156-160

Chapter 156: A Total Mess

"It's you!"

Naruto screamed loudly, "Bring Sasuke back! He has the Will of Fire! Because of you, he's become a rogue ninja! You jerk, jerk, jerk!"

"Haha!"

Itsuki Uchiha burst into laughter.

He stepped closer, staring at Naruto. "Little Naruto, do you know who your father is?"

His voice was soft, but to the people of Konoha, it sounded like thunder. The shock left them dizzy and stunned.

"Uchiha Itsuki!" The Third Hokage shouted in alarm.

"Whoosh!"

Countless secret jutsu users launched their attacks, including Shikaku Nara. Although they trapped Naruto with techniques like the Shadow Imitation Jutsu, they made sure not to harm him.

Swoosh! Itsuki used the Flying Thunder God Technique, effortlessly dodging all the attacks.

He smiled and said, "Everyone, relax. Don’t forget, I’m a Flying Thunder God ninja, a sensory ninja, and a medical ninja. I also know all of you."

"I know all of your jutsu."

Swoosh! A kunai was placed against Naruto’s neck.

Itsuki smiled as he looked at everyone.

Immediately, all attacks ceased.

Itsuki smiled faintly and looked down at Naruto. He spoke softly, "Do you see? The moment I mentioned your father, they all changed their expressions and attacked me like crazy. They don't want me to talk. Do you know why?"

Naruto looked around at the Konoha ninjas in confusion. These people, who had once hated him, now had looks of desperation on their faces.

Why?

"Naruto!"

A familiar voice called out.

Iruka!

"Yo, the great teacher of the ninja world is here!" Itsuki grinned at Iruka. "Hello, teacher. Can you enlighten Naruto? Tell him, who are his parents?"

Naruto noticed the sarcasm in Itsuki's words and was about to get angry. But when he heard the last part, he was stunned.

Iruka-sensei knows who my parents are? Who are they?

He wanted to know, too!

Iruka hesitated for a moment, then said, "Naruto, listen to me..."

Itsuki interrupted, "Why aren’t you saying it? Are his parents terrible people, so awful that you're afraid to say it?"

"I..." Iruka stammered.

"Itsuki!" shouted the Third Hokage. "In Naruto's eyes, you've been like a father to him. You're incredibly important to him."

Itsuki looked at Iruka and said slowly, "I believe your feelings for Naruto are sincere. So, tell him—tell Naruto that he's the Nine-Tails, right?"

"Tell him if he's Konoha's hero or not."

"Tell him whether his parents were heroes!"

"Say it!"

Naruto's feelings for Iruka were strong, and Iruka felt a deep bond with Naruto as well. But Itsuki didn’t care. He was now the leader of Fire Shadow Village, the Kage of the Hidden Fire Village.

As Kage, he had to think about the village.

How to crush Konoha? He would do whatever it took.

Besides, if you have nothing to hide, then say it!

Naruto’s eyes sparkled as he looked at Iruka without speaking. Itsuki’s words resonated deeply with him.

In Naruto’s heart, Iruka indeed played a fatherly role.

Because of this, Naruto couldn’t refute Itsuki’s words. If Itsuki had insulted or berated Iruka, Naruto would have exploded with anger, no matter what.

But... what child wouldn't want to know about their parents?

"Iruka-sensei, can't you say it?" Naruto asked quietly.

Itsuki smiled softly and said, "Then I’ll say it!"

"Uchiha Itsuki!" The Third Hokage roared in anger, his face filled with fear.

Half of Konoha was already destroyed. Was Itsuki planning to completely ruin the village?

Because of Itsuki, the Third Hokage had arranged for Iruka to bond with Naruto early on, so Naruto would have someone to rely on.

Though there was no concrete evidence, the Third Hokage had sensed long ago that Itsuki's attention was always lingering on Naruto.

He was worried!

So, he had Naruto learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu early to give him some means of self-defense. He also made sure Iruka became the most important person in Naruto's life.

If Itsuki knew Sarutobi Hiruzen’s thoughts, he would have felt wronged. He hadn’t intended to mess with Naruto back then. He was just excited to see the real-life version of someone he’d read about in the original story!

He’d almost asked for an autograph!

"Naruto..."

"Whoosh!"

Suddenly, a flood of white threads shot toward Itsuki like countless sharp swords.

The fierce attack surprised even Itsuki.

He finally released Naruto and retreated quickly.

"Kill!"

Seeing that Naruto was no longer in Itsuki's grasp, the Konoha ninjas unleashed a frenzied assault. Their rage was palpable, and they seemed desperate to vent it all in one go.

"Crackle!"

"Boom!!"

A gigantic Susanoo appeared, protecting Itsuki.

Itsuki glared coldly at them, turning his gaze toward the 'white threads' that had attacked him.

Jiraiya!

It was his hair that had just attacked.

He had returned.

"Jiraiya-sensei, you're not holding back, huh?" Itsuki sneered.

Jiraiya's face was serious. "Itsuki, you've gone too far."

"Too far?" Itsuki couldn’t help but laugh. "Can you say that with a clear conscience? Can you say that to Minato's face? Minato respected you so much, idolized you."

Jiraiya’s breath hitched, his face growing grim. He glanced at Naruto instinctively, only to lock eyes with him. Both of them were momentarily stunned.

"Enough!" Itsuki said, forming hand seals. "I’ll come back to play next time."

He glanced at Naruto before silently walking away.

Everyone present heaved a sigh of relief.

Thank goodness he left quietly.

They were genuinely afraid that Itsuki would shout something he shouldn't as he left. That would have been a real problem.

However...

None of them noticed a pair of bright eyes silently observing everything.

Iruka noticed.

He wanted to say something but chose to remain silent.

Jiraiya stood before the Third Hokage, looking at the wreckage of Konoha. He let out a deep sigh.

How did things end up like this?

"A sensory ninja!" Sarutobi Hiruzen suddenly yelled.

The shrillness of his voice startled even Jiraiya.

What the heck?

"Uh, sorry," Hiruzen quickly corrected himself, coughing twice. "My throat's just sore, thanks to Uchiha Itsuki. Sensory ninjas, check if that bastard is really gone."

"Yes!"

The sensory ninjas complied, though somewhat exasperated.

Would sensing him even work?

He’s a Flying Thunder God ninja!

You might sense him gone now, but he could reappear in the next second. What then?

After a moment of sensing...

The sensory ninja spoke in a deep voice, "We can’t detect him. He seems to be gone for now. But, Lord Hokage, since he’s a Flying Thunder God user..."

Hiruzen interrupted, "I know, but just stay on alert anyway."

Sensory Ninja: "..."

Stay on alert?

More like, we’re just stuck doing busy work.

Also, Lord Third Hokage, haven’t you noticed?

Your voice is a bit sharp right now.

Just like how Danzo lost an eye, are you losing something too?

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 157: Searching for Answers*

In Konoha, it felt as though the village had just experienced a massive earthquake.

One-third of the village lay in ruins.

The casualties numbered in the thousands.

Hundreds of ninja perished!

Restoring the village would not be an easy task.

Thankfully, Jiraiya had returned.

At the peak of his strength, one of the legendary Sannin, he was greatly trusted by the people of Konoha, giving them a sense of hope.

However!

Because of his return, many matters became even more difficult to handle.

During the massive explosion, the Sarutobi clan’s ninja were finally exposed.

Thousands of their people emerged before everyone’s eyes.

Thousands of ninja, now in the public’s view.

The atmosphere in Konoha suddenly shifted.

During the reconstruction efforts, the village’s ninja became silent.

...

“No! Absolutely not!”

The Third Hokage roared passionately, “Jiraiya, one of the three legendary Sannin, is the pillar of Konoha. How could we harm him?”

“Hiruzen, you can’t hesitate anymore!”

Danzō snapped angrily, “The Sarutobi clan has already been exposed, and the Shimura clan is being intentionally or unintentionally investigated. Sooner or later, we’ll be exposed too.”

It wasn’t due to luck that his clan had avoided scrutiny but because he built his ninja clan in a more remote area.

That was just how he was.

The Sarutobi clan, however, was closer to the village center.

Konan’s explosive paper cranes had naturally radiated outward from the village center.

As a result, the Sarutobi clan suffered enormous losses, while the Shimura clan’s damage was negligible.

“Although the Koharu and Mito clans’ lands were destroyed, a large number of their ninja survived,”

“Seven thousand!”

“Now the outside world is saying that our four clans have a total of seven thousand ninja.”

“If we don’t take over Konoha now, when will we?”

“Our reputations are already at rock bottom. We must quickly take control of Konoha with force.”

Danzō’s rage boiled over.

Though he didn’t care much about how others viewed him, he deeply desired to become Hokage.

“Even so, we can’t harm Jiraiya!”

The Third adamantly insisted.

He knew his time as Hokage was limited.

Jiraiya was his choice to succeed him!

While he had hoped to pass the title to Sarutobi Asuma,

in the original story, Asuma’s students were the Ino-Shika-Chō trio, which was telling.

Hiruzen wanted his son to at least compete for the Hokage position, and even if he failed, he would still become one of Konoha’s elders.

But now, Sarutobi Asuma had no chance of becoming Hokage. He lacked both the strength and the prestige.

Sarutobi Shinnosuke couldn’t help him either.

So, he chose Jiraiya.

Danzō gritted his teeth, “Jiraiya has sided with those ninja. He has unknowingly become our enemy. Do you understand?”

“I’ll talk to him.”

“Hiruzen... you’ll regret this.”

“Danzō, I am the Hokage!”

At that, the two parted ways.

Koharu and Mito were silent nearby.

After all, no one really cared about them.

Besides, they were still grieving.

Though some survived the explosion caused by Uchiha Itsuki, many still died.

They were heartbroken!

“Someone!”

Sarutobi Hiruzen’s deep voice rang out, “Call Jiraiya.”

After speaking, he turned to sit in the Hokage’s chair, waiting for Jiraiya.

As he turned, he saw Koharu and Mito and was momentarily stunned.

“You two... you’re still here?”

Koharu and Mito: “...”

So you never noticed us?

When Jiraiya arrived, this was the scene he walked into.

Koharu and Mito both had the expressions of people who had just lost their children. Without even glancing at Jiraiya, they turned and left.

Jiraiya, utterly confused, looked at Sarutobi Hiruzen, “Old man, did you harass those two?”

“Get out!”

Hearing the “angry yet cute (tsundere)” scolding, Jiraiya shuddered.

He nearly jumped in surprise!

“Geez, old man, what’s gotten into you? You’re giving me the creeps.”

Cough cough!  

“Enough with the coughing!” Jiraiya said helplessly. “Whenever you talk and lose control for a moment, it always ends up... sigh!”

He covered his face.

What the hell!

How long had he been away this time?

He barely recognized Konoha anymore.

The Uchiha clan was gone.

They weren’t playing along anymore.

The Sarutobi clan and the other three clans suddenly revealed seven thousand ninja.

When Nara Shikaku saw him, he looked like he was seeing his dead father—tears welling in his eyes, nearly kneeling in front of him.

The old man had become like this, his sharp voice practically scraping skin.

You say everything’s fine—yeah, right!

The village was in shambles.

And then there was Jiraiya’s little secret.

The woman responsible for all of this... he might know her. He definitely couldn’t say anything!

Absolutely not!

The Third Hokage coldly said, “All because of the Uchiha...”

“Enough!”

Jiraiya interrupted him. “When I attacked Uchiha Itsuki, I cut him off before he could finish talking about the Uchiha and Naruto. Otherwise, what do you think he would’ve said?”

“I’ll tell you.”

“He would’ve said, ‘Why can’t the village accept the Uchiha, even though they’ve contributed so much? Why were they forced out?’”

Jiraiya’s eyes grew distant.

“Sometimes, I wonder... if the Uchiha ever had a Hokage...”

“No way! Absolutely not!”

The Third Hokage furiously interrupted him, “My God, Jiraiya, how could you even think that? An Uchiha as Hokage? Can you imagine what the village would become?”

Jiraiya coldly replied, “I think it wouldn’t be worse than it is now.”

The Third stood frozen in place.

Ouch!

Both men fell into silence.

“Flying Thunder God!”

Jiraiya broke the silence first. “The Flying Thunder God technique—Minato’s most famous jutsu—is now holding Konoha by the throat. What are you planning to do?”

“I don’t know!”

The Third Hokage laughed bitterly, “The Flying Thunder God allows him to come and go as he pleases. My biggest fear right now is that Uchiha Itsuki will suddenly show up in Konoha, drop a bunch of explosive tags, and then disappear, but...”

Boom boom boom!  

Before the Third could finish speaking, loud explosions echoed in the distance.

“...the barrier can’t stop him!”

Neither of them moved.

Was there any point in rushing out now?

Jiraiya stood by the window, watching the smoke rise. With a sigh, he said, “And then there’s Naruto.”

The Third Hokage was startled and quickly asked, “What about him?”

“Uchiha Itsuki didn’t finish his words because I interrupted him. He didn’t have time to say it. But I believe he did it on purpose. His goal is to make Naruto find the answer himself.”

“One answer about him.”

“And one about his friend, Uchiha Sasuke.”

The answers you find on your own are always the most satisfying.

From a certain perspective, Uchiha Itsuki was a master of manipulating human emotions.

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 158: Two Years of Calm*

One person, one thought!

What would someone think if you told them a dark truth?

They might be grateful to you.

Or they might resent you.

Even if they really wanted to know the answer.

Now, if you only tell someone half of what they really want to know, do you think they'll pursue the rest of the answer?

The answer is obvious.

This is why Jiraiya called Uchiha Itsuki a devil who manipulates people.

Uchiha Itsuki had said two things:

One about the Uchiha clan, concerning Sasuke.

He's Naruto's good friend.

Will Naruto seek the answer?

Yes!

The second thing was about Naruto himself.

Think of all the suffering Naruto has endured over the years.

Will he pursue the answer?

Yes!

Especially since it involves his parents, he will absolutely search for the answer.

Moreover!

Naruto's personality…

Jiraiya was at his wit's end.

If there's one phrase to describe Naruto, it would be: "Single-minded to the end!"

"No way!" The Third Hokage decisively said, "Absolutely not. There is no answer; he must not pursue this."

Scared now?

Where was this attitude earlier?

Jiraiya glanced at the Third Hokage and said gravely, "Just because you say no doesn’t mean he won't pursue it. Will he listen to you?"

"No, he won't!"

"So, what do you plan to do?"

"Lock him up?"

"With Naruto's personality—fidgety and restless—aren't you afraid he'll make himself sick? Aren't you afraid he'll release the Nine-Tails in frustration?"

The Third Hokage: "..."

"Sigh!"

Jiraiya sighed, unsure of what to do himself.

"Bring in Shikaku, let’s discuss it!"

Naruto was still under ten years old and very innocent.

Although, due to Uchiha Itsuki, the Third Hokage had Iruka show up early to provide Naruto with some emotional support, Naruto still only had Sasuke as a real friend among the twelve young ninjas.

Others were just classmates, not really close.

As for his relationship with Sasuke, it was fate.

These two destined friends met early on.

They were bound for a life of love and rivalry.

The Third Hokage, Jiraiya, and Shikaku Nara discussed the matter all afternoon until dusk before they made a decision.

"Naruto is easier to handle. After all... he’s still just a child," said Shikaku, looking at the Third Hokage and Jiraiya. "But how do we deal with the Uchiha?"

"Especially Uchiha Itsuki. He knows the Flying Raijin technique, meaning he can enter the village at will."

Unless Konoha was completely sealed off, there was no way to stop Itsuki with his Flying Raijin.

He's not like the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze.

Without considering the Flying Raijin, Minato's strength wasn’t that terrifying—he was only somewhat stronger than Shikaku.

Itsuki, on the other hand, was different.

Multiple encounters had proven that he had the capability to single-handedly destroy a small ninja village.

If he moved unchecked within Konoha...

"I'll handle it!"

Jiraiya said slowly, "But, old man, you need to give me full authority to deal with this matter."

"...Fine!"

The Third Hokage gave Jiraiya a meaningful look.

After all that had been said...

Describing the danger posed by both Naruto and Itsuki, emphasizing the potential consequences...

It was probably all to set the stage for this.

You want full control over the Uchiha and Naruto, huh?

Fine...

Let him do it.

Jiraiya was his only, and best, option.

...

Time flew by, and two years passed.

These were two rare years of peace.

The Village of Hidden Fire had officially been recognized by all the other ninja villages, becoming a new shinobi village.

Furthermore...

The war had ended.

Originally, the Sand Village was to fight Konoha and the Stone Village.

The Cloud Village wanted to fight the Mist and Konoha.

The Stone Village wanted to take down the Cloud Village.

Konoha had to face all three.

But due to the rise of the Uchiha, the war never broke out.

Because of the overwhelming power displayed by the Village of Hidden Fire.

First, they wiped out three thousand ninjas from the Cloud Village and captured the Eight-Tails jinchūriki.

Then they made Konoha suffer tremendous chaos.

While the other villages acknowledged their strength, they also grew increasingly wary of them.

Several ninja villages, each for different reasons, paused their preparations for war, biding their time.

They knew there would be another battle sooner or later.

And!

That would be the Fourth Great Ninja War.

Thus, the world of shinobi once again entered a time without war.

The last time that happened was when Hashirama Senju was still alive.

In a way, Uchiha Itsuki had brought back the era of Hashirama's glory.

"Mmm..."

Itsuki lazily sat up on a ten-meter-wide bed.

On the bed, several graceful figures lay sprawled, deeply asleep.

Itsuki smiled with satisfaction.

This was life!

"Hmm?"

Suddenly, Itsuki noticed something was off.

He narrowed his eyes and started counting carefully.

"One, two, three, four..."

"One is missing!"

Itsuki looked around again and pursed his lips.

One of his little kittens was missing.

No need to guess—she must have run off to play again.

There was nothing he could do.

When Yugito got exhausted, she would fall asleep, and the Two-Tails would seize the opportunity to come out.

According to the agreement between Itsuki and the Two-Tails, whenever Yugito fell asleep, the Two-Tails could go out to play, as long as she returned when Itsuki summoned her.

Thus!

Matatabi had the ability to help Yugito recover her energy and fight Itsuki for three hundred rounds, but she just wouldn’t help.

Itsuki could only grumble, but he wasn’t going to fall out with the Two-Tails over this.

Yugito was also frustrated with the Two-Tails.

In battle, she was very supportive.

But this was also a kind of battle, and they couldn't lose!

Unfortunately, Matatabi paid her no mind, and Yugito’s desire to defeat Itsuki remained unfulfilled.

Every time, she was completely overpowered until she passed out!

"Awake?"

Kurenai lazily sat up, snuggling into Itsuki’s arms. "Your kitten ran off to play again?"

"Yeah! A wild kitty!"

"Surrounded by the sea, and yet this cat covered in flames loves playing out there."

Itsuki picked up a pipe, lit it, and gently exhaled a puff of smoke—only to start coughing violently.

His eyes teared up.

Kurenai, beside him, facepalmed. "If you can't smoke, don't smoke. You're just seventeen, and already you're trying this stuff?"

Itsuki sheepishly tossed the pipe aside. "Every time I saw Hiruzen Sarutobi smoke, he looked so sage-like."

Kurenai rolled her eyes helplessly. "You’re just looking for trouble, aren’t you?"

"Trouble?"

"Yeah, trouble with Hiruzen Sarutobi!"

Kurenai stared at Itsuki. "Am I wrong? Dammit, Itsuki, it’s only been peaceful for a few days, and you just can’t..."

"Sigh!"

Itsuki sighed helplessly. "Kurenai, it’s not that I want trouble, it’s that Hiruzen Sarutobi wants it. I wish I could keep living like this forever."

"What do you mean?" Kurenai frowned. "Didn’t you have an agreement with Jiraiya to never step into Konoha again?"

Two years ago, Jiraiya had visited Itsuki as his master, wanting to negotiate.

The outcome was that Konoha would provide substantial resources to the Village of Hidden Fire, and in return, Uchiha Itsuki promised not to set foot in Konoha again.

Jiraiya wanted to seal off Itsuki's Flying Raijin!

Now, was Itsuki about to break that agreement?

(End of chapter)

*Chapter 159: Chunin Exam*

"Whoo!"

Itsuki took a puff of smoke, only to be choked by it, tears coming to his eyes.

Under Kurenai's helpless gaze.

Itsuki said, "Every year, Konoha sends us a lot of supplies. That's also why the Village of Hidden Flame has been able to develop so quickly."

The Village of Hidden Flame now was completely different from two years ago.

All the houses were built, and villagers no longer had to live in tents.

After all, Itsuki had planned out the residential and office areas in advance, so it was easy to build houses in designated spots.

When it comes to ninjas building houses, there's no reason for it to be slow. With chakra at work, it's like having a cheat code, not to mention there are Konoha ninjas like Tenzo helping out.

Then, Itsuki personally organized several matchmaking events to get bachelors married and have kids as soon as possible.

What the Village of Hidden Flame needed most was population.

Now that people had homes, the village became more stable.

Two large caravans kept bringing various supplies into the village.

And with Konoha's support, the supply situation became very abundant.

Itsuki even decided to store a batch for use during war.

"But!"

"In the eyes of the people of Konoha, it's a different story."

"They think they're supplying the enemy. Well, they’re kind of right."

Itsuki rubbed his chin and said, "If I were in their shoes, I wouldn't agree to keep giving my own resources to feed the enemy either. Who wouldn't think that’s foolish?"

"Nonsense!"

Kurenai shook her head dismissively. "Even if they didn't give us those supplies, you'd just take them yourself. Do they think they could stop you with the Flying Thunder God technique?"

Kurenai was a clear thinker.

Konoha was almost defenseless against Itsuki.

With a bit of time, he could clear out everything inside Konoha.

Even if they guarded the supplies with troops, could they really stop Itsuki?

He could wipe them all out.

If not for considering the Village of Hidden Flame, Itsuki would have been causing trouble all over the world by now.

"They probably think that if I stole it, at least they resisted!"

Itsuki showed an evil grin. "You see, a bit of resistance makes things more interesting, for both sides."

Kurenai was speechless. "So you mean Konoha cut off our supplies?"

"Yep, they only sent supplies for two years, two shipments. This time, they're not giving any!"

Itsuki shrugged and said, "I guess Hiruzen Sarutobi might have thought of a way to counter the Flying Thunder God."

"Counter the Flying Thunder God?"

"A special type of barrier."

Kurenai was stunned. "You know about it?"

"Of course!"

Without thinking, Itsuki said, "Even if I can't enter Konoha, I can still notice a lot from the outskirts."

Some people must have forgotten that Uchiha Itsuki was also a sage.

Even from Konoha's outskirts, in Sage Mode, he could sense everything inside Konoha.

If Naruto could sense all of Konoha, Itsuki, whose power now far surpassed Naruto’s during the battle with Pain, could certainly do the same.

Kurenai fell silent.

For a long while.

"What are you planning to do?"

Itsuki stood up with a smile, getting dressed, and said, "After two years of development, the Village of Hidden Flame now has two thousand ninjas. The barrier is stable, the population is steadily increasing, and we have plenty of stored supplies. I’m not afraid of war!"

He glanced at his stats.

*[Uchiha Itsuki!]*

*[Age: 17]*

*[Ninjutsu: Level 7 (2%)]*

*[Taijutsu: Level 6 (32%)]*

*[Genjutsu: Level 7 (18%)]*

*[Kekkei Genkai: Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan {Ocular Power: Level 7 (44%)}]*

*[Chakra: 24 cards (16%)]*

...

*[Ninjutsu]*

*[Fire Release]*

*[Great Fireball Technique: Level 7 (9%)]*

*[Phoenix Sage Fire Technique: Level 7 (12%)]*

*[Dragon Fire Technique: Level 7 (41%)]*

...

*[Water Release]*

*[Water Bullet Technique: Level 7 (4%)]*

*[Water Dragon Bullet Technique: Level 7 (8%)]*

...

*[Lightning Release]*

...

*[Earth Release]*

...

*[Sage Technique: Level 7 (87%)]*

*[Flying Thunder God: Level 7 (2%)]*

*[Chakra: 241,121 points!]*

After over two years, all of Itsuki’s stats had increased dramatically.

After all, he completed missions every day, day in and day out.

Small tasks added up, becoming something extraordinary.

Quantitative change leads to qualitative change!

"War..."

Kurenai lay down on the bed with a sigh.

"Will I have the chance to be on the battlefield?"

A graceful female voice sounded.

Pakura!

She hung her clothes over her neck and got dressed.

Just like that, simple!

Kurenai looked at her and suddenly got a headache. She quickly picked up a cloak and covered Pakura with it.

Pakura was startled, then angrily glared at Itsuki.

Kurenai's simple gesture made Pakura realize.

Her back must be covered in bite marks.

Uchiha Itsuki was just a big beast.

And he even looked down on Matatabi!

He bites harder than a tailed beast!

Itsuki chuckled and said, "Originally, I wanted you to stay and keep things stable. But if you want to be on the battlefield, I'll let Shisui stay behind."

Pakura wasn’t an Uchiha.

So Itsuki chose her to manage the village in his absence.

She was strong enough, too!

The Village of Hidden Flame might have been Uchiha-centric, but there were plenty of other ninjas, and Itsuki needed to consider their feelings.

"Why not Itachi? You think more highly of him, don’t you?"

"Shisui is my brother!"

"Understood!"

To be clear, the Village of Hidden Flame was still centered around Itsuki.

Over time, as other ninjas fought together, formed bonds, and got to know each other, things would change.

...

It seemed like there was some kind of shared understanding.

Just as Itsuki finished his preparations, other villages also began to act, as if by coincidence.

Things became more peaceful among the villages.

At this time, Itsuki received an invitation.

"Chunin Exam?"

Itsuki was puzzled.

Why does this feel a bit weird?

"Yes!"

Itachi said in a serious tone, "This Chunin Exam will be held in Konoha, jointly organized by Konoha and Sunagakure. The Third Hokage has invited all the hidden villages."

"Including the Village of Hidden Flame?"

"Of course!" Itachi said proudly, "The Village of Hidden Flame is now called the Sixth Hidden Village, surpassing Takigakure."

Takigakure used to be considered the leader of the second tier of villages, behind the Five Great Hidden Villages.

This was recognized by Senju Hashirama.

Back in the day, when the First Hokage distributed the tailed beasts to balance power, he specifically gave the Seven Tails to Takigakure, which was proof of their status.

Itsuki fell into silence.

Are we following the story now?

The Chunin Exam?

Konoha Crush Plan?

But the timing doesn’t match.

And Sasuke is still here, while Naruto’s team...

"Lord Mokukage, should we participate?"

"We're in!"

Itsuki said without hesitation. "You tell Konoha that the Village of Hidden Flame will participate in the Chunin Exam. Itachi, I remember your brother has met the requirements for promotion."

"Sasuke is indeed very talented!"

Itachi smiled at first, then said anxiously, "Lord Hokage, it's Konoha. Sending Sasuke there..."

Damn, if Sasuke goes now, he might not even leave bones behind.

"Don't worry!"

Itsuki showed a kind smile and said, "I'll choose some teammates for Sasuke. You'll be satisfied."

He thought for a moment and wrote down a name on a piece of paper:

Konan!

...It seemed like this might poke at Hiruzen Sarutobi's weak spot.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 160: The Choice

Itachi stared at the name, falling into silence.

"Big brother!

Are you dissatisfied with how quickly my little brother died?

Sending Miss Konan over at this time... Konoha might explode.

How long has it been since Konoha was half destroyed and just repaired?

How many people died back then?

Right now, Konan is the number one wanted criminal in Konoha.

She's not on the same level as Orochimaru and others.

Seeing Itachi's aggrieved expression.

Itsuki consoled, "Don't worry. If anything happens to Sasuke, I will mobilize all of Fire Hidden Village's power to avenge him and destroy Konoha."

Well, thank you!

You’re unexpectedly kind!

"Let's go with the second person."

Itsuki casually wrote down another name.

Itachi glanced at it and fell silent again.

Uchiha Nisaki!

"Lord Mokukage, don't tell me you're planning to go personally?"

"Of course!"

Itsuki smiled and said, "How could I miss out on something so enjoyable?"

"Lord Mokukage!"

Itachi's voice became more serious, "The cooperation between Konoha and Fire Hidden Village has stopped, which means they have already found a way to deal with the Flying Thunder God. If you go there—no, I think Konoha is expecting you to go."

"Then all the more reason to fulfill their wish."

Itsuki smiled slightly, picked up a nearby fishing rod, and headed to the lake.

Fishing!

It had also become one of his hobbies.

Itachi looked suspiciously at his back.

What is he thinking again?

What's he planning?

Well, it's his own life on the line—he wouldn't be careless.

Itachi shook his head and left.

He was quite capable in many aspects, which was why he was Itsuki's secretary.

Although Itsuki often had his secretary Pakura help manage the village, the one he truly wanted to pass the position to was still Itachi.

Second-generation Mokukage!

At just seven years old, he could view things from a Kage's perspective, with a Kage's mentality.

This saying wasn't wrong.

...

Rain Hidden Village.

Where the Ten-Tails' body was kept.

The members of the Akatsuki Heavenly Group gathered once again.

"Uchiha Itsuki, where's the Eight-Tails?"

Pain spoke first.

"I'll get it back eventually, do you need to keep bringing it up? Mozuku, if you were by my side, I would've knocked your eyes out."

Itsuki was helpless.

During the Great War between Fire Hidden Village and Cloud Hidden Village, Itsuki had captured the Eight-Tails alive.

Who knew that it was just part of the Eight-Tails' tail?

The real Eight-Tails had long since escaped.

As a result!

Not only did the Eight-Tails escape, but the members of the Akatsuki Heavenly Group also exposed Rain Hidden.

Why did they have to send the Eight-Tails to Rain Hidden Village?

Two years ago, Rain Hidden Village and Cloud Hidden Village clashed several times.

To everyone's surprise, Rain Hidden managed to hold off Cloud Hidden's attacks; both sides fought back and forth.

Cloud Hidden's overall losses were even greater than those of Rain Hidden.

In the end, considering the threat of Fire Hidden Village, Cloud Hidden chose to stop.

But!

Rain Hidden Village still raised the alert of many.

This strategic buffer zone was not as simple as it seemed.

So Pain mocked Itsuki several times.

If it was face-to-face, with Itsuki's temper, he would've definitely wanted to have a proper match with Pain.

But they were separated by hundreds of miles.

No point talking if they can't fight.

Itsuki waved dismissively at him.

"Konan, come to Fire Hidden Village to find me later. There's something I need."

"Alright!"

Konan nodded gently.

Pain's expression turned dark.

Over the past two years, Konan's relationship with Itsuki had become serious.

Konan often visited Fire Hidden Village, staying for months at a time.

Itsuki also frequently came to Rain Hidden Village to show off his relationship in front of Pain.

Pain was angry but helpless.

"Enough!"

He snapped coldly, "Everyone, the second phase of Akatsuki's plan is wrapping up, and it's time to prepare for the third phase. I will summon you all again for future matters."

Here we go again!

Itsuki raised an eyebrow.

The storyline was diverging from the original.

"Alright!"

The other Akatsuki members didn't care at all; in fact, they seemed a bit excited.

War—they had always enjoyed it.

The second phase of the Akatsuki Heavenly Group's plan: establish an independent Akatsuki, instigate small-scale wars.

First, monopolize war contracts for small nations and small ninja villages at a low price.

Then.

Release the tailed beasts to escalate the conflict, break down the structure of the major ninja nations, destroy their economies, and dominate all wars.

"Itsuki-kun!"

Orochimaru suddenly spoke up, "I heard Konoha and Sunagakure are jointly hosting the Chūnin Exams?"

"Yes!"

Itsuki smiled, "Are you interested, teacher?"

"I do plan to go to Konoha, revisiting old places."

Orochimaru grinned, "I heard they've also invited you."

Itsuki also smiled, "I will go to Konoha, but I'll just be a simple spectator. I won't interfere no matter what happens."

"Then I can rest assured!"

Orochimaru chuckled as his figure vanished.

It seems.

The Konoha Crush Plan is still in motion.

Is the Fourth Kazekage, Rasa, dead now?

I remember he has a daughter named Temari.

...

Using the Flying Thunder God, Itsuki brought Konan back to Fire Hidden Village.

After the volcanic eruption.

Itsuki hugged Konan, leaning against the bed with a smile, "Konan, how about taking you somewhere for some relaxation?"

"Where to?"

Konan's eyes sparkled.

She always felt comfortable when she was with Itsuki.

And, for some reason, when it came to Itsuki's words, it was hard for her to resist.

Konan thought she must love Itsuki too much.

He was the one who truly entered her heart.

"Konoha! How about that?"

"Sure!"

Thus, the two of them would team up with Sasuke to participate in the Chūnin Exams.

When Sasuke heard the news, he was completely dumbfounded.

The people who blew up Konoha would be on his team?

And the third team member is the Mokukage!?

You two are joining the Chūnin Exams?

Are you out of your minds!?

"Sasuke, Lord Mokukage must have some business, so make sure not to bother him."

Fugaku spoke seriously.

Sasuke pouted, "But my Chūnin Exam..."

He wanted to see Naruto and become a Chūnin under his friend's congratulations.

Fugaku didn't care at all, "If you do well enough, Lord Mokukage can directly promote you to Chūnin. You don't have to worry about that—just focus on protecting yourself, got it?"

"...Yes!"

Can't argue with the boss!

Sasuke reluctantly nodded.

He rolled his eyes, "Dad, aren't you going out either?"

"You wouldn't understand."

Fugaku sighed, "I can't just leave because I was once the leader of the Uchiha clan. I must lessen my presence in people's minds."

Sasuke: "..."

Are you really that important in the clan?

Why don't you just say you're worried about Itsuki visiting and you're not comfortable leaving Mom alone?

...

To anticipate potential issues, Fire Hidden Village only sent Sasuke's team, while the other eligible Genin were kept in the village.

But!

As Itsuki prepared to leave Fire Hidden Village with Sasuke and Konan, an unexpected visitor arrived.

That arrogant expression...

Itsuki glanced at Konan, sighed, "I feel like cutting someone. Konan, give me a hug for comfort!"

(End of this chapter)