The Third Hokage, faced with the Five Kage Summit invitation, needed to understand the full context before deciding. Turning to the envoy from Cloud Village, he asked, "Why is this meeting being held, and who initiated it?"
The envoy responded, "Lord Hokage, this summit was not initiated by our village. It was proposed by Sand Village. We are merely delivering the invitations. As for the exact reasons behind the summit..."
The envoy paused, making it clear he was not privy to such information. "If you wish to know more, you'd need to speak directly with the Third Raikage."
Hearing this, the Third Hokage's expression darkened. The mere mention of Sand Village as the initiator spelled trouble. Why would they call for a summit unless they had something to gain—and at Konoha's expense?
The Dread of Being Targeted
The Hokage pondered aloud, "Why would Sand Village, who started this war and is now losing, propose a Five Kage Summit? Are they looking to shift blame or pressure us?"
It didn't sit well. Sand Village initiating a summit after suffering defeat suggested they were desperate, possibly seeking support from the other villages to turn the tide against Konoha.
"Have the other villages agreed to participate?" the Hokage asked next.
The envoy nodded. "Yes, all the other villages have agreed to attend."
The Hokage fell silent, his worst fear realized. If all four villages were in agreement, it was likely Konoha would be the sole target.
Four villages against one.
The implications sent a chill through him. Konoha couldn't afford to ignore the summit—refusal would make them appear hostile and invite even greater pressure.
"Very well," the Hokage finally said. "You may go. We'll see you at the summit."
After the envoy left, the Hokage called for a meeting with the Elders and Tsunade to discuss the matter.
A Contentious Discussion
Tsunade arrived, seated herself casually on the sofa, and asked bluntly, "Old man, I'm busy. What's so urgent?"
"This," the Hokage said, holding up the invitation. "The Third Raikage sent this. Sand Village has proposed a Five Kage Summit. The other villages have already agreed."
The room grew tense. Mitokadu Hamura frowned, and even Tsunade put down her casual posture, crossing her arms thoughtfully.
"What's their angle?" Mitokadu Hamura asked. "This clearly feels like they're targeting Konoha."
Tsunade frowned. "It's not like Sand Village has the influence to convince the other villages without offering something substantial. What could they have promised to get everyone on board?"
The Hokage sighed. "That's what we need to find out. The summit will be held in the Land of Iron in ten days. There's no choice but to attend."
Hearing this, Koharu Utatane scowled. "Do we really need to walk into a trap like this? They're clearly ganging up on us!"
Tsunade shot back, "And if we don't go? Can Konoha withstand the combined pressure of the other four villages? Unless we have someone like Hashirama back from the dead, we don't have the luxury of ignoring the rules of the Five Great Nations."
Preparations for the Summit
The Hokage tapped the table thoughtfully. "Tsunade is right. We have no choice but to attend. However, Sand Village can't afford to provoke us directly. They likely want to impose restrictions or preventive measures to limit our capabilities. But we must be prepared for anything."
He looked directly at Tsunade. "While I'm away, the village will be under your leadership. Mitokadu Hamura will assist you, and Koharu... well, let's hope she doesn't cause trouble."
Tsunade nodded. "Fine. But let's talk about your security. You'll need a team strong enough to protect you if something happens."
The Hokage agreed. "I was thinking of bringing Orochimaru, Sakumo, and Shinku Yuhi as bodyguards. I'd also consider Shinki, but he's needed on the frontlines."
Tsunade hesitated, then added, "What about... Danzo?"
The room fell silent. Danzo Shimura's name carried weight—and not in a positive way.
The Hokage shook his head. "Danzo is too unpredictable, and he's better off where he is now—in confinement. Orochimaru can't join either; we need him at the front."
Tsunade thought for a moment. "Then Sakumo and Shinku make the most sense. They're experienced, skilled, and trustworthy."
The Hokage nodded. "It's settled. I'll leave with them in three days. In the meantime, focus on strengthening our position here."
The Weight of the Decision
As the meeting concluded, the Third Hokage couldn't shake the sense of foreboding. He knew this summit was a Hongmen Banquet, a feast where Konoha would be the main course. But refusing to attend wasn't an option.
Tsunade lingered for a moment after the others left. "Old man, you'd better be careful out there. If this goes south, we'll have four villages breathing down our necks."
The Hokage smiled grimly. "I know, Tsunade. But Konoha isn't weak, and we won't be bullied. I'll make sure of it."
With that, the stage was set for the Five Kage Summit—a meeting that could reshape the balance of power in the ninja world.
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