Chapter 112
Tsunade spoke gravely as she referenced the latest correspondence from Orochimaru. A few days ago, he had informed her that the war between Konoha and Sunagakure had officially reached its decisive phase. Both sides had deployed their final trump cards. The outcome might be determined very soon.
Because of this, Konoha had redirected a greater number of ninja to that front, determined to secure victory. The stakes were high. Winning could shift the momentum of the entire conflict, perhaps even save the village from collapse.
"If we win," Tsunade said, "the other villages will think twice before making their move. If we lose... well, it’s not uncommon for fair-weather allies to turn when the wall begins to crumble."
"We can’t just sit around and wait for Kirigakure to come knocking," one voice interjected. "It’s time we took the initiative!"
Mito Menma’s eyes swept the length of the war table, gauging the reactions of the shinobi and clan leaders seated there. His words weren’t just commentary — they were steering the meeting toward a decision.
Though now retired, Mito Menma had fought in the Warring States era and during the First Great Ninja War. Alongside the Third Hokage, he had seen the village through its lowest points. His nature was assertive, battle-tested. He didn’t care for passivity, regardless of age or political tension.
Konoha had remained on the defensive too long. While resources and troops were focused on the more active fronts, this battlefield had become stagnant — too quiet. But a recent shift in intelligence hinted at opportunity, and Menma was determined not to waste it.
The table fell silent.
If Konoha launched a proactive strike, as Menma suggested, casualties would undoubtedly rise. Every clan present knew that. These weren’t faceless soldiers—they were sons, daughters, kin. The room’s stillness wasn’t cowardice, but consequence.
Tsunade broke the silence.
"What, no one else has anything to say?" She leaned back in her chair, scanning the room. "Long-term pain is worse than short-term action. I agree with Councilor Menma. Konoha should seize control of this war."