Chapter 129: Arranged Childhood Engagement
Land of Rain, Konoha camp.
Tsunade and her group finally reunited with Sakumo after a long and arduous journey. The sky was beginning to clear, but the sunlight remained cold and unwelcoming. Puddles of water dotted the area, remnants of the persistent rain.
Sakumo had meticulously prepared the campsite, ensuring the large group could settle in immediately without needing to set up their own tents. For a time, the camp bustled with activity. Clan leaders worked hard to keep their people restrained, avoiding any unnecessary conflicts. Kawakaze's repeated reminders over the past few days, both overt and subtle, had left everyone wary. The killer's reputation loomed large, silencing even the boldest among them.
At the heart of the camp stood the largest earthen structure, a deliberation hall constructed under Sakumo's direction. Its size reflected the number of attendees it needed to accommodate for the upcoming meetings. Despite their arrival, Tsunade chose not to convene the meeting immediately. Rest was necessary for everyone, and with no critical information yet in hand, Konoha already held the advantage, allowing a temporary sense of ease.
A small group of friends gathered in Sakumo's tent, which offered a quieter space compared to the rest of the camp. Most people lacked a close relationship with Sakumo and refrained from visiting.
"Big Brother, your conditions here aren't great," Kawakaze remarked casually as he settled down, noting the simple setup despite the prepared food. His words made Sakumo's eye twitch. This is the front line—does he think this is a town or home?
"It's good to have food," Tsunade retorted, giving Kawakaze a light slap before sitting beside him. Kawakaze was the type who couldn't go a day without stirring up trouble.
"Sit down, don't be polite," Kawakaze said, gesturing for everyone to take a seat. To him, his brother's territory was as good as his own.
"Sakumo," Duy greeted, feigning formality before quickly crossing his arms as he sat. Everyone understood that a Taijutsu ninja like him needed plenty of food.
"Finally good, but don't get hurt again," Sakumo said, clearly pleased to see Duy. His smile widened, broader even than when he greeted his own brother. Sakumo had always felt more comfortable dealing with straightforward people like Duy.
Once everyone was seated, the conversation naturally shifted to the war.