Uchiha Madara, the Collector

As for whether Gaara's claim that it had been "lost" was true... everyone had their own thoughts.

But since he had already provided a clear explanation, it would have been inappropriate, both emotionally and logically, to press him further. Thus, they tacitly chose to accept it.

Minato Namikaze, who had remained silently listening, was far more shaken inside than the other Kage.

A complicated, inscrutable light flickered deep within his eyes, and his brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.

Gaara's survival had been built upon the forbidden technique in which Lady Chiyo sacrificed herself...

Then how had that mysterious "Collector" managed it?

What heaven-defying method had he used to allow Kushina Uzumaki, after the Nine-Tails had been completely extracted from her...

Not only to survive miraculously, but even... to suffer no aftereffects whatsoever?!

The Raikage's eyes, filled with undisguised scrutiny, slowly shifted toward the woman at the other end of the conference table.

"Then Kirigakure should be next, shouldn't it?" The Raikage's voice exploded through the silent chamber like muffled thunder.

"Frankly speaking, of the Five Kage, your Kirigakure is the most suspicious!"

His tone abruptly intensified, full of accusation.

"Kirigakure has kept itself isolated for years and almost never engaged in diplomacy!

According to the intelligence I received, there are rumors that your village is Akatsuki's birthplace!"

Faced with that sharp questioning, a trace of exhaustion and gloom passed over Mei Terumi's beautiful face.

She lowered her gaze slightly, her long lashes casting a small shadow beneath her eyes, but she did not immediately refute the Raikage's aggressive accusations.

That silence was an answer in itself.

After a brief pause, Mei Terumi took a deep breath. When she raised her eyes again, they were filled with resolve.

"Since we've come this far... I'll reveal the truth."

The moment she said this,