Kazekage Ninja: The Rise of the Hidden Sand

"The northern front is yours. Any issues?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi’s face was grim, all traces of his usual gentle demeanor gone—replaced by the unmistakable authority and steel of a true leader.

"No issues."

Danzo bowed slightly, his usual arrogance vanished, replaced by a rare, almost servile humility.

"What’s your plan?"

Hiruzen pressed.

"I intend to activate our contingency plan: assassinate Akatsuki’s leader, Yahiko. Once Akatsuki is left headless, we’ll launch a full-scale assault. With chaos in their ranks and our army pressing in, resistance should be minimal."

Danzo replied steadily.

"Hm." Hiruzen nodded.

"Who will you send for the assassination?"

"This mission is too important to risk failure. I’ll assign Sakumo Hatake himself."

Danzo stated.