell me anything!
"Koharu, don't worry, they're probably after me. You should step back!"
Utatane Koharu, looked resentful. "We see each other Tenten, but you never say anything to me, yet you're so happy interacting with other people."
However, since she was also a ninja, and Hiruzen Sarutobi was a long-time friend, it didn't seem right to just sell her out. So Utatane Koharu didn't immediately run away.
Let's see what's going on first. After all, Hiruzen Sarutobi is stronger than me, so it's always better to stay by his side.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, abandoning my teammates and running away isn't my style. Don't be too nervous, after all, you're the Third Hokage of Konoha, you should be fine!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi said with a hint of bitterness.
"I am indeed the Third Hokage, but I am no longer the Hokage. It's dangerous for me to stay here any longer. You should leave first, Koharu."
Utatane Koharu, tried to say something more, but was interrupted by a voice.
"He's right, Consultant Koharu, this is none of your business. You'd better leave!"
Hiashi appeared at the door with a large group of ninjas and spoke calmly to the two men.
"It's you, Hiashi. What? Is your Hyuga Clan planning a coup? This is the Advisory Council, not a place for your Hyuga Clan to run wild!"
Upon seeing that the newcomer was Hyuga Hiashi, Utatane Koharu became defiant. "You're just Hyuga Hiashi Uchiha Clan, not even a Uchiha, what's with the attitude?"
Hiashi's expression remained unchanged despite Utatane Koharu's words; he continued speaking calmly.
"Advisor Koharu, it seems you're having a very comfortable time at the Advisory Council, completely oblivious to what's going on around you. I am now an elder of Konoha, and I have something to discuss with Advisor Hiruzen Sarutobi. As for what it is, that's not something you should know. Are you going to leave on your own?"
When did the Hiashi mature?
Utatane Koharu genuinely didn't know, but she was certain that it really was Hiruzen Sarutobi who was looking for him, and it had nothing to do with her.
Therefore, she took the opportunity offered by Hiashi without hesitation. Then, remembering her earlier words about never abandoning her teammates, she felt she should explain, so she spoke up.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, since I'm here to discuss something with you, I'll be leaving now. I won't disturb you any longer."
Then he turned and left quickly without looking back.
As for whether Hyuga Hiashi really sought to discuss something with Hiruzen Sarutobi, Utatane Koharu said she didn't want to ask or know.
If you say so, then it is!