Chapter 257: 250: Nearing Completion
The Land of Demons inside a vast and dark cave.
A deafening roar echoed throughout the cave restlessly. The entire space trembled violently, large chunks of debris fell from above, crashing to the ground with a thunderous rumble.
A gigantic beetle rapidly shrank at a speed visible to the naked eye. A brown-haired girl was covered in a vibrant red cloak of chakra, she then absorbed the cloaked chakra as they rged into the girls body seamlessly before disappearing entirely.
Having assimilated all the tailed beast's chakra into her being, Rin's face glistened with sweat, her body pushed to the limits of exhaustion. A faint smile lingered on her face as she stood there, trying to catch her breath.
"Rin!"
Obito sprinted over from a distance, urgently calling out Rin's na.
"Obito..."
Rin's voice was a whisper, her vision dimming as a heavy tiredness overca her. She began to fall forward.
Obito with his sharp eyes and quick reflexes, closed the distance rapidly. He caught Rin just as her body was about to fall down, letting her lean on him for support.
"Don't worry, she just passed out from fatigue."
Uzumaki Kiriko approached from a short distance. She ford seals, dispelling the powerful barrier which had been used to cover the surroundings.
"The situation just now seed different from usual?"
Obito thought about the recent events. Before they could start their usual attack on the tailed beast, Rin had actively retracted the tailed beast's power. Though reluctant, it marked a contrast from the usual outco.
"Indeed, being able to retract the tailed beast's power on her own shows a huge amount of progress on her training as a perfect jinchuriki."
Previously, Rin relied on Obito's Sharingan and her sealing jutsu to control the tailed beast's power. Now, she demonstrated the ability to do so on her own, showcasing remarkable advancent on the path to becoming a perfect jinchuriki.
While complete perfection was still a long a way to go, it would also demand considerable physical exertion to achieve it. The path towards becoming a perfect jinchuriki was no longer covered in doubt.
Shiraishi had originally set a three-year deadline as the ti limit, and Rin had been formally training for two years. Given her current progress, achieving perfect jinchuriki status within the next year seed entirely possible.
...
"As the Mizukage, you're a very busy person. Is there anything specific that brings you here at this ti?"
Shiraishi smiled at Yagura, who sat across from him in the reception room.
Since the coup in Kirigakure, Yagura has devoted an enormous amount of ti to his work, focused on restoring the village's strength as quickly as possible.
Ordinarily, if the matter wasn't important, he would simply send an envoy with a ssage, there was no need to co in person. The fact that Yagura personally took ti out of his busy schedule to visit indicated the importance of the issue.
"I wouldn't have co here to disturb you at this ti if it wasn't important. It's mainly due to the matter of Akatsuki you ntioned. It has made
feel quite restless."
Although he has yet to directly confront Akatsuki's mbers, the leader who could gather people like the Sannin Orochimaru, Suna's Sasori of the red sand, and other S-rank rogue ninjas, was undoubtedly a powerful and dangerous figure in Yagura's eyes.
S-rank rogues ninjas are a notoriously independent and difficult group to subdue. Each possesses the power to single-handedly conquer a small country. This held particularly true of Orochimaru and Sasori.
"For now, it's enough to move steadily and cautiously. We can't limit their actions at this ti."
Moreover, from the perspective of the Land of Demons, there seems to be little reason to restrict the Akatsuki's activities.
Akatsuki's threat lies in the distant future, which was completely different from the imdiate and ongoing threats posed by the five major powers.
Only by creating a small crack in the current monopoly system of the five major countries can Shiraishi secure the ti needed to dral with the issue of Akatsuki.
Currently, opposing Akatsuki would be like constructing a huge obstacle for himself, one that could prove more troubleso than dealing with the five major countries in many ways.
Therefore, despite acknowledging the considerable threat posed by Akatsuki, Shiraishi chose not to engage them directly. Additionally, Nagato traded the Yin-Yang Release he wanted. It had also helped in providing a relatively stable environnt for the developnt of the Land of Demons.
"I didn't intend to restrict them entirely. I can probably guess your thoughts. You want to wait until the final stage of the war to resolve all threats once and for all, isn't that right?"
"Well, if the original plan remains unchanged. After all, with such a huge plan, a single mishap in any phase could lead to a complete change in direction of the plan. We cannot guarantee it would continue following the original route indefinitely."
Their pursuit of ending the system of one country, one village, would inevitably lead them towards the violent solution of war.
Bloodless reform, on the other hand, would necessitate engaging with the nation's existing system and way of life. It would be a ti-consuming and difficult process, requiring compromises with vested interests. And these compromises would inevitably compromise the thoroughness of the reform.
Neither Shiraishi nor Yagura were people inclined to compromise.
They believed in doing things thoroughly. Failure to implent comprehensive change now would necessitate paying a hundredfold or even a thousandfold price in the future.
The plan is already underway.
The establishnt of the stronghold within Hoshigakure in the Land of Bears served as the catalyst and silent first shot of this grand plan.
"Currently, Konoha is weak, Kumo and Iwa are secretly accumulating their strength, and Suna is still recovering from its wounds. However, the next era will likely be relatively peaceful, allowing the four ninja villages to gradually recover and develop their strength. Akatsuki would also take advantage of this gap period to undergo a major change. Although they haven't posed a significant threat yet, we cannot afford to completely disregard them."
"What are you going to do the ?" Shiraishi asked.
Yagura retrieved a docunt from his possession and presented it to Shiraishi.
Shiraishi picked up the docunt, opened it, and he went through the content.
The docunt recorded detailed information on several Kiri ninjas. Each person was an elite ninja of Kiri.
Furthermore, these elite ninjas shared a common characteristic, they were all mbers of the Blood Mist faction within Kirigakure, and they were subsequently released and recruited by Yagura.
The loyalty of these people shouldn't be a matter of concern. Before presenting this information, Yagura had likely conducted a thorough investigation of these Kiri elites, verifying their loyalty to the village through multiple audits.
"I see. You plan to insert a nail within Akatsuki?"
After reviewing the docunt, Shiraishi suddenly understood Yagura's intentions. it was impossible for him to share such confidential information without a deeper purpose.
Their ongoing cooperation had facilitated connections between select spies from the Land of Demons and Kirigakure, enabling intelligence sharing. Naturally, these connected spies were exceptionally loyal and reliable people, limited in number but important for vital information exchange.
Had he not been constrained by the Land of Water's system, Yagura wouldn't have arrived at this decision so swiftly. The painful lessons of the Blood Mist era resonated deeply within him, leading him to distrust the Land of Water's noble entirely.
"You have more knowledge of the Akatsuki than I do. Who do you believe would be most suitable?"
Yagura didn't deny Shiraishi's observation. He indeed wanted to insert a nail of his own into the Akatsuki. He took a calm sip of tea and sought Shiraishi's opinion.
After a mont of deliberation, Shiraishi provided his answer. He placed the docunt on the tea table before him, pressed his finger on the first page..
"Just this person."
-Hoshigaki Kisa.
Shiraishi considered Kisa to be the easiest one to use.
Hoshigaki Kisa, a forr Blood Mist ninja, he was no longer welco in Kirigakure. He had betrayed his previous leader, and his actions painted him as a restless and dangerous elent within the village. Many suspected his loyalty was questionable.
Once he fully matured, his actions would likely endanger Kirigakure's interests, leading to his defection and transformation into a rogue ninja. This would be a natural progression and wouldn't arouse suspicion.
Most importantly, he was one of the Seven Ninja Swordsn. According to Yagura's evaluation from the information, his prowess surpassed even the previous wielder of Sahada, Suikazan Fuguki.
His defection would instantly qualify him as an S-rank rogue ninja, a significant threat to any village.
Based on Akatsuki's tendency to recruit powerful ninjas as core mbers, at the ti after Kisa's 'defection' they're bound to discover him, an S-rank defector. He'll be brought into Akatsuki's fold to assist with their tailed beast capture plan."
Kisa's cautious and calm deanor also made him a perfect fit for this assignnt.
"As I thought, I also favor Kisa's integration into Akatsuki to prepare for the future war."
Since Akatsuki's true strength remained unknown, uncovering it as soon as possible was crucial to avoiding unforeseen difficulties during any potential war.
"Then it's settled."
Shiraishi nodded in agreent.
The Land of Demons currently faced a manpower shortage, with nurous departnts requiring personnel. This problem stems from the various rising industries, which necessitated an ever-increasing workforce, putting a strain on existing resources.
"Well, it's settled then. You heard it all, Kisa."
Yagura directed his words to the figure that had appeared behind him.
A puddle of water had mysteriously ford at so point, growing and transforming into a tall male with dark blue skin and a shark-like appearance. A large sword, wrapped in a white bandage, hung from his back. Grinning, he revealed a set of sharp teeth.
"I heard it asll."
Another war, another undercover mission. Kisa couldn't help but feel interested by the conversation.
Yagura's close alliance with a mysterious power wasn't a secret within Kirigakure's upper ranks. However, Yagura's ticulous secrecy and the elusive nature of this ally kept their identity a mystery. Many wondered who had assisted Yagura during the coup and who remained his loyal confidant.
Therefore, Kisa's surprise upon discovering Yagura's hidden connection to the Land of Demins quickly gave way to realization.
Yagura had established a deep cooperation with the Land of Demons long ago.
"For now on then, Kisa will be in your care. Six months should suffice, wouldn't you say?" Yagura rose from his sit.
"Six months is more than enough. Training him isn't the primary concern. We need to properly plan a believable defection narrative. White zetsu in charge of Akatsuki's intelligence and search leader, is no fool. The fewer people are aware, the better."
"I know. I've already arranged for soone to cover my absence in Kirigakure, and a suitable replacent for Kisa is ready. Then, I'll be taking my leave."
Yagura, mindful of potential disruptions arising from his prolonged absence, wasted no ti. He returned to Kirigakure without delay, despite the relatively short distance between the Land of Demons and the Land of Water.
"Then, Chiba Shiraishi-san, I look forward to your guidance over the next six months."
Kisa's boisterous laughter filled the reception room.
.....
Spy.
It wasn't a term Kisa particularly like.
In the past, he never imagined himself in such a role.
However, he harbored no repulsion towards it. For him, there was no difference between the types of missions he needed to complete. As long as it was mission he need to complete it beautifully.
.
As a ninja, retreating due to the difficulty of the mission wasn't an option.
Kisa believed in undertaking missions, abandoning thoughts of life and death, and proceeding with unwavering determination. This was the fundantal ntality of a ninja.
The work of a ninja wasn't child's play. It involved betrayal, disguise, killing, and even inflicting harm upon comrades to preserve one's cover.
Kisa had witnessed several retired Kirigakure ninjas who were spies.
Despite successful careers and generous rewards granted by the village to ensure a comfortable retirent, their lives weren't filled with happiness and peace. Instead, they were burdened by guilt and struggle due to complicated ntal problems.
This was a truth Kisa had seen with his own eyes.
Being a spy tested one's ntal endurance.
To Kisa being picked to be one showed his aptitude for it, it was proof of his ntal fortitude, although it was a recognition he didn't necessarily welco.
However, as a ninja, he understood the importance of completing missions flawlessly. The difficulty of a mission wasn't supposed to be an excuse for abandoning the mission.
Embarking on this path ant facing bloodshed and witnessing the true darkness of the ninja world.
As an unnad hero and despised hero, Kisa didn't see this as a burden. Challenging missions were the essence of being a ninja.
Yagura had given him only six months for his spy training in the Land of Demons. After that, he would return to Kirigakure, ready to take on the role of a spy and potentially leave the village at any ti.
Conducting the spy training within Kirigakure wasn't possible due to the large population and Kisa's identity. Training a figure such as him would undoubtedly face resistance from high-ranking officials, leading to Yagura's alternative plan.
This was why Yagura brought him to the Land of Demons. Here, Kisa's information wouldn't be exposed, and he wouldn't be hindered by Kirigakure's officials.
Kisa understood this and so, he began his training in the Land of Demons'' spy departnt.
But one question lingered on his mind. What kind of organization exactly was this Akatsuki that demanded such caution from Yagura?
A slight flicker of curiosity ignited within him concerning this future organization. He hoped they would assign him a strong and compatible teammate upon joining.
Challenging himself and improving his strength were essential aspects of a ninja's growth.
...
anwhile, back in Konoha...
"Mother, I'm heading out on a mission. I'll be back the day after tomorrow."
Eight-year-old Itachi had blossod into an excellent ninja.
A year ago, he graduated with honors from the ninja academy as the top student, becoming the Uchiha clan's most exemplary genius.
This achievent brought imnse pride to the Uchiha clan.
However, Itachi saw it as nothing exceptional. Graduating at the top of the academy was simply a title, easily achieved and not worthy of praise.
While his father, Fugaku, hosted a banquet in his honor, Itachi couldn't help but feel a sense of helplessness.
Fortunately, he had officially joined a team with a Joninand was now regularly embarking on missions, focusing on honing his skills and trying to increase his strength as soon as possible.
But there was kne thing did cause him slight frustration..He hadn't awakened his Sharingan yet. He was unsure of how to awaken it, and his father, Fugaku, offered no specific guidance.
"Be careful on tour way,"
Uchiha Mikoto said with a smile, entrusting her son with those words.
"I will,"
Itachi didn't consider himself a reckless ninja. He believed in giving his all regardless of the opponent's strength, a matter of respect.
A lion fights a rabbit with all its might. This was one of Itachi's cherished principles.
"Brother, don't forget to bring
back so gifts when coming back!"
A boy younger than Itachi appeared beside Mikoto, talking to Itachi.
"Sasuke, don't don't worry your brother. Itachi is going on a mission,"
Mikoto looked helplessly at her youngest son Sasuke, who was acting like a baby to Itachi. Sasuke likely didn't understand how dangerous it was for ninjas performing missions.
At first, Mikoto had opposed Itachi's early graduation from the academy. Once he graduated he would beci a real ninja, which ant Itachi would be exposed to the realities of combat, bloodshed, and danger.
However, Fugaku argued that Itachi had already witnessed a battlefield at the young age of four, he bad his own independent thoughts and maturity beyond his years.
In his opinion, delaying Itachi's graduation would only hinder his growth and stifle his potential.
Mikoto recognized the logic in Fugaku's words and Itachi's eagerness to grow, so she reluctantly accepted their decision. Deep down, she wished her child wouldn't have to walk the dangerous path of a ninja.
Yet, as the son of the Uchiha clan head, Itachi had certain responsibilities to fulfill. He had to work hard to strengthen the Uchiha clan's position.
Every ti Itachi embarked on a mission, Mikoto's heart ached with worry.
"Don't worry, Mother. I'll do my best. And if you need anything brought back, I'll be happy to help,"
Itachi said, turning to Sasuke and offering a gentle smile that brimd with affection.
"Your safe return is the greatest gift you can bring ," Mikoto replied, her voice filled with emotion.
Itachi was deeply moved by his mother's words. Compared to his serious father, Mikoto consistently expressed her concern for his safety. This difference in parenting styles evident.
"Then I'll be on my way. Sasuke, rember to listen to Mother and stay out of trouble. I'll bring you a gift when I return,"
Itachi announced, receiving Sasuke's farewell blessing of "Safe journey, brother!" as he hurried towards the Konoha gates.
At the gates, the mbers of his team awaited. Including himself, there were three male and one female.
Their leader was Jonin Minazuki Yuki, a na that contrasted starkly with his appearance. Though a skilled Jonin, his looks were rather unfortunate.
His short brown hair had a misplaced forehead protector, his bushy eyebrows resembled a broom, and beneath them rested a pair of small, fish-like eyes. In short, he fell far short of being conventionally attractive.
However, appearances were irrelevant to a ninja's strength. Minazuki Yuki was a renowned Konoha Jonin, and during the past year, he had provided invaluable guidance and training to Itachi, earning the young ninja's respect and admiration.
The other two people were..
Izumo Tenma. His strength quite average, and in terms of appearance, he was also quite ordinary. Older than Itachi, Tenma was just a relatively standard ninja.
Itachi could clearly sense a tinge of jealousy in Tenma's expression, directed at his own talent.
The final mber was Shinko Inari, who could be considered pretty. Itachi felt an intense gaze from her, a fiery intensity that hinted at sothing amiss. The gaze was sothing Itachi had encountered countless tis during his days in the academy.
Although the Jonin and the two team mbers were ninjas with eccentric personalities and behaviors, overall, Itachi didn't find the environnt disagreeable.
"Now that everyone is present, let's officially begin our mission. This is an escort mission, and we might encounter minor trouble along the way. But with , your Jonin, here to guide you, don't hesitate to show your abilities. The one who performs best will receive an extra reward from ,"
Minazuki Yuki announced to the trio with a jovial laugh.
"Hai."
In unison, including Itachi, all three of them nodded.
...
Inside a dimly lit room,
Danzo opened his eyes, a cold glare directed towards a certain position. Ryoma next to him also sensed sothing wrong with the bugs placed within his body, he looked at the sa position as Danzo.
From the floor erged a figure shrouded in black clothing, a mask with strange patterns obscuring their face, and black gloves concealing their hands.
Their entire body was obscured by the darkness, except for a single red Sharingan with three tomoe, visible through a small hole on the right side of the mask. This eye, however, radiated an unsettling aura.
"Hmph, you seem to be late," Danzo uttered, his voice laced with annoyance.
"I had sothing else to deal with sowhere else, hence the delay,"
"You asked for this yourself, i didn't force you to do this.... Madara." Danzo continued, his gaze remaining cold and unwavering.
"Hehehe, the brat who once trembled in my presence now dares to bare his sharp fangs,"
Madara chuckled, a nostalgic tone tinged with regret for his past glory in the world.
Danzo remained silent, the sarcasm in his eyes conveying his scorn.
Uchiha Madara, once invincible, now reduced to resorting to the hiding ways of a rat. It was a truly ridiculous sight.
Were it not for the need for this man's assistance, Danzo would have directly instructed his Root to eliminate the old and immortal nuisance.
Unfortunately, the recent Hyuga clan affair had him under intense surveillance from the Hokage's Anbu, significantly reducing his influence within the village.
"After the exchange, you may leave imdiately. I'm being closely watched by the Anbu currently, and... try to keep as little contact with
as possible for the foreseeable future." Danzo instructed.
Madara remained unfazed. Even if the Anbu targeted him, Danzo possessed the skills to evafe. His intention was rely to minimize communication and avoid revealing further information, hence his earlier words.
Danzo's distrust was evident.
Their goals, however, were currently aligned, forming a temporary alliance. An enemy's enemy is a friend, and this was the sole reason behind Madara's approach to Danzo.
But Guruguru couldn't help but wonder.
'What does it feel like for Danzo to p""p?'
????
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