Konoha was no longer the village of its founding days, casually holding celebrations whenever it pleased. With the addition of villages and clans, this steadily growing shinobi settlement had inevitably taken on a hint of political purpose meant to unite the people.
Unlike the cumbersome ceremonies of the nations throughout the Shinobi World, it had its own unique style of celebration belonging to shinobi.
The streets were adorned with lanterns and colorful decorations, the Hokage Building draped in red and flowers, every sort of shop bustling with customers, and heartfelt smiles could be felt in every word.
As the paper was suddenly clenched tight, the detailed information recorded upon it vanished completely from the Land of Water Daimyo's sight.
"Is there really no way to sabotage Konoha's celebration?"
The Land of Water Daimyo's widened eyes were filled with startling bloodshot veins as he stared at the general at the far end of the room, who had bowed his head to report.
"We can only gather information." The general shook his head slightly, the tall crown atop his head swaying with his emotions. "Every operative assigned to place Explosive Tags and bury large quantities of explosives in Konoha has been captured. None escaped."
"Captured?"
The Land of Water Daimyo, seated upon his throne, suddenly darkened. His body, which had been leaning against the throne, abruptly pitched forward as a terrifying gaze flashed from his eyes.
The icy voice made the general's body tremble slightly, and he immediately reported, "Please rest assured, Daimyo. Absolute seals were planted deep within the operatives' memories. Konoha's shinobi will be unable to learn the truth for a certain period of time."
"A certain period of time is enough."
The Land of Water Daimyo slowly rose and walked toward the screen standing behind him, turning the vase