An unexpected visit from my uncle, who this time dropped by on business only, not a family visit, broke this idyll.
- So, why the secrecy? - I asked Shenesu, having activated the wiretap protection on the office, where we were alone, having previously escorted out the women who had set tea with a small snack.
- Because some news can be very upsetting to certain individuals if it becomes public," his uncle chuckled, but then he made a serious face, "In three weeks, Konohagakure is going to visit the Daimyo Ho no Kuni.
- And this concerns me how exactly? - I raised my eyebrows in surprise.
- The official reason for the visit is a desire to discuss with the village leadership the alarming situation on the world stage, - hinted the head of the clan.
- A cover," I nodded understandingly, already beginning to guess what it was about, "but what was the real reason?
- The real purpose of the Daimyo's arrival is to choose the Fourth Hokage.
***
- Oh, so this matter with the country's Daimyo has already been resolved? - I rejoiced.
The ruler of the Fire Nation has little say in the selection of the next Hokage, but he traditionally approves the choice of the majority by being notified in advance. It's not difficult for Konoha, but it pleases him and gives him the illusion of full power over the village of assassins working in Ho no Kuni territory.
And I doubt that a good relationship personally with old man Hiruzen, will have any effect on the outcome of the change of power. Daimyo will not go against most of all clans, including the great clans, and understands his place perfectly well.
- Sarutobi's days as Hokage are numbered, and pushing Orochimaru into the Fourth won't work, because very few people will support the snake sannin.
- Not to mention the fact that he would refuse to become the next leader of Konoha, even if by some miracle he gained enough support," I said with a sneer.
- О? Am I missing something? - The relative raised his eyebrows in surprise.
- Orochimaru is a scientist and researcher who doesn't need power at all, except to get funding for research and possibly new knowledge," I described the jonin's personality and added, squinting rather wryly, "and I've recently provided him with the former and the latter on a free basis, as well as promising to work together and share the results of some of the research, with the added bonus of a set of seals.
- Quite... impressive," my uncle shook his head, "the asking price?
- Fifty million ryo in cash," I didn't hide my contribution to the scientist from him.
- To put it simply, you bought Orochimaru with his giblets, and you didn't forget the underbrush, - the head of Nara made a lean face, but asked, - was it even worth it? Orochimaru is a very dangerous man, capable of going to great lengths to achieve his goals.
- Absolutely! - I didn't hesitate for a second before answering. - Our cooperation has already helped me a lot, and in the future, the benefits will only increase.
- Well, I'll leave it up to you, but be careful," he nodded, relaxing a little. "The clan will pay two-thirds of your expenses, as it's a good investment.
Considering that the Nara could afford to use ten times that amount from the budget, not lacking in funds thanks to a thriving business, including mine, I didn't refuse.
- Thank you," I nodded gratefully to my relative, "is there anything I can do for you?
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