Mei Terumi's startled reaction did not cause much of a stir. At this moment, the attention of the Kirigakure shinobi had long since fallen on the figure standing brazenly atop the conference table, looking down on them all.
"Since Konoha wishes to sign a ceasefire agreement with Kirigakure, why did we receive no notice from the border?"
Karatachi Yagura stared at Huayue, his tone cold and unyielding, determined to suppress him in sheer presence.
"That is something you should ask yourselves within Kirigakure. It seems some people still do not wish for Konoha and Kirigakure to cease hostilities. Or could it be that even Lord Fourth Mizukage is among the pro-war faction?"
"Still, none of that concerns me..."
He reached behind his back. Suikazan Fuguki and Juzo Biwa instantly became alert. As Huayue slowly drew his hand back out, he tossed the ceasefire agreement representing Konoha's intentions before Karatachi Yagura.
"Agree or refuse, make your decision quickly. I dislike waiting for others, and I dislike making others wait. If I do not receive an affirmative answer within twenty-four hours, Kirigakure's answer will be considered a refusal."
At this tense, drawn-sword moment, the elderly man who had sat silently in the corner finally rose shakily to his feet.
"Cough, cough. Kirigakure has understood Konoha's sincerity. We will give this envoy a definite answer within one day. Ao, Mei Terumi, take Konoha's envoy to the guest rooms for the time being."
At this, veins bulged across Karatachi Yagura's forehead. The many Kirigakure jonin looked displeased, but they still chose to endure.
"Yes, Elder. Konoha's envoy, please follow me."
Beside the bald old man, a Kirigakure jonin wearing a headscarf and forehead protector rose alongside Mei Terumi from the corner, making an inviting gesture.
"Body Flicker Gengetsu... Is your name Uchiha Gengetsu?"
"Uchiha