Debate

Capital of the Land of Fire.

Inside a hall of the Imperial Palace.

A long table stood in the center. The Daimyo sat at its head, holding a paper folding fan over half his face.

The Land of Fire's ministers sat along one side of the table, while the Third Hokage and an ANBU member sat on the other.

The ANBU member was a captain and a trusted aide of the Third Hokage. He was responsible for the Hokage's safety on this trip.

"What important business brings the Hokage to the capital in person this time?"

One of the ministers had spoken up.

The Third Hokage considered his words. "Rumors have been raging through the capital lately, many of them slandering Konoha. The Daimyo is wise and discerning, so he can naturally tell truth from falsehood.

"But with so many rumors erupting at once, I had to come in person, as Hokage, to explain the facts to the Daimyo.

"I also wanted to clear up any doubts the ministers might have, so that no rift forms between the capital and Konoha and no mishaps occur.

"After all, the capital and the Ninja Village are one.

"And so many rumors appearing at once must be the work of someone with malicious intent. Their aim is to drive a wedge between the Ninja Village and the people of the capital.

"Konoha cannot develop without the capital's support. This time, I brought elite Konoha ANBU with me. They will trace these rumors to their source.

"They will also clear out the spies from other nations who have infiltrated the capital and make it safer."

The Daimyo gave his folding fan two gentle flicks and smiled. "The Hokage has thought of everything."

"Lord Hokage, the Land of Fire's present situation cannot be separated from