"Do you understand what you're saying?"
Kitsuchi enunciated each word, his voice forceful and resonant. Combined with his blazing stare and powerfully built frame, he truly carried a faint air of intimidation.
Unfortunately, that act had no effect whatsoever on Araki. He had encountered plenty of people far more intimidating than Kitsuchi.
The truth was, presence did not necessarily correlate with size. Even someone five feet tall could possess the aura of a giant.
"Of course. If you didn't hear me clearly... I can't be bothered to say it again."
As he spoke, Kisame Hoshigaki, Oyashiro En, and the others gathered behind Araki, glaring furiously at Han, Roshi, and the others behind Kitsuchi.
Seeing that Mist Village had clearly come prepared, Kitsuchi barely suppressed the fury in his heart and began reasoning with Araki. "The people of the Land of Artisans attacked our village's ninja without cause. If they are not punished, where will the Five Great Shinobi Villages' dignity go?"
"Oh? Is that so?"
Araki turned to look at the trembling artisans standing behind them.
"R-Reporting to Lord Araki," the master artisan from Black Light's family stepped forward and said shakily, "my son was indeed reckless and audacious in this matter, but he did not cause Iwagakure's ninja any actual losses. Moreover, my son and our ancestor Seimei were both killed by them. Yet they still refuse to let this go and want to slaughter us all!"
"So that's how it was."
Araki revealed an enlightened expression. "Since you have already killed the culprits, doesn't that settle the matter?"
"That alone is not enough to quell Iwagakure's fury!"
Kitsuchi said firmly, "The Land of Artisans must also be punished!"
Hearing this, Araki narrowed his eyes slightly. "It seems you're refusing to show Mist Village any respect! The Land of