After hearing Shikaku out, Tsunade and Fugaku also finished reading Madara's list. Fugaku covered his forehead in despair. He could never keep up with his eldest son's thinking.
In contrast to Fugaku's headache, Tsunade looked at Madara with considerable interest.
"If Teacher Sarutobi knew the successor he chose after a lifetime of caution was this bold, he'd probably drag you out of the Hokage's seat overnight. But I have to admit, kid, you've caught my interest. Go on, then. What are you planning this time?"
Perhaps because of her love of gambling, Tsunade actually found a certain thrill in the seemingly absurd decision for the Hokage to leave Konoha and station himself in another country.
"The Hokage's greatest responsibility is to protect Konoha and the Land of Fire."
Madara had already expected Tsunade and the others to question his decision. Looking at Shikaku and the others, who were worried about him, he calmly explained his reasons.
"Sunagakure is currently one of our Allied Countries, and Kirigakure is in a Dark Alliance with us. Of the Five Great Nations, only Iwagakure and Kumogakure pose a threat to us. The Land of Rice Fields is the defensive bridgehead I've chosen for the Land of Fire."
Shikaku, who had initially reacted the most strongly, fell into thought after hearing Madara's explanation.
"During the Third Shinobi World War, the front lines were pushed into the Land of Fire. Back then, taking even one step back meant death. To prevent similar situations in future wars, I want to establish a buffer zone for war around the Land of Fire. As it happens, the Land of Rice Fields has been plotting against us, and we've obtained the right to station forces in their country. Naturally, I intend to make full use of it."
"Setting up defenses