Aftermath 13

That very night, after the meeting with the clan leaders, Tobirama Senju made his way to the secluded compound where his brother, the God of Shinobi, Hashirama Senju, resided. The night air was crisp, carrying the sounds of the village as Tobirama approached the familiar, serene environment. It was rare for him to make such a visit, but tonight's events required his brother's counsel.

Hashirama, even in his retirement, had always been a pillar of wisdom for Tobirama. Despite the passing years and the weight of their responsibilities, their bond remained strong. Upon entering the study, Tobirama found Hashirama seated by the window, gazing out at the moonlit horizon. The older brother's presence still carried an aura of calm and authority that could soothe even the most troubled soul.

Tobirama stepped into the room, closing the door softly behind him. "Brother," he began, his voice steady but carrying the burden of the recent events. "We have a situation in the village. Something far more complex than we anticipated."

Hashirama turned his gaze towards Tobirama, his eyes filled with concern but tinged with curiosity. "What happened, Tobirama?"

Tobirama took a deep breath before explaining the events of the day. "There was an ambush at the border, in the Land of Hot Water. An Anbu squad was attacked, and a missing-nin from Kumo, Kaito Yotsuke, was responsible. He led a team of at least five Jonin, and the battle resulted in casualties. But here's the most troubling part: Senju Tetsuma and his team were the ones who captured Kaito."

Hashirama's brow furrowed as he processed the information. "Tetsuma... a child, yet capable of capturing an S-rank shinobi? That's... remarkable, but also dangerous. We can't allow such talent to go unnoticed, but at his age, he's still learning what it means to shoulder such responsibility."

"I know," Tobirama replied, his tone serious. "Tetsuma's actions have shown the potential he possesses, but the situation at hand is much larger. Kaito Yotsuke, though captured, was directly connected to a much bigger conspiracy—one that stretches beyond simple border skirmishes."

"Did you learn anything from Kaito?" Hashirama asked, his voice now more focused, the concern in his eyes deepening.

Tobirama shook his head. "Not yet. Kaito was sent straight to the Intelligence Department for interrogation. We need to know who's pulling the strings behind this, especially if Kumo is involved. We can't afford to underestimate them."

Hashirama stood up from his chair, his expression grave. "You've done well in containing the situation so far, Tobirama. But we cannot ignore the larger threat. If Kumo's forces are mobilizing in secret, it will only be a matter of time before they make their move."

Tobirama nodded. "That's why I've called you here, brother. We need to prepare, not just for the attacks, but for the political maneuvering that will inevitably follow. The village can't afford to be caught off guard."

Hashirama placed a hand on Tobirama's shoulder, offering a reassuring smile despite the tension in the air. "You've always been the pragmatic one, Tobirama. I trust you to make the right choices for the village. But you're not alone in this. Konoha has always thrived because of the unity we built. Don't forget that."

Tobirama gave a slight nod, though the weight of leadership still lingered heavily on his shoulders. "I know. But I fear that unity will soon be tested in ways we haven't seen before. We need to act swiftly."

With a final look at his brother, Tobirama turned and left the room, his mind already racing through the potential outcomes. The village was at a crossroads, and every decision he made from here on out would be critical. As he left Hashirama's compound, the cool night air felt heavy with the promise of uncertainty. Konoha's future was in his hands, and it was up to him to navigate the storm that was now brewing on the horizon.

The Intelligence Department would have to work quickly. Kaito's interrogation was the next crucial step, and the answers he would provide could either save the village or push it closer to war.