"We're planning to stage an attack we can keep under control, have Longjian step in to save everyone, then use his outstanding performance as grounds to promote him straight to Chunin."
Hiruzen Sarutobi rested his chin on his hand and spoke unhurriedly. Then, looking a little embarrassed, he continued.
"We plan to have people pose as Jashin Cult Followers and play the villains, with you serving as the Jonin leading the team."
Dan Katō had already felt a twinge of unease at his earlier, vague explanation. Hearing the rest only confirmed his suspicions.
The approach was not necessarily unworkable, and he had confidence in his acting, but... something about it just felt subtly wrong.
He frowned, trying to find a reason to object, but when he looked up at Hiruzen Sarutobi's exhausted expression and the dark circles beneath his eyes, the refusal caught in his throat.
"I think we should talk to Longjian first and see how he feels. If that doesn't work, we can consider this plan..."
He tactfully tried to put it off, but Shimura Danzō spoke up beside him.
"Dan, are you confident you can keep Longjian from noticing anything amiss? That child's Rinnegan is gradually revealing its potential. We don't know whether he's keeping any abilities from us."
"I really can't guarantee that..." Dan Katō faltered, momentarily at a loss for words.
"That's why I suggest trying the plan first... but the choice is yours. You've spent the most time with Longjian."
Shimura Danzō held the document in his hand, looking as though he had merely made an offhand suggestion. In truth, he had deliberated over those words for a long time, carefully gauging both his tone and expression.
His words swayed Dan Katō. After recalling Longjian's usual behavior and pondering for a moment, he finally