Traveling through three generations: Making Konoha great again!

Chapter 144 Foreign Forces Take Action, Izuna Travels to Konoha (1.1 words long chapter!)

Sungai tribe.

Kaguya Nakamaro, carrying two boxes of gifts, greeted Hyuga Himon, the gatekeeper, familiarly: "Brother Himon! Is Clan Chief Tenzo here?"

Huomen was quite surprised.

It wasn't because Nakamaro would come to the Hyuga clan's territory—in the past few months in Konoha, Nakamaro had been frequently visiting the Hyuga clan's territory whenever he had free time.

They don't do much when they arrive, just make up relatives, chat, and brag.

At first, Himon was very wary, even though he was a cousin, he was still a ninja from another village, and he reported it to Tenzo.

But Tenzo indicated to Homon not to worry, as he had a use for Nakamaro.

"Yes, the clan leader is usually here—"

Himon glanced at the gifts that Nakamaro was carrying; they were all famous medicinal herbs from the Land of Fire, and quite expensive.

He said with a smile, "You've grown up! You even know how to navigate social situations now. This isn't like you when you first arrived in Konoha!"

That's what surprised him.

With the brains of the Kaguya clan, do they even know to bring gifts when they visit?

It's like a wild beast gaining intelligence and understanding of human nature.

Although after Hido was born, Hyuga and Kaguya served different masters.

However, based on the stories I heard from my elders growing up, my impression of the Kaguya clan can be summarized as: "Always unhappy, always clueless, and always thinking about fighting."

Nakamaro gave an awkward smile.

"Brother Huomen, look at what you're saying. Clan Chief Tianzang said—"

"Whichever village you feel closest to in your heart, you become more like a ninja from that village—"

Huomen's heart stirred.

What does this mean—how did he sense a hint of betrayal from the village in his voice?

"Clan Chief Tianzang, did your white eye already foresee this future?" Huomen thought to himself.

Who says the entire clan is full of good-for-nothings?

They do have real skills.

"You've worked hard all these years, it hasn't been easy for you—" Himon patted Nakamaro on the shoulder: "Go on in!"

Nakamaro nodded gratefully, but couldn't help but sigh inwardly.

Look at the quality of those Konoha ninjas—

They even know how hard it is for them!

If this were in Kirigakure, how could anyone possibly be considerate of others?

"Always thinking about being brave and fierce, but you have to be really capable, right? If you don't have any skills but are only a bully at home, you're bound to be finished sooner or later—"

As Nakamaro walked deeper into the clan's territory, various thoughts raced through his mind.

Does he still love fighting?

nature--

But what I truly love is the ability to recognize my own strength, constantly learn from and improve by sparring with stronger opponents.

For my former self, who was powerless and unable to break free from the limitations of the Corpse Bone Pulse—

Nakamaro felt disgusted.

We arrived at the clan chief's reception room.

Nakamaro knocked on the door respectfully.

"Go in!" Tianzang's voice came from within.

Nakamaro walked in and saw Hyuga Takashi sitting upright to the side.

"Kid, why did you bring something over today?" Tenzo's heart stirred, and he looked at Nakamaro with a half-smile.

Even before, when he went to see him with Isshin and Asuma, Tenzo had already felt a sense of familiarity with Nakamaro—

It is very similar to the diurnal variation that enters the dark area.

"I have been receiving your guidance lately, and I feel ashamed. This little bit of tonic is just a token of my respect—" Nakamaro repeated the words he had learned from reading, his words somewhat stumbling.

"Good! You've become somewhat cultured? That's quite rare—"

Tenzang waved his hand, gesturing for Nakamaro to take a seat, and said with a smile, "However, you don't need to be so reserved here with Second Uncle. Feel free to speak your mind."

Tianzang has been in a good mood lately.

Not to mention that his son, Richa, reconciled with him and even got married.

Not only did Hiruzen Sarutobi personally officiate the wedding, publicly affirming the bond between Konoha and Hyuga, but he also presented Tobirama Senju's sword as a wedding gift.

The symbolic meaning of this is immense!

Furthermore, Hizashi told Tenzo that even if he were to die, his son would be incorporated into the Hokage lineage—

Even the usually calculating and self-serving Tenzo couldn't help but think to himself, "The Hokage is indeed a kind and benevolent person!"

Therefore, Tianzang's motivation to do things for the village became even stronger.

We can't just let Hizashi charge into battle alone while we stay in the rear and accomplish nothing, can we?

That looks terrible!

At this moment, in Tenzo's eyes, Nakamaro and even the future Kaguya clan are his way of giving back to the Hokage!

"Second Uncle, you see through me best!"

Nakamaro chuckled and scratched his head: "I—I'm still not used to speaking like this. I've come today to ask you for a favor, but I don't know how to begin—"

Tenzo smiled without saying a word, picked up the teapot, and poured a cup of tea for both Nakamaro and Hyuga Takato.

Hinata Takashi sighed with emotion.

People who share the same thoughts are always somewhat attracted to each other.

This is especially true for someone like Nakamaro, who can't hide his feelings on his face.

At the wedding of Hizashi two weeks prior, Hyuga Takashi carefully observed the mindset of everyone present, including Nakamaro, who was among the invited guests.

Nakamaro's current appearance gave Hyuga Taka a very strong sense of déjà vu.

This kid, like me, wants to work under the Hokage!

"Nakamaro, let me be frank—do you want to join Konoha?"

"Judging from your appearance, you seem to be quite content in the village, right?" Hinata Takashi said with a light laugh as he finished his tea in one gulp.

Nakamaro was taken aback. Was it really that direct?

"Filial piety! Don't speak nonsense!" Tenzo slammed his hand on the table, his voice filled with authority as he rebuked, "The Kaguya clan are loyal and valiant members of Kirigakure. They're still dealing with the Blood Mist Village; the situation is delicate and tense. Aren't you putting Nakamaro in danger by saying such things?"

"Konoha and Kirigakure are allies and friendly partners; such a situation must never be allowed to continue!"

Hyuga Takashi lowered his head apologetically: "I'm sorry, Nakamaro, Clan Chief Tenzo!"

"I misspoke—"

But that's what I mean—

Tenzo, however, felt that Hinata Takashi had recently become more intelligent!

In this situation, it was naturally inappropriate for him, as the clan leader, to say such things; someone else needed to test the waters on his behalf.

In the past, Takashi Hyuga rose to power simply because he was born early and was flattered and praised.

While Tenzo enjoyed listening to flattery, he had already decided in his heart that Hyuga Takashi was not worth much.

Things have improved somewhat now.

"Could it be that the Hokage truly possesses an aura? If one gets close to him, the rotten will turn into the miraculous—" Tenzo pondered to himself.

Hyuga Takashi came to see Tenzo today to talk about the few words he exchanged with Sarutobi Hiruzen.

He wanted Tenzo to mentor him, to see how he could better serve the Hokage in the future, just like Hizashi.

Tianzang agrees with this.

The main family cannot fall too far behind the branch families; he's also quite displeased with those main families that only know how to fight amongst themselves.

You have to integrate yourself into the village's work!

"Um, actually—"

Nakamaro carefully considered his words, and after thinking for a long time, he realized that his vocabulary was really lacking, and his face turned red.

He simply said loudly, "Second Uncle, just as Brother Xiao said, I don't want to stay in Wuyin anymore!"

"I love Konoha, and I want the Kaguya clan to come here too. You don't really understand the situation in Kirigakure; sooner or later, something terrible will happen!"

Nakamaro said with a grave expression, "If it were just Kirigakure in trouble, I wouldn't care. But the Kaguya clan has overestimated their strength. If they ever go berserk and challenge the Third Mizukage, they will be wiped out!"

"They're stupid and foolish, always arrogant and thinking they're the best in the world, but they're still my people—"

Nakamaro unconsciously clenched his fists, pleadingly looking at Tenzo: "Second Uncle, no matter what, Hyuga and Kaguya are relatives! I beg you, for the sake of blood ties, please lend a hand and save the Kaguya clan!"

"They have no idea how vast and cruel the gap is between a powerful Kage and a Jonin!"

During my time in Konoha.

Nakamaro gradually developed a clear understanding of the different levels of ninja strength.

The understanding of combat is also becoming more systematic.

He used to think that after activating the Corpse Bone Pulse, he would be invulnerable to blades and spears and could heal at any time. How could the Kaguya clan possibly be a match for him in the entire ninja world?

But after Tobirama Senju dealt with many of these matters, he calmed down.

He learned a great deal of information about the Third Mizukage from "Brother Qingshui," who was well-versed in classical texts.

He is extremely proficient in Water Release techniques, and is familiar with various transformations and related secret arts.

On paper, his strength is no less than Hozuki Gengetsu's!

He simply lacked the unwavering resolve of that martial arts fanatic, which is why he was defeated in the Water Shadow War back then, but it was definitely not because he lacked strength.

Especially given the Land of Water's abundant rivers and proximity to the ocean, the Third Mizukage's strength would be significantly higher.

Tobirama Senju knew a lot about the Third Mizukage because they were from the same generation.

During the first Five Kage Summit, he and the Third Mizukage stood behind Hashirama and the First Mizukage, respectively.

"Brother Qingshui analyzed it for me, and I talked with him for a very long time!"

"If the Kaguya clan rebels, they will face certain death! But they will definitely do it—"

"While the Corpse Bone Pulse is strong, the Third Mizukage is even stronger. And as you know, Uncle Tenzo, our clan has no allies because of our personality; others would love to see us dead."

At first, Nakamaro pretended to be a cultured man, but the more he spoke, the more excited he became, and his language became straightforward and bold.

Tianzang sighed deeply, his expression showing great difficulty.

"Nakamaro, I'm so glad you could see that—"

"Logically speaking, Kaguya and Hyuga have been interdependent for a thousand years, but due to various reasons, they ended up in different villages—"

"In the past, I would have reminded you long ago, but now we are each serving our own masters, and there are many things I can't say, for fear of being seen as having ulterior motives and damaging the thousand-year-old relationship between our two races—"

Tianzang shook his head, his expression pained.

Nakamaro hesitated, wanting to speak but stopping himself, and could only sigh deeply.

That's absolutely right!

"The clan leader is indeed very worried about the Kaguya clan, and he often talks about it to me—"

Hyuga Takashi took in the expressions of the two men and said softly, "Please forgive me, it's not that the clan leader doesn't want to help, but there's really no other way—"

Nakamaro nodded in agreement.

In the past, Kaguya and the Hyuga clan maintained close correspondence.

However, Hyuga never tried to persuade Kirigakure to join Konoha. Instead, he often helped them analyze the situation in Kirigakure, hoping that the Kaguya clan could gain greater power in Kirigakure.

However, it's worth mentioning—

The reason for doing this is not because of the so-called "desire for Kaguya".

Rather, it was to have a powerful ninja clan outside Konoha that would pay attention to and support the Hyuga clan, thereby expanding the Hyuga's value in Konoha's political campaigns and making their status more transcendent and irreplaceable.

But from the perspective of Nakamaro and the Kaguya clan—

Hinata is indeed kind-hearted; over the years, she has never overstepped her bounds and has diligently offered advice to Kaguya.

They are invaluable relatives.

"Uncle, please don't say that. Hyuga's reputation within Kaguya is absolutely impeccable. Even though most of the clan members have eccentric personalities, they would never have such thoughts about Hyuga!"

Nakamaro raised his palm to the sky and swore an oath: "If I have uttered a single lie, I am willing to be struck by lightning!"

Why bother?

Tianzang waved his hands repeatedly: "We're all family, let's not talk about these things, let's not talk about these things—"

"Takashi, go and fetch the letters from the Kaguya clan."

Hinata Takashi immediately got up and returned a moment later with a thick stack of letters.

After Kirigakure and Konoha established a so-called "friendly" relationship.

The interactions between the two tribes became a communication hub for intelligence.

However, now that letters from the Kaguya clan are arriving, Tenzo never opens them but instead gives them to Hizashi for backup.

"Look—"

Tianzang spread out the letters, placing sheets of paper on the large tea table.

Much of the content was highlighted with red circles.

"You don't know Kaguya's situation either—"

"Now the Kaguya clan has been used as a weapon by the Third Mizukage, who gave them positions called the Kirigakure Internal Affairs Department to monitor all the major bloodline clans and ninjas—"

Tianzang sighed: "They're having a lot of fun, arresting and killing people everywhere."

"And they even think this is the Third Mizukage showing weakness to the Kaguya clan. Look at the smugness in this letter, it's practically overflowing from the paper—"

"In the past, Kaguya's letters would at least try to cover up some sensitive topics, but now she doesn't even bother to hide them anymore. To destroy her, one must drive her mad—"

Tianzang pointed heavily at the letters.

"They've really gone mad—do they really think becoming the Hidden Mist's Internal Affairs Department is a good thing?" After reading a few letters, Nakamaro felt a splitting headache and his hands and feet were ice-cold.

Tianzang was also quite moved.

The Third Mizukage was quite good at copying; he even borrowed methods from the Second Hokage!

This is basically a prank on the Kaguya clan, making them Uchiha! Only the intensity and malice have increased considerably—

It's like trying to cross the river by feeling your way across with Tobirama Senju's footsteps.

"Uncle Tenzo, isn't this somewhat similar to the Konoha Police Department?" Nakamaro's voice trembled slightly. "Aren't the Uchiha clan and Konoha doing well now? Could Kaguya also have this opportunity—"

Tianzang shook his head.

"There is some overlap in responsibilities, but the nature of the work is completely different."

"Although the Uchiha of the Miya Police Department are not popular, they still do things according to the rules. The accumulated conflicts are numerous but not sharp, after all, the majority of ninjas are law-abiding."

"But does the Village of Blood Mist even have any rules? The Kaguya clan members of the Hidden Mist's Internal Affairs Department are just chamber pots used by the Third Mizukage to buffer conflicts. When they can't take it anymore, they kick them aside and use them as venting grounds for other ninjas—"

"The Third Mizukage's plan was ruthless; he had a firm grasp on the Kaguya clan's character."

Nakamaro nodded heavily.

"Is that race truly beyond saving?"

"To be frank, Kaguya is bound to have people die," Tenzo sighed. "Your strength isn't enough to unite the Kaguya people. Even if you explain things clearly and logically, will those Kaguya clan members who are stronger than you listen?"

"So, if you want to reduce the number of Kaguya's deaths, you need to find the remaining sane members of your clan as soon as you return to Kirigakure and form an alliance with them—"

Nakamaro rubbed his temples: "You're right, they won't listen to me—"

At this moment, Nakamaro only regretted that he did not have the strength of "Seisui"!

It is said that the Uchiha clan has now turned to the good by recognizing "Seisui" as their future leader!

However, Shisui and Obito kept talking about this, and it got annoying to listen to them all the time.

Tianzang also paid a higher level of attention to "Qingshui".

"This Qingshui is no ordinary person—can someone so young already grasp some of the Hokage's thought processes?"

"It was no accident that he said these things to Nakamaro. No wonder the Uchiha were able to change the wind so quickly."

A sense of urgency also ignited in Tianzang's heart.

Although their clan has a high average level of education, they lack outstanding individuals!

How can we obtain a new generation comparable to Qingshui?

"If the Third Mizukage were to target you, I don't think he would be too violent—"

"Because Kaguya and the Hyuga clan are on good terms, rashly carrying out a large-scale purge against Kaguya would give Konoha and other hidden villages an opportunity to condemn and interfere in Kirigakure—"

"The Third Mizukage established diplomatic relations with Konoha, essentially because, under the state of isolation, he was worried that other hidden villages would unite against Kirigakure."

Tenzo frowned, seemingly worried that Nakamaro wouldn't understand, and even wrote a mind map on the letter: "But this doesn't mean Kaguya is safe. The behavior of the Kaguya clan has already caused the Third Mizukage to become suspicious, so she must be on his list of targets to be eliminated."

"To legitimize his purge, the Third Mizukage will likely split Kaguya, turning the persecution into an internal conflict within Kaguya's ranks, which would then lead some Kaguya members to speak up for him—"

"And this is your chance!"

Tenzang said in a deep voice, "When the Third Mizukage begins to split Kaguya, it's a sign that he's about to make his move. If you can win over your clansmen beforehand, you must start preparing to escape with them!"

"If you can't win them over, then you should leave quickly on your own. You have to leave a seed for the Kaguya clan."

Hinata Takashi looked at Tenzo with considerable shock.

Is this the meticulous thinking of a patriarch of a powerful clan with a thousand-year history? No wonder he's a top-tier individual who rose through the ranks through struggle—

But in the next instant, Hinata Takashi thought of another problem—

Even such a powerful clan leader couldn't defeat the Hokage—

"No, how can you call it a battle? The Hokage believes in collaborative development, and my brain—"

Hinata Takashi shook his head vigorously, as if trying to shake off this erroneous thought and quickly sever ties with it.

"I understand, Uncle Tianzang—"

"But where can we go? Can I bring them to Konoha?" Nakamaro seemed to see a future where his clan was already torn apart, and said tremblingly, "Uncle Tenzo, could you please ask the Hokage to take us in for the sake of the Hyuga clan if that day ever comes?"

Tianzang was secretly delighted, but his expression was extremely embarrassed.

As for whether the Hokage will agree—

Tenzang believed that the Hokage would be able to do it.

After all, the troublemakers of the Kaguya clan are only relative to Kirigakure—

In Konoha, he'd be considered a hothead.

The Hyuga, Uchiha, and Root groups were all heavyweights in their time.

"Your situation is not easy to handle."

"It's not that we don't want to do it, but it's really difficult. As you've seen, the treatment of Konoha ninjas is the result of generations of blood tax. It's not fair that you're given such treatment as soon as you arrive."

"Furthermore, the Hokage has always been unwilling to interfere in the affairs of other hidden villages."

Tianzang sighed deeply.

"Clan leader, this might also arouse Danzo's suspicion—"

Hyuga Takashi said in a deep voice, "The Hokage would naturally not, but you know Danzo's character. Could he think that the Hyuga are trying to win over Kaguya and form cliques within the village?"

"I don't want anything to happen to the Kaguya clan either, but you should still consider the Hyuga clan more!"

Nakamaro's expression suddenly changed: "Brother Takashi, how could you say such a thing?"

"Nakamaro, I have to think about my family—"

Hyuga Takashi's tone was apologetic, but his expression was firm: "As you can see, Hyuga is now highly trusted by the Hokage. At Hizashi's wedding the other day, all the village's important officials were there!"

"I don't want to disrupt this status quo—"

Nakamaro lowered his head helplessly.

One of the main reasons he sought help from Hinata was that he had witnessed the grandeur of Hizashi's wedding.

Excellent network of contacts —

"No need to say more, filial piety!"

Tenzang slowly said, "The so-called Will of Fire is about mutual help and support among comrades—"

"We and the Kaguya clan can be considered comrades."

"I hope my judgment is wrong and that the Kaguya clan can coexist peacefully with Kirigakure—but if something unfortunate does happen, then I will consult with the Hokage!"

"But Nakamaro, Konoha has its own rules—"

"You should have realized this by now. If I'm going all out to speak for the Kaguya clan, I hope you won't make things difficult for me."

Tianzang spoke in a serious tone.

Overjoyed, Nakamaro stood up and repeatedly bowed to Tenzo, saying, "Thank you! Thank you, Second Uncle!"

"With your words, I feel much more confident!"

As for Konoha's rules and such—

Nakamaro felt that the clansmen he had carefully selected would not be touched.

Even if there are unexpected situations, just let the Konoha Police Department teach them a lesson!

He would never speak up for them; on the contrary, he would rush to strike hard!

Nakamaro agreed with Tenzo's statement that it was impossible for the Kaguya clan to escape unscathed.

Some members of the Kaguya clan have a self-destructive tendency in their minds.

"I will try my best to persuade you, but if you don't listen to reason, then I can only let you die in Kirigakure—"

After leaving the Hyuga clan's territory, Nakamaro gazed at the Hokage Rock in the distance and muttered to himself, "Let's just say it's the result of draining the unstable genes in Kaguya's bloodline!"

"To say something like that, you truly live up to your Kaguya clan reputation—" Yuki, one of the Kirigakure exchange students and a master of Ice Release, emerged from the shadows and asked nervously, "How did it go? Did Lord Hyuga Tenzo give you a reply?"

Among the four ninja from the Mist.

Nakamaro and Yuki are the two who most want to be with Jun, and they even want to bring Jun along with their entire clan—

They are both from the Bloodline Ninja Clan.

"Reply received—"

"If things don't go well when we return to Kirigakure, you should first work on your clansmen. With the help of Ice Release and the close-combat abilities of the Shikotsumyaku, Kirigakure will have a hard time stopping us if we find an opportunity—"

Nakamaro's expression was gloomy: "Don't tell Kisame and Mei Terumi about this. They both still have unrealistic hopes for Kirigakure—"

Xue nodded in surprise: "Konoha agreed to take us in? Then be sure to tell me before you leave. Our clan leader has already expressed his desire to leave Kirigakure!"

Unlike the Kaguya clan, who love battle, the Ice Release clan had long expressed their dissatisfaction with the Blood Mist Village.

As a result, many members of the clan have been imprisoned or executed.

"Mei Terumi is still too inexperienced. Her family is considered a powerful clan in Kirigakure and is on good terms with Genji. She is indeed a difficult target to win over—"

Xue pondered, "But Kisame is different. He seems to be loyal to Kirigakure, but in reality, he still harbors illusions about the Third Mizukage. Once he returns to Kirigakure, those illusions will surely be shattered—"

"He has merman blood. If we can get his help, then once we get to the surface of the sea, no one can stop us."

Nakamaro narrowed his eyes.

"Do you have fantasies about the Third Mizukage?"

"Yes—he believes that the Village of Blood Mist will turn Kirigakure into a village like Konoha."

Yuki said speechlessly, not understanding why Kisame was so naive: "From now on, our companions will no longer kill each other, but help each other. You were even talking to me about the Will of Water before—"

"That's simple. Kirigakure has now established an organization for internal purges, called the Internal Affairs Department."

Nakamaro gave a cold laugh: "The main body is composed of the Kaguya clan. When the time comes, I'll have Kisame join, let him see the true face of Kirigakure, and his delusional habit will be cured!"

Xue sighed: "You really are heartless."

"No one is as ruthless as the Third Mizukage. It's all about survival." Nakamaro waved his hand, looking at the crowd gathered at the bulletin board not far away.

It's about honoring the Root ninjas.

However, without mentioning their names or departments, they were referred to as unsung heroes, emphasizing the village's reward to them.

It was also stated that the matter would be made public at the appropriate time, calling on the entire Hidden Village to pay tribute to them.

After they finished reading, they both fell silent.

On the way back to the Uchiha clan's territory, the two had this conversation: "I really want to go back to Kirigakure right now and start organizing the clan members to flee—"

"Be patient, there are still three months left! Just hang in there, and from now on, we'll be Konoha people for generations to come—"

Meanwhile, in the Uchiha clan's territory.

Another couple was having a similar conversation in front of the bulletin board.

"This Hiruzen Sarutobi is really doing a great job! Much better than what we had back in the Sengoku period!"

"—Pensions, free education—"

The person who said this was Uchiha Izuna, who was possessing the body of "Qingshui" and chattering incessantly inside it.

After being openly mocked by Isshin, Tobirama Senju, to prevent the two from arguing, threw Izuna back into the Pure Land.

Of course, while avoiding arguments was the main reason, it was also to demonstrate his dominance over Izuna!

This is his pupil technique!

A few days later, Tobirama was surprised to find that Yata no Miki's eye power had slowly recovered some of its power!

He consulted the Uchiha scriptures but found nothing similar.

Ultimately, Tobirama concluded that it might be related to his cells—

While sculpting figurines, he had already discovered a strange positive correlation between Uchiha and Senju cells—

Further research is needed to arrive at specific conclusions.

But because of this, Tobirama readily summoned Izuna again and showed him around the village.

Izuna is currently controlling the body of "Aoshui" and has briefly come back to life.

"Qingshui, I understand your pursuit of a perfect village, but I have to tell you—"

"Extremism is the least desirable thing."

"Identifying problems, solving problems, and making progress step by step is the right approach. Never think about destroying everything and starting over; that's just escaping reality and indulging in wishful thinking."

Izuna said earnestly.

After experiencing Konoha firsthand, Izuna grew to love the village even more.

He used Tobirama Senju's body to walk a complete circle around the village.

I looked at all sorts of bulletin boards, went to the Ninja Academy and ate in the cafeteria, and then visited the security department.

There, he saw the smiles on the faces of the Uchiha clan members.

That's enough for Izuna to protect.

But Tobirama Senju couldn't help but chuckle when he heard these words—

He was persuaded not to be extreme by an Uchiha? And this Uchiha was Izuna—

This is truly a reversal of the Heavenly Stems and Earthly Branches!

"To be extreme, I wouldn't—"

"I said, the village is my father, and the clan is my mother. Who would do something so extreme to their parents?" Tobirama said quietly. "Although I respect the clan head and acknowledge the value of his will."

"But if we're talking about extremes, he's the most extreme—"

"He left Konoha without a word, and fought the First Hokage to the death with the Nine-Tails. If it weren't for his great contributions in founding the village and capturing the tailed beasts, the Uchiha would never have been able to hold their heads high in the village."

Tobirama secretly harbored his own agenda.

Criticizing Uchiha Madara in front of Izuna felt like a cool summer breeze, refreshing and invigorating.

"oops--"

"This is not something to discuss, not something to discuss!"

Izuna was extremely embarrassed and could only make up a reason to save face for Madara: "My brother must love his clan to do something like this; there must be someone behind this!"

But in truth, Izuna knew perfectly well that there was no villain among them.

"I don't accept this answer. What do you think the Grand Patriarch was thinking at that time?"

Tobirama said in a low voice, "Aren't you his younger brother? Analyze this for me—"

Izuna sighed: "Back then, my brother was probably on the verge of a breakdown—"

"Without me as a bridge between him and his people, to communicate their opinions—"

"My clansmen are unwilling to leave Konoha, so my brother probably sees them as betrayals. Even if he understands later, given his temperament, without giving him a way out, it's unlikely he'll turn back!"

Izuna mimicked Madara's state of mind at the time, and the more he thought about it, the worse he felt: "Plus, I'm dead, and Tobirama Senju is fanning the flames. My brother probably wants to defeat Hashirama Senju in one fell swoop, seize control of Konoha, and then conquer the ninja world—"

"He's such an impatient person—"

"Actually, there was no need to do that. As long as my brother and Hashirama are in Konoha, with just a little cooperation between the two of them, plus Tobirama Senju's scheming, they could surrender without a fight."

Tobirama raised an eyebrow.

Just as he thought—

If Hashirama and Madara were in Konoha, war would be something Konoha would be immune to.

Relying on their titles of "God of the Shinobi World" and "Shura of the Shinobi World," the various hidden villages initially formed a loose alliance, making it extremely easy to entice them to switch sides.

This model is just like how Konoha currently views Nakamaro and the others—

Given time, Konoha will become a behemoth that far surpasses other hidden villages, even excluding Hashirama and Madara.

If war is forcibly started, even disregarding the war-weariness of our own side after the recent peace and the enemy's morale, the casualties will be considerable.

On the front lines, the combination of Hashirama and Madara is naturally invincible.

But the battlefield is not just on the front lines.

The other First Kage, the Second Kage and elites from various hidden villages, even when combined, still posed a deadly threat to the remaining ninja of Miyabi. Creating a situation where one person had to fight four was simply unnecessary.

If it were back then—

Tobirama Senju sighed, then suddenly paused slightly.

"I'm even wondering if things would have been better if I'd been more tolerant of Madara back then?"

Izuna quickly changed the subject.

In his view, a deeper conversation might tarnish the image of his brother in Qing Shui's mind.

This is the inheritor of Madara's will!

"These days, the clansmen get along very well with the other ninjas in the village—"

Recalling his visit to the Konoha Police Department, Izuna remarked with genuine emotion, "They're not as arrogant as they were during the Warring States period. It seems Konoha has changed them a lot."

Tobirama chuckled: "Not necessarily. A major reason is the patrol forces."

"Patrol force, what's that?" Izuna asked curiously.

"The Hokage selects experienced ninjas from the Uchiha clans and commoner ninjas who are unable to serve on the front lines due to physical reasons. He then uses the village's finances to support them and combines them with inexperienced young men to form a security force."

Tobirama said softly, "As you know, the clan has always valued strength above all else. Not being able to be on the front lines won't necessarily invite ridicule, but you certainly won't have a sense of presence within the clan either."

"This is unacceptable to the Uchiha."

"But within the patrol units, their experience and expertise are highly respected—"

"These Uchiha have been given a second chance, so their attitude towards others will naturally be much better."

"Conversely, these ninjas who received training from the Uchiha clan would also promote the clan's reputation, so other ninjas who entered the police department generally had a positive first impression of the Uchiha clan."

"Some even carried a hint of apology."

"You know Uchiha's personality, of course; he responds better to gentle persuasion than force—"

Upon hearing this, Izuna remained silent for a long time.

He said, "How could the Uchiha so easily become so close to others?"

So that's where the root of the problem lies!

"This Hokage—is named Hiruzen Sarutobi, right?"

"He really puts a lot of effort into treating the Uchiha, unlike Tobirama Senju's disciple at all."

"Under that guy's tutelage, he still managed to develop a heart of universal love and tolerance—"

"Hashirama is truly an amazing man. I understand my brother a little better now—" Izuna exhaled a long breath and said sincerely.

The idea of ​​a patrol force seemed ingenious to Izuna.

If it weren't for a Hokage who valued equality and wanted every ninja clan to integrate into Konoha, he would never have implemented such a subtle and gradual change for the Uchiha clan, which had historical issues.

Tobirama chuckled.

He remembered this; this was the seventh time in the past few days that Izuna had simultaneously slandered him and praised his elder brother.

He's going to launch a fierce attack on the idea that Izuna is bragging!

A playboy in the Warring States period?

A sexually repressed boy bragging in the clan's territory!

"Qingshui! What are you doing here—"

Isshin appeared out of nowhere, put his arm around Tobirama Senju's shoulder, and looked at the commendation given to Root before him, slightly taken aback: "Unsung heroes? Which department in Konoha is this—"

"The Hokage truly doesn't forget anyone. Could it be someone from the Anbu?"

Yixin didn't try to guess the root cause.

Because of Danzo's past reputation, everything about the Root organization has been stigmatized.

Many people believe that Root ninjas are simply killing machines.

"It must be the root; Hiruzen is making preparations in advance."

Tobirama silently thought to himself, "The fact that they're not revealing the names but are still making a high-profile announcement is twofold: first, to protect the Root members, and second, to tell me that I can be more open-minded, and that even if things get out of hand, I can still control the situation."

At this moment, the master and disciple were of one mind.

Tobirama knew that Asuma had told Hiruzen Sarutobi about it.

Hiruzen Sarutobi simply nodded noncommittally, offering no comment, but emphasizing that things should be done according to the rules.

Interestingly, in Konoha these days, directly complaining to the Hokage is actually part of the proper procedure.

The only consequence is that if the accusation is false, then severe punishment will be imposed.

"Qingshui, you're still a boy—"

"Stop looking at these things all the time. Spend some time asking your classmates or girls out for meals and building relationships—"

"What do you think of Tomie? She's one of the few women in our clan with three-tomoe jade pendants. Although she's a few years older than you, it's said that marrying a woman three years older brings good fortune!"

She was wholeheartedly trying to arrange a marriage between Tobirama and his family, hoping that they would reach a certain age and have a few children to revitalize the clan.

"Tomie?"

"That name isn't bad. I'll meet her sometime." Tobirama's heart stirred, though he wasn't actually interested in the Uchiha girl.

Instead, Izuna was nearly killed by an Uchiha woman with a hatchet—

If I can communicate with him easily, wouldn't that mean he surpasses Izuna in every aspect?

"This name gives me a bad feeling. I shouldn't go, Qingshui—"

Seemingly recalling some unpleasant memories, Izuna said with a grim expression, "You might as well go find that Uzumaki Ushio. I think she's a practical person. If the Senju and Uzumaki can be together, then the Uchiha might be able to too!"

"If you really object, just say it was me who said it. Don't be so feudal!"

As for Uzumaki Shio, Tobirama had already told her his attitude.

Uzumaki Shio is from Kusagakure, so to avoid the possibility of his identity being exposed, he cannot have too much contact with her.

As we get to know each other better, the topic of Kusagakure inevitably comes up.

So Tobirama spoke frankly with her, and the two of them were companions who had gone through thick and thin together, with no other ulterior motives.

In a sense, this can be considered the standard ending for the Uzumaki and Uchiha clans.

The more Izuna said that, the more Tobirama wanted to see Tomie Uchiha.

Because he is a scientist, and scientists are naturally drawn to challenging problems.

"Kid, don't hang out with too many women, it won't do you any good!" Izuna continued to advise, "Isn't the Hokage only one woman?"

After receiving confirmation, Izuna continued, "Then just find one! This isn't the Warring States period anymore; you still need to be mindful of your public image in Konoha. Don't follow my example—"

Tobirama rolled his eyes dramatically.

Learn from you? Learn my ass!

Putting aside the fact that he was simply curious about what the Uchiha woman who frightened Izuna looked like—

Even if we assume, for example, that he has absolutely no interest in women, he might simply want to experience something he's never felt before—

They can only choose one woman!

Otherwise, Hiruzen would laugh at me to death, making me feel like a person with low tastes—

"No, I think Chief Yixin is right. Our clan should seek help from our own clan!"

Tobirama scoffed, "Izuna, stop pretending to know so much—Clan Chief Isshin himself said you're lying!"

Izuna's face instantly turned red.

They're going to dig into his stomach to see how many bowls of noodles are inside!

His many female confidantes have been dead for who knows how many years—

Could you possibly resurrect them and ask them if you ever had a relationship with them?

"You've ruined me!" Izuna covered her face.

"Then you talk to him, I'll see what's going on—"

Tobirama's eyes darted around, and he handed control of his body to Izuna, adding before leaving, "Clan Chief Isshin, when it comes to matters of the heart, shouldn't we take Izuna's advice?"

"No need to listen! I already told you, the young clan leader is making up stories!"

Yixin laughed heartily: "You have to find someone from your own clan! I even ran into Lady Mito the other day. She said that Uzumaki Ushio only sees you as a younger brother. If it turns into romantic feelings, it would change the whole thing—"

"Did I really make that up?" Izuna used Tobirama Senju's body to wrap his arm around Isshin's neck.

Yixin hadn't even realized what was happening: "What do you mean you made it up—it was the young clan leader who made it up!"

The two people looked at each other.

Yixin saw a pair of slowly rotating kaleidoscopes blooming in Qingshui's eyes, and his mouth involuntarily widened.

He was instantly drawn into the illusion space!

"Young clan leader—you—you're not dead—how did you get here!"

"Qingshui is a good match for your eye technique, so I can come here often—"

Izuna said with a forced smile, "You've been quite arrogant while I was away—"

"So my story was all made up—"

"Does this mean that in a few years, they'll start labeling me as a gay person?"

"You're quite the inventor of history!"

A few seconds later, the round-eyed Yixin's lips trembled, as if he had been subjected to some kind of inhuman torture.

"Clan Chief Isshin, are you alright?" Tobirama, who had sealed Izuna back to the Pure Land once again, quickly helped Isshin up and asked with concern.

Damn Izuna!

How could you treat an old Uchiha like this?

This kind of behavior is nothing like that of the young Uchiha clan leader!

This is his beloved family and friends who gave him the Kaleidoscope Eye Technique!

"I'm fine—"

"But Young Clan Chief Izuna made me repeat his love story three thousand times—"

"It's so good to see him again—" Isshin cried out, asking between vomiting, "Has the young clan leader left?"

"They're gone—"

Yi Xin wiped her mouth and stubbornly said, "Qing Shui, the young clan leader is just furious!"

Tobirama nodded in deep agreement.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the ninja world.

In stark contrast to the somewhat cheerful atmosphere of the clan's territory, Madara was plotting a scheme against the Uchiha clan—

#

Seven days later.

The graduation ceremony of the Ninja Academy was held as scheduled.

The grand tournament that the entire Hidden Leaf Village had been eagerly anticipating has officially begun!