The Hidden Net-Closing Operation at the Hongmen Banquet, Meant to Rattle the Mountain and Shake the Tiger

The dining room of the Hokage Residence had no unnecessary decorations.

There was a square wooden table, two sets of bowls and chopsticks, and a warm yellow lamp.

The air held only the fragrant scent of food and a silence that was almost frozen solid.

Baishi sat in the seat of honor. The tea before him had already been replaced once, and wisps of steam blurred his calm, expressionless face.

Faint footsteps came from outside the door. They were unhurried, carrying the distinctive rhythm of someone who had spent many years in a position of power.

An ANBU Attendant opened the door, and Mitokado Homura walked in.

He had changed out of his usual consultant's robes and put on an ordinary dark Kimono. He looked like a common old man paying a visit to a neighbor's home.

"Hokage-sama, this old man is late." Mitokado Homura bowed slightly, his tone mild.

"Consultant Homura, you're too polite. I was the one imposing on you by inviting you over so late." Baishi rose and gestured invitingly. "Please, sit."

Mitokado Homura took the guest's seat and glanced over the dishes on the table.

There were four dishes and a soup, all home-style fare, even somewhat too plain.

There were no exotic delicacies and no expensive wine.

The Attendant poured him some tea, then quietly withdrew and closed the dining room door.

In the sealed room, only the two of them remained.

"The village has been busy with affairs lately. Hokage-sama has been working tirelessly and should still take care of his health." Mitokado Homura lifted his teacup as though making idle conversation.

"Thank you for your concern, Consultant." Baishi picked up some greens with his chopsticks. "Since I hold this position, I must do my duty. So long as the village remains stable and