Traveling through three generations: Making Konoha great again!

Chapter 167 Madara Uchiha's Plot, Hiruzen Sarutobi's Regret (1-word Chapter!)

Madara Uchiha looked at the group of Konoha exchange students from Kirigakure.

As a mastermind in the ninja world with extraordinary wisdom, Madara considered problems from a very comprehensive perspective.

The key to starting a war lies in creating an information gap.

To make one side misjudge the other as weaker, given the nature of the hidden villages' mutual attacks, they would see starting a war as a worthwhile option.

However, if these Kirigakure students truthfully report Konoha's information, their presence will eliminate the information gap between the two sides.

In Madara Uchiha's view, the Third Mizukage's village management skills were already incredibly poor.

But after all, someone who can sit in this position and is considered a ninja with some strength is not so stupid as to not be able to analyze basic information.

Even if they wanted to use war as an internal pressure relief valve, they wouldn't choose Konoha as their target; they would choose another one.

Therefore, Madara must stop these Konoha exchange students from Kirigakure from taking back firsthand information—

Not only that, they should also be made to spread the message that Konoha is weak and powerless.

This is not a contradiction.

Without sufficient information, an event can be reasonably analyzed to the point of leading in the opposite direction.

For example, the fact that Konoha broke the ninja code.

Those who understand, those who know the internal intelligence of Konoha, will naturally understand that this is a manifestation of the Will of Fire.

The village's cohesion and organization have reached an unprecedented level.

But it could also be interpreted as the Hokage losing control over the lower-ranking ninjas!

Konoha was corrupted by the Will of Fire, and the ninja below no longer listened to the higher-ups!

That's why they had to spend a lot of money to compromise and were forced to abandon the useful ninja code.

Therefore, this is also why Madara did not choose to kill Kisame and the others.

Ban was even hoping they would spread the word in the opposite direction!

"You—who are you?"

Mei Terumi swallowed hard, and said tremblingly, "But this is different from the Konoha we know. Won't this lead the village to misjudge the situation?"

Kisame frowned and retorted, "My lord, I think it's best to be pragmatic. The Mizukage isn't the type to ignore advice—"

"Lord Mizukage must want us to tell the truth so that he can end the Blood Mist Village sooner. Lord Mizukage should have wanted to stop it a long time ago."

Kisame also had this idea, which was triggered by the long-term struggle between the left and right hemispheres of his brain.

It is assumed that the Mizukage has the level of understanding and knowledge of Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Otherwise it would be too painful.

In short, he fooled himself as well.

Nakamaro and Yuki looked at Kisame with surprise, and Mei Terumi also glanced at him.

How did this guy come to this conclusion?

Were the Third Mizukage good at accepting advice?

Even Madara Uchiha couldn't help but laugh, the corners of his mouth behind the mask curling up.

Where did this innocent-looking kid come from? He's too honest!

"If all ninjas were this clear-headed and foolish, there might even be peace in the ninja world—" Uchiha Madara looked at Kisame a few more times with particular emphasis.

This guy is so silly it's almost endearing.

"The fact that I can be here means that the village already knows about Konoha's situation."

Madara Uchiha crossed his arms: "You think Konoha is strong? That's just a facade; it's weak inside and could collapse at any moment—"

"What you see is only what Konoha wants you to see!"

"By misleading you, we caused the village to misjudge Konoha's fighting strength, thus losing our opportunity to attack—"

Madara Uchiha pointed his fingers in a series of motions: "Are you sure what you see during your morning training sessions is real?"

First was Kisame.

"When you were browsing the Konoha market and the merchant guild, didn't you ever think that you were encountering spies?"

Next is Terumi Mei.

"And you two, it's good that you're always gathering intelligence from the Hyuga clan, but how could you possibly outmaneuver that old fox, Tenzo?"

Finally, there are Nakamaro and Yuki.

Madara Uchiha, of course, wouldn't come without doing his homework. He was already determined to teach Hiruzen Sarutobi a lesson and didn't want to lose to his younger self.

So I started doing things myself!

In a sense, he could be considered a model worker; this elderly man was still working on the front lines as a spy.

After all, given the White Zetsu's intelligence, it would be too difficult for them to impersonate high-ranking members of the Hidden Mist Village and give speeches.

At most, I'll sing a few lines in his song—

The four members of the Hidden Mist felt a chill on their necks!

How did the village know about their whereabouts in Konoha?

Madara Uchiha watched Kisame and the others' reactions with satisfaction.

That's more like it!

Having a White Zetsu spy unit, he shouldn't have any secrets from any organization in the ninja world—

But the current Konoha is different.

Mito, Uzumaki Shio, and Kushina would occasionally activate Kagura's Mind's Eye to randomly scan the area.

Furthermore, the large number of Hyuga branch families who joined the Anbu meant that while White Zetsu could remain hidden underground without moving, they would be easily exposed if they used the Mayfly Technique to move quickly.

Therefore, information from within Konoha was gradually isolated from Madara.

Madara could only occasionally watch the Uchiha Channel, which was located in a remote area of ​​the village; he couldn't just order whatever he wanted anymore.

Thinking about this, Ban's feelings became somewhat complicated.

Konoha was, after all, the village he founded, so it should be different from other hidden villages, but it shouldn't be too different either.

Why are we even guarding against White Zetsu?

"My lord, how did you know we—" Mei Terumi asked tentatively, "Could it be that the village has completely infiltrated Konoha?"

Ban's words were clearly persuasive.

During their year in Konoha, they did not exchange information with the village and remained completely isolated.

Yet they know so much about their daily lives!

"Could it be that the village is really much better than I imagined?" Mei Terumi couldn't help but doubt her life.

Kisame looked delighted.

Alas!

He guessed right!

The Mizukage's Blood Mist Village policy is truly for the good of Kirigakure, even though the methods seem a bit harsh. But isn't the effect quite obvious?

Despite being in a state of isolation, they were still able to bypass Konoha's layers of security and obtain firsthand information!

Kisame increasingly longed to return to Kirigakure.

He wanted to see if the village had become like Konoha, or even surpassed it.

"No, no, I was too impatient. It's enough that things are getting better!" Kisame told himself.

However, after their initial shock, Nakamaro and Yuki's disgust for Kirigakure deepened.

Especially Nakamaro, after studying in depth with Hyuga Tenzo for more than half a year.

He now has an intimate understanding of the tactics and strategies employed by high-ranking members of certain ninja clans and villages.

"They pretend to be in control, but they're just using psychological suggestion to scare people!"

Nakamaro thought disdainfully to himself, "Kisame is naturally a diligent trainer, Mei enjoys shopping, and Kaguya has a history with the Hyuga clan. With a little analysis, one can guess that we've done similar things—"

Nakamaro was fixated on one principle.

If Kirigakure were truly strong, they wouldn't have resorted to the roundabout method of "internal affairs department" to plant threats against the Kaguya clan, and instead used the Bloody Mist Village to dismantle the ninja clans—

Even without skillful negotiation or division, the sheer force of intelligence would have made most ninja clans submit long ago.

Why go through all this trouble?

"Looking beyond appearances to the essence, what Uncle Tenzang said was indeed true! These corrupt high-ranking officials just like to play tricks and scare people—" Nakamaro thought to himself.

However, on the surface, Nakamaro appeared to be completely convinced.

There's no need to force it.

On the contrary, Nakamaro was quite pleased to see the Hidden Mist Village's higher-ups concealing the true situation in Konoha.

Because Nakamaro never intended to bring the Kaguya clan to Konoha intact.

He understood the mental state of this tribe best—

Some members of the clan are born with extraordinary strength, impossible to reason with, and despite lacking real power, they are exceptionally arrogant.

People like this—

Bringing them to Konoha would only cause trouble for themselves and their clansmen.

The ninja clan is a label of identity.

If even one person is too overpowered, it will lower the overall impression of the Kaguya clan among the other ninjas.

"The Shikotsumyaku (Corpse Bone Pulse) is on the verge of extinction due to the corruption of these intellectually disabled people. Let Kirigakure and the Third Mizukage help me with the selection."

""

Nakamaro let out a long breath and put on a respectful expression: "The Third Mizukage is truly a master strategist! It's fortunate that you gave us your guidance, otherwise we youngsters would have been fooled by the cunning Konoha—"

"Rest assured, we will never pass on false information to the village's ninjas."

Nakamaro said in a deep voice, "Konoha is a weak village! They don't even follow the ninja code, which only shows that their ninjas are afraid to fight and don't know how to fight!"

"Just you wait and see what our Kaguya clan does! We'll be the first to charge in and hack these cowards to pieces!"

Nakamaro's tone was cruel and impassioned, like that of a battle maniac.

But he felt somewhat uncomfortable.

I've been in Konoha for a year now, and it's been a long time since I've said something so thoughtless. It's kind of embarrassing—

Madara Uchiha smiled slightly.

"The Kaguya clan is still so brainless. I made them submit with just a little trick—"

"However, you can't blame me for bringing the war to Konoha. With a ninja clan like Kirigakure, it was only a matter of time before they attacked Konoha. I just gave them a push. In essence, I made Hiruzen Sarutobi realize reality sooner."

Thinking of this, Madara Uchiha was taken aback. Why did it seem like he was trying to convince himself?

How strange—

Kisame raised his hand and said seriously, "My lord, however, we must still be wary of Konoha's fighting strength. Their ninja academy students have a very high average quality, and their ninja support is also excellent—"

"Furthermore, I've observed many of their ninjas and haven't noticed any signs of it being unsustainable—"

Kisame thought of Might Guy.

During their last few months in Konoha, the two of them became quite familiar with each other as they practiced together in the mornings.

Kisame also knows Kai's story.

In the past, we could barely afford to eat our fill and stay warm; our nutrition was barely enough to sustain our physical energy.

But after Konoha provided him with welfare and security, Might Guy was well-fed and his eyes shone with hope; the changes were real.

Madara Uchiha smiled slightly; he had already prepared his explanation.

"Kisame, I do not deny Konoha's so-called ninja protection."

"But by doing this, they are digging their own grave! Hiruzen Sarutobi forcibly stabilized Konoha's political situation by selling off the legacy left by Hashirama Senju, and this will not have any lasting consequences!"

"It's an act of drinking poison to quench thirst—"

"If the Mizukage wanted to, he could do it! But what the Mizukage desires is long-term peace and stability for Kirigakure, maintaining internal unity and stability for a considerable period of time in the future—"

"Instead of short-sightedly handing out welfare benefits and dragging things out day by day!"

Madara Uchiha slowly said, "Kisame, you must learn to see through appearances to the essence. A village that is flourishing like oil on a raging fire can collapse in an instant. A seemingly perfect situation is just an illusion. This has happened more than once in the history of Konoha—"

"Back then, Konoha boasted the God of Shinobi and the Asura of the Shinobi World. How glorious it was! It seemed like they were about to march across the Shinobi World at any moment—"

"But what happened after that? Both pillars collapsed one after another, leaving only Tobirama Senju, a mediocre man who couldn't even handle peace talks with Kumogakure and died in the First Shinobi World War."

Madara Uchiha subtly added a bit of his own personal touch—

Kisame nodded thoughtfully, his gaze unconsciously filled with a hint of reverence.

These are the leaders of our village!

Truly cultured and strategic!

Even Nakamaro looked at Madara Uchiha with considerable surprise.

This statement sounds extremely misleading at first glance.

"If this were in my past, I probably would have believed it, right?"

"Fortunately, Uncle Tenzo explained the operating logic of this great village of Konoha to me—" Nakamaro unconsciously felt a sense of superiority.

Hyuga Tenzo explained it to him in great detail.

The underlying ruling logic of all hidden villages in the ninja world is highly homogeneous.

Ninjas are tools; the village operates through high-pressure rules and war plunder. Sacrificing individuals and exploiting the lower classes are the ironclad rules of survival.

Otherwise, they simply wouldn't be able to cope with the intense environment of frequent warfare.

Madara Uchiha's statement aligns well with the survival knowledge of the ninja world that has persisted for nearly a thousand years.

It's like a boss who keeps his factory afloat by cutting employee wages every day, only to hear that the factory next door has abolished the bottom-ranking elimination system, provided compensation for worker injuries and fatalities, and raised the base salary.

My first reaction was definitely not "ambitious vision and industrial upgrading", but rather "this kind of approach will lead to bankruptcy sooner or later".

Everyone produces the same tools. It doesn't make sense that you were getting beaten up a few years ago, but now you're doing something amazing!

This is the natural reaction of most ninjas.

But Nakamaro was different.

With extensive tutoring from Hyuga Tenzo, Nakamaro understood that Konoha had achieved "industrial upgrading," and that it was pursuing a "small but beautiful" high-tech path.

While producing premium goods, they did not use too much manpower to affect their military capabilities, and they also formed a close-knit group with the nobles, far ahead of other hidden villages.

"This guy must be a high-ranking member of Kirigakure—"

"This deception is truly astonishing, but it was still within Uncle Tenzang's expectations. He had long anticipated that Kirigakure would think this way—"

Nakamaro sincerely exclaimed how true the statement "One day I was Kaguya's brain" was!

Hyuga Tenzo was worried that Nakamaro would relapse into his illness after returning to Kirigakure's environment.

Therefore, we considered in advance how Yuan Shi and others would restructure the organization if they understood Konoha's advantages, taking into account all aspects—

As a Konoha committee member specifically responsible for matters concerning Kirigakure, Hyuga Tenzo's work was undeniably thorough.

However, Tenzo himself certainly did not expect that the first enemy he was dealing with with these preventative measures was not Kirigakure, but the renowned Shinobi World Asura!

Xue echoed Nakamaro's words, but inwardly she was also disdainful.

As a member who had long ago conspired with Nakamaro to defect, Yuki heard Tenzo's instructions from Nakamaro.

And even without discussing these principles—

The Third Mizukage's persecution of the Ice Release ninja clan alone was enough to fill Yuki with immense resentment.

With family members dying or going to jail, doesn't the person involved know whether he was wronged or not?

"May I ask who you are?"

Kisame asked respectfully, "I want to learn more from you in the future. You are truly amazing—"

Clearly, Kisame, who was too obsessed with Kirigakure, had been completely swayed by Madara.

Terumi Mei's eyes narrowed.

She was also very curious about who this Kirigakure character, played by Uchiha Madara, actually was—

Although judging from the aura, it's highly likely to be a Hidden Mist ninja, there's no guarantee—

Madara Uchiha gave a cold smile.

"Master Yuan" appeared from a distance, slowly walked over, and glanced at Kisame and the others.

Kisame and the others immediately knelt down and greeted, "Master Yuan!"

"Hmm—" This is naturally not Yuan Shi, but just a fake body disguised as Bai Jue A Huo.

He subtly displayed his chakra to prove his identity.

The strength of White Zetsu lies in this.

Not only can it blend into the earth, but it can also perfectly mimic the chakra of a ninja who has been exposed to it, making it as indistinguishable as a "wood clone".

"Confirmed, this is Master Yuan—" Kisame felt relieved, and his last doubts were dispelled.

"You must keep these words I'm telling you in your hearts forever."

"You are all promising talents from Kirigakure, but you are still young and may be misled by the strange situation in Konoha. So, I'm here to remind you, in case you go astray."

To prepare for today's performance, White Zetsu Ah Huo rehearsed excitedly for a long time.

It sighed and tapped its cane on the ground: "But this is against the rules. A Kirigakure ninja should be unconditionally loyal to Kirigakure. Any wavering is a violation of the ninja code."

"So, not only for your own sake, but also to avoid causing me trouble, you should pretend that what I said today never happened, and focus on working for Kirigakure. Don't waste my efforts—"

Bai Jue A Huo perfectly portrayed a highly respected elder who showed leniency out of appreciation for talent, and also added Yuan Shi's prudent self-preservation qualities.

Madara Uchiha couldn't help but feel a little surprised.

"That Ah Huo—"

"After being strengthened by the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path, and having read books and always staying by my side, he can be quite useful."

"They're not much worse than Black Zetsu and Tobi!"

Kisame and Mei Terumi had no more doubts, and their voices were filled with gratitude: "Thank you, Master! We will never forget this kindness—"

Nakamaro and Yuki sneered inwardly.

"It really was that old geezer's scheme; no wonder his words were so convincing!"

"Alright, you guys wait for someone to come and pick me up. I have other important matters to attend to—" White Zetsu Ah-Huo waved his hand and left with Uchiha Madara, who controlled the Anbu White Zetsu.

After they left.

Kisame glanced back in the direction of Konoha, a sense of感慨 (gǎnkǎi, a feeling of mixed emotions, often including regret or nostalgia).

"Such a beautiful village, was it just a false revival before its decline? It's truly a pity—"

"But after all, it's not my village. After enjoying a year of peace, it's already quite good—"

Kisame couldn't help but wonder, what kind of village would such far-sighted Kirigakure leaders manage?

Obviously.

When Kisame sees the increasingly conflicted Kirigakure, Madara Uchiha's rhetoric will crumble on its own.

After all, the reality is too brutal to be concealed by words alone.

The truth speaks for itself.

But that's not the key point.

Madara only needed Kisame and the others to transmit incorrect information to Kirigakure, allowing it to spread rapidly among the higher-ups and create an intense desire for Konoha—

Once the fire is started, it can't be stopped.

As for Kisame himself, he was just an unknown, slightly talented nobody.

He has any thoughts or changes—

Even the demons of the ninja world don't care.

"Ah Huo, you did a great job today—"

In the mountain graveyard, Madara and White Zetsu communicated remotely: "How's the situation at Void Village?"

"Lord Madara, we have obtained all their intelligence; all that's left is for you to take control of their leader! However, even with working overtime to restore their armed forces, it will still take some time—"

The cheerful voice of Bai Jue A Huo drifted over.

The praise from Madara made White Zetsu Ah-Huo very happy.

This is also because it is the first time it has performed a "brain-using" task, which fundamentally distinguishes it from other White Zetsu.

White Zetsu Ah Huo has a dream.

As it grows smarter, it will be able to understand the ultimate question: why Madara and the Hokage, who should be on good terms, are so awkwardly at odds.

In its mind, this was a more important question about life than "what it feels like to poop".

However, Ah Huo didn't dare to ask Madara directly, so he kept it to himself and planned to study it slowly.

"The leader of the Hidden Void Village can be controlled at will—"

Madara Uchiha nodded slightly: "This village has no reason to exist anymore. The only purpose of Void Village is to remind Hiruzen Sarutobi that the chains of hatred in the ninja world cannot be broken—"

"I will have the Void Village empty its coffers and spare no expense in producing all types of combat ninja tools. Otherwise, even with my command, sending them there will only make Hiruzen Sarutobi laugh at us!"

In fact, Madara Uchiha could also control a true master.

The reason they didn't do that was because Madara felt it was too rough and not elegant.

Even if his illusion magic is powerful enough, controlling a person's mind always requires constant adjustment.

A mere Grandmaster isn't worth him going to such lengths, wasting his energy researching Hiruzen Sarutobi and restoring his body—

Moreover, any technique will always leave a trace.

The undetectable nature of a calculated scheme is unmatched by illusions; everything is simply going with the flow.

White Zetsu Ah Huo blinked.

It sensed something different in Madara Uchiha's words—

What does it mean that this village has no reason to exist?

White Zetsu Ah Huo really wanted to ask, is it because he attacked Konoha without being under your control?

"What strange logic Madara has—" Ah-Huo thought to himself.

"How are Black Zetsu and Tobi doing?" Madara Uchiha asked again.

"Obito is still the same as before, training with Kakashi and Might Guy all day, grinning like an idiot at home looking at Hokage photos, and helping old ladies cross the street—"

Ah Huo pondered, "Right, he always seems to be going to see Zhi Shui and Qing Shui!"

Madara Uchiha perked up at the mention of Qing Shui.

This was the last Konoha ninja, besides Hiruzen Sarutobi and the Mizunobi, who could interest him.

After all, she resembles her younger brother and seems to have a close connection with Izuna's chakra.

"Hiruzen Sarutobi's most fatal weakness is that he doesn't understand the Uchiha clan!"

Madara Uchiha laughed loudly: "He actually got Aokiji to join Root. Now, in this game, I have the advantage in every aspect—"

"I know what he's thinking—"

"It's not that I have bad intentions, I just want Danzo and the Uchiha to reconcile, and for Aozumi to become Danzo's apprentice and help improve relations between the Uchiha and the village—"

"This seems like a no-brainer, but how sensitive is Qing Shui, a highly skilled Uchiha?"

"Even though Hiruzen Sarutobi held a fireside chat, restricting Danzo and the Root's movements, how could that idiot who can only clumsily imitate Tobirama Senju possibly behave?"

"He must be trying to influence Qingshui with his clumsy thinking!"

"This kind of low-level darkness will undoubtedly quickly fuel Aokiji's doubts about Konoha, exposing Konoha's most despicable aspects to the Uchiha!"

"Not only that, Hiruzen Sarutobi also absorbed the Eighth Hokage Uchiha into Root, and more and more Uchiha are sinking into darkness. Only Izuna can control this situation—"

Madara Uchiha said with certainty.

He had another thought in his mind—

Madara was certain that Izuna's chakra resided within Aoisui—

However, he couldn't be sure whether Izuna's chakra had its own consciousness, while Madara hoped it did.

In that case, Danzo's actions are excellent evidence to prove the Eye of the Moon Plan!

If Hiruzen Sarutobi knew Madara's views on the Uchiha clan, he wouldn't think Madara was wrong.

One of the biggest challenges in bringing the Uchiha clan together is that the clan's emotions are extremely unstable.

People like Yashiro who received a favor are fine, but others will always have some emotional fluctuations.

Today might be normal, but tomorrow they might come up with some strange logic, difficult to observe and difficult to deduce.

It really takes a lot of effort.

It will take at least several years of indoctrination with the Will of Fire to form a relatively stable ideological imprint in this clan. Until then, the Uchiha will remain an unstable factor in Konoha.

This is also the reason why Hiruzen Sarutobi revived Tobirama Senju.

Only by becoming an Uchiha can one perceive every unstable factor up close.

Throughout Konoha and even the entire ninja world, only Tobirama possessed the ability and interest to genuinely and perfectly execute this arduous task.

As long as Tobirama is alive, Hiruzen Sarutobi won't have to deal with the complicated Uchiha clan.

Qing Shui will take action!

"Ah-Huo, what do you think of what I said? Qing Shui cannot bear Danzo's darkness—"

Madara Uchiha said with a hint of smugness, "Hiruzen Sarutobi is still too green!"

This time, Ah Huo stopped complaining and said seriously, "Lord Madara is truly insightful!"

This is indeed reasonable and logical.

But this is predicated on Danzo's darkness truly being greater than that of Aoi-sui.

"How are those brats, Nagato, doing?" Madara Uchiha continued to ask.

"Well—" Ah-Huo scratched his head: "Black Zetsu has been following them—you said that if there were any unexpected situations, you would need to use your power to retrieve Nagato's Rinnegan."

"According to the last report, the situation seems to have changed somewhat. Hanzo has been actively consolidating various organizations within Amegakure, and Nagato and his group have also come under his notice."

"And they're even promoting their friendship with Konoha in Amegakure, saying that the Second Shinobi World War was started by Sunagakure and Iwagakure, it feels like they're planning a deep collaboration with Konoha—"

"It seems the Rinnegan can no longer be hidden. Don't you think so?"

Madara Uchiha waved his hand: "Look, you're in such a hurry again—Tobi, you're a different kind of White Zetsu. I hope you aim to become someone like Tobi."

Ah Huo nodded solemnly, listening intently to Lord Ban's profound insights.

"With Black Zetsu and White Zetsu around, it doesn't matter if we reveal our Rinnegan in front of Hanzo—"

"I'd much rather Hanzo and the others attack Nagato! Kill all his comrades, so that this cowardly but talented brat will understand the cruelty of the ninja world—"

Madara Uchiha recalled the three years he spent watching Frog TV, and his lips twitched.

I can only say that he truly lives up to his reputation as Hiruzen Sarutobi's apprentice.

That brat named Jiraiya is truly a god among ninjas—

Upon discovering the Rinnegan, he was merely shocked for a moment, then acted as if he hadn't seen it at all, without a trace of greed, and diligently taught Nagato and the others ninjutsu for three years.

They went back and didn't even tell Konoha, as if the Rinnegan were just some cabbage growing on the roadside!

Madara Uchiha pondered for a long time but still couldn't understand Jiraiya's logic.

What does it mean exactly?

It can only be said that in terms of fanaticism, the former rightful successor of Mount Myōboku was in no way inferior to the Uchiha.

Madara Uchiha sighed slightly, then analyzed for Ah-Huo: "That brat Hanzo was actually a decent ninja back then, but as he got older, his ambition disappeared, and he could only gradually become a mere surviving man—"

"People like this have given up on the way of ninja and their dreams, and only think about consolidating their ridiculous power."

"Will Hanzo truly negotiate peace with Konoha? At most, he'll only be thinking of using Konoha—"

A fierce glint flashed in Madara Uchiha's eyes: "If Hanzo doesn't have the guts to take the Rinnegan, then I'll let Danzo know! His relationship with Amegakure is just one of mutual exploitation. Judging from his clumsy imitation of Tobirama's style, he will definitely try every means to seize it."

"In that case, Nagato can be completely used by me."

The initial candidate for Madara Uchiha's spokesperson plan was Nagato.

Although he has now decided to take action personally, recruiting Nagato would actually be more cost-effective than recruiting Obito.

After all, Nagato's body, which had been modified by the Rinnegan over many years, was the most suitable for reviving him!

The reason for choosing a different spokesperson was simply because Madara Uchiha was also helpless against Jiraiya.

Ah Huo nodded in sudden realization.

But then it blinked and discovered a blind spot.

Why is Madara so certain that Hanzo's lost spirit will never be rekindled?

"Actually, didn't Lord Madara himself recover from being depressed and influenced by Hiruzen Sarutobi? Now he's full of energy every day and looks ten years younger than before—"

Thinking of this, Ah Huo quickly slapped himself, stopping his presumptuous idea.

How could you think of Lord Madara like that?

Madara did not lose his spirit or linger on in vain. As long as he lived, he would never be defeated and would remain the invincible Asura of the ninja world!

#

Leaf.

Hiruzen Sarutobi felt the Fire Sealing Seal within his body, experiencing a wondrous sensation as it flowed through him.

A raging fire erupted on his right index finger, the intense heat scorching his left arm.

However, Hiruzen Sarutobi only felt a slight burning sensation and did not find it unbearable.

"Has my fire resistance increased again? This might be related to my exceptional mastery of fire-style chakra nature transformation. After all, the Sarutobi clan excels in fire-style techniques, and I've been proficient in them since childhood—"

"Once other attributes are acquired, the speed will likely slow down."

"Once I've mastered fire resistance, I'll choose water resistance as my next resistance—" Hiruzen Sarutobi's eyes flashed as he thought of the Kirigakure students who had left Konoha.

The Hokage lit his pipe, exhaled a puff of smoke, and shook his head with a hint of regret.

In his view, with the departure of the Kirigakure exchange students, Konoha and Kirigakure would no longer be able to fight.

Even if the Third Mizukage were insane, he couldn't possibly ignore the intelligence brought by Kisame and the others, and fight a battle against Konoha, whose organization and cohesion were so terrifying.

Therefore, things might only turn around after Nakamaro, Yuki, and others defect.

Even Hiruzen Sarutobi couldn't do anything about it.

After all, he couldn't very well tell Mei Terumi, Kisame, and the others not to tell the Third Mizukage about the current situation in Konoha, could he?

Doing this is no different from burying your head in the sand.

"Although I really want Kirigakure and the Land of Water, there's nothing I can do about it—"

"It's always a good thing that there's no war. How can things always go according to my wishes?" Hiruzen Sarutobi sighed.

In his view, the nobles of the Water Kingdom were a gold mine.

After the three Mizukage's machinations, the Village of Blood Mist will undoubtedly instill an indelible sense of panic among the Water Country's nobles, making it a natural fit for Konoha to enter the fray and make a deal.

We don't use violence, we just do business, and we follow the rules to provide good products.

They belong to different worlds—

Furthermore, the island terrain of the Land of Water, isolated from the sea, is exceptionally suitable for serving as a large-scale warehouse-style factory, becoming Konoha's logistics hub.

"What a pity, what a pity!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi smacked his lips.

At that moment, Danzo rushed in and was taken aback when he saw Hiruzen Sarutobi's actions.

Why is Hiruzen roasting himself with fire?

Did you smoke too much and get dizzy?

"What are you doing, Hiruzen?" Danzo stared at the fire chakra in Hiruzen Sarutobi's hand. He was a connoisseur and could tell at a glance that it was a rather profound fire chakra nature transformation.

Hiruzen Sarutobi smiled slightly and did not answer Danzo.

Danzo stared at it for a moment before he realized something was wrong.

Hiruzen isn't afraid of fire? After burning for so long, his fingers were as if they were in light rather than fire, showing no change whatsoever!

"No—" Danzo felt a tightness in his chest. Could he please stop training Hiruzen?

"What kind of forbidden technique is this? I've never heard of it before!"

Danzo, slightly exasperated, said, "The First Hokage said that even the Hokage cannot practice forbidden techniques at will, which is why the Scroll of Seals was established to prohibit so many of Tobirama-sensei's techniques!"

Hiruzen Sarutobi laughed.

Why are you in such a hurry that you're even using Hashirama to put a label on yourself?

"If Tobirama-sensei heard you say that, he'd be unhappy—" Hiruzen Sarutobi said quietly.

Danzo looked sullen, but still stubbornly retorted, "Just tell me whether the First Hokage said it or not!"

He knew perfectly well that there was no reason to restrict Hiruzen Sarutobi's training, but he just couldn't help but say a few words.

"Of course I said it—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi coughed lightly: "I practice forbidden techniques, but they were not invented by Tobirama-sensei. They are the result of Mito-sama and his father, who specially approved my practice of them."

"If the First Lord knew, he probably wouldn't say anything, don't you think?"

Danzo felt that he had suffered internal injuries.

He decided that he would never again engage in verbal battles with Hiruzen based on their names.

Danzo felt he was really stupid—

And I forgot again, in this aspect, who can beat Hiruzen?

Mito, the First Hokage, Tobirama-sensei, and even Madara Uchiha can be brought up!

It's so good at elevating people!

"snort--"

"My Wind Release Chakra Mode will be completed soon!" Danzo's mood improved somewhat when he thought of how Aozumi was perfecting his ninjutsu.

He will also become the ninja with "unique characteristics" as described by Hiruzen!

"Then congratulations, Danzo—" Hiruzen Sarutobi said with a smile, knowing in his heart that it was probably Tobirama who had exerted his power.

This is also one of the major uses of Tobirama's resurrection.

With his ninjutsu development abilities, Tobirama, having relinquished the burden of Hokage, had the capacity to help the strong ninja of Konoha expand their potential.

Hiruzen Sarutobi isn't out of the question, but he's busy solidifying his potential and doesn't have much time.

"Let's sign this contract!"

"It's about my apprentice, Aokiji! He's applied to cooperate with the Aburame clan's ninjas—" Danzo handed a document to Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Damn Orochimaru, he even got in trouble with this!

But Danzo wasn't afraid. He could just go after Hiruzen. Why would he be disgusted by something like this?

Although Danzo's tone was harsh, Hiruzen Sarutobi was not annoyed.

For Danzo, the tone of voice didn't matter; what mattered was that he finally understood he had to follow the proper procedures.

This is what growing up is like.

Hiruzen Sarutobi has a fatherly feeling about him.

"Um?"

"To treat Tomie, a female ninja from the Uchiha clan, you need to research special medical parasites?"

"Who is this Tomie—" Hiruzen Sarutobi originally wanted to write it down in a grand gesture, since it was Tobirama-sensei's request, and he should agree to everything that wasn't too unreasonable.

However, the reason for this project was so strange that Hiruzen Sarutobi still asked about it.

"It's the woman I found for Qingshui. She's run into some minor problems, so don't worry about it!" Danzo said, his tone fierce but his words betraying his inner weakness.

He didn't want Hiruzen Sarutobi to know that he had found a sickly person for Tobirama's descendant.

So embarrassing!

"Are you going to find a woman from the Uchiha clan for Tobirama-sensei?"

"Danzo is really something else—"

"Tobirama-sensei is so strange. If you want to experience romance, isn't Uzumaki Ushio a good girl? Hashirama also dated a Uzumaki woman, why don't you continue this fine tradition—"

Hiruzen Sarutobi thought to himself, but after thinking about it, he still signed the document.

Respect Tobirama-sensei's freedom to choose his own romantic partner!

Besides, it's about treating and saving lives, so what problems could possibly arise?

This is a good thing!

"Alright, Hiruzen!"

"I'm leaving. Remember to think about how to deal with Hanzo. That old bastard is visiting the village in a week. Knowing him as I do, he's definitely up to no good—"

"He can't possibly cooperate with Konoha willingly!"

Danzo left in a hurry, eager to use the list to show off to Qingshui and prove that his master was indeed very capable in terms of connections.

Hiruzen Sarutobi chuckled as he watched Danzo's retreating figure, thinking to himself, "He's having a great time with Tobirama-sensei! Even running errands is enjoyable—"

"Hanzo—"

Thinking of this name, Hiruzen Sarutobi also fell into deep thought.

Could Hanzo really be sincere?

#

Rain-Hidden Village.

The leader's office.

Hanzo stretched his limbs, pacing back and forth restlessly.

After a moment, he sighed, sat back down, and stared at the paper in front of him.

Above it, a name was written with such force that it seemed to see through the paper; he had written it unconsciously.

"Ichimonji Hibiki!"

P.S.: Requesting monthly votes at the beginning of the month!