His question sent tensions in the room rising once more.
"Lord Hokage!"
"White Fang's mistake is unforgivable. The village suffered enormous losses because of his recklessness!"
"We absolutely cannot let this matter slide!"
A Jōnin with a scar on his face shouted harshly.
"Yes, when carrying out a mission, a ninja must put its success above all else. Everyone who takes part is already prepared to give everything, even their life!"
"If everyone acted like White Fang, wouldn't Konoha descend into chaos?"
"He must pay for this!"
Another ninja spoke up.
"His mistake was unquestionably fatal. I recommend stripping him of his ninja status and taking him into custody first!"
At those words, some of those present frowned, their expressions shifting slightly.
Hiruzen Sarutobi also raised his head and narrowed his eyes.
Clearly, many felt that such a punishment was too harsh for White Fang.
Yet none spoke up to object for the time being.
Konoha had suffered losses because White Fang's mission had failed. Under those circumstances, many people naturally harbored grievances and needed an outlet.
When one person's failure forced the entire village to shoulder the consequences, everyone would naturally turn their anger on that one person.
There was simply no avoiding it.
"Perhaps we should have White Fang and the squad that carried out the mission come forward and explain everything clearly."
"Then we can determine the punishment according to their faults."
Someone offered the suggestion.
"The facts are already clear. White Fang's dereliction of duty caused the village enormous losses."
"The mission he carried out was top secret."
"Entrusting it to him was a sign of the village's faith in him. Unfortunately, he let us down!"
Danzo sighed and shook his head.
"White Fang's dereliction of duty is already beyond question!"
Koharu Utatane spoke up.
Seeing