Shigeo Aburame still couldn't confirm if Sunagakure had betrayed its alliance with Konoha and conspired with Orochimaru.
He wasn't even sure if the Fourth Kazekage was still alive.
Under such uncertain circumstances, venturing into Sunagakure to investigate was undeniably risky and could easily backfire.
By comparison, relying on the original plot's unfolding events to make a judgment seemed like the safest approach.
In the original plot, Gekkō Hayate was tasked with tailing Kabuto Yakushi. Upon discovering Kabuto conspiring with Baki, a Sunagakure Jōnin, Hayate's presence was exposed, and a fight broke out.
Baki's skill was superior; he countered Hayate's "Dance of the Crescent Moon" and killed him instantly with a single "Blade of Wind."
To Shigeo Aburame, this incident would reveal whether Sunagakure was truly collaborating with Orochimaru.
As for Hayate's life or death? That wasn't something he dwelled on.
The joys and sorrows of people rarely align, especially between strangers. Sacrificing an unfamiliar ninja to ensure his and his family's safety seemed like a fair trade.
Currently, as the head of Konoha's Security Force, Shigeo bore great responsibility and was constantly under scrutiny. He couldn't afford any mistakes.
If Orochimaru were to succeed in executing the "Konoha Crush Plan," regardless of the outcome, Shigeo's position as the commander of the Security Force would make him an easy scapegoat.
If someone fanned the flames afterward, his situation could become dire, potentially ruining his reputation.
Shigeo was keenly aware of the darkness in Konoha's political struggles.
"If only Hayate could survive this unscathed. Otherwise, things might get troublesome!"
...
Murphy's Law has a peculiar accuracy: the more you fear something, the more likely it is to happen.
Gekkō Hayate was dead.
And his death was particularly brutal, as if he had been slashed dozens of times.
These were unmistakable marks of the Blade of Wind.
Upon hearing the news, Lan immediately carried out Shigeo's previous orders, recalling all external Security Force units to the village.
This move instantly raised alarms among Konoha's higher-ups.
After a year of development, the Security Force had grown into the largest organization in Konoha, with its auxiliary "Village Patrol Unit" pushing its total manpower to over 10,000!
The numbers alone were concerning, but Shigeo's high reputation as commander made the situation even more alarming—his subordinates were entirely loyal to him.
To Konoha's top brass, this was a dangerous signal.
The very day the external Security Force units were recalled, Shigeo was summoned to the Hokage's office.
Before he could even sit down, Koharu Utatane, one of the Hokage's advisors, sharply questioned him.
"Commander Aburame, did you seek our approval for this action? What exactly are you trying to do?"
Homura Mitokado and Danzo Shimura, standing nearby, remained silent but clearly shared Koharu's stance.
Sarutobi Hiruzen, however, maintained his warm smile.
"Hehe, let's not be so stern. I'm sure Shigeo has his reasons for this. Why don't we hear him out?"
"Hmph!"
Koharu snorted, casting a dissatisfied glance at Hiruzen before turning back to Shigeo.
"Well then, what's your reasoning?"
"It's for Konoha's safety, of course!"
Facing the four of them, Shigeo spoke firmly.
"Konoha is currently hosting the Chūnin Exams, a grand event. Yet, during such a time, a Konoha ninja is murdered within the village, and not just any ninja—the examiner for the third test, Gekkō Hayate. What does this signify?"
His face grew stern, and his voice rose.
"This is an act of provocation against Konoha, a direct challenge to the Security Force. Hayate's death is merely a prelude; the enemy must have a larger scheme. The Security Force must go all out to ensure Konoha's safety!"
Though his argument was sound, it had little effect on the seasoned political operators before him.
Koharu spoke again. "If someone's been killed, investigate the culprit. There's no need for such a large-scale deployment of ninja forces!"
"She's right," Homura added, nodding. He turned to Shigeo.
"All of this is based on your speculation. Acting rashly on mere conjecture is irresponsible!"
A verdict already?
Even with prior preparation, Shigeo couldn't help but laugh in frustration.
"Heh, I understand what the esteemed advisors mean. I'll act according to your wishes, but I need confirmation on one point!"
His gaze swept over everyone present before he spoke.
"If my judgment is correct and Konoha does come under attack, but the Security Force is understaffed and unable to respond effectively—who will bear the consequences?"
"Hmph, don't try that on us!" Koharu scoffed. "Konoha isn't just your Security Force!"
Homura chimed in. "This is the Hokage's office—watch your tone, Commander Aburame!"
"I just need a clear answer."
Shigeo adjusted his sunglasses, his eyes narrowing slightly beneath them.
"I'm acting solely for Konoha's safety. If my actions are deemed wrong, feel free to remove me from my position—it'll make things easier for all of us!"
"Presumptuous! Do you think we won't dare?"
Koharu turned angrily to Hiruzen.
"Hiruzen, look at his attitude—this is the person you've always trusted!"
"..."
Hiruzen remained silent.
At this point, Danzo tapped his cane heavily on the ground, creating a resounding "thud."
Then he stepped forward and announced loudly, "In that case, Shigeo Aburame is hereby relieved of his position as Commander of the Security Force. Vice Commander Lan will take over immediately. Any objections?"
Koharu and Homura both shook their heads, agreeing with Danzo's decision.
Hiruzen, however, waved his hand.
"An immediate dismissal is too harsh. Let's amend it to a temporary suspension for reflection."
He turned to Shigeo with a smile.
"Shigeo, don't be too impulsive. I know you're acting for Konoha's sake, but your approach was inappropriate. Take a break for now, and we'll revisit this after the Chūnin Exams. How about that?"
Shigeo: "..."
One plays the good cop, the other the bad—do they think I'm a fool?
At that moment, Shigeo felt helpless, as if the four before him were mocking his intelligence.
But in politics, understanding without exposing is the norm. He could only play along.
"Thank you for your trust, Lord Hokage. I'll issue the order to halt the Security Force's recall and transfer my duties to Lan immediately. I'll take my leave."
He bowed to Hiruzen, then turned and left the office.
Seeing this, the advisors smiled in satisfaction.
Little did they know, as Shigeo walked out of the Hokage's office, a relaxed smile spread across his face.
"At least I've shifted the blame."
(End of Chapter)