Ichihime received Tazuna, the bridge construction expert, in the lounge, and naturally learned about the threatening letter from an unknown force that Tazuna received at home.
Looking at Tazuna's anxious and uneasy expression, Ichihime's demeanor remained calm and composed. Whether openly or secretly, such matters were anticipated from the very beginning.
If the hidden forces did nothing, it would indeed be strange to Ichihime.
Since the opposing sides have now taken action, it implies they are setting their plan in motion, intending to play a strategic game against the Land of Demons behind the scenes.
"I've already heard about this, Mr. Tazuna. Please continue leading the workers for normal construction as usual. I will dispatch Ninja to keep a close watch on the site, ensuring nothing happens."
Ichihime reassured Tazuna with these words.
However, this slight reassurance did not alleviate Tazuna's anxiety. With pessimism, he replied, "What if they directly threaten the families of our workers..."
That's precisely Tazuna's worry.
"Rest assured on that front. Although the identity of our enemy remains unclear, considering they've only resorted to letter threats thus far, it clearly shows they won't confront us openly. I'll assign my subordinates to investigate further. If necessary, we'll interfere with their plans. For your workers from the Land of Waves, this work presents a rare opportunity to support their families, doesn't it?"
"But..."
"There's no room for doubt. Our Military strength in the Land of Demons rivals even the great nations. Those lesser forces can only resort to petty tricks in the shadows. Or, are you planning to breach the contract, Mr. Tazuna?"
Although the words were spoken casually, they carried a hint of a warning to Tazuna.
Indeed, hearing these words left Tazuna speechless.
The fact is, having signed the work contracts, they no longer have any room for regret.
Moreover, fishing in the nearby waters also poses the risk of pirate attacks. Compared to facing unreasonable pirate attacks, they are undeniably safer with the protection of Ninja forces.
"Then we'll leave our safety in your hands, Miss Ichihime."
Tazuna sighed deeply in his heart. Why would something like this happen with just a regular work assignment?
Although he holds certain stature among the workers, his limited exposure leaves him unaware of who could be obstructing their normal construction, to the extent of issuing threatening letters.
Now, the safety of these workers can only rely on Ichihime, the merchant lady from a foreign land who came to the Land of Waves to invest in industries.
After all, the power struggles of the aristocrats have nothing to do with them, the ordinary citizens.
Surely, they wouldn't vent their anger on unrelated parties, right?
After concluding the discussion and receiving Ichihime's assurances, Tazuna left.
Shortly after Tazuna departed, a Jonin from the Land of Demons came in to report:
"Lady Ichihime, following your instructions, we've acquired control over newspapers within the Land of Waves. To avoid drawing attention, we've only taken over three establishments for now, leaving the others untouched."
After listening to the Jonin's report, Ichihime nodded and said, "Three will be sufficient for now. These are our voices in the Land of Waves; they must be well-protected without providing any opportunity for exploitation by others."
The Land of Waves is a small country where the grassroots populace lives in extreme hardship.
Pirates and various illegal industries have risen domestically, forming a terrifying network of interests.
Tearing apart such a network inevitably threatens many behind-the-scenes interests.
The Isolated Island Merchant Alliance aims to transform the Land of Waves into their second paradise. Although the plan hasn't been executed yet, Ichihime doesn't intend to wait for their actions before taking countermeasures.
Having discerned their intentions, the goal is to disrupt their rhythm and draw them into hers.
Indeed, with the current capabilities, it's clear she's no match for the Isolated Island Merchant Alliance.
The intricate, interlocking web of interests held by merchants is complex, moving all underlying elements.
If their plan commences formally, any actions she undertakes in the Land of Waves are likely doomed to failure.
Although engaging Ninja forces would easily crush the Merchant Alliance, doing so might drag the Land of Fire into the fray.
The Land of Waves holds a critical strategic position in the maritime orientation of the Land of Fire. Once the Land of Demons pushes the boundaries, the Land of Fire would retaliate with full force.
No matter her awareness of the Isolated Island Merchant's plans, Ichihime is acutely aware that her enemy remains solely—the Land of Fire.
"The protection personnel have already been deployed. Additionally, about the treasures of the Daimyo and aristocrats in the Land of Waves, after repeated assessment by the accompanying Hyuga Ninja, we've finally pinpointed their locations."
The Jonin from the Land of Demons continued his report.
Ichihime paused momentarily.
"There really is something, after all."
"Indeed, since we lacked your orders, we've maintained discreet caution and avoided drawing any attention."
"It appears the Isolated Island Merchant Alliance or even the Land of Fire has made contact with the Daimyo of the Land of Waves. Whether he's been lured with more money by the Merchant Alliance, or..."
Ichihime's expression became grave.
If the Daimyo of the Land of Waves has merely transacted with the Isolated Island Merchant Alliance, Ichihime considers it manageable, though bothersome.
Her primary concern is the Daimyo of the Land of Waves secretly siding with the Land of Fire, intending for the Land of Waves to become a vassal state.