After their arguments yielded no result, Sunagakure's high-ranking officials had no choice but to seek Konoha's help.
With a sharp cry, the hawk carrying the plea for aid sped toward Konoha.
Watching the hawk gradually disappear into the distance, Rasa furrowed his brow, a faint sense of unease rising within him.
Just who was that mysterious man in black robes with red clouds?
Why did he possess the legendary Sage Eyes?
And what was his purpose in capturing Tailed Beasts?
The string of questions left Rasa's already injured body utterly exhausted. He could only keep rubbing his brow, trying to soothe the turmoil in his heart.
The One-Tail... was not merely an important strategic weapon for the village. It was also his son!
Although that son had grown distant from him after becoming the One-Tail Jinchuriki, and his temperament had become exceptionally violent and cold-blooded... he was still his son.
How could Rasa possibly remain calm?
Rasa let out a deep sigh and stood at a high vantage point, gazing in Konoha's direction.
Hopefully... Konoha would send help and bring Gaara back.
Knock knock knock!
Urgent knocking sounded. Holding an intelligence scroll, Shikaku pushed the door open before even waiting for a response from inside, his face filled with urgency.
Seeing this, Minato was slightly taken aback, a look of surprise appearing on his face.
He had known Shikaku for a long time. They had even been partners once, fighting side by side on the battlefield during the Third Shinobi World War. Yet even when facing thousands of Iwagakure ninja, Shikaku had never shown such an expression. Why was he... so flustered today?
"Shikaku, what happened?"
Minato raised his head and asked gently.
"We just received urgent intelligence from Sunagakure." As Shikaku spoke, he handed the scroll in his