Two days later.
Dragon Release Village, Reception Room.
Lin Ze sat at the head of the room and quietly listened to Ao's account.
Ao stood respectfully, conveying the invitation to the Five Kage Summit and Mei Terumi's position in detail before adding:
"Lady Mizukage hopes Dragon Release Village can understand Kirigakure's sincerity. Kirigakure is willing to stand together with Dragon Release Village and Lord Lin Ze."
Lin Ze lightly tapped the armrest with his fingertips and spoke slowly:
"Understood."
"And I accept Kirigakure's goodwill."
Ao relaxed inwardly, a smile appearing on his face. "I'm so glad you understand, Lord Lin Ze. Lady Mizukage, she..."
"Where is Mei Terumi now?" Lin Ze interrupted him, asking directly.
Ao quickly answered, "Lady Mizukage has already set out for the Land of Iron. She is expected to arrive by tomorrow at the latest."
Lin Ze nodded.
He rose and walked to the window, looking out at the prosperous, orderly Dragon Release Village. Villagers came and went along the streets, and the shouts of ninja drilling carried from the training ground.
"Go back and tell Mei Terumi," Lin Ze said clearly without turning around, "Dragon Release Village has seen her choice and her stance. I won't let Kirigakure's sincerity go unrewarded."
Overjoyed, Ao bowed deeply. "Yes! I will be sure to convey your words!"
With his mission complete, Ao stayed no longer and soon took his leave.
The Reception Room fell quiet again.
Standing alone at the window, Lin Ze's lips curved into an amused smile.
In the original story, the Five Kage Summit had been convened to deal with "Madara Uchiha." Now its sights were set on him instead?
"Obito... Black Zetsu..."
Lin Ze murmured the two names.
They had clearly set this game up.
Lin Ze sorted through the intelligence he currently had-