Minato was filled with solemn respect.
A's condition was not about power or profit. It was solely about his father's honor.
It was a son's obsession, and a Kage's dignity.
"I swear in the name of the Fourth Hokage that, when the war ends, I will come to Raikage Mountain and pay my highest respects before the statue of the Third Raikage."
A turned around. The thunder in his eyes gradually subsided, replaced by a heavy, resolute gleam.
"Then Kumogakure will join the war." He extended his fist. "But remember, Namikaze Minato, this is for the shinobi world, not Konoha, and certainly not Uchiha Ryūha. After the war, if we're both still alive, I'll settle Kumogakure's accounts with Konoha, one by one."
Minato extended his fist and bumped it against A's.
"You have my word."
Their fists met, symbolizing how the shinobi world's two greatest military powers had temporarily set aside their hatred in the face of annihilation and stood on the same side.
"Samui, pass down the orders." A withdrew his fist, his voice regaining the authority of the Raikage. "Kumogakure is entering level one alert status. All jonin and chunin currently in the village are to report to headquarters within three days.
"Mabui, contact the Daimyō and request a special war budget. Issue a national mobilization order at the same time. All Ninja Academy students are to graduate early, and all retired shinobi are to be recalled."
"Yes!" Both women left to carry out their orders.
Only A and Minato remained in the office.
"Namikaze Minato," A said suddenly. "Your son's name is Naruto Uzumaki, isn't it?"
Minato's heart tightened. "Yes."
"I heard he spent some time with Uchiha Ryūha."
"Yes, but he's already returned to Konoha."
A looked at Minato, a complicated gleam flashing through his eyes.