Chapter 108: The Anbu Minister
"Hokage-sama, I have a proposal." Shimura Nao's voice cut through the post-meeting murmurs.
"Speak," Madara commanded, his attention focusing.
"Now that we have integrated the forces of multiple clans, we only have a clearly defined Police Force, and that duty falls solely to the Senju. This underutilizes our collective strength. Furthermore, in special circumstances, the burden on the Senju would be immense. I propose that, in addition to the public Police Force, we establish a covert operations division. I believe every clan here previously maintained its own intelligence and black-ops units. We should consolidate that expertise."
A faint, knowing smile touched Uchiha Raizen's lips. So it begins. But this idea didn't originate with the pragmatic but unassuming Shimura. The true architect was undoubtedly Senju Tobirama, who had clearly been lobbying behind the scenes. It was a masterful move, executed swiftly.
"An Anbu," Madara mused, his strategic mind instantly recognizing the value. "The proposal is approved. The question remains: who will lead it?"
The room tensed. This position was of critical importance—a second, hidden layer of Konoha's defense, potentially even more powerful than the Police Force. It also came with significant political weight, granting the holder's clan an extra voice in council meetings. Every leader was now calculating the implications.
"I believe Senju Tobirama is the most suitable candidate for this role," Raizen stated calmly.
A stunned silence fell over the chamber.
"Elder Raizen, what did you just say?" Madara asked, his surprise evident.
Even Tobirama, who had been standing quietly, looked up sharply, his red eyes wide with disbelief. He had never expected to hold a major office, partly due to the unspoken agreement that had secured the Uchiha-Senju alliance, and partly due to his own controversial reputation.
"Hokage-sama, my reasoning is sound," Raizen continued, unfazed. "In terms of both combat prowess and strategic acumen, Senju Tobirama is more than qualified. While I could perform the role, I have… other responsibilities."
Madara was now thoroughly confused. What other responsibilities? What is he planning?
"I object!" Hashirama stood, his voice firm. "This is not—"
"Your objection is noted, Hashirama," Madara interrupted, shifting his gaze to the other clan leaders. "What is the will of the council?"
One by one, the votes came in.
"Agreed."
"Agreed."
"Agreed."
Except for Hashirama, everyone assented. Tobirama's mind reeled. This was his ultimate objective, but to achieve it so easily, with the endorsement of his clan's greatest rival, felt surreal. The path had been cleared of all obstacles before he had even taken a step.
"Very well," Madara declared. "By the will of the council, the Anbu are established, and Senju Tobirama is appointed as their first commander. You have one month to assemble your forces and present a functional unit. This meeting is adjourned."
As the other clan leaders filed out, only Hashirama, Madara, and Raizen remained in the chamber.
"Raizen," Hashirama began, his voice heavy with confusion and a hint of betrayal, "what is the meaning of this? I promised Madara that I—"
"Enough, Hashirama," Madara cut him off, though he shared the confusion. He turned to Raizen. "This was your doing. Explain."
They both fixed their expectant gazes on him.
"Why are you looking at me?" Raizen said with a theatrical sigh. "Tobirama is the right man for the job. I, on the other hand, am lazy and dislike administrative burdens. It's that simple."
"Do you truly have no other motive?" Madara pressed, his Sharingan subtly active, searching for any hint of deception.
"Fine, fine," Raizen conceded, his expression turning serious. "I'll spell it out. What is the final, lingering obstacle to true unity between our clans? It isn't you, Madara. It isn't you, Hashirama. It's Tobirama." He held up a hand to forestall Madara's retort. "Don't speak. I know the two of you are far stronger than him, and than me. But strength isn't the only measure. What was our original purpose in founding this village? Was it not to move beyond conquering through force alone? We must conquer through integration. By giving Tobirama a purpose, a stake in this village that aligns his brilliant, paranoid mind with its survival, we neutralize the greatest internal threat to our peace. We turn a potential enemy within our walls into our most formidable guardian. That is the reason."
💫 Liked the chapter?You can read 100+ extra chapters on Patreon, including the current
Patreon Chapter 200 – Shisui: The Son Of Madara
👉 Patreon.com/KudosNey
Your support helps me write more and update faster 💖And don't forget to drop a Power Stone ⭐ — it really motivates me!
Thank you for reading! 🙌✨