Naruto: Wooing Tsunade from Day One!

"Lord Third, I have important news," the head of Kumogakure's intelligence division burst into the Raikage's office in a panic.

"Hm? What is it?" The Third Raikage's expression darkened slightly. After the failed attempt to kidnap Kushina and the widespread hunt for Kumogakure's spies in Konoha, he had little patience for more bad news. The worsening condition of the Two-Tailed Jinchuriki, Jonah, only added to his frustration.

"We have reliable information from a bounty hunter that Hatake Kawakaze is coming to Kumogakure with Orochimaru, the Hokage's disciple." The intelligence officer handed over the costly report to the Raikage.

"There is a problem within Konoha," the Raikage muttered, glancing over the report. With little thought, he quickly realized the underlying issue. Missions of this caliber would not be leaked so casually, and the fact that such information had ended up with a bounty hunter made it clear that something was amiss.

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He didn't believe this leak came from Hiruzen Sarutobi himself. As a fellow Kage, he understood that the Kage of a Village would never resort to such betrayal. However, someone else in Konoha clearly had it out for Kawakaze Hatake.

"Kawakaze Hatake is too prominent. It's only natural for someone to see him as a threat," the intelligence officer remarked reasonably. It was no surprise that others might seek to bring down the tallest tree in the forest.

"This reeks of revenge. I'll make sure to entertain them well," the Raikage said, clenching his fists with a loud cracking sound.

"Pass the word. The entire village is on alert. Report immediately if any suspicious individuals are found. I will personally reward anyone who locates Kawakaze Hatake or Orochimaru."

A series of orders quickly followed.

"Yes, Lord Raikage," the intelligence officer replied, turning and leaving swiftly. This was no small matter—it was a rare honor for two individuals to warrant putting the entire village of Kumogakure on high alert.

"Kawakaze Hatake, I hope your strength matches your reputation," the Raikage murmured to himself, barely giving Orochimaru a thought.