Chapter 1: The Konoha Conference

"The situation has changed drastically. Let's discuss how we should respond," said Hiruzen Sarutobi, exhaling a puff of smoke with an air of calm authority.

The room fell into silence. Danzo Shimura, Koharu Utatane, and Homura Mitokado refrained from speaking, while the younger Sakumo Hatake and Orochimaru also held back their words. These two were the newest additions to the advisory council, handpicked by Hiruzen himself. One was his trusted confidant, the other his personal disciple. It was clear that their inclusion was a strategic move to balance the influence of Homura's advisor faction and Danzo's intelligence faction, thereby strengthening Hiruzen's authority as Hokage.

The tides of current events were as unpredictable as a child's whims, shifting with such speed that it left many unprepared. Just as Danzo's delegation was preparing to depart for Sunagakure, news arrived that the rebellion there had already been quelled. The Third Kazekage, Jing Hang, had not been assassinated—it was all a ruse. This forced Konoha's upper echelons to reconvene and reassess their strategy.

Adding to the tension was another development: Kumogakure had inexplicably amassed troops along the border with Iwagakure. In response, Iwagakure deployed forces of its own, creating a standoff involving tens of thousands of shinobi. A full-scale war seemed imminent.

It was apparent to any discerning observer that the Third Raikage's actions were likely an act of solidarity with Sunagakure. Since the first "World Ninja Way Tournament," the two villages had maintained an exceptionally close relationship, with robust trade ties and mutual declarations of brotherhood from both the Third Raikage and the Third Kazekage.

Supporting a brother in need was natural. However, continuing to "stand guard" even after the crisis had passed inevitably raised suspicions about the Raikage's true motives. Over the years, Kumogakure had made significant strides in military reform, with a new generation of shinobi led by Tsukigami Kōichi making a dazzling impression at the tournament. Their strength was enough to draw even Konoha's attention.

If Kumogakure were to annex Iwagakure, it would undoubtedly overshadow Konoha and emerge as the dominant power in the ninja world—a scenario Konoha could not allow.

How to win over Sunagakure? How to curb Kumogakure? These two questions became pressing issues for Konoha's leadership.

"I believe we must still visit Sunagakure. We need to secure the chakra-weakening drug at all costs. Let the diplomats handle the rhetoric; I'll conduct the negotiations. I've already prepared the bargaining chips—it all depends on Jing Hang's attitude," said Danzo, pulling out a scroll from his robes and casting a glance at Homura.

No one objected. The strategic value of the chakra-weakening drug was evident, and the upper echelons of Konoha were clearly interested.

"That seems reasonable. Sunagakure must have suffered significant casualties from this turmoil. As allies within the Ninja Alliance, it's only appropriate for us to send a letter of condolence. Jing Hang is a pragmatic man; as long as the price is right, I believe he won't refuse," Homura added.

Hiruzen nodded in agreement. "Let's proceed with this plan. Danzo, I'm giving you full authority over the negotiations with Sunagakure. Secure the chakra-weakening drug at all costs. Kuiko?"

At his call, a graceful woman with delicate features appeared, carrying a tray with two letters. Hiruzen handed the letters to Danzo.

"One is for the Third Kazekage, Jing Hang, and the other for Tsunade. You can read the contents on your way; they might prove helpful to you."

Danzo silently nodded, tucking the letters into his robe.

"Now that we've settled the matter with Sunagakure, let's discuss the situation between Kumogakure and Iwagakure," Hiruzen continued.

"The Third Raikage's intentions are clear—he seeks to expand his influence. This year, Konoha holds the rotating chairmanship of the Ninja Alliance. I propose we issue a directive in the name of the Alliance, ordering the Third Raikage to withdraw his troops," suggested Koharu Utatane.

"Tch."

"Heh."

The dismissive scoff came from Danzo, while Orochimaru let out a mocking chuckle. Both Hiruzen and Sakumo remained silent.

"Koharu, you're being naive. Do you really not understand what the Ninja Alliance is? The Third Raikage won't heed your directive," Homura retorted bluntly, showing no mercy to his fellow advisor.

Indeed, the Ninja Alliance was little more than a loose organization for hosting ninja competitions. At best, it served as a communication channel between villages. Expecting it to mediate a military conflict was nothing short of wishful thinking.

It was akin to asking FIFA to resolve a territorial dispute—laughable at best.

"At the very least, it would show Konoha's stance!" Koharu argued stubbornly.

"Aunt Koharu, no one cares about your stance," Orochimaru said with a sly smile.

"And what would you suggest, then?!" Koharu snapped, clearly embarrassed by the young prodigy's remark.

"Naturally, we should stir up some trouble for Kumogakure, so they'll be too preoccupied to focus on Iwagakure," Orochimaru replied, his tone nonchalant.

From the map, it was evident that Iwagakure was located to the northwest of Kumogakure.

"Orochimaru! Don't act recklessly. National affairs are no joke. If you provoke Kumogakure and they retaliate by marching south, what then?" Homura warned sternly.

"Simple. We prepare in advance. If Kumogakure can mobilize troops, so can Konoha," Orochimaru said, licking his lips casually.

Amid the heated debate, Hiruzen remained silent. As Hokage, he had access to far more comprehensive intelligence. He sensed an unsettling resemblance between the current state of affairs and the period leading up to the Second Great Ninja War. After nearly seven years of peace, various factions seemed unable to suppress their ambitions.

For a militaristic village like Kumogakure, amassing power without expanding its influence or vying for international dominance would indeed be suspicious.

Thus, Hiruzen found Orochimaru's suggestion worth considering. A well-timed reminder to their restless neighbor might not be a bad idea.

"What's your plan?" Hiruzen asked, turning to Orochimaru.

"I haven't worked out the details yet. Kumogakure's situation is complex—I'll need to assess it on-site. But I can guarantee one thing: if I go, they won't have the time or energy to wage war," Orochimaru replied cryptically.

Though vague, his words resonated with Hiruzen. He trusted his disciple's capabilities. If Orochimaru truly set his mind to it, he could undoubtedly turn an entire village upside down.

"Very well, then. Go, but exercise restraint. Don't cause too much chaos," Hiruzen instructed, implicitly approving Orochimaru's plan.

Don't mistake Hiruzen for a benevolent figure. He had survived the blood-soaked battles alongside Tobirama. When it came to Konoha's interests, he was anything but soft.

In the original story, many blamed Danzo for orchestrating the Uchiha massacre. But consider this: could Danzo have acted without the Hokage's approval? Eliminating a prestigious clan like the Uchiha, with hundreds of members, would never have happened without Hiruzen's consent.

"Sakumo," Hiruzen called.

"Yes!" Sakumo Hatake immediately stood at attention.

"Lead three thousand shinobi and covertly station them along the Lightning-Fire border as a precaution."

"Understood!"

Without hesitation, Sakumo rose to carry out his orders.

"That's all for now," Hiruzen concluded the meeting.

The attendees bowed slightly before filing out of the Hokage's office.

As Danzo exited, he brushed against Orochimaru's sleeve, seemingly by chance. Orochimaru smiled faintly and nodded subtly in response.

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