Inside the Hokage Building.
The conversation between the Fourth Hokage and the Third continued. Though both wore smiles, that was already the result of considerable restraint. Their views on policy reform did not align.
During their discussion, the Fourth Hokage also broached the subject of ANBU indirectly, hoping to reclaim the authority that rightfully belonged to him as soon as possible.
The Third politely refused. The Fourth Hokage was gradually straying from his expectations, and his rash actions could very well bring unrest to the village.
Fortunately, reform was not something that could be accomplished overnight. Over the Fourth Hokage's long tenure ahead, perhaps they could reach an agreement.
Just then, the office door was pushed open, and a ninja wearing sunglasses walked in, immediately drawing both Hokage's attention.
The Third studied the ANBU before him, recognizing him as a member of the sensory team. "Has something happened?"
"Lord Third, Lord Fourth."
After bowing, the sensory ninja explained, "There are signs of a large-scale battle outside the village. One of our ninja has also fired a warning flare."
"What?!"
Both the Third and the Fourth Hokage looked shocked. Then, after exchanging a glance, their expressions changed.
They had just been discussing the source and credibility of the anonymous letter, and now a large-scale battle had broken out near the village. Could that letter have been an ultimatum before an attack?
But after thinking it over, they felt something was wrong...
If someone truly intended to attack, launching it in secret would have been the sensible choice.
With no time to think further, both Hokage immediately ordered ANBU to assemble. Their most pressing task was to find out what was happening near the village.
Once the order to assemble went out.
Zou Hyuga and Oto, who had been wandering the