The coordinates on the scroll were like a rusty nail driven into the map of the eastern border of the Land of Fire.
Baishi's fingertip hovered over the red circle without touching it.
The office was quiet, occupied only by him and Shikaku Nara. Light slanted in through the window, dividing the room into bright and shadowed halves.
"The eastern Land of Fire is surrounded by mountains and borders the Land of Hot Water as well as several disputed territories. It has always been a paradise for smugglers and intelligence brokers."
Shikaku's voice was low, as though he were speaking to himself, yet also reporting to Baishi.
"This 'Kazama Logistics Park' indicated by the coordinates is a semi-official operation with a very complicated background. On the surface, its major shareholder is a branch of a distant relative of the Land of Fire's Daimyo Residence. But several families in the village hold open or hidden shares in it."
Baishi withdrew his finger and picked up the teacup on the desk.
The tea was warm.
"Invite the heads of the Transportation, Commerce, and Defense Departments."
Baishi's tone was calm.
"Tell them it's a brief meeting to update them on the Joint Inspection Group's latest progress."
Shikaku nodded and turned to make the arrangements. He knew the Hokage intended to use the knife. Before cutting, though, he had to see how many tendons were attached to this piece of meat.
Half an hour later, everyone had gathered in the small Meeting Room attached to the Hokage's Office.
Baishi sat at the head of the long conference table. To his left sat Chief of General Staff Shikaku Nara.
To his right, in order, sat Defense Minister Shinnosuke Sarutobi, Commerce Minister Gen Shimura, and Transportation Minister Choza Akimichi.
All three were senior figures in the