Hokage's Office.
At the Third Hokage's summons, the Konoha F4 gathered once again.
"Danzo, I didn't think things through before."
Looking at the expressionless Danzo, the Third Hokage sighed softly. "Perhaps you were right. I trusted Shinichi too much. I truly never expected him to be so calculating."
Koharu and Mito, who knew nothing of what had happened, exchanged a glance. Neither interrupted, wanting to see how Danzo would react first.
"I told you long ago, Hiruzen. That brat from the Hatake Clan is no pushover."
Hearing the Third Hokage admit his mistake in person gave Danzo immense satisfaction. He said coldly, "Over the years, I've warned you more than once that you're too indecisive. You can't afford to be softhearted if you want to be a good Hokage. Some people must never be given the chance to grow!"
"That's enough, Danzo."
Koharu coughed twice and interrupted him. "What exactly happened? You should at least explain the situation to us first."
If she didn't step in to stop Danzo, heaven only knew how thoroughly he would humiliate the Third Hokage.
Knowing Danzo, there was no way he would readily let go of such a rare opportunity to embarrass the Third Hokage.
If he actually pushed the Third Hokage too far, none of them would come out looking good.
"What?"
"That Hatake brat actually dared to do that!"
Once the Third Hokage explained the whole story, both Mito and Koharu were shocked.
Especially when they learned that Hatake Shinichi had dared to threaten the Third Hokage to his face, all three of them, Danzo included, were furious!
Of course, they weren't outraged on the Third Hokage's behalf. They felt that the ruling elite they belonged to had been challenged!
After all, power in Konoha was still firmly in the hands of