The boundless desert stretched beneath howling winds and flying sand.
On the open ground beside the dunes, nine figures stood opposed in a triangular formation. A grim, murderous atmosphere filled every corner, while the shrieking northwesterly wind was the only sound in the world.
Second Raikage A wore a black skintight combat uniform beneath a white Kumogakure robe. Brown iron armor covered his right shoulder, and golden oil paint marked his broad, bearded face around the nose. Combined with the Cloud Hidden Village's characteristically dark skin, he gave off a suffocatingly ferocious presence.
(PS: The title "A" was inherited, but the real names of successive Raikage were unknown, so he would be called "A" in advance.)
Behind him, the Gold and Silver Brothers looked equally fierce. The moment they saw Enkō and the other two, bloodthirsty light shone in their eyes.
"We finally found you, Uchiha Clan!" Second Raikage A said coldly. Then he glanced at Sunagakure's three representatives. "What? Has Sunagakure formed an alliance with the Flame Hidden Village?"
Shamon shook his head and voluntarily led his people back, clearing space for them.
It was obvious that this was no longer an ordinary competition between Kumogakure and the Flame Hidden Village. It had long since escalated into a private grudge. Rashly involving themselves would only invite trouble, so it was better to watch from the sidelines.
Enkō held his sword calmly and looked at A. "It seems you're here for revenge."
"That's right. The Yotsuki Clan repays every grudge. Since you killed our people, I must demand an explanation. Perfect—I'll also see just how capable the Uchiha Clan really is!"
"Tch." Izuna sneered. "Don't get yourselves killed while trying to settle a score."
"Kid, watch your mouth!" Ginkaku cracked his neck. "Kinkaku!"
"Got it, Ginkaku!" Kinkaku grinned knowingly, then