Within the grand yet austere buildings of the Land of Iron, the Five Kage gathered together for an important meeting concerning the future direction of the ninja world. The atmosphere in the conference hall was so heavy it seemed almost tangible, and every Kage wore an expression of seriousness and caution.
Konoha's Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, was the first to rise. His weathered voice rang through the silent hall. "Everyone, we have gathered here today because of that mysterious masked man. This individual, who has been manipulating numerous events from the shadows, has already become an enormous threat to peace in the ninja world."
Fourth Raikage A spoke next, his voice carrying a trace of anger. "That bastard provoked the war between Kumogakure and Iwagakure and pulled plenty of tricks on the battlefield. From the intelligence we have gathered so far, he appears to have a keen interest in the Tailed Beasts, especially the Nine-Tails."
Rasa, the Fourth Kazekage of Sunagakure, nodded slightly. "Sunagakure has noticed this as well. The last time, he tried to provoke a war, but we saw through him. This time, however, he has directly caused considerable losses for all five great nations."
Mei Terumi, Kirigakure's acting Mizukage, frowned as she said, "The fact that our Fourth Mizukage was controlled also has something to do with him. According to Lord Fourth Mizukage, he possesses the Sharingan, which means he is very likely a member of the Uchiha Clan."
Upon hearing this, Ōnoki, the Third Tsuchikage of Iwagakure, spoke up. "The Sharingan? Third Hokage, Konoha should know more about the Sharingan than anyone. Do you have any insights?"
Ōnoki's words seemed to carry another meaning. It was as though he suspected that Konoha was connected to this matter.
After pondering for a moment, Hiruzen Sarutobi said, "I previously