Outside Konohagakure.
The elder of Kirigakure, Genji, walked ahead, leaning on his cane.
Behind him were the Kirigakure shinobi.
Suikazan Fuguki and Karatachi Yagura followed closely, along with several elite jōnin.
Further back were Terumī Mei, Kisame, the Ice Release user "Snow," and the Kaguya clan prodigy, Kaguya Nakamaro.
These were Kirigakure's current young talents.
Their mission was to disguise themselves as ordinary genin and display their strength during exchanges, serving as bargaining chips in negotiations with Konoha.
Although this strategy was old-fashioned, it had proven effective time and again.
The number of young talents in a village was one of the most important indicators of its military potential…
However, under normal circumstances, only one or two promising talents would be sent.
After all, entering another hidden village's territory always carried risks. If they were eliminated, it would result in a severe generational gap.
For example, in the eyes of the shinobi world, Kumogakure was the kind of village that might do such a thing.
When Kumogakure invited other villages to participate in the Chūnin Exams, if only one or two villages were involved, no one would attend.
Only during large-scale joint Chūnin Exams, where all major and minor villages participated, would others reluctantly give face—because no matter how fond Kumogakure was of plundering, it wouldn't dare provoke universal outrage.
"Terumī Mei, Kisame, Nakamaro, Snow…"
Genji spoke slowly, "Let me emphasize this again—you don't need to worry. Show your talents freely in front of Konoha's shinobi…"
"Konoha and Sarutobi Hiruzen always use Senju Hashirama for external propaganda. While it brings them benefits, it also binds them to that reputation. They won't do anything to talents like you."
"For Kirigakure's future unification, you must display the authority of the 'Bloody Mist Village'…"
"This is the Mizukage's order."
Fuguki glanced at Genji subtly, then immediately echoed in a harsh tone: "Kirigakure has no need for trash! Any shinobi who cannot show loyalty to the Mizukage will be eliminated sooner or later…"
"The Bloody Mist Village exists to make Kirigakure great again. Anyone who dares to hold back will not meet a good end!"
As he spoke, Fuguki shook his shoulders slightly, causing the Samehada on his back to sway faintly—radiating intimidation.
Since the beginning of the Bloody Mist Village policy until now, Fuguki had already used Samehada to kill quite a number of opponents for the Third Mizukage…
This had steadily raised his prestige and status within Kirigakure, making him a trusted subordinate of the Third Mizukage.
"Heh, Fuguki, well said…" Genji nodded lightly.
"It's all thanks to Elder Genji for interpreting the Mizukage's policies for me!"
Fuguki bent his massive, pufferfish-like body, forcing a fawning smile onto his bloated face, his long beard swaying: "I'll have to trouble you to guide me more in the future! Thank you for your hard work!"
Fuguki wasn't being insincere—he genuinely respected Genji.
To survive through three Mizukage without falling, like a stubborn rock that could not be washed away in a storm—
Following his lead would not go wrong.
When the Bloody Mist Village policy had just begun, Fuguki had nearly offended the Third Mizukage by raising doubts…
If not for Genji pulling him back and putting in a few good words…
Marked by the Mizukage, he would either already be dead or on the brink of it.
"Not at all, not at all…" Genji smiled faintly.
"Remember this—so long as you follow the Mizukage closely, you won't go wrong!"
"If we want to clench Kirigakure into a single fist, we must clear out some festering rot! Once the rot is gone, the fist may look smaller, but it will be far more powerful…"
"You must all understand this principle…"
This was also Genji's true belief.
As someone who had lived through the Warring States era, he had long been dissatisfied with Kirigakure's internal divisions.
Since Hōzuki Gengetsu won the position of Second Mizukage through single combat,
Kirigakure had been plagued by factionalism and internal strife, constantly consumed by internal conflict.
In Genji's view, although Kirigakure didn't have Konoha's deep foundation, it was still firmly in second place.
Its number of Kekkei Genkai and secret techniques ranked among the top in the shinobi world. The Seven Ninja Swords supported its mid-to-high-level combat power, and even its two tailed beasts were relatively docile.
Even its geography was highly advantageous—dominating an island, able to attack or defend at will.
It should have been a powerful hidden village competing for the top.
Yet, due to internal infighting, Kirigakure was only slightly better than the impoverished Sunagakure.
But what was Sunagakure? Poor to the point of misery—the disgrace of the Five Great Hidden Villages…
Thus, after the Third Mizukage took power, and Kirigakure's internal strife still had not ceased…
Genji strongly supported the Bloody Mist Village policy, to eliminate uncontrollable factors and ensure that Kirigakure would have only one voice.
Even if it meant enduring pain for a time, it was a necessary sacrifice for a better future!
Kisame and Terumī Mei exchanged a glance, then nodded subconsciously.
Though they were Kirigakure's talents, their experience was still limited, and they maintained a considerable level of respect toward the higher-ups.
Besides, what Genji said was not without reason…
Only controllable power was truly power; otherwise, it was merely an unstable factor.
They had both witnessed Kirigakure's chaotic internal management and had suffered from it.
Originally, they should not have been sent on this mission.
Previously, the Third Mizukage had sent a squad to retrieve Kirigakure prisoners.
But that squad was assassinated by opposing ninja clans. In his fury, the Third Mizukage launched another round of purges, leaving no time to deal with the prisoners.
By the time everything was settled, the prisoners had been detained in Konoha for too long…
With his "remarkable intellect", the Third Mizukage suddenly decided to turn misfortune into opportunity.
He would send a formal delegation to deepen relations with Konoha…
And at the same time, lay a trap to sow discord between Konoha and the Uchiha.
After Genji's explanation, Mei and Kisame felt somewhat relieved.
They had been uncomfortable lately—because Kirigakure had been seeing constant deaths.
And those dying might have been comrades who had once gone on missions with them.
But as long as the Bloody Mist Village policy wouldn't last forever, and the village could improve in the future, it was something they could endure…
As for the Kirigakure youth known as "Snow," he listened expressionlessly, but inwardly sneered.
If he could, he would freeze Genji—the old bastard—solid right now with Ice Release.
Because many of his clansmen had already been imprisoned or killed by the Third Mizukage.
He himself had been sent here as a gesture to appease other ninja clans.
The message was clear: "See? Even clans that oppose me aren't completely wiped out—I still give you chances to show yourselves."
As for Kaguya Nakamaro, his thoughts were simple.
He just wanted to fight.
As the strongest prodigy of his clan, he wanted to be defeated once by someone of his own generation—and also to drink the blood of the defeated…
"The Bloody Mist Village really is an excellent policy…"
"We can kill people every day—there were never this many real combat opportunities before. Kirigakure will only grow stronger, and the Kaguya clan will become the strongest clan in the shinobi world!"
Nakamaro raised both hands, a sickly grin on his face, and shouted: "Praise the Bloody Mist Village!"
At that moment, whether it was Fuguki and Genji who supported the Mizukage, or Snow who opposed him, or Kisame and Mei who remained neutral—they all instinctively moved a little farther away from Nakamaro.
This was a typical Kaguya madman—an embodiment of the Shikotsumyaku's insanity…
Everyone else was talking about goals and change—even if some supported moderation and others violence—they were still thinking within human logic, at least with a purpose.
But Nakamaro was like someone brainwashed by killing intent…
"So you're Kirigakure's shinobi? I am Konoha Council Member Hyūga Hizashi. I've come to receive you."
Hizashi stood on a concealed branch, wearing a half-sleeved ceremonial robe, looking down at the Kirigakure group: "I hope your apology will satisfy the Hokage."
"Konoha fed your prisoners for three months. Remember—that was a favor, not an obligation."
"Follow me."
Hizashi leapt down from the branch and strode toward the village, giving a slight wave.
Around the Kirigakure group, rustling sounds came from the forest, retreating into the distance.
"This…" Genji frowned. He hadn't noticed anyone observing them nearby.
His perception wasn't wrong—no one had followed them along the way.
Instead, it was Aburame clan reconnaissance insects marking their chakra and scent.
"This is Konoha's patrol defense system. You were detected forty-seven minutes ago…"
"Don't ask more," Hizashi said coldly.
"As expected…" Genji's heart sank. Konoha's defensive capabilities were stronger than he had imagined.
"I will fully convey the Mizukage's apology to the Hokage."
"Those prisoners wasted your village's food—we will punish them and also present generous compensation…"
Hizashi glanced at Genji, feeling somewhat puzzled.
What does he mean, the prisoners wasted food? Aren't they your own people? How can you speak like that…
Even Danzō wouldn't be this socially inept, would he?
But Hizashi didn't bother pursuing it—it was another village's matter.
"Hey, you're strong, right? How many like you does Konoha have?"
Nakamaro suddenly asked: "Are you from the Hyūga main family or branch family? I'm from the Kaguya clan."
Hizashi ignored him.
"Why aren't you answering me? What do you mean by that?" Nakamaro narrowed his eyes, his aggressive nature about to erupt: "Don't think being from the Hyūga clan means you can ignore me!"
"If you act, you'll die."
Hizashi didn't turn around. "Genji—is this Kirigakure's stance, or just his?"
"Nakamaro, stand down!" Genji immediately rebuked him, though he subtly blinked.
The meaning was clear—hold your resentment in and release it later against Konoha's genin or academy students…
Genji would request a shinobi exchange, and injuries during sparring were normal.
With a legitimate pretext, no one would care.
But provoking Hizashi would risk diplomatic consequences…
'Konoha Council Member… what is that? A newly created high-ranking position?'
Genji pondered: 'According to Kaguya clan intelligence, the Hyūga and Konoha should not be compatible…'
'But from this Hizashi's tone… if he's from the main family, that's one thing—but if he's from the branch family and still part of Konoha's upper ranks…'
'That would mean Konoha is intervening in ninja clans.'
A sense of urgency rose in Genji's heart, and his confidence in the Bloody Mist Village policy grew stronger.
Even Konoha—so seemingly gentle—was acting against its clans…
That could only mean the Third Mizukage's path was correct. This was a necessary step toward Kirigakure's greatness!
Nakamaro clenched his fists, a cold smile forming.
He had already decided—during the upcoming "exchange," he would vent his anger thoroughly.
At the very least, he would kill a Konoha shinobi to feel better!
As for the consequences, he didn't care—that was Genji and Fuguki's problem…
The Kirigakure group followed Hizashi and slowly entered Konoha.
Along the way, they occasionally encountered patrol squads, who looked at them with scrutiny and vigilance as they passed.
What caught Genji's attention was that although not every patrol member had strong chakra… their experience was abundant.
When approaching Genji's group, they concealed themselves well, rarely being detected immediately.
'Konoha's military preparedness is substantial.'
'Hiruzen is indeed cunning. He claims to inherit the First Hokage's will, yet uses that reputation to lull other villages while secretly developing.'
'He can even justify attacking Kusagakure under the banner of righteousness. This man must not be underestimated—he bears the name of the First Hokage but acts like the Second, a true schemer.'
'The Mizukage's decision is correct—befriend Konoha for now, but also disrupt their unity. We cannot let them continue to grow like this…'
While most believed Hiruzen to be the successor of the First Hokage, Genji was convinced he was the disciple of Senju Tobirama!
One wonders if Tobirama himself would feel he had found a kindred spirit…
"Enter."
Hizashi gestured to the guards to let them pass.
Mei and Kisame looked around curiously at Konoha.
For Kirigakure's younger generation—isolated on an island and closed off—
other hidden villages were like a new continent, a completely unfamiliar world.
As Mei walked, her eyes widened slightly.
It was completely different from Kirigakure—far more prosperous!
After the initial success of the "Sage Region Pills" project, the Fire Country's nobles developed a flattering attitude toward Konoha. Large investments poured in, elevating its commerce and infrastructure to a whole new level.
Its area had expanded to more than double its original size.
To distinguish, villagers referred to the original area as the "inner ring" and the newly built areas as the "outer ring."
"So many ninja tool shops… and so many restaurants…"
"Wait—that's a cinema? Isn't that something only the capital of the Land of Water has?"
"And cosmetics shops, bookstores, flower shops—even people selling coffee…"
"There are even hot spring rehabilitation centers? And they're for shinobi… Is this really a hidden village?"
Even in Kirigakure, hot spring therapy was something only nobles of the Land of Water could enjoy.
In the past, some Kirigakure shinobi would also try it…
But after the Bloody Mist Village policy began, such behavior was seen as indulgence—a corruption of the Mizukage's will—and gradually no one dared to do it.
As a beautiful young girl, Mei was naturally sensitive to consumer environments.
She was talented and came from a well-off family, so she didn't lack money.
But the problem was—in Kirigakure, even if you had money, there was little to spend it on…
'I want to visit every shop… it must be so interesting!'
'No, I can't. It would bring trouble to me and my family. If Elder Genji misunderstands, it'll be bad…'
'Shinobi of the Bloody Mist Village must not show interest in enjoyment. We must always remember to revive Kirigakure…'
She warned herself.
But at that moment, a girl around her age—Yūhi Kurenai—walked out of a Yamanaka flower shop ahead.
Asuma followed beside her, holding a large bouquet of bright flowers, smiling brightly…
"Hey, Asuma…"
"You've already learned this kind of thing at your age? Be careful—I might tell the Hokage you're neglecting your training!"
"You've already chosen Kurenai? Won't you reconsider? Maybe when you grow up, the Hokage could arrange a noblewoman from the Land of Fire for you—like your older brother Shinnosuke…"
Inoichi teased with a grin.
It was his day off, so he had come to relax at his family's flower shop—and happened to run into Asuma and Kurenai.
"Kurenai and I are just ordinary friends…"
Asuma coughed, "Besides, I prefer free love. I don't agree with arranged marriages like my brother's!"
"You brat—I'll go tell Shinnosuke when I get back…"
"Don't, Inoichi-nii!"
Mei stared fixedly at the scene.
Without comparison to peers, she could still persuade herself…
But now that she had one, it was different.
Why could other shinobi live like this?
"Mei, do you want that bouquet? I'll get it for you!" Nakamaro stepped forward, laughing loudly.
He strode toward Asuma, chakra rapidly gathering.
At the moment he was about to act—
Asuma and Kurenai had already reacted, forming hand seals.
After being trained repeatedly by Namikaze Minato and Senju Tobirama, the academy elites' reaction speed had surpassed that of ordinary chūnin.
Their sense of alertness was almost paranoid.
Because Minato's Flying Thunder God and Seisui's Body Flicker were simply too fast…
But faster than them—was a pair of three-tomoe Sharingan.
Uchiha En dropped from above, landing in front of Nakamaro. His cold, powerful ocular power flooded straight into Nakamaro's mind.
Nakamaro was instantly frozen in place.
Within his mental space, a blade repeatedly sliced off his regenerating arms.
The speed and sharpness of that blade had been meticulously modeled by En after the strike with which Senju Tobirama had severed his arm.
"Where did this stray dog come from, daring to act wild in Konoha?"
"Kid from Kirigakure—are you looking to die here?" En said, a cigarette in his mouth, exhaling thick smoke in imitation of Hiruzen.
The genjutsu was released. Nakamaro collapsed to his knees, eyes trembling.
He hadn't been able to resist at all?
"You… a cripple… how are you this strong…" he muttered.
"You're just trash who can't even form hand seals!"
"Oh?" En wasn't angry—he simply looked at him with interest.
It had been a long time since he had seen such a foul-mouthed brat.
Only during the Warring States era did Uchiha occasionally produce people like this—driven half-mad by pressure.
"Say one more word, and I'll stir your brain to mush with my ocular power!"
En smiled, "The Kaguya clan dares act arrogant before these eyes? Go back and ask your elders how that so-called once-in-a-century genius of yours got skewered like candied fruit by the Shura of the shinobi world!"
"And ask your previous clan head whether he liked Impure World Reincarnation and explosive tags!"
En learned quickly.
After Seisui's guidance, he no longer resisted the name of Senju Tobirama so strongly, but faced it head-on.
Nakamaro snapped back to reality, fear appearing in his frenzied eyes.
He remembered—these eyes represented the Uchiha clan, madmen no weaker than his own!
"Let me tell you—Konoha's Military Police have the authority to kill criminals like you on the spot if you resist…"
En patted Nakamaro's face, blowing smoke at him. "How about I just kill you now? At worst, I'll go apologize to the Hokage."
"Let me tell you—I'm friends with the Hokage. Got it?"
Nakamaro was completely terrified. He lowered his head and looked to Genji for help.
'A bunch of mad dogs who don't understand human language…'
'If not for the need to use the Kaguya clan to connect with the Hyūga and gather intelligence…'
'The Kaguya clan should be purged first.'
Genji slowly released his clenched fist beneath his sleeve, steadying his breathing.
"My apologies, everyone of Konoha—this child is not very bright…"
"He may have gotten excited upon seeing Konoha's prosperity. Please forgive him!"
Genji bowed slightly to En. "We come with no ill intent, but with sincerity to befriend and ally with Konoha."
En frowned, looking Genji up and down.
As a shinobi who had lived through the Warring States era as well, he felt he had seen him before…
"You look familiar, but I can't recall…"
"Hizashi, inform the Hokage—this guy gives me a very scheming impression. I just can't remember why," En said casually.
At his age, being both Uchiha and connected to Hiruzen and Minato, En feared nothing.
Hizashi looked at him and smiled. "Alright, I understand…"
He could hear the respect En had for Hiruzen.
If that was the case, everything was easy to handle.
"Elder Genji, these Kirigakure children are here for exchange, correct?" Hizashi asked. After receiving confirmation, he waved his hand.
A squad of ANBU appeared from the shadows.
"Take them to the academy. Let them interact with our students first. Maintain order—wait until the Hokage arrives before proceeding."
The ANBU led Mei and the others away.
Hizashi stopped Yagura, looking puzzled. "You—the green-haired one. Go with them. The Hokage building isn't a place for you."
Yagura took a deep breath. "I'm already an adult!!"
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