The Fourth Raikage was dead, and the remaining rebel remnants were no longer a threat.
Konoha's ninja moved through the streets and alleys, handling the aftermath.
Only after the sensory ninja had cast sensory barriers and searched the entire village again and again did the villagers emerge from the shelters beneath Hokage Rock.
All the rebels were either killed or captured alive.
"By the Hokage's order, we'll be taking over these rebels."
Several ninja dressed as Anbu arrived at the location where the prisoners of war were being held. Their leader took out a token representing the Hokage and spoke to the ninja guarding the captives.
The man naturally raised no objections. After the handover, he left without hesitation.
Other than the rebels, only this group of Anbu remained.
"Do it." The leader drew the short blade from his back, his voice cold.
Before the rebels' terrified eyes, every Anbu drew their blades.
"Why? We've already surrendered..."
"No... Don't kill me!"
"Help!"
At the same time, the same scene was playing out in Konoha Prison.
Not every prisoner had participated in the riot. Some had seen it coming and, even after their cell doors had been opened, remained obediently in the prison without going anywhere.
Two Anbu arrived before Konoha's ninja could retake control of the place.
Looking at the dim prison entrance ahead, both held short blades in their hands, their voices indifferent.
"Erase all traces. Leave no one alive."
"Understood."
Hokage's Office, conference room.
The atmosphere was unnaturally quiet, and everyone seated around the room wore different expressions.
A prison riot—who had been pulling the strings behind it?
Minato could not help glancing at Orochimaru, who sat at the head of the table. He recalled what Shikaku had once told him.
Someone had been helping him behind