Kumoi listened quietly, his fingertips absently stroking the warm wall of his cup.
The report itself was logically sound, and the Anbu casualties "made sense" under such tactical arrangements.
But he and Hiruzen knew Shimura Danzō too well—his logic of "necessary sacrifices," and his habit of concealing multiple objectives behind every action.
"Then, regarding Root's specific operational details, and the moments after the battle... does the vice captain have anything to add?"
Kumoi asked casually, as though he were merely concerned with the full picture of the mission.
Hiruzen shook his head.
"He mentioned that communications had been cut off once the fierce battle began. He had focused on his own engagement and did not know Root's precise movements.
"As for afterward, his consciousness was hazy before he lost consciousness. He only vaguely recalled figures moving among the battlefield ruins, but could not confirm any details."
The study fell silent for a moment, broken only by the faint occasional crackle of the lamp wick.
There was no evidence—only a report with wildly uneven casualties, devastating losses among the Anbu sent there, zero casualties for Root, the blurred memories of one severely wounded survivor, and the deep understanding of Danzo's methods accumulated over years of working together.
Together, these were enough to sound an alarm in their hearts, but not enough to put even a single accusation into the open.
"The northern front mission achieved its objective. That is the result."
Kumoi spoke slowly, his tone steady as he set the public tone for the matter.
"The Anbu comrades fought bravely and suffered grievous losses. Their achievements and sacrifices must be remembered, and compensation must be granted at the highest standard without fail.
"Elder Danzo commanded effectively and completed the mission. That, too, should be recorded."
"Yes, I understand."
Hiruzen nodded.