By the time Uzumaki Kuming reached the Hokage Building and pushed open the door to the Hokage's office, he immediately spotted Hiruzen Sarutobi and the two other advisors sitting ramrod straight on the sofa.
"Hey, Teacher Sarutobi, you're here too."
"Is this about something important you wanted to discuss with me? What is it?"
"Just so we're clear, I won't take over as principal of the Ninja Academy until I get back from my trip!"
Uzumaki Kuming walked into the office, seemingly oblivious to its tense atmosphere, and spoke with a grin.
"Kuming, take a look at this." Minato tossed the State Letter on the desk toward Kuming. His gaze flicked almost imperceptibly toward the two advisors on the sofa, warning Kuming.
Kuming acted as though he hadn't noticed Minato's warning. He caught the letter but didn't hurry to open it. Instead, he plopped down on the armrest beside Hiruzen Sarutobi and leaned back against the seat behind him.
That kid... Hiruzen shook his head slightly at Kuming's behavior, then shifted over to make room so Kuming could lean back more comfortably.
The former Hokage was indeed remarkably indulgent and doting toward Kuming.
"Wow! The Land of Lightning sure has a temper!"
Sitting beside Hiruzen Sarutobi, Uzumaki Kuming unfolded the scroll Minato Namikaze had tossed him and skimmed a few lines. "They'll declare war on the Land of Fire if we don't hand over the Hyuga Clan? Where does the Daimyo of the Land of Lightning get that kind of confidence?"
"Minato, is this the important matter you wanted to discuss? I thought something serious had happened."
Uzumaki Kuming quickly finished reading the State Letter, then tossed it back to Minato. Utatane Koharu and Mitokado Homura exchanged a glance at Kuming's attitude. Mitokado Homura cleared his throat and asked gently: