The Strongest Genjutsu

Inside the Hokage Office.

When Minamoto Takuya appeared in the doorway, a trace of heaviness unconsciously flickered through Minato Namikaze's azure eyes.

It was not that he disliked seeing this highly experienced senior, but whenever his senior appeared, it often came with urgent news—the border was in trouble again.

Worry rose in Minato's heart. Jiraiya had yet to return, and he himself had to remain in Konoha, guarding against the "Black-Clad Man" who might still be lurking in the shadows.

This was absolutely not the right time to rashly start a war.

"Hokage Lord," Minamoto Takuya's voice broke the silence, "much of the intelligence regarding the border is now usually submitted directly to you. As the Vice Captain Commander in charge of the intelligence department, remaining in the Anbu seems somewhat... undeserved."

His tone was calm, with no discernible emotional fluctuation.

"That is not true, Senior," Minato immediately replied, his tone sincere and reassuring. "Your experience and judgment in overseeing Anbu intelligence analysis are an important part of the village. How could you be of no use?"

"Minato." Minamoto Takuya's form of address suddenly changed, becoming more intimate, and Minato was slightly taken aback.

Within this space that represented authority, that form of address felt somewhat subtle. In the past, even if he had wanted the other man to call him that, he would have been refused. But now...

Then, Minamoto Takuya made an even more surprising move.

He slowly raised a hand and removed the Anbu mask concealing his face.

The familiar face beneath it bore a resolute expression.

"I have decided to go to the northern border, to assist at the frontline where we face the Land of Lightning," he clearly stated his purpose.

"What?!" Minato shot to his feet, his face filled with shock.

Before his surprise