Everyone glanced at Danzo, then shook their heads in unison.
Danzo's face darkened. What was that supposed to mean?!
Hiruzen Sarutobi frowned.
To be honest, when he had heard Danzo volunteer just now, his first instinct had also been to object.
But on second thought, for anyone else hoping to become Hokage, this might be a good opportunity to rack up achievements.
But what if that person was Danzo?
Yes, Danzo had already offended practically all the other ninja clans.
Moreover, he had so much blame heaped on him that no matter how great his achievements were, he could never threaten Hiruzen's position.
At that thought, everything suddenly became clear to Hiruzen Sarutobi!
So Hiruzen Sarutobi pretended to ponder for a while, showing just the right amount of reluctance as he said earnestly, "Alas, Danzo, Kakashi's swordsmanship is very well suited to this mission..."
Danzo snorted. "When it comes to knowledge of the other major shinobi villages, who in this village can compare to me?"
"Kakashi's swordsmanship is indeed suited to this mission, but there are too many variables. Only with a wise man like myself overseeing matters, commanding this team and negotiating with the Mist Shadow, can this mission succeed!" Danzo declared proudly.
Everyone was speechless. Danzo actually dared call himself a wise man?
But none of them said it outright.
Because after thinking it over carefully, Danzo really was quite suitable.
"Alas, in that case, you shall lead this mission, Danzo!" Hiruzen Sarutobi acted utterly resigned.
Seeing Hiruzen Sarutobi's expression, Danzo felt immensely satisfied. Hiruzen, I came out on top in the end!
Tobirama looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi approvingly. Good, very good!
Hashirama, however, did not think that much about it.
In his view, this trip to Kirigakure was sure to be fraught with danger.
The fact that