Several thoughts flashed through Tobirama's mind in the brief moment it took Sasuke Uchiha to leave with his hands in his pockets. The young Uchiha didn't notice Tobirama's watchful gaze.
It was likely Sasuke was wrestling with whether to abandon his comrades and seek power from Orochimaru.
Tobirama's eyes lingered on the direction Sasuke had gone before shifting toward a shadowy alley.
In an instant, three ANBU members wearing animal masks emerged from the darkness.
"Hokage-sama," they greeted in unison.
These ANBU were Tobirama's personal guards. Might Guy, though loyal, was far too conspicuous for covert protection, so Tobirama had assigned him other tasks. Only when leaving Konohagakure did he bring Guy along.
"That little one just now... he's the only remaining Uchiha, isn't he?" Tobirama asked, glancing at the three.
The ANBU nodded. "Yes, Hokage-sama. That was Uchiha Sasuke, son of the former Uchiha clan head, Fugaku. It was his older brother, Uchiha Itachi, who eradicated their clan. As for why Sasuke survived, I am not privy to those details."
The ANBU before him were not high-ranking enough to know the truth behind the Uchiha massacre.
Feigning curiosity, Tobirama wore an expression of mild surprise.
"I see," he said, as though the explanation had just filled in the gaps.
Then, he issued an order. "Arrange for Uchiha Sasuke to join Kakashi's ANBU team. Bring Uzumaki Naruto into it as well."
The ANBU exchanged quick glances before nodding in acknowledgment.
"Oh, and who are their current jōnin instructors?" Tobirama added, though he already knew the answer.
"Hokage-sama, their instructor is Captain Hatake Kakashi."
"How convenient," Tobirama remarked. "Tell Kakashi to have them spar more often. I have high hopes for the bond between those two."
With that, Tobirama turned and continued his stroll through the streets of Konohagakure.
The three ANBU silently communicated with glances. One departed to relay the message, while the other two melted back into the shadows.
"Good afternoon, Hokage-sama!"
"Hokage-sama, have you eaten lunch yet? Ah, wait, you don't eat, do you?"
"Hokage-sama...!"
Tobirama found himself overwhelmed by the warm greetings of villagers as he walked through the streets. Though he appreciated their enthusiasm, it was slightly exhausting. Feeling cornered, he hastily retreated to the Hokage's office.
As he approached the building, a familiar figure caught his eye. It was Saitō Shigemitsu, an envoy sent by the Daimyō to Konohagakure.
The portly middle-aged man approached with a bright smile, bowing deeply.
"Hokage-sama, thank you once again. Without your intervention, I'm sure I would've lost my life."
"It was a trifling matter, Saitō-san. No need for such formality," Tobirama replied, stepping forward to help him up.
"To what do I owe this visit?"
"Well, now that your inauguration is complete, I must return to report to the Daimyō. I can't stay in Konohagakure forever, can I?" Saitō said with an awkward chuckle, wiping the sweat from his brow.
"You're heading back to the capital of the Land of Fire? I'll arrange for a team of shinobi to escort you," Tobirama assured him with a nod.
"Thank you, Hokage-sama. Actually, there's one more matter I must discuss," Saitō said, glancing toward the ANBU stationed nearby.
Tobirama understood immediately and signaled the ANBU to withdraw.
Once they were alone, Saitō leaned in and spoke in a near-whisper.
"Hokage-sama, the Daimyō has asked me to relay a message. He is aware of Sunagakure's actions. If Konoha chooses to take military action against them, the Daimyō will fully support you, covering all expenses."
Hearing this, a faint smile crossed Tobirama's face.
It seemed the Daimyō was more perceptive than he'd anticipated. Tobirama had been considering a confrontation with Sunagakure, and this support felt like a pillow offered to a tired man just as he was about to rest.
"Please convey my gratitude to the Daimyō," Tobirama said with a nod.
Relieved, Saitō let out a sigh. As a close confidant of the Daimyō, he was privy to certain secrets of the Land of Fire. Rumor had it that the Daimyō and the Senju clan shared a close relationship, and seeing Tobirama's calm reaction only strengthened his suspicions.
Soon, the convoy escorting Saitō departed, disappearing into the distance. Tobirama, watching them leave, returned to his seat in the Hokage's office, his mind already plotting the next steps.
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