The meeting room fell silent, and the whispers ceased.
Walking into the meeting room were Hiruzen Sarutobi, dressed in the Hokage's robes, and the three Hokage assistants following behind him.
"Sorry to make everyone come out again at night."
Hiruzen Sarutobi walked past the crowd, and everyone's eyes could not help but gather on him.
Only after he casually pulled out a chair, sat in the seat of honor, and placed his Hokage hat on the table before him did he give those present a slight nod and say gently, "Other than those fighting outside, it seems everyone is here."
He did not explain why he was late, instead directly opening the meeting.
"Third Mizukage-sama, what is the purpose of this meeting?"
Shikata Uchiha leaned forward slightly, looking at Hiruzen Sarutobi at the far end of the table as he asked bluntly.
No one minded his unexplained tardiness. Since he had arrived with the three Hokage advisers, it was clear they had already held a private meeting.
"Oh, there are mainly two matters to discuss this time."
Hiruzen Sarutobi merely held his pipe in hand, smiling at the crowd as he said calmly, "Sakumo and Orochimaru have requested reinforcements. What do you all think?"
As soon as he said that, the clan heads present frowned, understanding that the Third Hokage was asking them for people again.
"Third Mizukage-sama, with Hatake-senpai and Orochimaru's abilities, are they still unable to handle the enemies of Sunagakure?" Fumito Hyuga asked tactfully as well.
"The opponents are Chiyo, who inherited the mantle of Monzaemon, the 'Original Puppeteer,' as well as her son and daughter-in-law—two elite jonin with extensive combat experience."
Hiruzen Sarutobi tapped the pipe in his hand and said with a smile, "I do not believe Hanzo of the ambitious and restless Amegakure will