Before long, not only ordinary civilians but even many Chunin and Genin had begun to believe the rumors.
At the same time, major changes had appeared in Konoha Village's war supplies and shinobi troop deployments, vaguely suggesting that it intended to launch a war.
Hokage's Office. This time, only six people were seated in the entire office.
The Third Hokage, Shimura Danzō, the two advisors, Sarutobi Toru, and Tsunade.
"By now, Konoha Village's combat preparations are more or less complete." Sarutobi Toru closed the Intelligence Scroll in his hand and spoke slowly.
"I believe that once the Land of Lightning receives this intelligence, they will definitely strike first. When that happens, we won't be the ones violating the peace treaty."
Sarutobi Hiruzen sighed. "Sigh. It can't be helped. At the very least, Konoha Village won't be the first to betray the principles of peace."
Shimura Danzō glanced at Sarutobi Hiruzen. His face was full of sorrow for the state of the world, yet it was this very Lord Hokage who had ordered Root to spread the rumors.
The Hokage had never believed the rumors circulating below, but Kumogakure had launched an attack because of them. Then Konoha could hardly be blamed. It was the perfect chance to dump the blame on their heads.
Shimura Danzō had to admit that there was a reason Sarutobi Hiruzen had become Hokage. He would never have thought of a method that let them claim the moral high ground while reaping the benefits.
"Alright, so when exactly will the war begin?" Tsunade, who had a rather impatient temperament, yawned, propped her chin on her hand, and asked.
"Probably another two or three months. After all, the Land of Lightning should need some time for its preparations as well." Mitokado Homura looked over the scroll at