"One more thing."
Tsunade emphasized her words. "Sasuke's research into Space-Time Ninjutsu stays between the few of us."
"Not a word of it can get out."
"Understood."
Only then did Tsunade turn to Shikaku Nara.
Shikaku had been standing quietly to one side.
"Shikaku."
"Yes."
"Raise security around Konoha by another level."
"But keep it relaxed on the surface and tight underneath."
"Don't let outsiders notice anything unusual. Step up patrol frequency, ANBU deployments, the Barrier Team's monitoring, and everything else, but keep it discreet."
Shikaku nodded. "I understand. Everything will look normal on the surface, but every defensive line will actually be on high alert."
"If anyone notices anything-"
Tsunade paused. "Attribute the security measures to the Chunin Ninja Exams."
"Say that with ninja from every nation gathering here, the increased pressure on security requires heightened vigilance. That explanation holds up."
"Yes."
Shikaku replied, "That's a perfectly reasonable explanation. Konoha always tightens security during the Chunin Ninja Exams anyway. It won't raise any suspicions."
"One more thing," Tsunade continued. "Have the Barrier Team secretly monitor all unusual chakra fluctuations around Konoha, especially traces of Space-Time Ninjutsu."
"If Naraku returns, or... those two enemies from the Ōtsutsuki Clan appear, we need to know immediately."
"I'll arrange for the Hyuga Clan and the Barrier Team to take turns on watch," Shikaku said. "Combining the Byakugan with Barrier Ninjutsu will cover every area around Konoha."
Tsunade finally nodded.
She closed her eyes and let out a long breath.
Only after making these arrangements did she manage to breathe a little easier.
The office was so quiet that they could hear the night breeze rustling the leaves outside the window.
Jiraiya looked at her weary profile and wanted to say something, but in the end, he remained silent.
"Tsunade."
"Hmm?"
"What do you