Comeback of Senju Clan

Chapter 12: T meets A

After four days of grueling travel, Tetsuya and the genin teams finally reached their destination: Kumogakure, the Village Hidden by Clouds. Nestled high in the mountains, the village's unique geography and imposing architecture made it a sight to behold. The journey had been long, but the young shinobi's spirits were high as they marveled at the new environment.

As they approached the gates of Kumogakure, they were greeted by a tall man with dark skin, silver hair, and a calm yet authoritative presence. He wore a black robe with a single gold stripe, marking him as someone of significant importance.

"Welcome to Kumogakure," he said, his voice carrying a tone of respectful authority. "I am Darui, the Raikage-sama representative. We have prepared accommodations for you and your teams. Please follow me."

Tetsuya, dressed in his blue armor adorned with a white sleeve bearing the symbol of Hokage representation, nodded in appreciation. "Thank you, Darui-san. We are honored by your hospitality."

As they followed Darui through the village, the genin couldn't help but marvel at the towering buildings and the sheer number of shinobi bustling about. Despite their weariness from travel, their excitement was clearly visible.

They soon reached their lodging, a well-maintained building with ample space for everyone. After ensuring that the genin were settled in, Darui turned to Tetsuya. "Raikage-sama wishes to meet with you. If you are ready, please come with me."

Tetsuya nodded. "Lead the way."

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Walking through the corridors of Kumogakure's administrative building, Tetsuya couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The village reminded him of Konoha in many ways, yet it had its distinct character. Soon, they arrived at a large, ornate door. Darui knocked, and a deep voice from within granted them entry.

As the doors opened, Tetsuya stepped into the Raikage's office. Behind a massive desk sat the Fourth Raikage, A, a towering figure known for his immense strength and fierce demeanor. His presence alone commanded respect.

"Tetsuya Senju," A greeted, rising from his seat. "It's been a long time since Konoha sent someone of your stature to Kumogakure."

Tetsuya bowed slightly. "Raikage-sama, it's an honor to be here. I bring greetings from Hokage-sama and the people of Konoha."

A nodded, his intense gaze scrutinizing Tetsuya. "I've heard much about you. Tobirama Senju's son, a name spoken of in legend. It is interesting to meet you."

"The honor is mine," Tetsuya replied. "I have heard of your strength and leadership, Raikage-sama. Konoha hopes to improve relations between our Villages during my time here."

A motioned for Tetsuya to sit. "Let's discuss the upcoming Chunin Exams and other matters. There is much to address."

As they sat down, Darui stood nearby, ready to assist if needed. The conversation began with the logistics of the Chunin Exams.

"The first stage will be a written test," A began. "Designed to evaluate their intelligence and information-gathering skills."

Tetsuya nodded. "The second stage will be a survival exercise in Kumogakure's rugged terrain. It will test their teamwork and endurance, am I right?."

A's eyes glinted with approval. "Yes, but you have to know, our survival area is unforgiving, comparable to your Forest of Death. It will be a true test of their abilities."

"And the final stage will be a series of one-on-one battles," Tetsuya continued. "To showcase their combat abilities."

A leaned back, contemplating. "Agreed. The structure should adequately test their skills and determination."

With the logistics settled, Tetsuya reached into his sleeve and produced a scroll. "Hokage-sama asked me to present this to you. It's a trade proposition from Konoha."

A took the scroll, his expression unreadable as he broke the seal and read its contents. After a moment, he looked up. "Trade relations have been strained in recent years. What guarantees does Konoha offer?"

Tetsuya maintained his composure. "Konoha is committed to fair trade practices and mutual benefit. We believe that improved economic ties will strengthen both our villages."

A's eyes narrowed slightly. "We shall see. I will review this proposition and discuss it with my advisors. Kumogakure will not be taken lightly."

Tetsuya inclined his head. "Of course. We expect nothing less."

Their conversation remained formal and professional, both of them carefully weighing their words. By the end, they had a clear understanding of each other's positions.

As Tetsuya prepared to leave, A stood and extended his hand. "Thank you for your time, Tetsuya Senju. We will see how this plays out."

Tetsuya shook his hand firmly. "Thank you, Raikage-sama. I am honored to be here and will ensure Konoha's full cooperation."

After they left the office Raikage has leaned back in his chair and murmured:"Tetsuya Senju what an interesting man."

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With that, Darui escorted Tetsuya back to the lodging area, where the genin teams were settling in and preparing for the days ahead. As Tetsuya walked through the village, he felt a sense of anticipation for the upcoming Chunin Exams and the opportunities they would bring for both Konoha and Kumogakure.

Later that evening, as Tetsuya retired to his room, he couldn't help but reflect on the day's events. The meeting with A had been formal and cautious, and he knew that the coming days would be crucial in determining the future of relations between Konoha and Kumogakure. The Chunin Exams would be a test not only for the young shinobi but for the strength of their villages' interactions.