Chapter 40: The Signals of War
"These are things beyond our control. We can only do our best to protect the people important to us."
Kawakaze wanted to offer some words of comfort, but in the face of war, the power of the individual was insignificant. At present, he didn't have the ability to change the course of the war on his own.
"So, are you going to continue with these negotiations when you return?" Tsunade asked. If war broke out, she too would be unable to avoid going to the battlefield; it was her duty as a ninja.
"This is the last negotiation. An ultimatum has already been issued."
"Half a month."
"If Hanzō of the Salamander still refuses to let us pass, we'll have to attack the Land of Rain first."
Orochimaru's words left no room for doubt—war was imminent.
Kawakaze remembered that in the Second Great Ninja War, it was Hanzō of the Salamander who had started the conflict. It was truly bold for a small country to take on two great nations, even managing to involve the Land of Fire in the process.
The ninja world was terrifying.
"You'd better plan ahead. As far as I know, Hanzō isn't one to sit back and wait for the end to come."
"We have to prevent him from making the first move." Kawakaze sounded the alarm. After all, it would be Konoha's ninja who would pay the price in blood.