Sand's mouth twitched. He understood at once.
He did the same thing himself sometimes. To maintain balance and secure his rule, he held back anyone who stood out too much, or even found a chance to get rid of them.
He also pruned families that grew too prominent. He was doing exactly what Hiruzen Sarutobi had done. The only difference was that Hiruzen could not keep that Uchiha in check, while Rasa still could—for now.
The delight vanished from Rasa's face, replaced by caution.
"So we do nothing? Let this opportunity go to waste?"
Chiyo answered without a moment's hesitation.
"Prepare for war."
"But we will not make the first move."
"Those brutes in Kumogakure won't be able to restrain themselves."
"Let them go first."
"If there's something to gain, we'll follow. If not, we won't."
Sand fell silent for a moment, then nodded.
Chiyo was every bit as calculating as he had expected. Her plan suited him perfectly.
Kumogakure.
The Fourth Raikage looked up from the Scroll at Samui, who stood in the doorway.
A strand of Samui's short, pale-blond hair hung over her forehead. She still held the leg ring she had just removed from a Ninja Crow, its Iron ring gleaming coldly between her fingers.
The Fourth Raikage barked an order:
"Inform Yugito."
"Have her set out immediately. She's to cross the Land of Rice Fields and strike a few Konoha border outposts."
"Make as much noise as possible!"
"And pass the order down. The whole village is to prepare for war."
"Konoha is tearing itself apart, and its Hokage has fled. This is our best chance!"
Samui's fingers tightened around the Ninja Crow's leg ring. The Iron ring gave a faint clink.
"Yes."
She had her own thoughts on the matter, but she answered without