An internal bulletin on overstepping authority and the high command's ruling

The top floor of the Hokage Building, the Supreme Military Conference Room.

The enormous ring-shaped conference table gleamed like a mirror, reflecting the cold ceiling lights.

The air was as still and heavy as iron.

Baishi sat at the head of the table, his fingers tapping absently against its surface with a dull, steady rhythm. Each tap seemed to tread on the attendees' taut nerves.

To his left sat the Chief of General Staff, Shikaku Nara. Beyond him were the two advisers, Mitokado Homura and Utatane Koharu.

Only one person sat to his right.

Deputy Representative Namikaze Minato.

The steam above the cup before him had long since faded. His tea was cold, much like his mood.

The department heads sat around the outer circle, their heads lowered in silence, even their breathing deliberately subdued.

Three full minutes of silence had passed since Shikaku Nara finished reporting the latest developments in the southern border standoff.

"Ahem."

A light cough broke the silence.

It was Shikaku Nara.

He adjusted the glasses on the bridge of his nose and drew a thin dossier from the stack of documents beside him, his movements unhurried.

"Lord Hokage, advisers, there is one more matter that requires a supplementary report here."

Every gaze settled on him.

"This occurred last night, after the tripartite talks were suspended. In accordance with the grade A combat readiness intelligence management regulations you signed into effect, the matter has been reported through the prescribed channels and entered into the record."

Shikaku spoke blandly, as though reporting the most ordinary procedural matter.

Mitokado Homura frowned slightly. He disliked last-minute additions outside the formal agenda. They usually meant some unpredictable complication.

Namikaze Minato's heart sank sharply.

He had an ominous feeling.

"Proceed." Baishi stopped tapping, his response succinct.

"At twenty-one thirty-seven last night,"