Traveling through Naruto with Heroes of Might and Magic.

Sure enough, just as Qingwu was thinking this, Yagura continued:

"I... Yagura Karatachi, for the last time as the Mizukage, hereby issue... my final order."

Although Yagura's voice was weak, it resonated clearly in everyone's ears, carrying a sense of determination!

His gaze swept over all the Hidden Mist ninja present, including Mei Terumi, Kisame, Zabuza, and others, before finally settling on Qingwu, as if searching for some kind of support.

"The Land of Water has closed itself off from the outside world, and Kirigakure has become isolated, stagnant, and resistant to communication... This is a move that runs counter to the general trend of the development of ninja villages, and is one of the root causes of today's troubles."

Yagura took a deep breath, enduring the excruciating physical pain and mental exhaustion, and spoke each word carefully:

"In the name of the Fourth Mizukage, I hereby declare—effective immediately, the blockade policy against Kirigakure is lifted!"

"The first thing to do after the lockdown is to formally establish peaceful and friendly diplomatic relations between Kirigakure and Konoha, and... when conditions are ripe, to conclude an alliance!"

Upon hearing this, all the Mist Ninja present couldn't help but gasp in astonishment.

Although the voices were not loud, the shock and disbelief were clearly visible on the faces of every Mist Ninja.

Establish diplomatic relations with Konoha? Or even... form an alliance?!

This was a complete upheaval for the Hidden Mist Ninja, who had been isolated for many years and had long been indoctrinated with xenophobic "blood mist" ideology!

However, Yagura's next words involuntarily drew everyone's attention to Mei Terumi and Seigo beside her.

"Ahem, a long time ago, Jonin Terumi Mei suggested to me that we should open up appropriately and make contact with major powers such as Konoha to break the isolation."

"Unfortunately... not only did I fail to heed good advice at that time, but instead... alas."

Yagura's face showed deep regret and sorrow. He looked at Mei Terumi, his eyes filled with affirmation and entrustment:

"Now, it's time to make amends for this mistake. Kirigakure needs fresh air and a new path, and establishing contact with Konoha is a crucial step for Kirigakure to overcome its difficulties and move towards the future!"

He paused, his gaze returning to Qingwu, his tone becoming even more serious:

"Thousand-Handed Azure Willow... Your Excellency, today you not only saved Mist Village from peril, but also allowed us to see clearly who our true enemies and friends are,"

"Konoha is fortunate to have a young talent like you, and it is also a blessing for the ninja world! To show Kirigakure's sincerity and determination, I have decided—"

He looked at Mei Terumi again, his voice rising:

"Once the new Mizukage officially takes office, he will personally visit Konoha to formally consult with the Hokage on matters concerning the establishment of diplomatic relations and even an alliance between the two countries!"

Let this serve as the starting point for a new chapter in the relationship between Kirigakure and Konoha!

"!!—!"

Now, almost everyone present completely understood Yagura's intention!

This is an absolutely brilliant plan that kills several birds with one stone!

First, by clearly defining the general direction of establishing diplomatic relations or even an alliance with Konoha, a complete rejection of the past "Bloody Mist" policy,

This sets the tone for the future governance of the reformists and is also an important signal sent to the outside world.

Secondly, the important task of "personally visiting Konoha and promoting the establishment of diplomatic relations" was clearly entrusted to the "new Mizukage". But who is the new Mizukage?

Anyone present who wasn't stupid could tell from Yagura's previous praise of Mei Terumi and the implication in his words now—it was Mei Terumi!

This was done in a public setting, using the last authority of the abdicated Mizukage to add the most legitimate weight to Mei Terumi's succession!

The reasons are very valid, given that only Mei Terumi, who had previously proposed a "similar suggestion" to establish diplomatic relations with Konoha, and who had a "close friendship" with Seigo Senju, could provide such a reason.

They are the most suitable and qualified to carry out this important diplomatic mission concerning the future of Kirigakure!

Finally, and most importantly, he completely bound Senju Seigo to the war chariot of the new Kirigakure regime.

When Mei Terumi visits Konoha in the future, whether it's for personal thanks or to establish official diplomatic relations, she will inevitably have to mention Seigo as a "bridge" and "benefactor".

This relationship will become an important resource for Terumi Mei to consolidate her position and gain Konoha's support in the early stages of her rule.

Clever! Savvy!

No wonder he deserves to be the Mizukage!

Even in such a weak and newly out-of-control situation, they were still able to make such far-reaching and multi-beneficial political arrangements in a short period of time!

At this moment, Mei Terumi's heart was filled with turbulent waves, but even more so with a sense of sudden enlightenment and intense excitement.

She instantly understood Yagura's intentions. This was not only handing the position of Mizukage to her, but also paving the way for the most important part of her future rule!

With the banner of establishing diplomatic relations with Konoha, the public praise of the previous Mizukage, the prestige of turning the tide today, and Senju Seigo...

Those potential opposition forces will find it difficult to stir up much trouble again.

She looked at Qingwu, her eyes filled with complex emotions. At this moment, she remembered their first meeting...

That gambling den... at that time it seemed to be just a chance encounter with Senju Seigo, who came to the Land of Water to look for someone.

Little did she know that fate had arranged things so cleverly; this young man seemed destined to be a "benefactor" in her life!

……

Chapter 249 Ancient Tree Upgrade - Trigger

Qingwu nodded inwardly; Yagura's move was indeed brilliant.

This old fellow is using his last bit of authority and wisdom to arrange the most secure future possible for Wuyin.

To drag himself and Konoha into this,

This is probably both to counterbalance potential instability within the village and to find a powerful external "friend" and "role model" for Kirigakure.

As for the impact of this matter on myself...

Qingwu's mind raced.

If Mei Terumi really becomes the Mizukage and, because of this relationship with me, actively promotes an alliance with Konoha, then that would be absolutely fantastic news for Konoha!

This means that, in addition to the original Sand Village allies, Konoha will gain another powerful ally among the Five Great Nations!

In addition, a peace agreement has just been reached with the Hidden Cloud Village!

Then, the isolated Rock Village will be completely strategically isolated!

That stubborn old man, Onoki, has no choice but to retreat unless he really wants to start a full-scale war.

At that time, as the key figure who brought all of this together, his merits will be so great that they will be enough to offset any so-called "mistakes" made before.

At that point, what reason would the Third Hokage have to continue "exiling" himself to the border?

Furthermore, thanks to this achievement and his special relationship with the new Mizukage of Kirigakure, his status and influence in Konoha will also rise accordingly.

Of course, all of this is based on the premise that Mei Terumi can successfully take over, and that the Tsuchikage Onoki will actually be forced to withdraw his troops under pressure.

But in any case, this trip to the Land of Water, and my personal experience of all of this, has been a journey filled with both opportunities and rewards!

Thinking of this, Qingwu's gaze towards Yagura Kojiki held a newfound respect.

This short man, in the final moments of his "political life," demonstrated the responsibility and wisdom expected of a film star.

"Lord Mizukage... is truly far-sighted and has put in a lot of effort."

Qingwu spoke calmly, which was considered as acknowledging the arrangement, "Konoha has always loved peace. If Kirigakure has such sincerity, Konoha will certainly welcome it."

He made no promises on behalf of Konoha, but his statement was enough.

Upon hearing this, Yagura Karatachi showed a sincere smile, as if he had accomplished something extremely important.

He waved wearily, his voice even weaker:

"I'm tired... I'll leave the rest to you young people, Mei Terumi, Ao, Kirigakure... I'm counting on you."

After saying that, he slowly closed his eyes, fell silent, and allowed the medical ninja to gently lay him down for more detailed treatment.

His mission as the Fourth Mizukage is complete!

Mei Terumi took a deep breath, forcibly suppressing the turmoil in her heart, and turned to face the Kirigakure elites present.

Her gaze became incredibly firm and sharp:

"You have all heard the Fourth Hokage's final command... Kirigakure has reached a critical juncture of life and death, where change is imperative!"

"To quell internal rebellions, forge alliances with friendly nations, and eradicate long-standing abuses—this is what Mei Terumi, and all my colleagues who care about Kirigakure, will do with all our might!"

At this moment, the aura of the future water shadow naturally emanates.

Mei Terumi's gaze swept over the crowd, lingering briefly on Zabuza's slightly gloomy face and Kisame's thoughtful expression, before finally settling on Qingwu, her tone softening:

"The Hidden Mist Village will forever remember Lord Qingwu's kindness. I will do my utmost to fulfill the Fourth Hokage's will. Once the affairs of the village have settled down, I will keep my promise and personally go to Konoha. However..."

She paused, then gave a slightly pleading smile:

"With the year-end approaching, the village is in dire need of rebuilding, and there are countless matters to attend to. I wonder... if you two could stay in Wuyin for a few days?"

At least... stay until after the New Year? Let me do my part as a host, and... express my gratitude?

Her invitation was very sincere and well-founded.

This was partly to thank Qingwu, and partly to use Qingwu's presence to further stabilize the situation.

Perhaps...deep down, she also hoped that this boy who brought about such great change and hope could stay a little longer.

Upon hearing this, Qingwu pondered for a moment.

He had originally intended to leave immediately to avoid any further complications, but Mei Terumi's invitation and the new situation brought about by Yagura's words made him change his mind.

"Alright."

Qingwu nodded and glanced at Tianxin Shenji, who was still standing quietly with her eyes closed beside her. "Then we'll trouble you for a few days. However, we prefer peace and quiet, so please arrange for us to stay in a secluded place."

Seeing that Qingwu agreed, Terumi Mei's face immediately lit up with a bright smile, as if the gloom of the past few days had been dispelled.

"Excellent, Qing, make arrangements immediately to prepare my private residence and provide everything I need!"

"Yes!" Qing immediately accepted the order and left.

……

Qingwu and Tianxin Shenji moved into the secluded villa arranged by Terumi Mei.

This place is not within Kirigakure Village. Although the layout seems to be a girl's residence, it meets his requirement of "quietness".

After settling in, Qingwu couldn't wait to bring up the system panel.

【Ding! 】