The Border Must Not Be Violated!

Yet Sunagakure's people had risked such danger to linger along the border, searching relentlessly. This showed just how important this thing was to Sunagakure. The Third Hokage quickly thought it over. It seemed Konoha had not recently stolen any important intelligence or resources from Sunagakure.

Then what was the reason?

"I'll handle it immediately. But if their attitude and actions become excessive..."

Hikaru looked at the Third Hokage and asked seriously. This question would determine what stance Uchiha Hikaru could take when dealing with Sunagakure.

Would he strike back forcefully, or simply keep watch and leave it at that?

With the Third Hokage's order, Hikaru could act without restraint. Otherwise, one careless move and he might end up taking the blame. He had no interest in shouldering such an inexplicable burden.

"If their actions become excessive, then we will retaliate!! This is both my order and my stance. No enemy will ever be allowed to casually invade the borders of the Land of Fire."

Of course, the Third Hokage knew it would be difficult for him to act without an absolute order. Simply monitoring them was impossible; something was bound to happen, perhaps friction of some kind. But if that friction led to war between the two villages, Hikaru would be the one blamed.

With the Third Hokage's order, Hikaru could handle the matter without reservation and present a tough stance to the outside world. Sunagakure would absolutely not be allowed to set foot in the Land of Fire!!!

"No problem. I'll take care of it. I definitely won't allow Sunagakure's people to enter the Land of Fire whenever they please. I'll also send people to investigate the cause of this matter."

Once he decided to act, he acted immediately, without the slightest hesitation.

Hikaru left the Hokage's Office directly,