As news of the Third Raikage's death reached the meeting room,
the room fell into an eerie silence.
For a moment, no one in the room could react to the news of the Third Raikage's death. After a long while, Hatake Sakumo finally asked in disbelief:
"What did you say? The Third Raikage is dead?!"
"That powerful man really died?"
Hatake Sakumo had faced the Third Raikage himself, so he knew just how terrifying the man's strength was. Even Uzumaki Kuming's fearsome slash had only left a shallow wound on him. Sakumo couldn't imagine what kind of attack it would take to kill a man like that.
The Third Raikage's son, A, had succeeded him as the Fourth Raikage. By now, he should have returned to Kumogakure and begun rallying their forces!
Evidently, that wasn't the only shocking news. Just days after the Third Raikage's death, the Cloud Ninja had already chosen a Fourth Raikage.
"No matter how that old man died, this is a rare opportunity for Konoha!"
"Sakumo, I can't agree to you returning to support Jiraiya anymore!"
"Join me in attacking the Mist Ninja and driving them back!"
A flash of light gleamed in Uzumaki Kuming's eyes as he spoke.
Sakumo gave Kuming a long look, then sighed softly and nodded. "All right. But I have to report this to Lord Hokage. If he doesn't agree, I'll leave with my men immediately."
"Until the Hokage's orders arrive, I'll follow your command."
Sakumo didn't object further. He wasn't a fool; he knew this was an excellent opportunity for Konoha. Once the Third Hokage received the news, he would surely support sending aid to the border forces here.
With their positions aligned, Sakumo readily handed over command. Kuming no longer needed to concern himself with the Land of Lightning.