But this longest-serving Hokage in Konoha's history had forgotten one of the most important principles of international relations and negotiations between ninja villages: there were limits to how far one could yield, and one had to know where to draw the line. Otherwise, one's bottom line would keep sinking until others walked all over them. As Naruto put it, even when a village was at its weakest, showing strength when necessary was the best way to protect it. In that respect, Danzo might genuinely have done a better job than the Third Hokage. And that was the greatest point of contention between the two former friends—or, more accurately, the greatest difference in their political views.
Tsunade was the Third Hokage's direct disciple, after all.
Even though she was far more assertive than her mentor, there was little difference in their essential nature.
When faced with an important matter that could potentially trigger a war between ninja villages,
Tsunade would most likely choose to yield.
Naruto had long since anticipated this outcome.
If he were dealing with a leader like the Second Hokage, Shimura Danzo, or the Fourth Raikage, he might not dare to do this. Or, if he did, he would have to prepare for war in advance. Ninja villages under different leaders were bound to act differently.
"So this is one of the fundamental reasons Konoha keeps growing weaker."
A hint of regret, disdain, and ruefulness seemed to surface in Naruto's eyes. He shook his head lightly as he spoke.
"Let's go, Utakata. Sasuke and Karin should be about done over there. We should withdraw too. We'll put Konoha's affairs aside for now. More important things are waiting for us."
After taking a deep breath, Naruto turned to Utakata beside him and said this.
"Mm!"
Utakata, still mulling over