News that Hanzo of the Salamander intended to declare himself the Rain Shadow and stand alongside the Kage of the Five Great Shinobi Villages soon spread throughout the shinobi world.
Every major Shinobi Village received the news. Even the weaker Small Shinobi Villages learned of it.
The Small Shinobi Villages reacted with envy, jealousy, and ridicule.
They felt that Amegakure had merely muddled through a few battles during the Second Shinobi World War. What right did it have to stand on equal footing with the Five Great Shinobi Villages?
Of course, the Small Shinobi Villages' opinions did not matter. What truly mattered was the response of the Five Great Shinobi Villages.
Konoha convened a meeting of its senior leadership over the matter.
In the conference room, Hiruzen Sarutobi sat at the head of the table, with the Elder Council beside him and the leaders of the major shinobi clans farther down.
"Everyone, I'm sure you've heard the news. Hanzo of the Salamander of Amegakure intends to declare himself the Rain Shadow and make his village the Sixth Great Shinobi Village. What are your thoughts?"
Before anyone else could speak, Shimura Danzō snorted.
"What is there to discuss? A tiny rain ninja village dares call itself the Sixth Great Shinobi Village? Who does he think he is, putting himself on the same level as Konoha? Apparently, the lesson we taught them last time wasn't harsh enough. Hiruzen, an arrogant fool like him needs a lesson he won't forget. Gather our forces. Isn't he planning some inauguration ceremony? Let's go show our support."
Hiruzen Sarutobi said nothing. He merely glanced at Mitokado Homura beside him.
Mitokado Homura immediately took the hint and spoke.
"Danzo, rein in that bloodlust. There's no need to resort to violence at every turn. Besides, our village is