"Before you arrived, I was considering potential candidates," said Sarutobi Hiruzen. The matter is of great importance, and the individuals dispatched must be chosen with caution. Their abilities and mechanisms must be top-notch to thoroughly investigate the situation in the Land of Fields.
"Let Saigoji Youmu go," Shimura Danzō suggested, sensing an opportunity. The conspiracy between Cloud and Rock Ninja Villages in the Land of Fields may have been deliberately leaked by Onoki to provide a reason for sending Saigoji Youmu away from Konoha.
"Hmm?" Sarutobi Hiruzen's gaze sharpened instantly, his aura as a Kage-level powerhouse becoming palpable. "Danzō, are you feeling restless?"
"He has resided in Konoha for quite some time; it's appropriate for him to contribute," Shimura Danzō replied calmly, seating himself across from Sarutobi Hiruzen. His reasoning was sound. He had no direct involvement with the Cloud and Rock Ninja Villages. Even if Saigoji Youmu were to perish in the Land of Fields, it would not implicate Shimura Danzō. Without concrete evidence, there was little Sarutobi Hiruzen could do against him.
After scrutinizing Shimura Danzō for a while and finding no apparent flaws, Sarutobi Hiruzen conceded, "I will consider your suggestion." Indeed, in terms of strength and capability, Saigoji Youmu was a suitable candidate.
"Very well," Shimura Danzō responded, maintaining his composure while inwardly smirking. The two continued discussing war strategies for a while longer before Shimura Danzō took his leave from the Hokage's office.
Thus, the three parties finalized their conspiracy, each driven by their own interests. Onoki and the Third Raikage were concerned that, despite Saigoji Youmu's lack of formal ties to the Five Great Ninja Villages, his presence in Konoha and his favorable relationships with Sarutobi Hiruzen and the Sannin could lead him to intervene in conflicts involving Konoha. They were unprepared to face him under such circumstances. Shimura Danzō, motivated purely by ambition, recognized that if Saigoji Youmu sided with Sarutobi Hiruzen, his own aspirations to become Hokage would be thwarted.
…
The following day, in the Hokage's office:
"The Land of Fields…" Sarutobi Hiruzen briefed Saigoji Youmu on the potential plot by the Cloud and Rock Ninja Villages against Konoha. "Would you be willing to investigate?"
"All right," Saigoji Youmu agreed without hesitation. "Good luck to you."
…
The next day, after bidding farewell to Konan, Uzumaki Kushina, and Uchiha Mikoto, Saigoji Youmu embarked alone on the journey to the Land of Fields.
Several days later:
"Heh, interesting," Saigoji Youmu mused, a playful smile curling his lips. During his months in Konoha, he had not been idle. He had discreetly engaged in several dealings with Sarutobi Hiruzen, establishing sufficient channels for economic resources.
Initially, Saigoji Youmu thought this mission was a routine transaction. However, upon entering the Land of Fields, he sensed he was being watched. "Coincidence? Or…" Various thoughts flickered through his mind. It hadn't been long since he had been targeted by Jue, and now this situation arose. He couldn't afford to dismiss it lightly. Nonetheless, outwardly, Saigoji Youmu remained composed, methodically following the information provided by Sarutobi Hiruzen as he conducted his investigation.
In a certain town within the Land of Fields:
"Lord Tsuchikage, Saigoji Youmu has arrived in the Land of Fields," reported a Rock Ninja assigned to surveillance.
"Good," Onoki acknowledged.
The Third Raikage stretched, eager for action. "Onoki, hold off for now. I want to personally meet this renowned junior."
Like many seasoned warriors, the Third Raikage held great respect for talented juniors. Despite being adversaries, he was keen to face Saigoji Youmu.
"I don't mind," Onoki replied. "As long as Saigoji Youmu is eliminated."
"Don't worry. We've invested considerable effort into this plan. Saigoji Youmu must die."
"Agreed." Both leaders were confident in their meticulously crafted strategy to eliminate Saigoji Youmu.