"Kirigakure still hasn't replied. They're probably waiting to see how things develop. Konoha's recuperation is going well, though.
"The Konoha orphanage and the Ninja Academy have enrolled quite a few children of the right age. Most come from respectable families in the Land of Fire.
"If we can hold out for another two years, Konoha will recover its strength. By then, Kumogakure's only path will be defeat," Elder Shinsuke said.
Fugaku smiled. "If things are really as optimistic as you say, Elder, Konoha can count its blessings.
"Konoha is rebuilding its strength, but so is Sunagakure. Iwagakure keeps wavering and could turn against us at any moment.
"No one can say how things will play out. Still, rebuilding our strength as quickly as possible is certainly the best decision the Konoha leadership has made."
Elder Shinsuke nodded. "True. Strengthening our foundations is always the most important thing.
"Likewise, Konoha's standoff with Kumogakure shouldn't drag on too long. When I get back, I'll suggest to the Third Hokage again that he transfer you to the Land of the Moon.
"We need to end this war quickly and let Konoha devote itself fully to recovery. Food prices are rising in the Land of Fire. Even with its wealth, sustaining a war of this intensity is becoming difficult."
Fugaku smiled. "Please don't trouble yourself on my account, Elder Shinsuke. Since the Third Hokage has already transferred me to the Land of Rain, he certainly won't issue another order sending me to the Land of the Moon so soon.
"Changing orders from one day to the next isn't a mistake a leader should make. Besides, my transfer to the Land of Rain must have been a decision the Hokage reached with his three Advisors. They won't change it lightly."
Shinsuke fell silent.
The Supply