"That isn't what I meant, but I want to protect Kumogakure."
Under the Fourth Raikage's dark gaze, Darui bore the tremendous pressure and said gravely, "We can all see that Hatake Shinichi is no pushover. When he said he would destroy our village in three days, he wasn't bluffing."
"So that's your reason for disregarding my authority as Raikage?"
The Fourth Raikage spoke coldly.
At those words, many of those present furrowed their brows.
Even those who had always respected the Fourth Raikage felt dissatisfied now. Everyone knew Darui had the village's best interests at heart, yet the Fourth Raikage still insisted on having his own way at a time like this?
Did he really have to sacrifice the entire village just to save his pride?
"Lord Raikage!"
Darui's expression shifted repeatedly. Finally, as though he had reached some difficult decision, he said impassively, "If that's truly what you think, I have nothing more to say. But I must tell you this: for the village's safety, I may do things that disrespect you. I hope you can understand."
He hadn't forgotten what Shinichi had said before leaving.
If the Fourth Raikage truly refused to see reason, Darui would rather replace him than let Kumogakure fall.
"You!"
The Fourth Raikage wasn't merely a muscleheaded brute. Naturally, he understood the implication and was about to erupt on the spot.
But when he noticed the hostile looks from everyone around him, he forcibly suppressed his anger. His expression became utterly calm. "Fine, I understand. Then do as you suggested."
"A wise decision, Lord Raikage."
Only then did everyone, Darui included, breathe a sigh of relief.
Little did they know, they had missed the trace of malice hidden deep in the Fourth Raikage's eyes.
"Kumogakure finally agreed to back down?"
Three days later, Tsunade