Chapter 280: Danzo’s Blood Succession Limit, Panic Ensues!

Sarutobi Hiruzen and Danzo arrived at the entrance to Tsunade's courtyard, their presence shifting the atmosphere instantly. Sarutobi Hiruzen's expression was severe, having watched the scene unfold from afar. He knew Tsunade had sensed his approach, yet she had chosen to act decisively anyway. It was an uncharacteristically bold move, and he wondered if she held evidence compelling enough to justify it.

Why escalate this situation? Why not wait for him to mediate and deescalate the tension? His thoughts churned, but the most perplexing part was Tsunade's unilateral decision to ban potion sales to the rebellious ninjas. That act particularly irked him.

"Hokage-sama! We just came to ask questions, and Tsunade-sama attacked us!" cried Nishida, seizing the moment to air his grievances. Others echoed his sentiment, voices filled with indignation and false victimhood.

"Hokage-sama, all we want is the opportunity to become stronger. Is that wrong? We only wish to contribute to the village!" Zuo Song shouted, capitalizing on the moment.

Normally, such appeals to Hiruzen's sense of fairness would earn empathy. But now, they grated on his nerves.

"Third Hokage," Danzo interjected smoothly, "attacking fellow ninjas is considered an act of treason. However, Tsunade's contributions to the village cannot be overlooked. We should proceed cautiously, investigate, and uncover the truth."

Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes narrowed. Danzo, advocating restraint? This sudden change in tone was suspicious, signaling that Danzo had a hidden agenda or a contingency plan already in motion.

"Reiki, tell Tsunade to come out and clarify matters," Sarutobi Hiruzen said, masking his irritation. "Don't worry; I'll ensure fairness."

"Hokage-sama, there's no need for Sensei to explain," Reiki interrupted, stepping forward with calm confidence. He raised his hand, a faint light emanating from it.

Hiruzen's eyes lit up with realization. How could he have forgotten? Reiki possessed a unique secret technique capable of extracting memories. He leaned forward, touching Reiki's fingers, and vivid memories played out in his mind.

His expression darkened as the truth sank in.

"What is it?" Danzo, noticing Hiruzen's shift, stepped up, pressing his own fingers against the light.

The memories unfolded:

**[You are to feign unconsciousness and, when the Hokage arrives, pretend to wake and accuse Tsunade of attacking you] [Root operative]**

**[Understood. This will secure our children's entry into the Root after this mission, right?] [Ninja A]**

**[Of course. Trust in Danzo-sama] [Root operative]**

**[If any of us die, Tsunade will be held responsible, worsening her reputation] [Ninja A]**

**[I'm willing to die for my child's future. When Danzo-sama becomes Hokage, my child will be in the inner circle] [Ninja B]**

Danzo's face paled. This was not part of his plan. He hadn't ordered any of them to die, nor promised them such rewards—though the thought of being Hokage was one he harbored secretly. Now, the reality hit him: this scheme had spun out of control, and Sarutobi Hiruzen wouldn't overlook such manipulation.

"Lord Hokage..." Zuo Song began, trying to salvage the moment, but Hiruzen's glare silenced him, an oppressive aura pinning him in place.

"Tsunade and Reiki provided these potions to the village at prices below market rates," Sarutobi Hiruzen said coldly. "Would they then stoop to exploiting the village for personal gain?"

A murmur of agreement rippled through the crowd. The ninjas who had come to support Tsunade now spoke out.

"Exactly! You all know what these potions cost outside. Why should they be free here? You're hypocrites—eager to take advantage yet quick to complain!"

Sarutobi Hiruzen's decree silenced any remaining dissent: "Apologize to Tsunade. For three months, you are barred from purchasing any further potions. If you don't improve, you can forget about being a ninja at all!"

The reprimand sent a shudder through the gathered ninjas. One stood and bowed. "I was wrong, Tsunade-sama. I acted rashly and accept the punishment. I will work hard to prove my dedication to Konoha."

Others followed suit, apologizing and acknowledging their errors. The realization of their earlier foolishness dawned on them. Soon, only Zuo Song and a handful of the instigators remained, casting wary glances at Danzo.

Danzo seethed internally. He felt their stares like a burning brand, the failure of this gambit now clear for all to see. He would remember this humiliation.

"Third Hokage, about the deceased..."

Hiruzen's eyes, filled with disappointment, locked onto Danzo. "Handle your own mess, Danzo. And follow me to the Hokage's office. Now."

Hiruzen turned and left, followed by the ANBU. Danzo's jaw tightened as he exhaled sharply, signaling his men to collect the bodies. Their destination was not the Solace Garden but a place where secrets stayed buried.

Reiki watched the departing figures, a satisfied smirk crossing his lips. What Hiruzen had seen wasn't purely extracted memories; they were modified ones, carefully crafted with Reiki's abilities. Danzo would be preoccupied for some time dealing with Hiruzen's inevitable scrutiny.

For now, the village would know peace, and Reiki would ensure it stayed that way, at least for a while.

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