[Naruto Grandfather] Chapter 81 - 85

Chapter 81

The Fourth Raikage and Killer B had attempted to escape several times but failed miserably. Uzumaki Chito had meticulously sealed their chakra pathways, rendering them completely powerless. Without chakra, even their immense physical strength couldn’t break the ropes reinforced with sealing techniques.

Shin-Konoha, somewhat isolated from the rest of the world, rarely received news promptly. However, when Kakashi and Might Guy returned with the prisoners of war, the entire village gathered to witness the event.

For the villagers—many of whom were war refugees—this marked a historic moment. Seeing their village strong enough to take captives stirred a sense of pride they hadn’t felt in years.

The sight of the Fourth Raikage and Killer B, two legendary figures, bound and powerless, gave the villagers hope. Shin-Konoha was no longer weak or vulnerable. It was finally capable of standing tall and defending itself.

“Brother,” Killer B whispered to the Raikage, “we seem to be pretty popular here.”

Despite their grim situation, Killer B couldn’t help but enjoy the attention. In Kumogakure, the spotlight had always been on the Fourth Raikage. But here, the two were equals—just prisoners of war. For once, Killer B felt like he stood out.

“Killer B, are you an idiot?” the Fourth Raikage growled. “We’re prisoners, captives! There’s nothing to celebrate here.”

The Raikage was fuming, not just at their predicament but at Killer B’s carefree attitude. If he knew what Killer B was thinking, he would have lost his temper entirely.

Kakashi and Might Guy stepped into the village, feeling a mix of nostalgia and amazement. Shin-Konoha had transformed significantly since their last visit. The Ninja Academy was more than halfway complete, and the commercial district was thriving, with many food stalls and shops already open.

Naruto had even turned part of the area into a food court centered around Ichiraku Ramen, ensuring the villagers could enjoy a warm meal while contributing to the local economy.

“This place has changed so much,” Might Guy remarked, walking alongside Kakashi.

Kakashi nodded. “Let’s first hand over the prisoners to Lord Chito, then we can take a proper look around.”

Despite the simplicity of the ropes binding the Raikage and Killer B, they were utterly ineffective against the powerful sealing techniques Chito had applied. This display of skill reminded everyone why the Uzumaki clan had been feared and respected across all nations.

The pair arrived at a modest wooden house where Uzumaki Chito resided, temporarily built using the First Hokage’s Wood Release techniques.

“Lord Chito, we’ve returned,” Kakashi announced respectfully from outside the house.

The Raikage and Killer B exchanged uneasy glances. If Chito’s clone had been so fearsome, what would his real presence feel like? The Raikage shuddered, recalling the memory of heavenly thunder striking with merciless precision. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was in far over his head.

“Lord Chito,” the Raikage began, bowing his head, “the Land of Lightning is willing to pay a ransom for our release.”

His voice was steady, but the humiliation was evident. For a proud leader like him, making such a concession was unbearable, but necessary.

Chito didn’t even glance at him. Instead, she turned to Kakashi and Might Guy. “We need a proper prison to hold captives and criminals,” he said simply.

“And these two?” Kakashi asked, gesturing at the Raikage and Killer B.

“The construction team is short on labor,” Chito replied after a moment of thought. “Let them move bricks.”

Kakashi and Might Guy exchanged a look, both trying to suppress their surprise.

The Raikage and Killer B, on the other hand, were stunned into silence.

“Lord Chito, you can’t be serious!” the Raikage bellowed. “I am the Fourth Raikage, the leader of Kumogakure, the overseer of the Land of Lightning ! Forcing me to move bricks is an insult!”

Killer B, ever pragmatic, sighed. “Brother, at least ask if there’s food included. No point starving while you’re stuck moving bricks.”

“Food, yes. Pay, no,” Chito said flatly, giving Killer B a knowing look.

Unlike his brother, Killer B understood the situation. Resisting would only bring more suffering. The Raikage, however, refused to let go of his pride.

“Brother, look up,” Killer B said, pointing above the Raikage’s head.

The Raikage followed his gaze and saw a small dark cloud hovering directly above him. The cloud rumbled ominously, flashes of lightning flickering within it. He immediately froze, his body instinctively remembering the pain of being struck by Chito’s thunder.

“I’ll move bricks!” the Raikage growled through gritted teeth, finally relenting.

Kakashi and Might Guy watched the scene unfold, their respect for Chito’s methods deepening. “We really should avoid the Raikage in the future,” Kakashi muttered. “Being near him when he’s struck by lightning is just too risky.”

The money seized from the Land of Lightning, totaling 50 million ryo, was promptly invested into Shin-Konoha’s infrastructure. More than 10 million was set aside for additional construction projects, further solidifying the village’s foundation.

The Raikage and Killer B, now part of the labor team, couldn’t help but marvel at the progress Shin-Konoha had made. The village was flourishing, its people vibrant and full of hope. Even Killer B, despite his circumstances, found himself impressed.

“If this continues,” the Raikage muttered under his breath, “Shin-Konoha will surpass every other ninja village.”

But his pride wouldn’t let him accept this. The thought of Shin-Konoha rising above Kumogakure was infuriating. He clenched his fists, vowing to one day bring Shin-Konoha to its knees.

“Brother, watch out!” Killer B suddenly called.

“What?” the Raikage asked, confused.

Before he could react, a bolt of lightning struck him squarely on the head. The dark cloud above him had finally unleashed its fury.

Zap!

Electricity surged through his body, leaving him trembling on the ground. Smoke rose from his singed clothing as he groaned, “I’m fine...”

Chapter 82

The Fourth Raikage sat on the ground, his face dark with fury. “Uzumaki Chito, I swear the two of us cannot coexist under the same sky!”

He cursed his name with every breath, blaming him for his current plight. It was all because of him —his humiliation, his captivity, and the thundercloud that loomed over his head.

Bang!

Another bolt of lightning struck him, accompanied by the familiar sound of crackling electricity. Sparks danced around his body, making the villagers chuckle quietly. For free labor, this was certainly entertaining.

Meanwhile, Naruto and Tsunade returned to Shin-Konoha by sea. Neji, however, did not join them. He had chosen to continue his journey through the Land of the Moon and the Land of Hot Water, eventually arriving in the Land of Sound—Orochimaru’s territory.

Orochimaru had turned the Land of Sound into his personal dominion, establishing the Village Hidden in Sound. But none of that concerned Neji. His goal was singular: to grow stronger. In Orochimaru’s laboratory, Neji sought compatibility tests for enhancing his Byakugan. His drive for power left even Orochimaru surprised.

Sasuke Uchiha, who was still refining his mastery of the Curse Mark, had been in the lab when Neji arrived. Though unaware of Naruto’s return, Sasuke felt a surge of irritation upon learning later. For Sasuke, Naruto would always be his rival, an unchanging constant in his life.

Back in Shin-Konoha, the village buzzed with activity. Tsunade and Naruto resumed their duties, their presence reassuring the villagers. Everyone seemed invested in grooming Naruto to become a capable leader. Tsunade reviewed the updated financial report, her expression lighting up as she saw the 50 million ryo increase.

“We’re rich again!” Tsunade exclaimed, licking her lips in delight.

However, Shizune quickly brought her back to reality. “Tsunade-sama, that money is only enough to finish the Ninja Academy. Half of the commercial street hasn’t even started, and we haven’t begun constructing the Hokage building...”

Tsunade’s joy faded as Shizune explained the village’s expenses. Her face darkened as the weight of responsibility set in.

“Half of the commercial street will do for now. As for the Hokage building, let Lord Chito build one with Wood Release,” Tsunade grumbled, reluctant to part with the money.

Shizune sighed. “Tsunade-sama, we need to prioritize the village’s development.”

Shin-Konoha was bustling with preparations. Kakashi and Might Guy took charge of security, handling everything from neighborly disputes to patrolling the village’s perimeter. It wasn’t perfect, but it worked.

Iruka and Anko returned to establish a base for training young ninjas and supporting orphans from the war. Thanks to Sarutobi Hiruzen’s influence, they managed to provide resources and shelter to countless children.

Tenten, now a resident of Shin-Konoha, continued to assist with blasting stubborn rocks using explosive tags. Already known for her business acumen, she was quickly becoming one of Shin-Konoha’s most valuable contributors.

The villagers, inspired by Naruto’s promises, volunteered at the construction site for the Ninja Academy. Naruto himself joined the effort, often working alongside the villagers and even the captives—the Fourth Raikage and Killer B.

When the Raikage first saw Naruto, his pride flared up. “So, you’re Naruto Uzumaki,” he said gruffly, studying the young shinobi. “The junior Uzumaki Chito values so much.”

Naruto, unfazed by the Raikage’s towering presence, smiled. “And you’re the Fourth Raikage? You look pretty good like this.”

Naruto’s genuine admiration for the Raikage’s aura—complete with the ominous dark cloud above his head—caught the older man off guard.

“Are you mocking me, brat?!” the Raikage bellowed, his temper flaring.

Unable to hold back, the Raikage lunged at Naruto, ready to teach him a lesson. But before he could even touch Naruto, a bolt of lightning struck him squarely from the dark cloud overhead.

Bang!

Electricity coursed through his body, leaving him momentarily paralyzed. The villagers watching from a distance didn’t even flinch—they had grown used to the Raikage being struck several times a day.

Naruto offered his hand. “Are you alright?”

The Raikage glared at him, smoke rising from his singed clothes. “Naruto Uzumaki, I swear we can’t live under the same sky!”

Bang!

Another bolt of lightning struck, cutting off his tirade.

As the village continued its rapid development, Tsunade finally faced reality. Reviewing the village’s finances, she sighed. “Even with the Ninja Academy nearing completion, we’re still short by 40 to 50 million ryo.”

The Hokage building, the business district, and a proper prison were all critical projects. But Tsunade knew that wasn’t the only issue.

“We also need a leader,” she said during a meeting, her tone serious.

Kakashi frowned. “If we declare a leader now, it might provoke the Five Great Nations. They won’t take kindly to Shin-Konoha elevating itself to that level.”

Tsunade shook her head. “We’re not declaring a sixth kage—we’re simply appointing a leader. The village needs a voice.”

Naruto spoke up. “I think Tsunade-sama is the right choice.”

Everyone else seemed to agree, but Tsunade shook her head. “I’m not interested in these responsibilities. I hate this kind of thing.”

The conversation was interrupted by Uzumaki Chito’s voice, calm and firm. “Tsunade, I think you should take the role. The village needs you.”

Tsunade sighed, feeling cornered. She had no choice but to accept.

The meeting shifted focus to another pressing issue: the captives.

“What do we do with the Fourth Raikage and Killer B?” Tsunade asked.

“Standard protocol would be to hold them as prisoners of war and wait for the Land of Lightning to pay a ransom,” Kakashi suggested.

Chapter 83

Tsunade rubbed her temples as she addressed the most pressing matter of the meeting. “The Land of Lightning has officially requested the release of the Fourth Raikage and Killer B. Here’s their offer.”

She passed copies of the letters from the Land of Lightning to everyone in attendance. The letters outlined an apology and reparations thinly veiled as a ransom: 50 million ryo to secure the return of their leader and Jinchuriki.

“The price is... steep,” Kakashi muttered, furrowing his brow. “It’s unlike the Land of Lightning to agree to something like this so quickly. They must be desperate—or planning something.”

Tsunade nodded. “Their Daimyo is dead, and the country is in chaos. They need a leader to stabilize the situation, and they’re willing to pay for it. Considering this ransom covers both the Fourth Raikage and the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki, the amount isn’t unreasonable.”

She paused, gauging the room’s reaction. The offer was tempting—50 million ryo could significantly bolster Shin-Konoha’s finances. But everyone sensed there was more to the story.

Kakashi leaned back in his chair, studying Tsunade. “You wouldn’t bring this to us unless there was something else to consider.”

“Exactly,” Tsunade replied, motioning for Shizune to distribute another document. “Take a look at this.”

As the group reviewed the new information, the room fell into an uncomfortable silence. The offers from other nations were both revealing and unsettling.

• The Land of Wind offered 10 million ryo to Shin-Konoha to refuse the return of the Fourth Raikage and an additional 20 million to hand over the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki.

• The Land of Earth bid 5 million ryo to keep the Raikage captive and 10 million for the Eight-Tails.

• The Land of Water offered 8 million ryo to refuse the Raikage’s return and 15 million to purchase the Eight-Tails.

• Smaller nations also made bids, though their offers were negligible.

Among the Five Great Nations, only the Land of Fire refrained from bidding, likely due to Sarutobi Hiruzen’s influence. He had urged other nations not to play into Shin-Konoha’s hands. But, unsurprisingly, no one listened to him. His appeals fell on deaf ears, with most nations dismissing his authority entirely.

Naruto finally broke the silence, his voice filled with disbelief. “This... This is so underhanded. Is this really how ninja villages and nations operate?”

Tsunade sighed, shaking her head. “Welcome to the reality of the ninja world, Naruto. When one side is weak, the others exploit it. Alliances are fragile, and trust is a rare commodity.”

She looked around the table. “So the question is: what should we do with these offers?”

Kakashi and Might Guy exchanged glances but said nothing. Naruto, still processing the situation, looked unsure. It was a difficult decision. Accepting the ransom from the Land of Lightning would bring financial stability to Shin-Konoha but risk empowering an enemy. Refusing it and selling the captives to another nation would deepen hostilities.

Finally, Tsunade turned to the main seat, which had been left vacant for Uzumaki Chito. “What’s your opinion, Lord Chito?”

Moments later, Chito’s figure materialized in the room. “Why do you always push these decisions onto me?” he asked with a faint smile.

Everyone stood respectfully, greeting his in unison. “Lord Chito.”

Chito waved them back to their seats. “Relax. Let’s get to the point.”

Tsunade leaned forward. “Shin-Konoha exists because of you. We can’t ignore your advice in this.”

Chito sighed. “Fine, I’ll offer a suggestion. But the final decision is yours.”

He thought for a moment before speaking. “Since everyone seems interested in the Raikage and Killer B, why not hold an auction?”

The room buzzed with murmurs of surprise. Tsunade’s eyes lit up. “An auction?”

But before she could ask more, Chito’s figure disappeared. His voice echoed in the room. “That’s my suggestion. The rest is up to you.”

Tsunade mulled over the idea, her mind already racing. “An auction... It could work,” she said aloud. “Let them fight it out. We’ll take the highest bid.”

Kakashi hesitated. “It’s a bold move, but wouldn’t it seem... excessive? We’re only auctioning two captives.”

“That’s true,” Tsunade admitted, “but it’s all we have right now. In the future, we’ll host more auctions.”

The others exchanged uneasy glances. The idea of repeatedly capturing and auctioning off high-profile prisoners felt excessive, even for the ninja world.

“Let’s focus on this one for now,” Tsunade said. “We’ll need an auction house. Redirect part of the construction crew from the Ninja Academy and get started immediately.”

Kakashi raised an eyebrow. “You’re usually so stingy. Why the sudden generosity?”

Tsunade smirked, sliding a blueprint onto the table. The design showed an elaborate auction venue with a casino on the first floor. “Simple. We’ll use the casino to fund the auction house.”

The room fell silent as everyone processed her blatant self-interest. If there was one thing Tsunade couldn’t resist, it was gambling.

“Using power for personal gain, huh?” Kakashi muttered under his breath.

Chapter 84

“Tsunade-sama, do you really need to spend so much money?” Naruto asked, staring at the budget allocation of 20 million ryo with a pained expression.

“Of course!” Tsunade replied without missing a beat. “The auction is a perfect opportunity to showcase Shin-Konoha’s strength. It has to be grand and leave an impression.”

She scribbled in her notebook, listing items to spruce up the casino she was determined to attach to the auction venue.

“Casinos can generate a lot of revenue for the village,” she added, flashing a mischievous smile. “Take someone like me—I can lose 800,000 ryo in just one afternoon.”

Naruto sighed, resisting the urge to point out the obvious flaw in her example. Only Tsunade could lose that much money every single time.

Under Tsunade’s determined oversight, construction of the auction venue was in full swing. To expedite the process, the labor force included the “reformed” Fourth Raikage and Killer B. As they worked, the Raikage cast a wary eye at the structure taking shape.

“What exactly is being built here?” the Raikage asked one of the villagers.

“An auction venue,” the villager replied cheerfully.

“An auction?” The Raikage frowned. “What could Shin-Konoha possibly have to auction?”

His question was met with a shrug. The Raikage scoffed—Shin-Konoha was practically building itself from scratch. What could they offer for auction? An auction required valuable items, after all.

“I heard they’re auctioning the Fourth Raikage and the Eight-Tails Jinchuriki,” the villager added with a sheepish smile. “Sounds impressive, doesn’t it?”

The Raikage froze, his expression twisting in disbelief. Blood rushed to his head, and his vision blurred. With a sharp exhale, he spat out a mouthful of blood and collapsed to the ground.

“Shin-Konoha,” he muttered weakly, “you’ve gone too far.”

Above him, the ominous dark cloud that followed him everywhere rumbled. Moments later, a bolt of lightning struck, jolting him back to consciousness. The villagers continued their work, unfazed by the spectacle.

Killer B knelt beside his brother, patting his back. He had grown somewhat accustomed to life in Shin-Konoha. The food was decent, and their treatment hadn’t been particularly harsh. But he wisely kept these thoughts to himself, knowing they would only enrage his brother further.

While construction progressed, invitations to the auction were sent to major nations and ninja villages, including Konoha. The invite promised an event unlike any other, with the Raikage and Killer B as the star attractions.

Responses from across the ninja world were swift and varied.

“Auctioning the Raikage and Killer B? Shin-Konoha really knows how to stir the pot.”

“The Fourth Raikage must not return to the Land of Lightning . We can’t let them regain their strength.”

“Why would they sell a Jinchuriki? Is Shin-Konoha that confident in their power?”

In Konoha, Jiraiya received his invitation. His lips curved into a wry smile as he read it. “Tsunade, you’ve really outdone yourself this time.”

The invitation was less about the auction itself and more an opportunity for Jiraiya to witness Shin-Konoha’s development firsthand.

Danzo, who had also received an invitation, was similarly intrigued. “This is bold, even for Shin-Konoha,” he mused.

However, when Sarutobi Hiruzen entered the room, Danzo quickly hid the invitation. He knew that anything related to Shin-Konoha was guaranteed to send Sarutobi into a rage.

“Is there something you’re hiding from me?” Sarutobi asked suspiciously.

Danzo feigned innocence. “Nothing of the sort. Just some mundane matters.”

Sarutobi picked up the latest intelligence report, his expression darkening as he read about the auction. “They’re digging their own grave,” he muttered. “This will completely sever any chance of reconciliation with the Land of Lightning .”

Danzo smirked. “And what if it does? With Uzumaki Chito standing guard, do you think the Land of Lightning will dare to retaliate? Their Raikage and Jinchuriki have already been captured.”

Sarutobi fell silent, knowing Danzo’s words held some truth. But the thought of Shin-Konoha thriving while Konoha struggled filled him with resentment.

“We can’t let this continue,” Sarutobi said firmly. “If Shin-Konoha rises too far, it will overshadow Konoha. We have to act.”

Danzo raised an eyebrow. “And how do you plan to sabotage the auction with Uzumaki Chito there? He won’t allow any disruptions.”

Sarutobi’s eyes narrowed as an idea began to form. “We need someone who can fight on our behalf. Perhaps... we can use the Edo Tensei.”

Danzo’s lips curled into a sly grin. “Or,” he added casually, “you could escalate the conflict. Kill the Raikage and Killer B during the auction and let the Eight-Tails rampage through Shin-Konoha.”

Sarutobi’s eyes gleamed with interest. “That might just work. It would drive a wedge between the Land of Lightning and Shin-Konoha. A brilliant plan, Danzo.”

Danzo immediately backtracked. “I said no such thing. This is entirely your idea.”

Chapter 85

Hiruzen Sarutobi finalized the plan, cutting Danzo out of the detailed execution. Jiraiya observed Sarutobi and Danzo with a mix of confusion and disapproval. These two old foxes, insidious to the core, could turn even an innocent conversation into a web of schemes.

Jiraiya sighed. He had thought Danzo might have changed, but the man’s cunning was deeply ingrained. Every word out of his mouth seemed like a prelude to a deadly conspiracy.

“Don’t look at me,” Danzo said, raising his hands defensively under Jiraiya’s scrutinizing gaze. “I don’t know anything.”

Jiraiya shook his head, unconvinced, as he and Danzo quietly exited the Hokage’s office, leaving Sarutobi to his thoughts.

At the Hyuga Clan Compound

Hinata Hiashi held two identical invitations in his hand. Both came from Shin-Konoha—one addressed to the Hyuga clan and the other forwarded by the Inuzuka family. He regarded them with a pensive expression.

“It seems Shin-Konoha still has its eyes on Konoha,” Hiashi remarked.

Across from him, Inuzuka Jaw nodded solemnly. Ever since the Inuzuka family had allied itself with the Hyuga clan, their fates had been intertwined.

Hiashi smirked, his tone sharp. “Your clan’s Inuzuka Kiba defeated at Naruto’s hands. Do you not seek revenge?”

Jaw shook his head. “We won’t jeopardize the entire family for the humiliation of one person.”

Hiashi chuckled, tossing the invitations onto the table. “Wise. Then let’s go. I’m curious to see what Shin-Konoha looks like now.”

Jaw raised an eyebrow. “I thought you saw it last time?”

Hiashi coughed awkwardly, avoiding his gaze. “There were... complications.”

He couldn’t admit he’d been stopped at the gates last time, unable to even glimpse the village. It was a bitter memory.

Elsewhere in Konoha

The trio of Nara Shikaku, Akimichi Choza, and Yamanaka Inoichi also received invitations. After much deliberation, they brought them to Jiraiya.

“Konoha’s decisions have become increasingly erratic under Sarutobi,” Shikaku noted. The group had begun distancing themselves from Sarutobi’s leadership, finding his actions less reliable by the day.

Jiraiya, meanwhile, sat with Danzo at a barbecue restaurant. Seeing the two together startled many passersby, as their partnership was a rarity.

“The three clans want your opinion on the invitation,” Danzo remarked, sensing their hesitation. “But let me guess—they want someone else to take the lead.”

Shikaku, ever diplomatic, responded, “Hokage-sama, do you believe we should go?”

Jiraiya sighed. “Go if you want. Shin-Konoha isn’t the enemy—not yet.”

Shin-Konoha

The auction venue had been completed on an expedited schedule, and it was nothing short of impressive. The grand casino on the first floor, in particular, stood out, funded almost entirely by Tsunade’s determination to merge personal interests with village development.

Preparations for the auction were thorough. Tsunade had Uzumaki Chito inscribe the Flying Thunder God technique onto each invitation, enabling guests to teleport directly to Shin-Konoha’s guest houses. Each invitation allowed entry for up to five individuals.

Chito chuckled as he saw through Tsunade’s plan. “You’re setting the Land of Lightning up to take a public fall.”

“Exactly,” Tsunade replied with a smirk. “If we’re going to sell the Raikage, we’ll make sure it’s at the highest price possible.”

Meanwhile, the Raikage and Killer B received excellent treatment as prisoners. Every day, they were served lavish meals to maintain their health. Tsunade justified the expense, claiming, “If we want to sell them for a fortune, they have to look the part.”

Chito even removed the ominous dark cloud above the Raikage’s head, noting that it had served its purpose and would be recorded in the Shin-Konoha Ninjutsu Encyclopedia as a new technique.

The Day of the Auction

Guests began arriving via the Flying Thunder God technique. Among them were minor village leaders, small-country daimyo, and family heads, invited more to fill seats than for their influence.

As evening approached, the real players made their entrances.

The first notable arrival was the new daimyo of the Land of Lightning , the son of the late daimyo. His gaze burned with resentment as he addressed the crowd.

“I will avenge my father—”

“Do you have a son?” Naruto interrupted with a smirk.

The daimyo blinked, startled. “No.”

Naruto pressed on, “Any close cousins or uncles who could take over if something happened to you?”

“Yes... Why are you asking?”

Naruto’s grin widened, laced with a faint threat. “Good. Then killing you won’t be a problem. Someone else can just take your place.”

The daimyo paled, his confidence evaporating. He remembered how his father had died—and how he had inherited his position only because of Shin-Konoha. For now, he chose silence.

After the daimyo departed, the delegation from Kumogakure arrived, led by Yugito Nii, the Two-Tails Jinchuriki. She was accompanied by Darui and two other Jonin, clearly showcasing their remaining strength.

Representatives from the other Great Nations soon followed, including Konoha. Jiraiya brought only Danzo, along with a few minor family heads. Their small numbers reflected Konoha’s waning influence.

When Jiraiya and Danzo entered the venue, they were met with cold stares. Tsunade greeted them with a single icy sentence: “Take a seat.”