Chapter 212 - 1: The Konoha Conference
"The situation has changed drastically. Let’s discuss how we should respond," said Hiruzen Sarutobi, exhaling a puff of smoke with an air of calm authority.
The room fell into silence. Danzo Shimura, Koharu Utatane, and Homura Mitokado refrained from speaking, while the younger Sakumo Hatake and Orochimaru also held back their words. These two were the newest additions to the advisory council, handpicked by Hiruzen himself. One was his trusted confidant, the other his personal disciple. It was clear that their inclusion was a strategic move to balance the influence of Homura’s advisor faction and Danzo’s intelligence faction, thereby strengthening Hiruzen’s authority as Hokage.
The tides of current events were as unpredictable as a child’s whims, shifting with such speed that it left many unprepared. Just as Danzo’s delegation was preparing to depart for Sunagakure, news arrived that the rebellion there had already been quelled. The Third Kazekage, Jing Hang, had not been assassinated—it was all a ruse. This forced Konoha’s upper echelons to reconvene and reassess their strategy.
Adding to the tension was another development: Kumogakure had inexplicably amassed troops along the border with Iwagakure. In response, Iwagakure deployed forces of its own, creating a standoff involving tens of thousands of shinobi. A full-scale war seemed imminent.
It was apparent to any discerning observer that the Third Raikage’s actions were likely an act of solidarity with Sunagakure. Since the first "World Ninja Way Tournament," the two villages had maintained an exceptionally close relationship, with robust trade ties and mutual declarations of brotherhood from both the Third Raikage and the Third Kazekage.
Supporting a brother in need was natural. However, continuing to "stand guard" even after the crisis had passed inevitably raised suspicions about the Raikage’s true motives. Over the years, Kumogakure had made significant strides in military reform, with a new generation of shinobi led by Tsukigami Kōichi making a dazzling impression at the tournament. Their strength was enough to draw even Konoha’s attention.
If Kumogakure were to annex Iwagakure, it would undoubtedly overshadow Konoha and emerge as the dominant power in the ninja world—a scenario Konoha could not allow.
How to win over Sunagakure? How to curb Kumogakure? These two questions became pressing issues for Konoha’s leadership.
"I believe we must still visit Sunagakure. We need to secure the chakra-weakening drug at all costs. Let the diplomats handle the rhetoric; I’ll conduct the negotiations. I’ve already prepared the bargaining chips—it all depends on Jing Hang’s attitude," said Danzo, pulling out a scroll from his robes and casting a glance at Homura.
No one objected. The strategic value of the chakra-weakening drug was evident, and the upper echelons of Konoha were clearly interested.
"That seems reasonable. Sunagakure must have suffered significant casualties from this turmoil. As allies within the Ninja Alliance, it’s only appropriate for us to send a letter of condolence. Jing Hang is a pragmatic man; as long as the price is right, I believe he won’t refuse," Homura added.