Aid from the Daimyo

The Land of Wind's proposal was quickly relayed back to Konoha through messengers.

"Rasa, the Kazekage, stated that Sunagakure was willing to cooperate with Konoha. However, after the Jashin Cult is eliminated, they must reclaim Shukaku, and they demand that Konoha withdraw all troops stationed within the Land of Rivers."

In the Hokage's office, Shikaku Nara, the Jonin commander, was reporting Sunagakure's response to Danzo.

Also present were Konoha's two elders, as well as Jiraiya and Tsunade.

Danzo did not immediately respond to Sunagakure's proposal. Instead, he turned and asked, "What about the other major nations? Has there been any unusual movement from the Land of Earth or the Land of Lightning?"

Shikaku had already prepared his answer. "The Land of Earth is still observing for the time being, while the Land of Lightning has increased the number of shinobi active in the Land of Fields. They likely intend to take advantage of the chaos."

"Hmph. That brat Ai really is reckless."

Danzo gave a disdainful snort, then stated his own thoughts.

"Have Torifu shift the border forces' defensive focus toward the Land of Grass. Based on what I know of Ōnoki, that old man definitely won't be able to restrain himself."

Shikaku frowned slightly. "What about the Land of Lightning?"

Shikaku knew the Fourth Raikage's temperament well. If Konoha did not respond to their provocations, the other side would certainly push their luck. It was not impossible that they might even seize the chance to attack deep into Konoha's territory.

Danzo lightly tapped the table, clearly having already made his plans. "I will deploy all Root shinobi into the Land of Fields to monitor the Land of Lightning's movements. If necessary, we can give up the entire Land of Fields. If they continue to press forward and prepare to