Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly nodded.
Shikaku Nara had rushed all the way back without even stopping at home, and had already spent so much time running around. Since things had settled down for now, Hiruzen did not keep him any longer. After a few polite words, he let Shikaku go home to rest.
After all, the one who truly would not be getting any sleep next was Hiruzen himself.
He trusted Shikaku Nara's judgment, but not without reservation. Having Shikaku confirm his assessment was enough. As for how to position his pieces and strike back, Shikaku would not be involved in those most crucial arrangements.
Such matters could only be discussed with his three old friends.
With that thought, Hiruzen Sarutobi wasted no more time and raised a hand to summon the ANBU.
"Notify Elders Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura, and bring Danzo here as well."
He paused, his tone turning grave.
"Immediately. Right now. I'll wait for them here."
Shortly after he spoke, an ANBU appeared before him and dropped to one knee.
As Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi always had ANBU guarding him. Even in his own Uchiha District and home, there were no exceptions.
"Lord Hokage!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi waved a hand. "Get up."
"Yes, sir."
The ANBU answered, though he was somewhat taken aback.
It's so late, yet Lord Hokage wants all three advisory elders brought here? Isn't this rather urgent?
But that clearly was not his concern. As an ANBU, he only needed to obey orders.
So he asked no questions, rose, and left Hiruzen Sarutobi's room.
Once he was gone, Hiruzen Sarutobi's brow furrowed again. He lit his pipe, looking as though he had aged considerably in an instant.
Yan Uchiha was far too difficult to deal with.
One moment of carelessness had let the other man trap