There wasn't much left to say. If war was inevitable, there was no use wishing otherwise. It was better to prepare than hope the enemy would change their mind.
Hiruzen was right-they could not allow the fighting to reach the Land of Fire.
"After this meeting, we will be mobilizing our forces along the coastline, preparing to defend against any incursions from the Mist Village."
Among the Five Great Shinobi Nations, Mist and Sand were considered the weakest contenders.
The brutal regime of the "Blood Mist" era had also weakened the Mist Village's military strength, making them far less formidable than the likes of the Cloud or Stone Villages.
After conferring with the advisory council, Hiruzen had decided to form an elite unit to station along the border in preparation for any attack. This unit would primarily consist of clan ninjas, given the nature of the battlefield.
Since the fighting would likely take place near the sea, Mist Village shinobi would have the advantage, and ordinary Leaf shinobi would be at a disadvantage-sending them would be akin to sending cannon fodder.
"Lord Hokage, since this conflict started because of me, I volunteer to go to the border and lead the fight against the Mist Village," Sakumo Hatake suddenly spoke up.
Though no one blamed him-Mist Village was merely looking for an excuse-Sakumo couldn't justify staying in the village. He needed to be on the front lines.
Will Lord Hokage allow this?
Given Sakumo's status and reputation, if he went to the front, he would undoubtedly end up leading the operations there.
But his prestige was already incredibly high. If he were to achieve great success on the battlefield, it was likely that he'd become the clear favorite for the position of Fourth Hokage.
"No way!"
The first to oppose was Danzo. He immediately stood up.
If Sakumo Hatake became a candidate for the Fourth Hokage, then what would happen to Danzo's ambitions? He could not let that happen.
Danzo's objection drew everyone's attention.
As expected, Xin thought, Danzo couldn't stay quiet.
"Danzo, why are you objecting?" The Third Hokage asked, his tone calm. Despite his own underlying concerns, he wouldn't openly oppose Sakumo. But with Danzo stepping in, things were different.
Why?
Sakumo couldn't understand why Danzo was opposing him.
Meeting Sakumo's puzzled gaze, Danzo stood and spoke:
"The reason the Mist Village is threatening us with war is because of your actions. If you go to the front lines, it will only provoke them further, potentially affecting the course of the conflict. Therefore, I believe it's best for you to stay in the village."
"As for who should lead the front, I think Orochimaru is a good choice."
If no opportunities were available, then create them.
If the road ahead was blocked, then remove the obstruction-that was Danzo's approach.