Hiruzen Sarutobi had only one feeling at that moment—a splitting headache.
The ANBU had personally delivered the intelligence to him, and Iwagakure's negotiating delegation had indeed arrived yesterday. Every piece of evidence was there, yet he still refused to accept the conclusion.
What good would admitting it do? Konoha High Command simply could not bear the consequences.
The emergence of a powerful fighter in the Uchiha Clan was already enough of a headache. Unfortunately, Yan Uchiha was not merely strong. He also had the sort of mind found in the Nara Clan, and his experience in power struggles rivaled even Hiruzen Sarutobi's.
An opponent like that had both strength and dirty tricks... no, sophisticated tactics.
How was he supposed to contend with that?
The thought left a bitter taste in Hiruzen Sarutobi's mouth. He knew perfectly well that he would have to be even more cautious when dealing with Yan Uchiha from now on.
And Shikaku Nara needed to be recalled immediately.
On his own, he was already finding it difficult to hold his ground against that Uchiha.
"Forget it."
Hiruzen Sarutobi did not want to dwell on the matter any longer. He took out a cigarette, lit it, and took a few drags. Only after the smoke dispersed before him did he steer the conversation elsewhere.
"By the way, Minato."
Minato Namikaze raised his head.
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at him, his tone gradually softening. "I already know about Rin Nohara's situation. She didn't bring the Three-Tails back of her own accord. The enemy forcibly sealed him inside her."
"Rin herself is a victim in this matter."
He paused, then continued, "But the Three-Tails is Kirigakure's tailed beast, after all. Whatever happens, Kirigakure will not give him up."
"We're still at war, and Kirigakure and Konoha remain allies. I know