Chapter 89

The meeting progressed with discussions of compensation and contributions from the recent war. Tsunade, having negotiated favorable terms with the major villages, now aimed to be more generous in supporting the families who had lost their shinobi.

The conversation inevitably turned to the casualties of war—the sacrifices made, the losses suffered, and the lessons learned. Tsunade listened intently as the clan heads and representatives shared their perspectives and concerns.

"It's clear that we've emerged victorious, but at what cost?" one elder remarked, his voice tinged with sorrow. "So many lives lost, so much destruction. We must ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain."

Tsunade nodded solemnly, her gaze reflecting the weight of the responsibility she now bore. "Indeed, we must honor the fallen by rebuilding our village stronger than before. But let us also remember this war as a lesson . War should always be a last resort but if the safety of the village is threatened we shouldn't shy back from conflict."

Several heads nodded in agreement, acknowledging the wisdom in Tsunade's words. "We must also consider the long-term implications of our actions," another representative added. "The treaties we've signed will shape our relationships with other villages for years to come."

Discussion ensued about the terms of the treaties, the distribution of resources, and the establishment of alliances to ensure lasting stability in the region. Tsunade listened attentively, offering her insights and guidance where needed.

"We must also remain vigilant," Hiruzen emphasized, his tone firm. "The end of one conflict does not guarantee an end to all threats. We must be prepared to defend our village and its people at all costs."

"Tsunade, I understand the need, but do you think the amount you're offering for compensation is a bit excessive?" Koharu, responsible for village finances, raised a valid concern. The compensation Tsunade proposed was unprecedented, and while Konoha could afford it, Koharu sought to alleviate the burden on the treasury.

Tsunade considered Koharu's question thoughtfully, understanding the concerns about the financial strain such generous compensation could place on the village's resources. "I understand your apprehension, Koharu, but we must remember the magnitude of the sacrifices made by our shinobi and their families. We cannot put a price on their lives and the invaluable service they have rendered to Konoha."

She paused, her expression grave yet determined. "These shinobi fought bravely and selflessly to protect our village and its people. It is our duty to ensure that their families are taken care of in their absence. This compensation is not just about monetary value—it is about showing our gratitude, honoring their sacrifice, and providing for those left behind."

Tsunade's words resonated with the gathered clan heads and representatives, many of whom had lost loved ones in the war. They understood the importance of supporting the families of fallen shinobi during such difficult times.

"Furthermore," Tsunade continued, "by offering generous compensation, we not only fulfill our moral obligation to our shinobi but also demonstrate to other villages our commitment to taking care of our own. This can foster goodwill and strengthen our village in the long run."

Koharu nodded, acknowledging the validity of Tsunade's points. "I see your perspective, Tsunade. I will ensure that the village finances are managed prudently to accommodate these compensations without compromising our long-term stability."

With that assurance, the discussion shifted to practical matters of implementing the compensation plans and ensuring that the families of fallen shinobi received the support they deserved. Tsunade's leadership and compassion shone through as she guided the proceedings with wisdom and empathy, earning the respect and admiration of all present.

"Tsunade-sama, if I may be bold, may I inquire about your plans for the Bijuu? Most of the clans within the village have been growing restless," one of the Hyuga elders couldn't help but ask regarding Tsunade's plans for the captured bijuu.

Tsunade's gaze lingered on the Hyuga elder, her expression revealing a blend of curiosity and calculation. She had sensed a subtle undercurrent of political maneuvering in his question, a hint of lingering allegiance to factions that had once vied for power within the village. Despite the outward appearance of unity, Tsunade knew that old rivalries and ambitions still simmered beneath the surface.

With a measured tone, she responded, "The Bijuu are under the Senju protection , and their fate will be determined shortly during this meeting. As for the concerns of certain factions, rest assured that the village's interests will always come first." Her words carried a veiled warning, a reminder that she was fully aware of the political landscape and would not hesitate to assert her authority.

The Hyuga elder nodded solemnly, recognizing the implicit message in Tsunade's response. It was clear that she was not one to be underestimated, and her commitment to the village's well-being was unwavering.

"Now that the matter has been brought up by the Hyuga elder let's finalise this matter".

Tsunade's response was firm, echoing with the authority befitting her position as Hokage. Her words cut through the murmurs in the room, commanding attention from all present.

"Everyone ," she began, her voice resonating with certainty. "The allocation of the Bijuu will be determined based on the contributions of the clans to Konoha's prosperity and security. This decision was made in consultation with the village elders and Sensei, and if anyone has any questions please feel free to address them."

Her gaze swept across the assembly, meeting the eyes of each individual in turn. There was no room for doubt or dissent in her proclamation. Tsunade's unwavering resolve sent a clear message: the era of political games and self-serving agendas was over. In its place stood a leader who prioritized the greater good of the village above all else.

As the weight of her words settled over the room, Tsunade exuded an aura of authority and determination, leaving no doubt that she was prepared to uphold the best interests of Konoha with unwavering resolve.

"So the Hyuga elder need not worry; I will personally assign the Bijuu as the contributions have mostly been tallied ," Tsunade declared with unwavering confidence. She understood the concerns of certain factions within the village, but her decision was final.

"Our village currently holds, in addition to the Nine Tails, four more Bijuu. So, going by contributions to the village, the Uchiha will be given the Seven Tails, the Five Tails will remain with the Senju, and the Two Tails will be assigned to the Nara clan."

Elder Kenji and Uchiha Fugaku exchanged a glance across the meeting hall, their expressions mirroring a shared sense of elation and pride. Elder Kenji, with his dignified bearing and a lifetime of experience etched into the lines of his face, radiated a quiet satisfaction. His eyes gleamed with a mixture of gratitude and anticipation, knowing that the honor bestowed upon the Uchiha clan by Tsunade's decision would bolster their standing within the village.

Beside him, Uchiha Fugaku, tall and imposing, exuded a restrained excitement that simmered beneath the surface. His typically stoic countenance cracked ever so slightly, revealing a rare glimpse of warmth and satisfaction. For the Uchiha clan, known for their fierce loyalty and unwavering dedication to Konoha, this recognition from the Hokage was a validation of their unwavering commitment to the village's prosperity and security.

As Tsunade announced the allocation of the Seven-Tails to the Uchiha clan, a ripple of whispered murmurs spread among other representatives. Fugaku's chest swelled with pride, and a subtle smile graced his lips as he accepted this honor on behalf of his clan. Kenji's eyes shone with a quiet intensity, his hand resting firmly on the table as a symbol of solidarity and resolve.

In that moment, Elder Kenji and Uchiha Fugaku shared a silent acknowledgment of the weight of responsibility that accompanied this gift. They understood the significance of their clan's role as guardians of the Seven-Tails and were determined to uphold their legacy with honor and integrity.

As Tsunade announced the allocation of the Two Tails to the Nara clan, a wave of murmurs and discontent swept through the assembly. Even Shikaku, the head of the Nara clan, was taken aback by surprise becausethe bold move. However, he remained composed, knowing that Tsunade had her reasons.

"Tsunade Sama, the Senju and Uchiha clans we understand, but the Nara clan? They are not even a major clan; at best, they can be classified as a top-grade medium-level clan," one representative dared to voice his objection, sensing the gravity of the situation.

Tsunade's expression remained impassive, her gaze unwavering as she addressed the dissenting voices in the room. She knew that her decision would not sit well with everyone, but she was prepared to defend it with conviction.

Many of the clan elders turned to Hiruzen for support, knowing that the Sarutobi clan had grown significantly under his leadership as Hokage. Hiruzen understood Tsunade's strategic decision to allocate the Bijuu to the Nara clan. By gaining their support, she would also secure the allegiance of the Yamanaka and Akimichi clans, who were closely allied with the Naras.

While Hiruzen felt a twinge of disappointment that his own clan would not receive a Bijuu, he recognized the merit in Tsunade's decision. The Sarutobi clan had not made significant contributions to warrant such a reward, and Hiruzen was not about to ask for special treatment.

When the representatives turned to him for support, they were met with disappointment. Hiruzen made it clear that he would stand by Tsunade's decision, recognizing the logic behind it.

"Tsunade-sama, while it's understandable that the Bijuu were captured due to your plans, we must also consider the expertise of the Nara clan in safeguarding such valuable assets," one voice among the representatives interjected, attempting to cast doubt on the Nara clan's capabilities.

"Yes, Tsunade-sama, it may not be appropriate for the Nara clan to gain access to the Bijuu. Their contributions to the village may not compare to those of the Senju and Uchiha clans," echoed the Hyuga elder.

"Oh, is that so? In that case, why not the Hyuga elder enlighten me about who the remaining Bijuu should go to?" Tsunade questioned with a smile on her face. However, Hiruzen and Jiraiya, who knew Tsunade's personality well, sensed her underlying anger. They knew that if Tsunade wasn't the Hokage now, she might have resorted to physical force.

"Well… Tsunade-sama, I'm not implying that I know better or anything, but if we were to go by your words, then wouldn't it be better to consider the larger clans like the Hyuga and Sarutobi clans?" The Hyuga elder still didn't grasp the precarious situation he was in, assuming Tsunade was genuinely seeking his input. His greed clouded his judgment.

"So tell me, what are we to do about the civilian ninjas? They constitute the majority of our shinobi forces, and if we collectively take into account their contributions, shouldn't they be assigned a Bijuu?" Tsunade continued probing, wanting to gauge how far the elder was willing to go.

"Tsunade-sama, everyone here knows that the opinions of civilian ninjas are of little importance for governing the village. They could be appeased with other forms of compensation and cannot nurture a Jinchuriki or ensure its safety," the Hyuga elder boldly claimed. Originally, Jiraiya had wanted to intervene to resolve the misunderstanding, but now his expression turned grim at the blatant disregard for civilian ninjas. Jiraiya himself was a civilian ninja, and despite recently joining the Senju clan under Tsunade's insistence, he still felt a strong connection to civilian shinobi.

"Hahaha, Jiraiya, look, the Hyuga elder is saying that civilians like you are inconsequential to the village," Tsunade laughed aloud, unable to contain her amusement and anger any longer.

"Tsunade-sama, please forgive the Hyuga elder. It was not his intention to question Jiraiya-sama, and we Hyuga understand how important each shinobi's contribution is to the village's development is," Hiashi interjected, unable to tolerate the elder's reckless behavior any longer. He gave the elder a stern look, gesturing for him to shut up, then turned to Tsunade with a tone of sincere apology.

"Hyuga clan elder, I hope this is the last time you disrespect a fellow shinobi or faction of the Leaf Village, especially during an occasion like this. Keep your private opinions within the Hyuga clan compound," Tsunade admonished, her anger simmering. She knew she would soon crush such opinions and eradicate them at their root, but for now, she needed to provide an explanation to prevent the Nara clan from being targeted in the future.

"Assigning the Two-Tails to the Nara clan is not a matter of favoritism. They have genuinely made significant contributions. Before you question it, know that the Fuinjutsu Grandmaster is not a guest of the Nara clan but a member. Therefore, any and all contributions to the village are accounted for under the Nara clan," Tsunade explained, her tone carrying a slight smirk as she prepared to reveal some details regarding the Fuinjutsu Grandmaster.