A Shift in Power

The next morning, Senju Kenta—Tetsuma's closest friend and confidant—personally posted an official announcement across the village:

"Effective immediately, the management and funding of all orphanages in Konoha will be privatized. The Senju family, under the leadership of Senju Tetsuma, will take full responsibility for building, funding, and maintaining orphanages, including food and education for the orphans of war."

The announcement sent shockwaves throughout Konoha.

The People's Reaction

In the marketplace, civilians paused their morning routines, gathering around the posted decrees. Murmurs and hushed conversations filled the streets.

Some were relieved. The war had left hundreds of children without families, and the village's already strained resources meant that the orphanages were barely functioning. If the powerful and wealthy Senju were taking over, perhaps the children would have a better future.

But within Konoha's political circles, the response was far more complicated.

The Advisors' Concern

Later that day, in the Hokage's Office, Hiruzen, Homura, and Koharu gathered to discuss the unexpected announcement.

Homura adjusted his glasses, his expression unreadable. "Tetsuma has been acquiring wealth for years, but now we finally see where it's going."

Koharu crossed her arms. "This is more than just charity. By taking control of the orphanages, he's also taking control of the future generations of Konoha's shinobi."

Hiruzen sighed, rubbing his temples. "Tetsuma isn't someone who makes moves without careful thought. He's not just providing for orphans—he's ensuring their loyalty to him and his ideals."

The room fell silent.

A Private Discussion at the Senju Estate

Meanwhile, at the Senju Estate, Senju Kenta returned from his rounds in the village. Entering the private study, he found Tetsuma Senju calmly sipping tea, waiting for him.

Kenta smirked as he sat across from his old friend. "It's done. The whole village is talking about it."

Tetsuma nodded, his sharp eyes unreadable. "And the advisors?"

Kenta chuckled. "Predictable as always. They see it as a political move, not just charity."

Tetsuma exhaled slowly, placing his teacup down. "Because it is both. Konoha needs stability, but it also needs a guiding hand. If we leave these orphans to fend for themselves, they'll be swallowed by the darkness of the world. This way, we give them a purpose—a future."

Kenta leaned back, arms crossed. "And what about Hiruzen?"

Tetsuma's gaze flickered. "He will understand—eventually. But the others… they will resist."

Kenta laughed. "Let them. By the time they figure out their next move, the orphanages will already be built, the children will already be safe, and the people will already see you as their protector."

Tetsuma allowed himself a small smile. "Exactly."