Inside the hot spring, the atmosphere was harmonious; everyone was relaxed and enjoying themselves.
Just then, the bamboo curtain at the entrance of the courtyard was gently lifted, and Shizune entered, holding a stack of scrolls in her arms.
"Lady Tsunade, the Anbu has sent a few more scrolls for you to look over."
Hearing this, the lazy expression on Tsunade's face faded slightly, but she didn't mean to leave the hot spring immediately. Instead, she waved her hand casually.
"Bring them over, Shizune. I'm feeling a bit lightheaded from the soak anyway, so let's see if there's any news."
Shizune walked to the edge of the pool with the scrolls, knelt down, and handed the top one to Tsunade.
"Just read it aloud, so they don't get wet," Tsunade instructed.
"Yes." Shizune glanced at Hinata and Tenten, hesitated for a moment, then unfurled the scroll, scanned it quickly, and began her report. Her voice was steady, but the content caused the relaxed atmosphere in the pool to freeze.
"The first report is a summary from the joint reconnaissance of the Border Patrol Team and the Anbu. Within the past seventy-two hours, unidentified and suspicious reconnaissance Ninjas have been discovered around the Village's outer perimeter and beyond. They come from scattered sources and use professional techniques, suggesting they are from several different factions. Three groups attempted to penetrate the first layer of the Perimeter Net but were intercepted by the Anbu. No direct conflict occurred, and the parties retreated quickly."
Tsunade's eyes remained closed, but her brow furrowed almost imperceptibly.
"Hmph, the flies are multiplying. Continue."
Shizune opened the second scroll, her voice lowering a bit, sounding more solemn.
"The second report is from the Intelligence Division. Based on recent surveillance and cross-referenced intel, it is confirmed that unidentified Ninjas have appeared inside the Village. The specifics are still under investigation, but it is certain that their purpose is not just routine intelligence gathering; it may involve agitation, sabotage, or preparation for an external attack."
Tsunade gave a cold snort and finally opened her eyes.
"It seems some people really think Konoha is an easy bone to pick right now. What else?"
Shizune picked up the last scroll, which had a style and Seal clearly different from the others.
"Finally, a secret letter from Lord Jiraiya."
At the mention of Jiraiya's name, Tsunade's eyes flickered visibly, and even her leaning posture seemed to straighten up.
Tenten also pricked up her ears. After all, Jiraiya was a legendary figure, just as famous as Tsunade.
Shizune unfurled the secret letter, written in Jiraiya's first-person narrative style.
"Tsunade, I've finally caught the tail of that guy Orochimaru's mouse hole. The location is basically locked down. I'm almost ready on my end. Should I go scout the path first, or wait for you? Reply ASAP. — Jiraiya."
After reading, Shizune closed the scroll and looked at Tsunade, waiting for instructions.
The hot spring pool fell silent for a moment, with only the faint sound of rising steam.
Hearing Orochimaru's name, Tenten instinctively covered her mouth. All three of the legendary Sannin were suddenly involved!
And it looked like Lady Tsunade and Lord Jiraiya were preparing to take action against Orochimaru together! Also, was the content of these scrolls really something a Genin like her should be hearing? She wouldn't be silenced to keep the secret, would she?
Tenten immediately curled up, trying to diminish her presence, hoping no one would notice her.
Tsunade remained silent. She picked up the nearby wine cup, which had already grown slightly cool, but didn't drink. She just swirled it gently, watching the remaining liquid ripple.
Her gaze drifted unconsciously across the hot spring pool, passing over the nervous Tenten, and finally landing on Hinata's face, which had remained calm and undisturbed from beginning to end.
Hinata was still quietly soaking in the hot spring.
She raised her eyes and met Tsunade's gaze directly.
Tsunade looked at Hinata and suddenly spoke, her tone unreadable: "Little girl of the Hyuga Clan, what do you think?"
Shizune and Tenten were both stunned; they hadn't expected Tsunade to suddenly ask for Hinata's opinion.
"What are you referring to? If you are worried about the safety of the Village, then you can rest assured and go. Now that the Jonin are gathered in the Village, nothing major will happen."
Tsunade glanced at Hinata and suddenly laughed.
"True. Shizune, tell Jiraiya to send me the location and the known intel. Tell him to stay put for now and not to alert the enemy."
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