"Send Usagi Xin!" Danzō, though reluctant and at odds with Xin, had to admit that Xin was the only person besides Sakumo who had the guts to face Hanzō-and could even force Hanzo to compromise.
In fact, Xin might even be more suited than Sakumo.
Hanzō had dared to attack him only because Danzō's strength had been severely diminished. If Sakumo couldn't be deployed, sending Xin was the next best option.
Upon hearing Xin's name, the Third Hokage furrowed his brow. He recalled how Xin had refused his previous mission. What made them think Xin would accept this time?
"Regardless of what happened before, Usagi Xin is still a member of Konoha. He should contribute in times like these," Danzō pressed.
They needed a solid reason, or Xin would likely reject the mission again-just like last time.
"I'll think about it," Hiruzen said, neither agreeing nor refusing outright.
But Koharu and Homura exchanged knowing glances. They could tell that Hiruzen was leaning toward accepting. His non-committal response was a clear sign. If he wasn't outright rejecting the idea, he was likely to go along with it.
"I need your support in getting the remaining chakra metal, as well as some key equipment and tools," Danzō demanded.
"Are you insane?" Koharu's eyes widened, her wrinkled face tensing.
She couldn't believe Danzō was still after the chakra metal. He had already taken plenty before, so why was he asking for more now?
The supply hadn't even been replenished yet. If the Hokage ever needed that metal and found it missing, they'd all be in deep trouble. There'd be an investigation, and the consequences could be dire.
"We need this. You don't have to help me, but if you don't, don't expect me to help you when the time comes," Danzō threatened.
They were all in this together, having done things they'd rather not see the light of day. If they refused him now, they could forget about his help when their own problems arose.
"You..." Koharu was furious.
When persuasion didn't work, Danzo turned to threats, leaving her speechless. Homura could only give a helpless smile.
"Danzō, why do you need chakra metal so badly? Isn't there something else you could use?" Homura asked, trying to defuse the situation.
"We really can't touch the remaining supply. It would cause too many problems."
"If Hiruzen found out, it might uncover a lot of past issues, and all three of us-myself, Koharu, and you could lose our positions. Do you want to risk that?"
The stakes were too high. If one part of their scheme unraveled, the entire thing could collapse.
Danzō understood this well.