Traveling through three generations: Making Konoha great again!

Chapter 150 Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Great Sage of the Land of Fire

The capital of the Land of Fire.

The Senate House.

Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly walked into the hall.

On either side of him were powerful nobles and bureaucrats who controlled the major central areas and regions of the Fire Kingdom.

As soon as he entered the hall, the Fire Country's daimyo, Kujo Gen, quickly descended from his high seat, jogged over, grasped Hiruzen Sarutobi's hand, and deliberately exclaimed loudly, "Brother! You've finally arrived—"

"These past few days, some people who collude with foreign powers have made statements with ulterior motives, and I am furious!"

"Are you doing alright over there?"

When a small group of nobles, led by Masamune, voiced their condemnation of Konoha.

Kujo Gen was furious!

He was very worried that Hiruzen Sarutobi would see this as a sign of his incompetence.

Or perhaps they suspect that this is a conspiracy against Konoha that involves them?

After all, the relationship between nobles and ninjas has long been one of both opposition and cooperation, making it a sensitive one.

Just when I was about to make history and achieve great things, what if this black swan event ruined everything?

Who can I complain to?

Fortunately, Kujo Gen discovered that his older brother was truly kind and benevolent.

She wrote him a letter specifically saying, "We are an unbreakable family, bound by blood and future generations. Take this opportunity to find those hidden rats; I can handle them here—"

"Regarding this incident, I will also come to support you and have a chat with the nobles."

In his excitement, Kujo Gen summoned all his trusted men to the capital, eagerly awaiting Hiruzen Sarutobi's arrival.

"It's probably quite lively over there right now, but it's all within a controllable range—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi said with a smile, and led by the daimyo, he walked up to the throne on the high platform.

"Oh?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi's heart skipped a beat; he realized that the so-called throne was not an ordinary design.

It was the rectangular chair that he sat in during his meeting with the daimyo in the palace, a chair that could accommodate two people.

"Brother, please have a seat!"

"We agreed to sit here together!" Kujo Genta said frankly, patting the throne forcefully, completely ignoring the slightly noisy discussions among the nobles below.

"Thank you for your kindness, my dear brother."

"However, this is your jurisdiction after all, and it's official business—" Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled inwardly, gestured for Gen Kujo to sit down, and said softly.

He then walked behind the throne and placed his hands on the back of the chair.

"Everyone—"

"I am the Hokage of Konoha Village, my name is Hiruzen Sarutobi," he said.

At that moment, it was as if the air itself had frozen, and the invisible gravity made the nobles shudder and bend over.

The noise was immediately silenced.

No one dared to make a move.

No one could tell whether the pressure came from advanced ninjutsu or from the Hokage's inherent aura of authority.

"I now have quite precise control over the gravity field of 'Earth Release: Weighted Rock Technique'—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi completed the final lesson of his training for the day, using the nobles to test his control over ninjutsu.

"I believe that everyone here is paying close attention to the controversy caused by the failure of the Eighth Hokage of Konoha's mission."

"Whether they stand with the daimyo or have ulterior motives."

"I personally consider you all to be my companions from the bottom of my heart, because you are all pillars of the Land of Fire, carefully selected and recognized by the daimyo."

The nobles nodded slightly and listened attentively.

This seems to be a cultured Naruto?

Da Ming's face lit up with joy. Is this what it feels like to have a powerful older brother backing you up?

Kujo Gen understood.

His ability to sweep away all the nobles who opposed him within a year and unite 80% of the nobles in the Land of Fire under his banner was not only due to the powerful social effect of "Holy Land Pill," but also largely due to his use of Hiruzen Sarutobi's name.

Hiruzen Sarutobi's voice was calm and firm: "To resolve this incident and prevent similar situations from happening again—"

"We need to find the problem at its source."

"So, where does it originate? I think it lies in the long-standing and complex relationship between ninjas and nobles, which is also the reason for the ninja code—"

"Your Excellency, could you join me in analyzing why the Ninja Code has been upheld and practiced in the ninja world for hundreds of years?"

The nobles felt a chill run down their spines, and the atmosphere unconsciously became oppressive.

Those who can come to this council chamber, if not all, at least 99% of them have some knowledge.

Even though some of them had once cursed the ninjas, they knew one thing very well in their hearts!

That is, the fact that ninjas, who wielded violence, did not rule over them was a complex, low-probability event filled with accidental causes—

Even with centuries of inertia, this fragile balance will one day be broken.

The nobles unconsciously tensed up.

Is this day finally coming? The day when ninjas will overthrow everything with violence—

Kujo Genya subconsciously panicked; this topic was far too sensitive.

But when he turned around and met Hiruzen Sarutobi's gentle yet firm gaze, he felt at ease.

"If my brother wants to resort to violence, then how could I still be sitting in this position?"

Kujo Gen had this thought in mind, and said seriously, "From the perspective of non-ninja groups, it's because ninjas wield uncontrollable violence and are a destabilizing factor for the country. Therefore, the ninja code is used to instrumentally restrict their thoughts."

These words startled even Hiruzen Sarutobi.

That's too honest!

The nobles below were also in an uproar. "Your Majesty, why are you speaking so bluntly? What are you trying to do?"

Some things should be kept secret, otherwise it will only cause more conflict.

"Your Excellency is quite right. I think everyone thinks the same way, right?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly to drown out the uproar, and continued, "I have no intention of criticizing your past actions. Historical issues always have their causes, and analyzing them from the current perspective will lead to misinterpretations."

"Actually, I understand what you all are thinking."

The nobles were taken aback. Did the Hokage really say that?

"In the past, although ninjas possessed various powers, their uses were extremely limited—"

"That is slaughter."

"No matter how powerful a ninja is, or what great strength they possess, they always use their power and talent to either instigate or provoke an endless war."

"Therefore, your desire to impose restrictions on ninjas aligns with your instincts as lords."

"An ironclad rule in governance is that the more dangerous and uncontrollable a resource is, the more thoroughly it should be standardized, instrumentalized, and depersonalized, using rules to isolate risks and lock power into fixed scenarios."

"Am I right?" Hiruzen Sarutobi said with a smile, "After all, I govern Konoha. Although the population is not as large as your territories, I am still a ruler, and I can be considered a colleague of all of you here."

The nobles were greatly alarmed.

Just listening to Hiruzen Sarutobi's words—

This is no longer a ninja! This is clearly a high-ranking nobleman with extremely rich experience in governance!

Kujo Gen looked up at Sarutobi Hiruzen.

This is why he trusted, and even idolized, Hiruzen Sarutobi so much—

In Kujo Gen's view, Sarutobi Hiruzen was fully capable of becoming a daimyo.

But she was able to control her desire to dominate everything and help him up as a companion to move forward together!

What a noble character!

"But everyone, the ninjas have changed now, at least the ninjas of the Land of Fire have changed!"

"I believe everyone has taken the Sacred Elixir produced in Konoha," and you have all personally experienced its nourishing and pain-relieving effects.

"Konoha ninjas are no longer just tools of killing, but high-tech talents who can apply ninjutsu to the medical field, and this is just the beginning."

"We will continue to explore the application of ninjutsu in areas related to people's livelihoods, including but not limited to medical care and wellness, agricultural production, infrastructure, disaster emergency response and relief, and water conservancy."

"Of course, given the militarism of the outlying villages, Konoha must maintain its own fighting strength while using its remaining resources for limited development. After all, military strength is the primary guarantee of security."

The nobles nodded subconsciously, and many of them were completely absorbed in their work.

The panic in his heart gradually dissipated. It didn't seem like the Hokage was about to overturn the table; instead, he was trying to reason with him.

In fact, similar thoughts had crossed their minds before.

The powerful healing effects of the "Holy Land Pill" allowed the nobles to personally experience the strength of chakra.

Ninjas are no longer bombs that could explode at any moment, but rather advanced technological controllers that nobles need to curry favor with and find ways to approach.

The nobles do not need excessive violence, but they desperately need this medical resource.

The supply and demand relationship between the two has been established silently and closely.

"Therefore, under this transformation, the idea of ​​viewing ninjas merely as uncontrollable tools of violence is clearly outdated—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi then changed the subject: "The tendency to treat ninja rules as mere tools should also be changed."

"Everyone, don't panic."

"Ninjas do possess formidable martial prowess, but their numbers are limited. To effectively manage the vast Land of Fire, deep cooperation with everyone is essential."

"As Hokage, I acknowledge the contributions that you, along with your millions of grassroots management organizations, have made to the stability, prosperity, and production order of the Land of Fire."

"What we should achieve is a deep symbiotic relationship, an inseparable and close-knit whole where you are in me and I am in you."

"The twisted relationship of antagonism, fear, and forced cooperation, as it has always been, should be swept into the dustbin of history!"

Daming's eyes lit up, and he exclaimed, "Big brother, I've wanted to solve this problem with you for a long time!"

This can be said to be the biggest pain point for the nobles.

The great nobles, well-versed in literature and classical texts, were able to recognize the relationship between violence and power.

I always think that since the one-country-one-village system came into effect, the ninjas and nobles can't keep at this stalemate forever—

The ninjas cannot touch the nobles now, mainly because of the intense conflict between the various hidden villages, and they need a stable rear base.

Taking action would not only plunge us into internal strife, but also give us an opportunity to be attacked by the enemy in accordance with worldly laws.

But anyone with a discerning eye knows that this balance will be broken sooner or later.

When the balance is broken, the nobles will feel as if a kunai (a type of kunai) is hanging over their heads day and night. They'll pretend not to see it during the day, but in the quiet of the night, they won't be able to stop thinking about it.

When will it fall?

The nobles would also like to see a stable, symbiotic new order emerge.

Hiruzen Sarutobi patted Kujou Gen's shoulder in acknowledgment: "The production of Sacred Pills in Konoha has increased by fifty percent, and the efficacy of the pills has increased by thirty percent."

"The number of people who can receive treatment has increased further."

"We have also developed internal organ repair technology, prosthetic limb reattachment technology, and made significant breakthroughs in fields such as cosmetics."

Hiruzen Sarutobi placed a scroll in Gen Kujo's hand.

"Given the reputation of 'Holy Land,' you need not doubt the quality of our products."

"In addition, although the potency of this 'Holy Land Pill' has been upgraded, we will reduce the price by one percent—"

The nobles gasped in surprise.

More for the same price?

"As I've said before, I consider you all as my comrades."

"Admittedly, Konoha will make some profit from the 'Holy Land Pill' project, but we will only earn a reasonable profit. As the craftsmanship improves, the cost will naturally decrease."

The essence of the "Holy Land Pill" is also an encouragement to the outstanding builders of the Land of Fire, a point of consensus between me and the Daimyo.

Hiruzen Sarutobi said leisurely.

A one percent price reduction will give the nobles the impression that Konoha is extremely generous and uses high-quality materials.

They might even find Naruto too naive, considering that such a monopolistic product needs to consider their wallets—

For a moment, the way the nobles looked at Hiruzen Sarutobi changed.

This ninja—

No, it's the Hokage of Konoha who's different!

The daimyo, understanding the implication, added, "The allocation of 'Holy Land Pills' was discussed with everyone a year ago and determined based on the performance evaluation criteria."

"The Hokage and I hope that you can all work without worry to relieve the people's worries and do things for them. We hope that you can use this advanced technology to protect everyone and make the Land of Fire strong as soon as possible."

"Let me make this clear from the start—"

"If anyone obstructs or sabotages the development of the Land of Fire, or tries to act arrogantly and thwart this unprecedented opportunity, then I will have no choice but to strike them hard!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi chuckled and said, "Everyone, you all think about the continuation of your clans, so your thinking naturally needs to keep pace with the times."

"Do the people of the Land of Fire ask for much? They simply want enough to eat, warm clothes, a place to live, a safe environment, and some spare money. That would make them content."

"You have given them these things, and they will naturally support you. This is the way for the family to continue in the long run."

"Based on this, Konoha will have a batch of 'Sacred Land Pills' as a reserve."

"If anyone works hard but still doesn't rank at the top of the performance review, but needs to recuperate due to health issues or a family member's need, they can report to Daming—"

"I can coordinate expedited processing or allocate Holy Land Pills," opening a special channel.

Upon hearing this, some nobles whose territories were relatively small or barren lit up with excitement.

Hokage-sama—

They really considered everyone's needs!

"Those who obtained the Sacred Pill will, as contributors to the Land of Fire, receive priority in the queue when they need advanced medical care in Konoha."

The nobles were already itching to get started.

Internal organ treatment technology, limb regeneration—it sounds like a second life!

As for the cost, it will definitely be very expensive.

But what is money compared to life?

Hiruzen Sarutobi continued, "Now, let's get back to the matter of the Eighth Hokage Uchiha—"

"According to our investigation, this is an extremely low-probability event caused by a powerful individual."

"But this serves as a wake-up call for us. The ninjas and all the rulers are two inseparable sides of the same coin, brothers who are closely united to form the Land of Fire."

"Therefore, I would like to make the following adjustments to the rules for future Konoha missions."

"Firstly, regarding this incident, escort missions will henceforth be marked with their value," and if any damage occurs, Konoha will provide full compensation.

"Secondly, regarding commissioned missions, in the past, such missions required a deposit. If the ninja died or the mission failed, it was considered a death and the deposit would not be refunded."

"From now on, if a commission fails due to reasons other than Konoha's subjective fault, we will refund double the deposit. If the failure is due to the client concealing information or the task exceeding the agreed scope, the deposit will not be refunded."

"Thirdly, there are mandatory military missions. Please trust the ninjas of Konoha. Every ninja of Konoha will stand firm to defend the safety of the Land of Fire. This is not a matter of money."

"Konoha will establish a public fund compensation pool to protect everyone's rights."

The daimyo pressed his advantage, saying, "However—Lord Hokage, while you are so considerate of everyone, I have some thoughts—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi raised an eyebrow: "Please speak, Daimyo!"

"Actually, everyone here is quite wealthy—"

"Konoha's technological advancements are obvious to anyone with eyes to see—I'm thinking, rather than offering concessions now, wouldn't it be better to increase investment to accelerate research and development and production?"

Most of the nobles showed expressions of approval.

Do they need that 1% price reduction? No!

They had already sensed the Hokage's sincerity, and what they wanted was to enjoy even better medicinal effects—

"I just wanted to show everyone my sincerity."

2

Hiruzen Sarutobi sighed softly, his face showing signs of weariness.

"Lord Hokage, we have seen your sincerity!"

"Lord Hokage, we don't need to lower prices. I believe this is a crucial period for the development of the Land of Fire, and price adjustments are necessary. Who here is short of a little money? Let's all broaden our perspective!"

"I want to donate! Lord Hiruzen, I'm willing to contribute to Konoha!"

Many nobles eagerly stood up, trying to make an impression on Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Those in the know have already recognized Konoha's status as a medical giant.

It is also foreseeable that Konoha will have a disruptive impact on all walks of life in the future.

It is unwise to be concerned with such petty gains!

The Hokage has already given me face, so why should I continue to act superior?

They both took a step back, that's more than enough!

"I propose a research donation for Konoha, and I will personally contribute 300 million ryo!"

Kujo Gen said magnanimously.

Many nobles' eyes lit up, and they all loudly echoed and shouted out their own bids.

Hiruzen Sarutobi waved his hand and said, "No—don't do that, Daimyo. This will inevitably create a competitive atmosphere and make everyone feel awkward."

"If possible, I would like to offer a maximum of one million ryo, no matter how much more or less. I would be very grateful if Konoha could just give me a token of appreciation."

""

"If everyone governs the Land of Fire well and revitalizes the economy, the increased tax revenue will be used to allocate funds to Konoha. This will be more meaningful and more likely to create a long-term positive cycle than individual donations."

"As the Hokage, I sincerely hope that I can share the glory and the shame with everyone here, unite the entire Land of Fire as one, and one day show genuine smiles from the hearts of all, from ninjas and nobles to ordinary people."

Hiruzen Sarutobi bowed slightly.

The nobles all rose to their feet and bowed deeply to Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Whether you believe it or still have doubts—

But at least for this moment, this man who bears the name of Hokage needs to stand up and show him respect.

Kujo Gen took a deep breath.

That's what he admires about his older brother—

He could turn a crisis into a catalyst for reform!

"As for the matter of Yashiro—"

"Since everyone agrees, we will coordinate with the noble Yuan family to provide compensation under the new agreement."

Hiruzen Sarutobi said slowly.

A high-ranking nobleman raised his hand and exclaimed indignantly, "Hokage-sama! Masamune is a traitor to the Land of Fire! He has long been dissatisfied with the Daimyo!"

"There's no need to lecture him on rules!"

"If there is evidence that he is a traitor, then naturally he should be dealt with. I believe the Daimyo will launch a corresponding investigation and coordinate Konoha's resources," Hiruzen Sarutobi said calmly. "But before that, we must pay the compensation that is due; that's the rule."

"The rules have been established, and they must be followed. This is where Konoha's reputation lies."

The nobleman was taken aback.

After a pause, he said with genuine admiration, "You truly treat people with sincerity! I'm impressed!"

"You flatter me—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi shook his head, his gaze sweeping across the room, his tone calm yet disdainful: "Gentlemen, the rules I have established will be strictly observed by the Konoha ninja, and maintaining this order relies on more than just the Will of Fire—"

"That's also because I, Hiruzen Sarutobi, am the greatest violent person in Konoha!"

"I will dedicate my life to training and relentlessly strive towards becoming the greatest force of violence and order in the ninja world."

At this moment, Hiruzen Sarutobi's divine robes fluttered without wind, like a battle flag.

He made the nobles unconsciously look up to him!

The Hokage was the strongest person in Konoha, yet he was strict with himself and adhered to the rules.

They wield power, yet they willingly bind themselves to laws and regulations.

This self-discipline of a strong person inspires awe and heartfelt respect.

The entire place remained silent for an unknown period of time.

And it is unknown who stood up and raised their hand.

The applause began slowly, quickly spreading out in a solemn and sincere manner, lasting for a long time!

Kujo Gen was extremely excited at that moment.

"The Hokage should rightfully serve as the Great Shogun, the guardian of the Land of Fire!"

"The money and grain in the national treasury and internal granary of the Fire Kingdom are related to national security and people's livelihood and can be directly allocated and used."

"Local warlords and aristocratic families who harbor malicious intentions or disrupt the law may be investigated and punished on the spot!"

"The peace and lifeline of the Land of Fire should be entrusted to the Hokage!"

The nobles shouted in unison, "That's exactly right!"

This move is both a sign of respect for Hiruzen Sarutobi and a way to integrate the Hokage into the Land of Fire's management system through a dual-track system.

In this way, the nobles and bureaucrats could at least psychologically amuse themselves by claiming that the fire was one of their own.

Even if Hiruzen Sarutobi held the power to control and execute them, it would make the nobles feel more at ease.

Hiruzen Sarutobi naturally understood the psychology of the nobles and accepted the title.

"Your Excellency, I will use this power prudently and try my best not to affect the people's livelihood."

"The people of the Land of Fire still depend on you, the Konoha ninja, and all of you!"

From then on, Hiruzen Sarutobi was the Hokage and the Great Shogun of the Land of Fire!

Amidst applause, Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly walked out, waving goodbye to the nobles.

The shouts of "General who will behead you every day!" and "General who will protect the nation!" echoed throughout the hall, accompanied by cheers.

On the issue of ninjas and nobles, Konoha was far ahead of the ninja world and entered a new phase together with the Land of Fire!

After Hiruzen Sarutobi left.

A nobleman from a collateral branch of the Yuan family, who had been sitting quietly at the end of the table listening, found Kujo Gen.

His name is Enichi Kyu.

"Lord Daimyo, the majority of the Yuan family has absolutely no intention of opposing you and the Great General!"

"It's all Masamune Mason's fault!"

"I have collected evidence of his collusion with foreign powers and his years of forming cliques and engaging in corrupt practices!" Yuan Shixiu held a scroll high above his head and knelt before Kujo Gen.

Kujo Gen narrowed his eyes, a smile playing on his lips: "A clever man!"

But he also felt a bit emotional.

If it weren't for his older brother's sudden emergence—

Perhaps the Yuan family members kneeling at his feet now might actually become daimyo in the future!

Kujo Gen has already made his decision.

He should simply give the Yuan family the antique mirror that has been passed down in his own family!

Even if you look at everything else, a mirror is still just an object.

What's truly important is the bond between him and Hiruzen Sarutobi!

#

Leaf.

Conference room in the Hokage Building.

Orochimaru crossed his arms, and his fair skin seemed to have darkened somewhat.

After these few days of meetings—

It cannot be said that nothing was gained, but it can also be said that there was no progress.

It can be said that everyone has their own opinion.

Both have their merits and shortcomings, and the lack of a decisive person means that these disputes will continue indefinitely.

Now, it's Danzo's turn!

"No matter what, a ninja who can't complete a mission or fulfill their duty is just trash!"

Danzo is spouting outrageous rhetoric: "He should be executed!"

And at this moment.

Hiruzen Sarutobi slowly walked in.

All I saw was...

He casually picked up where Danzo left off: "Really? I wonder if you remember when we served together as Tobirama's bodyguards?"