Utatane Koharu frowned and asked, "Why didn't you stop them? And why are the Uchiha getting involved?"
With so many top fighters committed, could the Uzumaki Clan really be wiped out?
They might well arrive in time to save them.
This was nothing like what they had agreed on.
What they wanted was an Uzumaki Clan that had been crippled-or erased altogether.
If there hadn't been outsiders around, Utatane Koharu would have demanded an explanation on the spot.
But those things couldn't be said openly.
"I tried."
The Third sighed and shook his head. "I couldn't stop them."
"Lady Mito was determined to go. She said only she could persuade the Uzumaki Clan to move to Konoha."
"What could I do? I had to agree."
"So I sent Danzo to lead the team in my place."
Those words weren't just meant for his two old companions. They seemed intended for the other clans as well.
Sure enough, everyone present understood.
At the news that Uzumaki Mito intended to bring her entire clan into the village, people's expressions varied.
Some began weighing the gains and losses in their minds.
The Uzumaki Clan was certainly powerful.
Their Sealing Arts were unrivaled.
If they really joined, Konoha's strength would undoubtedly soar.
On the other hand, the other clans would have to surrender a share of their interests.
There was only so much room. With another clan sharing the pie, everyone else would get a smaller slice.
For a moment, all the clan leaders frowned.
But this involved Uzumaki Mito herself, and she had already set out in person. Who could stop her now?
The matter was settled.
Among the representatives of the major ninja clans, some secretly hoped the Uzumaki Clan would lose more people this time.
That way, when they sought refuge