In the Hokage's office in Konoha, a group of people was dealing with a thorny problem: Kumogakure's assault. The enemy seemed to have gone mad, fixating on Konoha and disregarding everything else. It was troublesome enough dealing with such brainless opponents, but they were exceptionally strong—capable of confronting Tailed Beasts head-on. Hiruzen Sarutobi had no particularly good solution and could only place the pressure on Orochimaru.
Before Orochimaru's situation could be resolved, Hatake Sakumo, stationed on the Land of Wind front, raised an issue first. Looking at the envelope on the table, Hiruzen said with a troubled expression:
"I never expected Kumogakure to be so arrogant that they would actually split their forces. This is an opportunity, but how to swallow them whole is the problem. Then there is Hatake Sakumo's proposal to pass through Amegakure. That is also a headache."
The Hokage's advisers had not been summoned to sigh and lament; they needed to come up with a reasonable solution.
Holding the envelope and reading its contents, Mitokado Homura offered his opinion:
"During the Third Shinobi World War, Amegakure chose not to join the battlefield. According to the information I received, they have strictly ordered their ninjas not to leave the village. It seems they do not wish to take part in this war. We can offer them certain benefits in exchange for opening a route for us. At worst, we can promise to help Amegakure bear the pressure from Kumogakure."
Hearing his companion's reasonable suggestion, Hiruzen did not agree immediately. There was a good chance Hanzō would refuse. By avoiding battle, he was trying to stay clear of the Third Shinobi World War. Konoha's actions now were practically dragging him into the abyss. Hanzō was no fool; a few benefits and a verbal promise would hardly be enough