Strongest Armor vs. Wood Release

At the border between the Land of Fire and the Land of Fields, the Cloud Shinobi army led by the Fourth Raikage, Ai, eyed the fertile land before them greedily.

The broad-built Ai stood at the very front. His powerful muscles resembled solid rock, while his bronze skin made him look even more masculine.

"Hmph. Those Konoha fools actually believed that brat Rasa. They're courting death."

Ai stared at the Land of Fire as he delivered his disdainful assessment.

"If Minato Namikaze were still Hokage, Konoha probably wouldn't have fallen into such a crisis."

Although Konoha's troubles were tremendously beneficial to the Land of Lightning, Ai could not help recalling the Yellow Flash, who had struck terror into countless hearts during the Third Shinobi World War.

Konoha's Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze.

Though he had inflicted enormous casualties upon Kumogakure during the Third Shinobi World War, that did not prevent Ai from admiring him.

Perhaps that was how heroes appreciated one another.

After all, ever since Minato Namikaze's death, there had not been another shinobi in the entire Shinobi World capable of competing with him in speed. That left battle-loving Ai somewhat regretful.

Unfortunately, his regret did not last long before Mabui, his secretary, interrupted him.

"Lord Raikage, now isn't the time to reminisce. According to ANBU reports, Konoha's Fifth Hokage, Shimura Danzō, is already on his way to the front lines."

She paused, her expression turning solemn.

Danzo's reputation in the Shinobi World had never been particularly good. Forget comparing him to Minato Namikaze—even Hiruzen Sarutobi had been far better regarded.

Yet that poor reputation mostly stemmed from his ruthlessness and willingness to use any means necessary to achieve his goals. No one doubted whether he possessed the ability or qualifications to serve as Hokage.

As the Second Hokage's student,