In Konoha's Hokage Building, the atmosphere was anything but relaxed. Hiruzen Sarutobi sat at the head of the table, the newly delivered battle reports laid out before him.
Danzo, Utatane Koharu, Mitokado Homura, and the other senior officials sat around the table, their gazes reflecting both joy and unease.
"Victory on all four fronts. Konoha's success in this battle was nothing short of a miracle," Hiruzen Sarutobi said gravely, satisfaction in his voice.
But Danzo snorted, breaking the brief silence. "A miracle? Hmph. This was nothing more than Uchiha Shinichi's power at work. He alone could crush the Raikage. With strength like that... don't you think he's too dangerous?"
Utatane Koharu frowned. "Danzo, Shinichi has rendered a great service to Konoha. What are you trying to say?"
"Credit where credit is due, but too much power becomes a threat!" Danzo's gaze turned sinister. "He's the head of the Uchiha Clan. If he ever decides to turn against us, how will Konoha stop him?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi tapped the table, his tone calm but firm. "Danzo, Shinichi's loyalty is beyond question. If he had any intention of betraying us, he would have acted long ago."
"Loyalty?" Danzo sneered. "Hiruzen, you're too naive. The Uchiha Clan has always been ambitious. Madara Uchiha should have taught you that!"
The atmosphere in the meeting room suddenly grew tense.
Mitokado Homura gave a light cough and tried to smooth things over. "Shinichi's performance was indeed astonishing, but right now, he's Konoha's pillar of support. We should consider how to make use of his strength rather than distrust him prematurely."
Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded. "I trust Shinichi. But for Konoha's stability, we do need some precautions."
A cold glint flashed in Danzo's eyes. He said nothing more, but the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. He clearly already