The tension in the room was rising.
However, before Koharu could respond, Hiruzen spoke in a firm yet calm tone, instantly silencing the atmosphere.
"Danzo, remember that Lady Mito is still in the Village of Konoha. Do not forget who Lady Mito is—she is the wife of Hashirama Senju, the founder of this village."
"Do not tarnish the name of Uzumaki, as that is the same as disrespecting Lord Hashirama."
Hiruzen's words left Danzo speechless.
Although known for his radical views and suspicion, Danzo still held a deep respect for Hashirama and Tobirama Senju.
Danzo chose not to reply, merely shifting his gaze toward the window with a serious expression.
Seeing Danzo silent, Hiruzen continued in a more relaxed yet authoritative tone.
"For now, we do not need to do anything. They are merely selling Explosive Tags."
"Besides, from the reports I have received, the quality of their Explosive Tags is far better than what is available on the market."
"I have even tried them myself. If others are buying Explosive Tags from the Uzumaki Clan, then we should do the same."
Homura nodded slowly, appearing to agree with Hiruzen's statement.
"I agree. If we want to maintain a good relationship with the Uzumaki Clan, we must support their trade."
"Furthermore, by acquiring their products, we can study the quality and potential threats involved."
Koharu smiled faintly, feeling relieved as the tension began to ease.
However, Danzo merely snorted softly, though he no longer voiced his objections.
In his heart, Danzo still felt the need to remain vigilant regarding developments involving the Uzumaki Clan.
Outside the room, birds chirped under the bright sky of Konoha.
Yet, inside the Hokage's office, the atmosphere was still filled with calculating thoughts.
Especially from Danzo, who never fully trusted anyone—even his closest allies.
...
...
...
In a dark and silent underground room, only the faint sound of dripping water could be heard falling from the stone ceiling.
In the center of the room, an old man sat quietly on a rough stone bench.
The old man's long white hair flowed freely, giving an impression of both grace and intimidation.
His eyes were purple with swirling patterns resembling a whirlpool—Rinnegan, a symbol of extraordinary power.
He was Madara Uchiha, the reincarnation of Indra Otsutsuki, both friend and rival of Hashirama Senju.
Madara stared straight ahead, his gaze fixed on a strange figure standing not far from him.
The figure had a body divided into two colors: half pitch black and half pale white.
Around the creature, thorny vines radiated an unnatural aura.
The figure was Zetsu, the mysterious being who faithfully served Madara.
"Master Madara..." Zetsu's deep, echoing voice broke the silence.
Madara's sharp eyes turned toward him, filled with an intimidating calm.
"Zetsu," Madara spoke in a low voice yet full of authority, "what is the progress on the task I assigned?"
Black Zetsu stepped forward slightly, his dark eyes radiating caution.
"We were unable to obtain in-depth information regarding the state of the Uzushio Village and the Uzumaki Clan," Black Zetsu replied seriously.
"Although the Uzumaki Clan is beginning to open up by regularly selling Explosive Tags to the outside world, they still maintain secrecy about their internal conditions. There are no clues regarding the state of Uzushio Village."
White Zetsu, with a lighter yet still serious tone, added, "We suspect that something is happening within the Uzumaki Clan that is prompting them to take this step."
"They may have made certain innovations, something that makes them feel stronger and no longer in need of hiding."
________________________
(Note: Hello everyone! Sorry for the lack of updates over the past few days. The author has been unwell, so they needed time to rest and recover. Starting today, the latest chapter updates will resume as usual. Thank you for your understanding, and sorry for the delay!)
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