Isshin POV
"You fought good but not good enough." I said, observing the half way dead samurai clinging to their life and weaving a few hand seals.
[Wind style: Vacuum blade barrage]
Utilizing wind chakra to create sharp blades of air around me, I generate a series of vacuum blades that can slice through targets with great speed, lethality and precision. Unable to fight back the two samurai were butchered by the razor sharp wind blades.
[Kagura eyes]
Closing my eyes, I activated my mind with slight concentration to double check the surroundings, surprisingly I found two more shinobi on the nearby tallest tree waiting.
With more effort I recognised their chakra, intent, familiar chakra nature and fluctuation and figured out their identity. "Hashirama, Tobirama you can come out now."
The moment I spoke their names, the two figures descended from the branches above, landing gracefully before me. Hashirama, with his ever-enthusiastic grin, looked ready to join the fray, while Tobirama maintained his usual stoic demeanor, analyzing the battlefield with sharp eyes.
"You didn't need to call us out, Isshin," Hashirama said, his tone light despite the remnants of battle lingering in the air. "We were just... enjoying the view."
Tobirama crossed his arms, his gaze shifting to the fallen samurai. "You did well, but we should move now. Home is not far away."
I nodded, appreciating their presence but also the urgency of the situation which was over. "You both know this area better than anyone. So lead the way, I forgot there were two more shortcuts." Mito said.
"It's fine, it's been a long time since you last came." Hasihram appointed out with a thumbs up trying to encourage me.
As we made our way back to the Sanju estate, the tension of battle began to fade, replaced by the familiar sights and sounds of home. The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lush gardens and stone pathways.
Tobirama running beside me, a faint smile playing at the corners of his lips. "You fought exceptionally today, Isshin. Your mastery of wind techniques has truly grown since we last met."
"Thanks, Tobirama," I replied, a hint of pride creeping into my voice. "But we can't let our guard down. I'm already thinking about increasing the security on the estate routes. We can't risk another ambush like that."
Hashirama, who running a few paces ahead, turned back with a grin. "You're always thinking ahead, aren't you? But I agree. We need to ensure our home is safe. What do you have in mind?"
I considered the routes leading to the estate, visualizing potential vulnerabilities. "We can set up surveillance with the sealing techniques I recently created, allowing us to detect intruders before they even approach. I'll also reinforce the perimeter with traps and barriers which senju's will know where."
Tobirama nodded in approval. "A wise decision. With your enhanced wind techniques and sealing barriers, we can create a layered defense. It'll give us an advantage against any surprise attackers."
As we reached the estate, I felt a sense of determination welling up inside me. The tranquility of home was a stark contrast to the chaos we had just faced. "One month," I suggested. "How did you know I was about to ask for your stay?"
"Well I'm your brother in law…..moreover you are predictable to me brother." With a smirk I cleared his confusion.
Hashirama and Tobirama exchanged glances, their expressions serious yet supportive. Together, we stepped into the estate, ready to reinforce our defenses and protect what was ours and talk about the message I brough for Senju's.
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Later at night
In Senju leader room
The conference room was an imposing yet welcoming space, designed for both strategy and camaraderie. Its walls were adorned with intricate carvings depicting the history of the Senju clan—battles won. Soft, warm light filtered through shoji screens, casting gentle shadows across the polished wooden floor.
At the center of the room was a large, oval table made from dark, sturdy wood. Around it sat three elders, each a testament to the wisdom and experience of the clan. Their faces bore the marks of time, with deep lines that told stories of countless battles and leadership.
The first elder, a stern-looking man with silver hair, was known for his tactical brilliance. He leaned forward, hands clasped, his sharp gaze focused on Hashirama, who stood confidently at the head of the table.
Beside him, a woman with long, dark hair and a calm demeanor sat with her hands folded. Her presence radiated serenity, and she often served as the voice of reason during heated discussions. She nodded thoughtfully as Hashirama spoke, her eyes reflecting a deep understanding of the clan's challenges.
The third elder, an older man with a thick beard and a jovial expression, was known for his unwavering loyalty to the clan. He had a knack for diffusing tension with humor, often lightening the mood when discussions grew too intense.
As Hashirama began to address the group, the air was thick with anticipation. He spoke passionately about the need for increased security after the recent attack, his voice steady and resolute. The elders listened intently, exchanging glances as they considered his words, the weight of their responsibility evident in their expressions.
"Strengthening our defenses is crucial," Hashirama continued, gesturing toward a map of the estate spread out before them. "We cannot let our guard down. The safety of our people must always come first."
The atmosphere in the conference room shifted, the elders leaning forward with a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Hashirama, the ever-enthusiastic leader, regarded me with a warm yet serious expression. "Now let's talk about what brought you here, Isshin," he said, his voice steady.
"For three reasons—two official and one personal," I replied, trying to convey the gravity of my visit.
"Oh? Is that so?" Hashirama leaned back slightly, his fingers steepled as he regarded me intently. "What did the Uzumaki elder wish to discuss?"
I took a breath, organizing my thoughts. "First, the Senju requirement of shipment of vital supplies—be it weapons, scrolls, seals, and other materials has been delivered."
The room seemed to pause as the elders absorbed my words. The first elder, a stern man with silver hair and sharp features, was the first to respond. "Weapons and materials, we were in need. We lacked a stockpile."
"I'll ensure that our best craftsmen prepare everything you require."
"Thank you," He said, relieved. The urgency of their situation weighed heavily on my mind, and I was grateful for their willingness to assist.
"Now, what's your second reason?" Hashirama prompted, his enthusiasm returning.
I continued, "To deepen and strengthen our clan's brotherly ties. Mito's marriage is confirmed and will take place this month. This is a pivotal moment for both our clans, and I believe it's an opportunity we cannot afford to miss."
Hashirama's face lit up with a broad smile, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "That's excellent news! Mito's union will surely bring us closer together. We should hold a grand celebration—something that includes both clans. It will reinforce our unity and remind everyone of our shared purpose."
"With you."
'With ME!"
The elder woman, with her long dark hair and calm demeanor, nodded thoughtfully. "A celebration is indeed fitting. But we must ensure it aligns with the significance of the occasion. It should reflect the bond between our clans."
Tobirama, his arms crossed and a serious look on his face, interjected. "And what do you envision for this celebration, Isshin? We need to ensure it has substance beyond mere festivities."
I considered this carefully. "I was thinking of a joint festival—one where our clans come together, share stories, and celebrate our shared future. We can organize games, demonstrations of our skills, and perhaps even joint training sessions. It would not only strengthen our ties but also foster a sense of camaraderie among our younger members."
The elders exchanged glances, clearly intrigued by the idea. "It sounds promising," the elder woman said, her voice calm yet resolute. "We can work on the logistics together. It's vital that we honor this occasion appropriately."
As the discussion flowed naturally, I felt a sense of camaraderie building among us. But I knew I had one more matter to address, the most personal of all. Tobirama had prompted me earlier, and now I felt it was time to share.
I turned to him, who was still studying me with keen interest. "As for my personal reason… I wish to travel the Land of Fire to explore if true peace is possible. I want to connect with other clans and understand their perspectives, to see how we can build bridges and end the cycle of conflict."
The room fell silent, the weight of my words hanging in the air like a heavy fog. Hashirama's expression shifted to one of deep contemplation, a flicker of understanding in his eyes. "You seek to understand the hearts of our people, to find common ground," he stated, his tone serious.
"Yes," I replied, my conviction unwavering. "I believe that by forging genuine connections with others, we can foster a sense of unity that transcends old grudges and rivalries. It's a crucial journey, and I want the Senju to be a part of it."
Tobirama leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "It's a noble pursuit, Isshin. But be cautious. The path to peace is fraught with challenges—some you may not anticipate."
"I will be careful," I assured him. "But I believe it's a path worth taking. With your support and guidance, I feel we can make a difference. Together, we can shape a future where clans unite rather than divide."
The elders nodded, their expressions a blend of concern and respect. This wasn't just a meeting; it was a moment of solidarity, a commitment to navigating the future together. In that room, amidst the intricate carvings and echoes of history, we were not just discussing strategies but forging a bond that would carry us into a new era for the Senju clan and the Land of Fire.
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