Ch-196 War nears.

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...

After declaring the commencement of war, Obito activated his Kamui and swiftly vanished from the meeting room, leaving the atmosphere tinged with tension and uncertainty.

In the wake of Obito's departure, the leaders of the respective villages took their seats, each contemplating the gravity of the situation that had just unfolded.

As the Raikage settled into his chair, his gaze fixed on Tsunade, he wasted no time in pressing for answers. "Now, Hokage," he demanded, his tone edged with urgency, "can you explain why you gave shelter to Nagato and Konan?"

Tsunade met the Raikage's gaze with a calm expression. "Nagato and Konan..." she began, her voice steady as she proceeded to provide a detailed account of the circumstances that led to Konoha offering sanctuary to the duo.

"From the story that you just explained to all of us," Onoki began, his voice reflecting the weight of the revelation, "we can conclude that the Rinnegan is pivotal to Obito's plan, and now it rests in his hands."

"Yes," Tsunade affirmed, her tone grave as she elaborated, "the Rinnegan was awakened by Madara in his dying moments. It possesses the unique ability to summon the body of the Ten-Tails, in which all the tailed beasts are sealed."

Raikage's expression darkened as he interjected, "Whatever may be the reason, they are sinners in our Kumogakure. Therefore, you should hand over custody of Nagato and Konan to me."

"I've said this before, and I'll say it again: under no circumstances will we in Konoha hand over Nagato and Konan," Tsunade reiterated, her tone carrying a blend of determination and defiance. "If you want to go to war over this, then we are prepared to face whatever comes our way."

"Fighting over this issue may seem small in comparison, but what truly concerns us now is the looming specter of the 'Fourth Great Ninja War'," Onoki added, his voice grave with the weight of impending conflict. "We stood united in battle before. Do we still stand together, or are there those among us who wish to retreat?"

Gaara, his resolve unshakable, spoke next. "I will never surrender Naruto. Sunagakure stands resolute and will actively participate in the war," he declared, his commitment to his friend and ally evident in every word.

"We are also the same; we will not back out from the war," Terumi affirmed, her voice carrying a tone of unwavering determination, echoing her commitment to her village's cause.

"We, in Konoha, will also not back out," Tsunade reiterated, her words laced with conviction as she stood firm in her resolve to protect her village and its ideals.

"We, from Kumogakure, want the Eight-Tails back, so we will definitely fight in the war," stated the Raikage resolutely, his tone leaving no room for doubt about his village's intentions.

"At this time, I would like to share my opinion," Mifune interjected, his voice commanding attention as he addressed the assembly. "Previously, this war may not have held great significance for the Iron Country, as it primarily concerned the retrieval of your respective tailed beasts. As a neutral nation, we abstained from involvement. However, the current situation is vastly different. This war now encompasses the well-being of the entire world. Therefore, the Iron Country will forge alliances with the remaining five major nations to stand united in this conflict."

As Mifune's declaration resonated throughout the room, each Kage present couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and gratitude, knowing that Iron country will be great help.

After Mifune's declaration, every Kage left the meeting room. The Raikage appeared to be the unhappiest as he departed, disappointed that he couldn't secure Nagato and Konan for Kumogakure.

----

Time passed rapidly, and soon six months elapsed, bringing the war ever closer. During this period, the entire ninja world remained calm, with no significant movements occurring. However, those who had joined the alliance for the 'Fourth Ninja World War' understood that this tranquility was merely the calm before the storm. They knew that when the war commenced, the true storm would descend upon them.

Despite Sasuke awakening his 'Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan' with Itachi's eyes, not much changed. Upon learning of Obito's true plan, Sasuke immediately severed ties with Akatsuki. Obito took no action against Sasuke, recognizing that Sasuke still harbored deep-seated hatred for Konoha, ensuring his involvement in the conflict. In this way, indirectly, Sasuke would support Obito's cause.

In the dimly lit chambers of Kabuto's hideout, Obito's voice cut through the tense atmosphere as he addressed Kabuto.

"Have you finally mastered the 'Edo Tensei'?" Obito's inquiry held a note of urgency, reflecting the importance of Kabuto's answer.

Kabuto, adjusting his glasses, met Obito's gaze with a confident nod. "Yes, I have now fully mastered 'Edo Tensei,' and I can also utilize it to resurrect the 'Golden Horn' and 'Silver Horn' brothers at the pinnacle of their power," Kabuto announced, his tone tinged with a hint of pride at his accomplishment.

"In that case, without wasting any time, you will proceed to use 'Edo Tensei' to bring back those two," Obito commanded, excitement palpable in his voice as anticipation swirled around the room, hinting at the imminent fulfilment of their plans.

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