As Konoha's first Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, the strongest elder of the Uzumaki Clan, and the central figure keeping Konoha's seal stable, Mito Uzumaki had grown old and was nearing the end of her life.
Hiruzen Sarutobi merely nodded lightly at those words, remaining silent.
All of them knew this perfectly well. Once Lady Mito passed away, Konoha had to choose a new Nine-Tails Jinchuriki immediately. Otherwise, if the Nine-Tails broke free of the seal, disaster would befall the entire village.
A flash of vicious calculation crossed Danzo's eyes. His lips curled into a cold sneer as he continued.
"Kushina Uzumaki was selected in advance to be the next Nine-Tails Jinchuriki."
"That girl has exceptional talent and tremendous vitality. She's a perfect fit for the Nine-Tails' seal."
"But you and I both know that, young as she is, she sees things clearly. She barely feels any sense of belonging to our Konoha."
Those words laid bare the deepest suspicion in both their hearts.
Hearing that, Hiruzen Sarutobi finally broke his silence. He spoke slowly, with a certainty that seemed partly meant to reassure himself.
"It doesn't matter."
"The Will of Fire can influence her and change her."
"With lasting bonds, time spent together, and Konoha's protection and acceptance, she will someday embrace Konoha completely and willingly protect it."
In the Third's understanding, every shinobi who came to Konoha could be won over by the Will of Fire and would devote everything to the village.
But Danzo found that gentle philosophy utterly laughable.
He immediately scoffed, his face full of disdain and his voice steeped in dark suspicion.
"Is that so?"
"Hiruzen, you're far too naive."
He leaned forward slightly, his gaze growing ever more sinister, every word striking where it hurt.
"Kushina has the Uzumaki bloodline, and she's the next Nine-Tails Jinchuriki.