Chapter 68 : Angry Haruto
"Where are you going, Haruto?" Hiruzen suddenly stopped Haruto.
"I'm going to rescue Hinata," Haruto said without hesitation.
"Let's take a long-term view on this matter. If I'm not wrong, even if you can catch up with them, they will have left the Land of Fire's borders. Although your technique just now is very powerful, you have to remember, Konoha has tools and support you can rely on. Without them, you may struggle to deal with even a few ordinary jonin, not to mention the Kumo border troops. Their delegation alone may be difficult to face. Don't be impulsive, Haruto." Hiruzen placed his hand on Haruto's shoulder, trying to calm him.
Haruto grew excited: "Can I just ignore it? She is Hinata."
The Third Hokage did not let go: "Calm down. Are you planning to die with your current chakra state? This time our diplomacy is strong—I believe Hinata can be rescued through negotiation."
"If they don't return her, will you go to war with Kumogakure?" Haruto asked, looking straight into the Hokage's eyes.
"This... yes." After pondering for a moment, Hiruzen looked at Haruto firmly and responded.
Haruto looked at him in disbelief. Knowing the Third well, Haruto didn't believe he would be so decisive.
Hiruzen smiled. "If it were just Hinata, maybe I wouldn't go that far. But—" he raised his voice suddenly,"I know even if I don't act, you will. Konoha can't afford to lose you. So—if they don't give her back, we'll hit them back."
Haruto lowered his head slowly. After a moment of silence, he said in a low voice, "Although I know this is the most reasonable result... it's impossible for Hinata to be captured without being subjected to experiments and torture. I don't have time for that."
"Flying Thunder God Technique!" Haruto instantly vanished, reappearing not far away. "I'm sorry, Lord Third. This time, I'm going to disobey you."