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Tsunade looked up as Horyu entered, her expression serious. "Horyu, we need to discuss the next steps," she said, her tone leaving no room for delay.
Horyu nodded, all business once again. "Of course, Tsunade-sama. What are our orders?"
At the same time, Horyu folded his hands, and seals covered the room. When he was sure no one could listen in on their conversation, Tsunade asked, "Did you report Shisui?" Her eyes squinted.
Horyu nodded. "I had to. I can't keep something this big."
Tsunade sighed helplessly. "He's trying to separate me from the village, away from my grandfather and granduncle."
Horyu frowned. "Where?"
Tsunade pointed at the map. "Cloud front."
Horyu smiled, a touch of irony in his expression. "That's really cruel. A and Bee are burning with anger right now. Have you seen the latest report?"
Tsunade shook her head. Horyu handed her the scroll, watching as her pretty face scowled. "Two-Tails' Jinchuriki was kidnapped?"
Horyu nodded. "A is so angry, he will attack with full force."
Tsunade's brow furrowed deeper. "Shisui is pushing us into a corner. If A and Bee launch an all-out assault, the Cloud front will turn into a bloodbath."
Horyu's eyes darkened. "That's exactly what he wants. With you away and chaos at the borders, he can tighten his grip on Konoha. The return of the First and Second Hokage complicates things for him."
Tsunade leaned back, her mind racing. "My grandfather and granduncle will not tolerate his manipulations. They know how to see through deceit."
Horyu stayed silent, not choosing sides but simply presenting the facts. Tsunade understood the gravity of the situation. She sighed, her frustration clear. "I will take Grandfather and Granduncle with me to the Cloud front. Right now, Konoha needs all the defense it can muster."
Horyu's smile was tinged with irony. "That will only worsen our already tarnished reputation. First, Konoha is accused of kidnapping three Jinchuriki and stealing the Tailed Beasts. Now, it will appear we're resurrecting the dead to fight our battles."
Tsunade's frown deepened as she mulled over their options. "I know it was Orochimaru's doing, but explaining that to others will be incredibly difficult. What should we do?"
Horyu shook his head, his expression turning serious. "No matter what course we take, there will be both benefits and drawbacks. In our current situation, our options are limited."
Tsunade leaned back in her chair, staring at the map on the table. "I hate this feeling of helplessness. Our enemies are pushing us into a corner, and Shisui is not making it any easier."
Horyu's gaze was steady. "We need to focus on our immediate threats. The Cloud front is critical, and with Raikage A and Killer Bee's rage, they will attack with full force. Your presence might help diffuse the situation."
Tsunade nodded, her resolve hardening. "I'll take Grandfather and Granduncle with me. Their presence alone might be enough to make A reconsider a full-scale assault. We need to buy time and figure out our next move."
Horyu stood up, his posture relaxed but ready. "I'll handle things here."
Tsunade looked at him, a mix of gratitude and determination in her eyes. "Thank you, Horyu. You've done more for Konoha than most realize."
He gave a curt nod. "Just doing what's necessary. Be careful out there."
As Horyu stepped out of Tsunade's office, he found Hinata waiting for him. She stood there with her usual confident posture, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "Horyu," she greeted, her voice soft but steady. Much like Ino, Hinata too, hadn't seen him for a long time. Although Ino was engaged to Horyu in name, Hinata was closer to Horyu even before that. And she didn't want to lose Horyu. In their internship under Tsunade for three years, Ino and Hinata came to a basic understanding that they would probably share Horyu eventually.
"Hinata," he acknowledged, a rare smile touching his lips. "It's good to see you."
Hinata's eyes lit up at his words. "It's been a long time," she said, her voice carrying a mix of shyness and excitement. "I was worried about you."
Horyu nodded. "War does that. But I'm here now."
Hinata's blush deepened, and she hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "I've missed our talks, our training sessions."
Horyu's expression softened slightly. "I've missed you too, Hinata."
Hinata took a small step closer, her fingers brushing lightly against his arm. "I was hoping... maybe we could catch up? Just the two of us?"
Horyu glanced around, ensuring they had a moment of privacy. "Of course. Let's find somewhere quiet."
They walked side by side through the corridors, their proximity bringing a sense of comfort and familiarity. As they reached a secluded part of the training grounds, Hinata looked up at him. "It's been so lonely without you around. Training isn't the same without our sparring sessions."
Horyu nodded. "I remember those. You've always been a formidable opponent."
Hinata blushed again, this time with pride. "I tried to keep up with your progress, but you've grown so much stronger. It's inspiring."
They sat down on a nearby bench, the tension of the battlefield momentarily forgotten. Hinata turned to face him fully. "I was so worried about you, Horyu. Every day, I wondered if you were safe."
Horyu met her gaze, his tone steady. "You know me. I never put my life on the line if I'm not certain I can handle it."
Hinata nodded, her eyes showing understanding. "I know. But it still doesn't stop me from worrying."
Horyu gave her hand a brief squeeze. "I appreciate it, Hinata. Your concern means a lot."
Hinata smiled slightly, her cheeks still flushed. "I made something for you," she said, reaching into her pouch. She pulled out a small charm, intricately woven with care. "It's a protection charm. I hope it keeps you safe."
Horyu took the charm, his expression serious. "Thank you, Hinata. I'll keep it with me."
She nodded. "It means a lot to me that you're here, Horyu. I know things are difficult, but having you back... it makes everything feel a little more bearable."
Horyu placed the charm around his neck. "I'll make sure to come back."
Hinata's smile widened a bit. "I'm glad."
They stayed together for a while longer, enjoying the rare moment of peace amidst the chaos of their world. Eventually, Horyu stood up, offering his hand to Hinata. "Come on, let's get back. We still have a lot to do."
Hinata took his hand, standing up beside him. "Right. Together, we can handle anything."
In the Mist Village, chaos reigned after Yagura's capture. The village was thrown into turmoil, but Terumi Mei seized the opportunity to rise. With the support of powerful allies, she quickly began to stabilize the situation.
Zabuza Momochi, the Demon of the Mist, returned from his self-imposed exile with Haku, his loyal follower, and Kimimaro, a warrior of great potential. Their presence alone sent a clear message: the old order was being challenged, and a new leader was emerging. Zabuza's ruthless efficiency and Haku's unwavering dedication provided Mei with the muscle and loyalty needed to secure her position.
Joining them was Kisame Hoshigaki, the Monster of the Hidden Mist. His immense chakra reserves and formidable Samehada sword made him a terrifying presence on the battlefield. Alongside him were the Hozuki brothers, Mangetsu and Suigetsu, both masters of the Hydrification Technique. Their fluid combat style complemented the aggressive tactics of Zabuza and Kisame, creating a versatile and deadly force.
Mei's other supporters included her students, each a promising shinobi in their own right. Chojuro, one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, wielded the Hiramekarei with skill and precision. His loyalty to Mei was unwavering, and he quickly became one of her most trusted lieutenants. These five, forming a new generation of the Seven Swordsmen, became symbols of Mei's power and legitimacy.
With these allies, Mei began to consolidate her power. She swiftly moved to quell any dissent within the village, using both diplomacy and force where necessary. The people of the Mist, weary of the constant strife and bloodshed, were ready for a change. Mei's calm and authoritative presence provided a beacon of hope in the chaos.
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