The discussion in Konoha continued for some time. Many of the clan leaders and jonin commanders voiced the idea of sending reconnaissance teams to the Land of Snow, even going as far as suggesting members of the Hyuga main family, whose Byakugan boasted a broader range and keener perception than the branch family, to infiltrate and scout the situation. But Hiruzen quickly struck down the proposals. He revealed that Kumogakure had effectively placed the Land of Snow under an impenetrable guard, sealing its borders with layered defenses and counter-reconnaissance measures.
When he further disclosed Namikaze Minato's missions in the region, silence swept across the room. The heavy security surrounding Snow Country, combined with Kumogakure's vigilant patrols, made infiltration all but impossible. The realization left everyone solemn, an unspoken dread hanging in the air. If borders were sealed this tightly, it could only mean one thing, which is that another war might be on the horizon, or else why is the even now Land of Snow blocked in similar intensity, of which the Land of Lightning is after its ninja armies' destruction.
For Hiruzen, this atmosphere was nothing new. As Hokage and leader of the Sarutobi clan, guiding these young and still inexperienced clan heads in such meetings was simply part of his role and further control. He let them voice their speculations, their concerns, and their fears. But ultimately, nothing concrete could be done. The meeting ended the same way so many others had, with waiting, uncertainty, and the heavy weight of inaction; the policy followed by the 3rd Hokage, who had led them to survive the 2nd Ninja World War.
Soon, most of the attendees filed out, their expressions troubled. Only a few lingered, following Hiruzen back to the Hokage's office.
Inside, the atmosphere was more relaxed. Jiraiya, Orochimaru, and Minato were already there, close companions of the Hokage and far less formal in his presence. They sat as students with their teacher, the bonds between them evident despite the years.
A sharp double knock echoed against the door.
"Come in, Sakumo," Hiruzen called.
The door slid open, and Sakumo Hatake stepped in, bowing respectfully. "Hokage-sama, you asked for me?"
Hiruzen, who had been speaking idly with his disciples and Minato, turned his gaze to him. His tone shifted into something heavier. "Yes. Sakumo, have you uncovered anything regarding Danzo's actions? In particular, about the blonde ninja rumored to wield the Flying Thunder God technique, the one with the enormous bounty on the black market. And any others he may have trained in forbidden jutsu?"
Sakumo's eyes flickered toward Minato, but seeing that the Hokage did not attempt to shield the young man from the answers, he answered plainly. "No, Hokage-sama. I have been investigating Danzo-sama's known bases and tracking Root's movements in my capacity as ANBU commander. But I've found no evidence of such activity. Root continues its tasks as usual. Of course, I could only search the bases listed in ANBU's database. Danzo-sama may maintain secret facilities unknown to us. One thing of note, Root has recently recruited a large number of trainees. Most of them are children. Orphans, specifically."
Hiruzen exhaled slowly, his brows furrowing. "I see. Thank you for your diligence, Sakumo. Aside from keeping an eye on Root, there are no missions requiring your personal hand in this time of peace. Spend more time with your family while you can. And continue guiding Minato within ANBU, your experience will be invaluable to him."
At this, Minato smiled warmly at Sakumo, his usual sunny expression radiating reassurance. The two exchanged respectful greetings, teacher to mentor, subordinate to commander.
Sakumo bowed deeply. "Thank you for your concern, Hokage-sama. I will take my leave."