[This Chapter Is Sponsored by Blazer MC! Everyone, please thank him in the comment!]
As night gradually fell, the Uchiha clan's territory was brightly lit.
Well-equipped Uchiha ninjas were on alert on the rooftops, watching their surroundings.
A suffocating atmosphere was palpable. The chunin ninjas of the Uchiha clan were mostly unaware of what had happened, only knowing it was the clan head's order.
However, the removal of spies monitoring their family made the Uchiha people aware and they all showed a look of angry relief.
The special and jonin ninjas had a vague idea of what was happening. It seemed that the assassination of the former clan head was related to the village, otherwise, there wouldn't be such a big commotion.
Within the clan territory.
Aburame Shibi, along with two jonin clan members, arrived at the Uchiha territory.
"Uchiha Clan Head, the recent events involving Sarutobi Shinzo and the tragedy at the Fire Temple have left the people of the Land of Fire in panic. The Aburame clan, being a small one and located next to your territory, humbly seeks the Uchiha's protection today."
Although Aburame Shibi was usually quiet and inconspicuous, as a clan head, he was not as bad in conversation as one might imagine.
This is the charm of language, directly referring to the two incidents within the Land of Fire. In fact, there was another incident - the assassination of Uchiha Fugaku, but that couldn't be mentioned in front of the Uchihas.
The message was simple: the Aburame clan couldn't compare to the Fire Temple, let alone the Uchihas. Even the Hokage's eldest son was in trouble, so naturally, the small Aburame clan was in fear.
Since the two clans were neighbors, and the Aburame clan, known for their secret insect-rearing techniques and scattered living, were unable to protect themselves, they came to seek refuge with the Uchihas.
This speech didn't lose any face. And as for being called spineless? Even the hard-headed Fire Temple was destroyed, and the third Hokage's eldest son was attacked; who would dare to claim toughness?
"The internal security risks of Konoha are the responsibility of the Police Force. With so many incidents occurring, it's our duty as the Uchiha clan. The Aburame clan is welcome to settle here."
Uchiha Yoru, adept at pleasantries, spoke righteously in front of everyone.
"It's a good time for the Police Force to reorganize, and the ninja of the Aburame clan can join. The Uchihas and all Konoha ninja are one family, as the saying goes, 'a family doesn't speak in two voices.'"
Uchiha Yoru then turned solemnly to a clan elite member: "Uchiha Tetsubi, you are personally responsible for arranging the settlement of the Aburame clan. Do not be negligent; make them feel at home."
"Yes!"
Before anyone could react, Uchiha Yoru gave another meaningful order: "There have been reports of unknown ninja in the Aburame clan territory. Lead a Police Force team to investigate immediately; there must be no mistakes."
"Yes!"
Aburame Shibi couldn't help but twitch at this latter part, cursing inwardly at the shamelessness. This was clearly a move to annex the Aburame territory under the Uchiha name.
Naturally, the Uchiha clan didn't really care for the land, but the Aburame clan needed it for breeding insects, depending on the dense area.
The Uchihas intended to completely tie them to their war chariot.
Although he was prepared, the shameless tactics of the other party still secretly alarmed Aburame Shibi. The young man in front of him was as cunning as the Third Hokage, a completely mature politician.
At the same time, he felt a secret relief in his heart. Lord Orochimaru valued and nurtured this disciple so much, it was clearly for grooming the next Hokage.
Could it be that Orochimaru had already prepared for training the next generation of Hokage? If one of the other two Sannin becomes the leader this time, when Orochimaru returns, with the influence of the Sannin, the Uchiha will definitely be the dominant force in the Hokage's faction, and his Aburame clan could also benefit.
As the affairs of the Aburame clan settled, Elder Setsuna was somewhat shocked. For many years, their clan had been suppressed, and suddenly there seemed to be a chance for a turnaround.
First the Hyuga, and now the Aburame clan, the Uchiha now had two allies, no longer the isolated clan they once were.
All of this happened so quickly. Uchiha Yoru saw the elder's confusion and said softly, "All schemes are built on power."
"Without power, the deepest intrigue is just a game within the rules of the chessboard. Only when you have the power to turn the tables will your opponents see you as an equal."
These profound words from Uchiha Yoru made Elder Setsuna tremble, a flash of realization appearing in his murky old eyes.
The position of the Uchiha and the Hokage's top brass was never equal.
"Is this the power of Mangekyo Sharingan!"
Watching Elder Setsuna mutter to himself, Uchiha Yoru shook his head. The people of this ninja world were far behind in this regard.
The Mangekyo Sharingan is like the deterrent power of nuclear weapons. When are nuclear weapons most threatening, most frightening?
The answer is clear: when everyone knows the nuclear weapons are loaded onto the launchers, aimed at certain people, ready to launch. That's when they are the most deterrent.
Hiding them does not have a deterrent effect. Revealing them as if they're just gathering dust in a warehouse greatly reduces their deterrent power. Even the enemy will continuously test your limits.
In contrast, openly loading the Mangekyo Sharingan, clearly showing that if you are bullied, you will retaliate, instantly deters the enemy, because they are not ready to clash with you to the death.
Inside the Hokage's office building.
As night fell, upon receiving news from the Aburame clan, the faces of the Konoha's F4 were not good-looking.
This time it wasn't that they lost in tactics, but rather that various issues converged—border instability, unrest in the Daimyo's domain, etc.—tying their hands.
Now that the Konoha was in turmoil, they dared not imagine whether other ninja villages would seize the opportunity to attack. If they were in their shoes, they would definitely think about it.
"Hiruzen, the Konoha can't withstand this turmoil."
"Yes, Danzo has already gone to handle it. Since they have enjoyed the benefits, they naturally have to take on the responsibilities."
Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane comforted the Third Hokage. At this time, they didn't want to see their old friend fall.
All these burdens were on this sixty-year-old man, who had just experienced the pain of losing his son. Sarutobi Hiruzen, extremely exhausted, rubbed his forehead and smoked his pipe wearily.
"The Ino-Shika-Cho clans enjoy the benefits, and it's right for them to step up in trouble. My concern now is not about their opinions, but about the Uchiha clan."
Sarutobi Hiruzen shook his head with exhaustion in his eyes; he had too many matters to handle. As for the opinions of the Ino-Shika-Cho clans? No one is foolish. When problems arise, they must be faced together. Do you only want the benefits but hide when it's time to exert effort?
That's wishful thinking.
"Danzo shouldn't have been so hasty in taking action against Fugaku."
At this moment, Koharu Utatane recalled the good times when Fugaku was around, showing a look of regret on his face. Previously, the Uchiha clan had it better. Every now and then, they could show a displeased face, and the Uchiha clan had to endure it silently, not daring to voice out.
But now, with Fugaku assassinated, it was as if someone had directly slapped the Uchiha clan. They became furious, their eyes red with anger, staring at everyone, determined to seek retribution against the one who slapped them.
To put it simply, with Fugaku around, they were like a frog in slowly boiling water. Suddenly, the assassination was like pouring a small pot of boiling water, naturally causing the frog to jump out.
"It's not the time to hold Danzo accountable for his mistake. Moreover, Fugaku had hidden the Mangekyo Sharingan too deeply. Danzo's suspicion and action were justifiable."
However, Homura Mitokado didn't agree with this viewpoint. He believed Danzo's actions were right, albeit mistimed. If it were a peaceful period in Konoha, taking action wouldn't be a problem! It would have removed a significant threat.
Looking at the two, Sarutobi Hiruzen let out a puff of thick smoke, hoarsely saying, "Fugaku's Mangekyou Sharingan was indeed a problem, and it's fortunate that Danzo acted. Otherwise, if it were revealed at a critical moment, the consequences would be unimaginable."
Sarutobi Hiruzen understood that this critical moment referred to when the village and the Uchiha clan were in intense conflict. If Fugaku revealed the Mangekyou Sharingan at that time, it would have been a shocking development.
The hidden Mangekyou Sharingan was an unstable element for them, whereas revealing it, although intimidating, also gave them mental preparation.
It's like, if you don't have a Mangekyou Sharingan (a knife), I dare to throw manure and curse in front of your house. But if you suddenly tell everyone you have a Mangekyou Sharingan (a weapon), others would at most curse outside your house, not daring to throw manure, fearing an escalation.
This is the difference between revealing and hiding a deterrent weapon. There are advantages and disadvantages.
The disadvantage is that once others really take action, it can't be said to be a sure win, but they would definitely be prepared for the Mangekyou Sharingan. It would no longer be a trump card to turn the tide against the wind.
"Hiruzen, first appease the Uchiha clan for now. The village can't afford major chaos."
Sarutobi Hiruzen didn't lift his head, speaking hoarsely and weakly, "Withdraw the Uchiha clan's spies for now. The most important thing now is to stabilize the border turbulence and the affairs of the Daimyo's mansion."
Mentioning the Daimyo's mansion, Homura Mitokado frowned and shook his head, "The situation with the Fire Temple and the disagreement among the Twelve Ninja, the Daimyo's mansion is extremely dissatisfied, further aggravated by these disturbances."
"The Daimyo even used this as an excuse to divert twenty percent of the funds to rebuild the Fire Temple, leading to all the ninja monks of the temple siding with the Daimyo's mansion."
They were also troubled. The Fire Temple was definitely a significant and powerful force. They had finally rallied some people, but now the temple was destroyed.
When Daimyo first heard this news, he was furious, but then showed a hint of joy.
The Fire Temple was destroyed, but its power remained. After all, the ninja monks needed to carry out missions and even follow the orders of the Daimyo's mansion to guard temples everywhere. In other words, it was a force, only that their base was destroyed.
But now, the power of the Fire Temple faces a problem – the issue of revitalizing the Fire Temple! Where will the money come from? Where will the reputation come from?
In a word, the Fire Temple was easily annihilated, which raised doubts among the Daimyo. If you want to rebuild the mansion with the support of the Daimyo, you will need a token of loyalty. The previous duplicity certainly won't work.
The Daimyo are not fools. They won’t spend their money and resources to raise ingrates, resulting in everyone in the Fire Temple having no choice but to lean towards the Daimyo's mansion, standing firmly on the Daimyo's side.
The Daimyo's mansion, because of this misfortune, has now completely seized control of the important power of the Fire Temple.
"Let Asuma come back first, and at the same time, order the Root division to temporarily lie low."
After analyzing the pros and cons, Sarutobi Hiruzen spoke hoarsely. Mito Monzaemon listened and nodded in agreement.
"Indeed, the signal of division among the Twelve Ninja Guardians has affected many, but it has also exposed their weaknesses. The Daimyo are now dissatisfied with Konoha. It's indeed not the time to be rash."
Danzo’s Root division had a plan targeting the Daimyo, which they knew and even supported. After all, causing trouble is what they do best, mostly playing a role in inciting and fueling the fire.
But now, in these troubled times, they are already overwhelmed.
However, at this moment, an Anbu brings back intelligence, and Sarutobi Hiruzen falls silent, as if he's experienced too much and his capacity to handle it has greatly increased.
"The Twelve Guardians of the Daimyo have now split into two factions due to internal conflicts."
Hearing Hiruzen's words, Homura Mitokado frowned, then shook his head: "Recall Asuma, cut off and hide all the movements related to the Root division. It's not the time to anger the lord's mansion."
"Right, first stabilize the border situation, wait until the village is completely stable, then we can make a move."
Koharu Utatane also agrees, and Sarutobi Hiruzen nods in approval, though his expression is grim. Looking up at the two, he hoarsely voices the thought that’s been weighing on him.
"Is the matter with Shinzo really unrelated to the Root division?"
With just these words, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado's expressions change. They had deliberately avoided this topic, but now it’s been brought to the forefront.
At this moment, the two fall silent. The four of them have experienced countless hardships from childhood to now, and it's this trust that has allowed Konoha to develop to its current state, but now a major trust crisis has emerged.
"Danzo has always been covetous of the position of Hokage; he has the motive."
No matter what, Shinzo is his biological son. Sarutobi Hiruzen, although a dictatorial ninja hero, would not harm his own son. How could he not be heartbroken for his son?
Even Sarutobi Hiruzen makes such an objective statement, knowing that Danzo has the motive, something that both Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado are clearly aware of.
"Hiruzen," Koharu Utatane’s throat is dry as she speaks of this matter, but she still forcibly suppresses the turmoil in her heart, not wanting their relationship to break.
However, before Koharu Utatane could say anything else, Sarutobi Hiruzen shakes his head and sighs, gesturing with his hand: "No need to say more. Shinzo has already left. Now, the village needs stability."
A true ninja hero indeed, for the sake of the village, and even more for his own will of fire, he can temporarily endure all factors that affect the stability of the village, even if it involves his own son.
However, the seeds have already been sown.
[This Chapter Is Sponsored by Blazer MC! Everyone, please thank him in the comment!]
As night gradually fell, the Uchiha clan's territory was brightly lit.
Well-equipped Uchiha ninjas were on alert on the rooftops, watching their surroundings.
A suffocating atmosphere was palpable. The chunin ninjas of the Uchiha clan were mostly unaware of what had happened, only knowing it was the clan head's order.
However, the removal of spies monitoring their family made the Uchiha people aware and they all showed a look of angry relief.
The special and jonin ninjas had a vague idea of what was happening. It seemed that the assassination of the former clan head was related to the village, otherwise, there wouldn't be such a big commotion.
Within the clan territory.
Aburame Shibi, along with two jonin clan members, arrived at the Uchiha territory.
"Uchiha Clan Head, the recent events involving Sarutobi Shinzo and the tragedy at the Fire Temple have left the people of the Land of Fire in panic. The Aburame clan, being a small one and located next to your territory, humbly seeks the Uchiha's protection today."
Although Aburame Shibi was usually quiet and inconspicuous, as a clan head, he was not as bad in conversation as one might imagine.
This is the charm of language, directly referring to the two incidents within the Land of Fire. In fact, there was another incident - the assassination of Uchiha Fugaku, but that couldn't be mentioned in front of the Uchihas.
The message was simple: the Aburame clan couldn't compare to the Fire Temple, let alone the Uchihas. Even the Hokage's eldest son was in trouble, so naturally, the small Aburame clan was in fear.
Since the two clans were neighbors, and the Aburame clan, known for their secret insect-rearing techniques and scattered living, were unable to protect themselves, they came to seek refuge with the Uchihas.
This speech didn't lose any face. And as for being called spineless? Even the hard-headed Fire Temple was destroyed, and the third Hokage's eldest son was attacked; who would dare to claim toughness?
"The internal security risks of Konoha are the responsibility of the Police Force. With so many incidents occurring, it's our duty as the Uchiha clan. The Aburame clan is welcome to settle here."
Uchiha Yoru, adept at pleasantries, spoke righteously in front of everyone.
"It's a good time for the Police Force to reorganize, and the ninja of the Aburame clan can join. The Uchihas and all Konoha ninja are one family, as the saying goes, 'a family doesn't speak in two voices.'"
Uchiha Yoru then turned solemnly to a clan elite member: "Uchiha Tetsubi, you are personally responsible for arranging the settlement of the Aburame clan. Do not be negligent; make them feel at home."
"Yes!"
Before anyone could react, Uchiha Yoru gave another meaningful order: "There have been reports of unknown ninja in the Aburame clan territory. Lead a Police Force team to investigate immediately; there must be no mistakes."
"Yes!"
Aburame Shibi couldn't help but twitch at this latter part, cursing inwardly at the shamelessness. This was clearly a move to annex the Aburame territory under the Uchiha name.
Naturally, the Uchiha clan didn't really care for the land, but the Aburame clan needed it for breeding insects, depending on the dense area.
The Uchihas intended to completely tie them to their war chariot.
Although he was prepared, the shameless tactics of the other party still secretly alarmed Aburame Shibi. The young man in front of him was as cunning as the Third Hokage, a completely mature politician.
At the same time, he felt a secret relief in his heart. Lord Orochimaru valued and nurtured this disciple so much, it was clearly for grooming the next Hokage.
Could it be that Orochimaru had already prepared for training the next generation of Hokage? If one of the other two Sannin becomes the leader this time, when Orochimaru returns, with the influence of the Sannin, the Uchiha will definitely be the dominant force in the Hokage's faction, and his Aburame clan could also benefit.
As the affairs of the Aburame clan settled, Elder Setsuna was somewhat shocked. For many years, their clan had been suppressed, and suddenly there seemed to be a chance for a turnaround.
First the Hyuga, and now the Aburame clan, the Uchiha now had two allies, no longer the isolated clan they once were.
All of this happened so quickly. Uchiha Yoru saw the elder's confusion and said softly, "All schemes are built on power."
"Without power, the deepest intrigue is just a game within the rules of the chessboard. Only when you have the power to turn the tables will your opponents see you as an equal."
These profound words from Uchiha Yoru made Elder Setsuna tremble, a flash of realization appearing in his murky old eyes.
The position of the Uchiha and the Hokage's top brass was never equal.
"Is this the power of Mangekyo Sharingan!"
Watching Elder Setsuna mutter to himself, Uchiha Yoru shook his head. The people of this ninja world were far behind in this regard.
The Mangekyo Sharingan is like the deterrent power of nuclear weapons. When are nuclear weapons most threatening, most frightening?
The answer is clear: when everyone knows the nuclear weapons are loaded onto the launchers, aimed at certain people, ready to launch. That's when they are the most deterrent.
Hiding them does not have a deterrent effect. Revealing them as if they're just gathering dust in a warehouse greatly reduces their deterrent power. Even the enemy will continuously test your limits.
In contrast, openly loading the Mangekyo Sharingan, clearly showing that if you are bullied, you will retaliate, instantly deters the enemy, because they are not ready to clash with you to the death.
Inside the Hokage's office building.
As night fell, upon receiving news from the Aburame clan, the faces of the Konoha's F4 were not good-looking.
This time it wasn't that they lost in tactics, but rather that various issues converged—border instability, unrest in the Daimyo's domain, etc.—tying their hands.
Now that the Konoha was in turmoil, they dared not imagine whether other ninja villages would seize the opportunity to attack. If they were in their shoes, they would definitely think about it.
"Hiruzen, the Konoha can't withstand this turmoil."
"Yes, Danzo has already gone to handle it. Since they have enjoyed the benefits, they naturally have to take on the responsibilities."
Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane comforted the Third Hokage. At this time, they didn't want to see their old friend fall.
All these burdens were on this sixty-year-old man, who had just experienced the pain of losing his son. Sarutobi Hiruzen, extremely exhausted, rubbed his forehead and smoked his pipe wearily.
"The Ino-Shika-Cho clans enjoy the benefits, and it's right for them to step up in trouble. My concern now is not about their opinions, but about the Uchiha clan."
Sarutobi Hiruzen shook his head with exhaustion in his eyes; he had too many matters to handle. As for the opinions of the Ino-Shika-Cho clans? No one is foolish. When problems arise, they must be faced together. Do you only want the benefits but hide when it's time to exert effort?
That's wishful thinking.
"Danzo shouldn't have been so hasty in taking action against Fugaku."
At this moment, Koharu Utatane recalled the good times when Fugaku was around, showing a look of regret on his face. Previously, the Uchiha clan had it better. Every now and then, they could show a displeased face, and the Uchiha clan had to endure it silently, not daring to voice out.
But now, with Fugaku assassinated, it was as if someone had directly slapped the Uchiha clan. They became furious, their eyes red with anger, staring at everyone, determined to seek retribution against the one who slapped them.
To put it simply, with Fugaku around, they were like a frog in slowly boiling water. Suddenly, the assassination was like pouring a small pot of boiling water, naturally causing the frog to jump out.
"It's not the time to hold Danzo accountable for his mistake. Moreover, Fugaku had hidden the Mangekyo Sharingan too deeply. Danzo's suspicion and action were justifiable."
However, Homura Mitokado didn't agree with this viewpoint. He believed Danzo's actions were right, albeit mistimed. If it were a peaceful period in Konoha, taking action wouldn't be a problem! It would have removed a significant threat.
Looking at the two, Sarutobi Hiruzen let out a puff of thick smoke, hoarsely saying, "Fugaku's Mangekyou Sharingan was indeed a problem, and it's fortunate that Danzo acted. Otherwise, if it were revealed at a critical moment, the consequences would be unimaginable."
Sarutobi Hiruzen understood that this critical moment referred to when the village and the Uchiha clan were in intense conflict. If Fugaku revealed the Mangekyou Sharingan at that time, it would have been a shocking development.
The hidden Mangekyou Sharingan was an unstable element for them, whereas revealing it, although intimidating, also gave them mental preparation.
It's like, if you don't have a Mangekyou Sharingan (a knife), I dare to throw manure and curse in front of your house. But if you suddenly tell everyone you have a Mangekyou Sharingan (a weapon), others would at most curse outside your house, not daring to throw manure, fearing an escalation.
This is the difference between revealing and hiding a deterrent weapon. There are advantages and disadvantages.
The disadvantage is that once others really take action, it can't be said to be a sure win, but they would definitely be prepared for the Mangekyou Sharingan. It would no longer be a trump card to turn the tide against the wind.
"Hiruzen, first appease the Uchiha clan for now. The village can't afford major chaos."
Sarutobi Hiruzen didn't lift his head, speaking hoarsely and weakly, "Withdraw the Uchiha clan's spies for now. The most important thing now is to stabilize the border turbulence and the affairs of the Daimyo's mansion."
Mentioning the Daimyo's mansion, Homura Mitokado frowned and shook his head, "The situation with the Fire Temple and the disagreement among the Twelve Ninja, the Daimyo's mansion is extremely dissatisfied, further aggravated by these disturbances."
"The Daimyo even used this as an excuse to divert twenty percent of the funds to rebuild the Fire Temple, leading to all the ninja monks of the temple siding with the Daimyo's mansion."
They were also troubled. The Fire Temple was definitely a significant and powerful force. They had finally rallied some people, but now the temple was destroyed.
When Daimyo first heard this news, he was furious, but then showed a hint of joy.
The Fire Temple was destroyed, but its power remained. After all, the ninja monks needed to carry out missions and even follow the orders of the Daimyo's mansion to guard temples everywhere. In other words, it was a force, only that their base was destroyed.
But now, the power of the Fire Temple faces a problem – the issue of revitalizing the Fire Temple! Where will the money come from? Where will the reputation come from?
In a word, the Fire Temple was easily annihilated, which raised doubts among the Daimyo. If you want to rebuild the mansion with the support of the Daimyo, you will need a token of loyalty. The previous duplicity certainly won't work.
The Daimyo are not fools. They won’t spend their money and resources to raise ingrates, resulting in everyone in the Fire Temple having no choice but to lean towards the Daimyo's mansion, standing firmly on the Daimyo's side.
The Daimyo's mansion, because of this misfortune, has now completely seized control of the important power of the Fire Temple.
"Let Asuma come back first, and at the same time, order the Root division to temporarily lie low."
After analyzing the pros and cons, Sarutobi Hiruzen spoke hoarsely. Mito Monzaemon listened and nodded in agreement.
"Indeed, the signal of division among the Twelve Ninja Guardians has affected many, but it has also exposed their weaknesses. The Daimyo are now dissatisfied with Konoha. It's indeed not the time to be rash."
Danzo’s Root division had a plan targeting the Daimyo, which they knew and even supported. After all, causing trouble is what they do best, mostly playing a role in inciting and fueling the fire.
But now, in these troubled times, they are already overwhelmed.
However, at this moment, an Anbu brings back intelligence, and Sarutobi Hiruzen falls silent, as if he's experienced too much and his capacity to handle it has greatly increased.
"The Twelve Guardians of the Daimyo have now split into two factions due to internal conflicts."
Hearing Hiruzen's words, Homura Mitokado frowned, then shook his head: "Recall Asuma, cut off and hide all the movements related to the Root division. It's not the time to anger the lord's mansion."
"Right, first stabilize the border situation, wait until the village is completely stable, then we can make a move."
Koharu Utatane also agrees, and Sarutobi Hiruzen nods in approval, though his expression is grim. Looking up at the two, he hoarsely voices the thought that’s been weighing on him.
"Is the matter with Shinzo really unrelated to the Root division?"
With just these words, Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado's expressions change. They had deliberately avoided this topic, but now it’s been brought to the forefront.
At this moment, the two fall silent. The four of them have experienced countless hardships from childhood to now, and it's this trust that has allowed Konoha to develop to its current state, but now a major trust crisis has emerged.
"Danzo has always been covetous of the position of Hokage; he has the motive."
No matter what, Shinzo is his biological son. Sarutobi Hiruzen, although a dictatorial ninja hero, would not harm his own son. How could he not be heartbroken for his son?
Even Sarutobi Hiruzen makes such an objective statement, knowing that Danzo has the motive, something that both Koharu Utatane and Homura Mitokado are clearly aware of.
"Hiruzen," Koharu Utatane’s throat is dry as she speaks of this matter, but she still forcibly suppresses the turmoil in her heart, not wanting their relationship to break.
However, before Koharu Utatane could say anything else, Sarutobi Hiruzen shakes his head and sighs, gesturing with his hand: "No need to say more. Shinzo has already left. Now, the village needs stability."
A true ninja hero indeed, for the sake of the village, and even more for his own will of fire, he can temporarily endure all factors that affect the stability of the village, even if it involves his own son.
However, the seeds have already been sown.
