The door to the Hokage's Office was shoved open from outside.
Fugaku Uchiha walked in first, still wearing his Konoha Military Police Force uniform. His hand went almost instinctively to the sword at his waist.
His expression was grim.
Hyuga Hiashi followed him in, along with Logistics Minister Morita, Defense Minister Takahashi, and several others. A shadow hung over every face.
No one sat down. They all stood, filling the open space in the middle of the office.
The tension was palpable.
Shikaku Nara stood beside Baishi's desk. He sighed softly but said nothing.
"Lord Hokage."
Fugaku Uchiha spoke through clenched teeth.
"We need an explanation."
Baishi sat behind his desk, reviewing a document without looking up. He drew a circle at the end of the page, then slowly set down his pen.
"An explanation for what?"
"The audit team! The frozen account!" Fugaku took a step forward, his voice rising sharply. "Why did you sign? Do you know what this means? The Daimyo Residence has a blade at Konoha's throat!"
Logistics Minister Morita wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Lord Hokage, the Finance Department just received formal notice from the bank. The account earmarked for the bonds has been completely frozen. We can't touch a single coin. The frontline troops are due to be paid next week. This..."
"And the equipment purchase from Sunagakure! We've signed the contract. If the first payment doesn't go through, we'll be in breach!"
"The village is already in turmoil! The clans that bought the bonds are asking whether Konoha's credit is about to collapse!"
Accusations and demands for answers echoed through the office.
Everyone was furious.
Baishi listened in silence, his gaze passing over each face. He showed neither anger nor impatience. His eyes were as still as deep water.
Only when the