030 Reborn as the Third Kazekage

"Your Mizukage truly has it rough..." Arashi wiped the sweat from his forehead, his mouth slightly agape. He glanced at Chiyo, seated beside him, and Yagura, standing nearby. Both looked back at him, equally stunned.

The young, baby-faced man before them carried an air of shyness and unease, yet Arashi did not dare underestimate him. This was none other than Yagura Karatachi, the future Fourth Mizukage—a formidable figure and a selfless protector of his village. As the perfect Jinchūriki of the Three-Tails, Yagura had power that could even trouble someone like Naruto. Despite his eventual fate of falling under Obito's genjutsu and becoming a puppet, his strength and dedication were undeniable. Unfortunately, his manipulation would usher in the brutal "Blood Mist Era."

Today, however, Yagura was not here to wage war or negotiate peace. He had come to deliver a warning. Following the failed assassination attempt by the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, Fuguki Suikazan and his faction of warmongers had rallied rogue shinobi and mercenaries for another attack on Sunagakure. This time, they intended to incite conflict by launching a surprise assault. Upon learning of their plans, the Mizukage chose a bold strategy—he sold them out to Sunagakure. Such decisiveness was remarkable.

"The Mizukage-sama values the friendship between our villages," Yagura said, bowing deeply to Arashi. His tone was respectful and his demeanor polite. "However, the political systems of our villages differ greatly, and Mizukage-sama cannot prevent these rogue ninjas' actions. Thus, he entrusted me to deliver this information to you in hopes that Kazekage-sama would understand."

Arashi raised a hand, signaling Yagura to stop bowing, but his mind raced as he processed the situation. This Third Mizukage was indeed a cunning strategist. By leaking this intelligence, he was allowing Sunagakure to eliminate his domestic enemies while fostering goodwill between the villages. And all without lifting a finger—a brilliant two-pronged maneuver.

"Even the finest jade has flaws, and the tallest trees may bear yellow leaves," Arashi remarked thoughtfully.

"Please inform your Mizukage-sama not to worry excessively. On behalf of Sunagakure, I accept this gesture of friendship and hope such incidents will not occur again. After all, there's no true enmity between our villages."

"Your wisdom shines, Kazekage-sama," Yagura responded warmly. "Mizukage-sama would be honored if you visited Kirigakure someday. He would personally ensure you are well-received."

"Of course, of course," Arashi replied with a polite smile, inwardly dismissing the idea. Visit Kirigakure? Not a chance—it was practically an asylum for madmen. At least not before the Fifth Mizukage's time.

After seeing Yagura off, Arashi turned to Chiyo.

"Chiyo, when you assign the team for this mission, make sure to include Might Duy from Konoha."

"Oh?" Chiyo's expression shifted as she tried to recall the name.

"He has a technique that's perfect for dealing with Fuguki Suikazan. He's practically a counter to him."

"Is that so? Very well." Chiyo seemed unconcerned about the attack. Yagura had already provided detailed information about the time, place, and participants, leaving no room for uncertainty. It wasn't a question of victory—it was a matter of deciding whether to let the attackers live or die.

"Now, there's something important I need to discuss," Arashi said, his tone suddenly serious.

Chiyo's expression matched his, sensing the gravity of the matter.

...

In the underground medical facility of Sunagakure, a blood-curdling scream echoed. Inside a glass chamber, a White Zetsu lay restrained, its eyes bloodshot as it writhed in agony. Several researchers in white lab coats stood nearby, observing and taking notes. At the forefront was none other than the Princess of Konoha—Tsunade.

"Increase the pressure by two atmospheres," Tsunade ordered, her gaze fixed intently on the creature.

"Any more, and it'll explode!" a staff member warned nervously.

"Do it! It'll be fine," Tsunade insisted, licking her lips with excitement.

"Is this where she's been hiding? What's that crazy woman doing now?" Arashi muttered as he and Chiyo arrived at the scene.

"I was invited here by your Kazekage, you old hag," Tsunade shot back without missing a beat.

"What did you just say? You brat! Say it again, and I'll poison you mute!" Chiyo snapped.

"Bring it on, you decrepit crone! Your poison can't even kill the chickens back in Konoha!" Tsunade retorted.

The two women bickered fiercely, leaving Arashi awkwardly mediating between them. His attention, however, was suddenly drawn to something on a nearby shelf.

"Wait… Is that what I think it is?" He pointed at a large formaldehyde jar containing a severed White Zetsu head.

"Yeah, it's preserved. The rest didn't survive. This one's the last," Tsunade admitted, pointing to the struggling creature in the glass chamber.

"You're ruthless," Arashi muttered, quickly ordering the staff to reduce the pressure. "Don't push it too far. We can't afford to lose this one."

"Fine, but reduce it slowly. The sudden drop might burst its blood vessels. And remember to check its vitals afterward," Tsunade instructed.

"Sixty atmospheres? How does it even endure that?" Chiyo marveled. "Is this what you've been calling a White Zetsu?"

"Not just that—it's highly resistant to poison and physical damage," Tsunade said proudly.

"Poison resistance, you say?" Chiyo's interest was piqued.

The two quickly became engrossed in discussing toxins and biology, flipping through files and reports. What began as a confrontation turned into a collaboration as they bonded over their shared expertise. Arashi could only sigh at the sight.

"ANBU," Arashi called.

"Here!"

"Coordinate with the ANBU for the ambush. Assign Akasuna couple to arrange the personnel. Include Might Duy in the team, and you'll handle on-site command."

"Understood. I'll get on it right away."