Land of Lightning, Kumogakure.
Muffled thunder occasionally boomed over the mist-shrouded mountaintops.
The Cloud Ninja and civilians had long since grown accustomed to such sights.
Their village and homes were built in the mountains, so they often encountered thick fog drifting between the peaks.
Deafening thunder also roared atop the mountains.
The usually quiet Raikage Building was somewhat lively today.
The elders who held power in Kumogakure's upper ranks had gathered once again and begun arguing in the conference room.
"Rai, do you think they'll decide on a new Raikage today?"
"Impossible. Getting the elders to agree isn't that easy."
Seeing no one around, two Cloud Ninja responsible for guarding the Raikage Building began talking in hushed voices.
Everyone nearby had their attention on the conference room inside the building, waiting for the result. No one paid any attention to the two inconspicuous guards.
"How long has it been since the war ended? Every time the elders meet to nominate a Raikage, they argue like crazy."
"How are they ever going to choose a suitable Raikage at this rate?"
"You're telling me."
"Hey, do you know who the elders have nominated?"
"How would I know something that confidential?"
"Don't be so nervous. Everyone already knows some of the candidates. They just don't talk about it."
"I've heard C, Tarui, and Burūi have all been mentioned at the council meetings."
"If you already know, why ask me?"
"Oh, those are just guesses. They might not be right."
"Whoever it is, they need to hurry up and choose a new Raikage. If this keeps going, the other shinobi villages will laugh at us."
"Laugh at us for what?"
"For having no talent in Kumogakure, of course. Not even a single ninja who can inherit the Raikage title."
"Hmph! Let them try!"
Before