Meanwhile, after a period of rest and recovery.
The Third Hokage, Utatane Koharu, and Mitokado Homura brought the Barrier Team to Danzo's confinement grounds.
"Envelop Danzo's confinement grounds in a barrier." The Third Hokage's voice was low and firm, every word seeming to be squeezed through clenched teeth.
"Yes, Lord Hokage." The Barrier Team ninjas answered in unison, but their movements were visibly hesitant, their gazes constantly shifting between the Hokage and the ominous building.
"Hiruzen!"
A furious roar suddenly erupted. Danzo strode out with his cane, suppressed rage burning in his single eye. His knuckles had gone white from gripping it, and his cane struck the ground with dull thuds.
"Too much of a coward to stand up to the Uchiha, so you come here to throw your weight around?"
The Barrier Team froze at once, and the air itself seemed to solidify.
The Third Hokage's gaze abruptly turned cold, and the ember in his pipe flared. "Carry out the order." His voice was not loud, yet it carried unquestionable authority.
"Yes!" As though granted a reprieve, the Barrier Team ninjas quickly scattered.
Danzo's chest heaved violently, his single eye fixed on the Third Hokage as if he wanted to pierce him through. "Hiruzen, what exactly do you mean by this?" His voice trembled with restrained fury. "Are you trying to monitor me? Or are you—" He suddenly raised his voice. "—wagging your tail at the Uchiha?!"
Utatane Koharu stepped forward, weary helplessness on her face. "Danzo, I know you're in a hurry, but don't rush." Her voice was gentle, though it could not conceal her exhaustion.
"Heh!" Danzo sneered, his mouth twisting into a mocking curve. "Koharu, Homura, I thought the two of you had at least some backbone." His gaze swept over them, the disappointment in his