The uproar in the plaza died in an instant.
The Sunagakure ninja who had been making such a racket all fell silent, every gaze shifting to Obito.
Even Rasa, pinned beneath a foot, briefly suppressed his humiliation and fury. Panting heavily, he looked at the masked man who had suddenly appeared.
Minato's heart sank, his nerves instantly stretched taut.
If Kakashi died here, it would cause enormous trouble once they returned to Konoha.
His mind raced. He had already readied Flying Thunder God, but he did not dare act rashly.
The hostage was in the enemy's hands. If he provoked him, Kakashi could die on the spot.
Choza Akimichi's brows knitted tightly, his thick hands clenched until his knuckles cracked. He was torn.
He knew they could not let an enemy's threats lead them by the nose, but with Kakashi's life at stake, he could not simply ignore it.
If Kakashi really died in Rōran, someone in Konoha would have to take responsibility.
Shibi Aburame's swarm was quietly gathering beneath his sleeves, countless insects poised to strike. But he did not dare attack either. At a time like this, Minato had to make the first move.
"Don't do anything rash! Whatever your demands are, we can talk. Let Kakashi go first!"
Minato took half a step forward, keeping his voice as level as possible as he tried to calm Obito.
"Don't do anything foolish. Taking a hostage won't solve anything."
Choza Akimichi spoke up as well, his tone grave.
Shibi Aburame said nothing, but his tense posture betrayed his worry.
All three were caught in a dilemma. They could neither attack nor stand down.
Naruto was beside himself with anxiety, a sheen of cold sweat forming on his forehead.
He understood Miki Yūya's temperament now. He had experienced it himself.