Konoha.
Two days passed in the blink of an eye.
Outside Konoha's gates.
A group of more than a dozen people swaggered in.
Every one of them had dark skin and wore Kumogakure's distinctive shoulder-baring clothing.
At the front was a burly, one-eyed man named Toroi.
"So this is Konoha?"
"It doesn't look like much."
"It's nowhere near as impressive as Kumogakure's Thunder Zone."
Toroi looked around at the streets, his tone filled with undisguised contempt.
"Everyone from Kumogakure."
"You must be tired from your long journey."
Shikaku Nara stepped forward to greet them with several Konoha Jonin.
It was as though he had not heard their remarks, and he wore a professional fake smile.
"Cut the crap."
"Hurry up and take us to see your Fifth Hokage!"
"We want to discuss the specific terms of the ceasefire agreement with him in person."
Toroi gave Shikaku Nara a sidelong glance.
His tone was cold and arrogant, showing no regard for the other man whatsoever.
"My apologies."
"The Fifth Hokage is busy with official affairs and has no time to meet with you."
"I have full authority over all matters regarding the ceasefire agreement. Please follow me."
At those words.
The smile on Shikaku Nara's lips did not fade.
But his words were exceptionally forceful.
Upon hearing Shikaku Nara's words.
The Kumogakure delegation immediately erupted, glaring furiously at him.
"Who the hell do you think you are?"
"Are you looking down on Kumogakure?!"
"You're sending an adviser to negotiate a ceasefire with us?"
"Konoha is openly provoking Lord Raikage's dignity!"
Toroi stepped forward.
Lightning-nature chakra erupted from his body, electric arcs wildly dancing across his skin.
Faced with the other side's violent pressure.
Shikaku Nara did not even blink.
The Konoha Jonin behind him moved.
They all drew their ninja swords,