Konoha Council Building, the highest-standard circular Meeting Room.
The atmosphere was like a swamp frozen solid.
Baishi sat in the seat of honor, his fingers unconsciously rubbing the armrest. The cold, wooden touch reminded him that this was the heart of Konoha's power.
On his left sat the advisers Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu. The two elders sat upright, their eyes lowered as if meditating stone statues.
On his right sat Shikaku Nara, Hyuga Hiashi, the heads of the various clans, and the ministers of the core departments. Each held a teacup, their eyes fixed on the tea leaves drifting within.
At the end of the long table, in a somewhat isolated seat, sat Namikaze Minato. He wore a standard Jonin Flak Jacket, and his blond hair looked somewhat dim beneath the light shining down from the ceiling of the Meeting Room.
Not a single person here was a fool. Everyone knew that this so-called "special hearing" was a trap specially prepared for Namikaze Minato.
"Cough."
Baishi's light cough broke the oppressive silence.
"Regarding Amegakure's request that our village dispatch 'Peace Observers,' I assume everyone has read the relevant documents. I called everyone here today to hear the various opinions and make a final decision."
His voice was flat, revealing no inclination in either direction.
As soon as he finished speaking, Mitokado Homura gently set down the teacup in his hand. The crisp clink drew everyone's attention.
"Lord Hokage, I believe this matter is absolutely unfeasible."
He began speaking. His voice was old but full of vigor, and every word rang with force.
"What kind of place is the Land of Rain? It has suffered from war for years, with tangled forces vying for power. Now it is even effectively controlled by an unknown Rogue Ninja organization like Akatsuki. Sending