blogombal Chapter 132 Kushina's Nightmares Day and Night, Tormented by Inner Demons
Chapter 132 Kushina's Nightmares Day and Night, Tormented by Inner Demons
Chapter 132 Kushina's Nightmares Day and Night, Tormented by Inner Demons
The country of waves.
The Land of Waves is located between the Land of Water and the Land of Fire. It is a very small country, seemingly a forgotten corner of the ninja world.
With a small land area and scarce resources, it doesn't even have a real ninja village or a standing ninja army. The few wandering ninjas and mercenaries that exist in the country are mostly insignificant.
Its greatest value may lie in its decent natural deep-water port and its role as one of the few theoretically neutral maritime buffer zones between the two nations of water and fire.
As a result, most of the residents of the Land of Waves lead a poor but relatively peaceful life, making a living by fishing, small-scale trade, and supplying merchant ships from both countries.
They were oblivious to the Ninja World War; apart from occasional price fluctuations, their lives didn't seem to change much.
Until three days ago, the Hidden Mist ninja forces suddenly occupied the main port town of the Land of Waves, the town of Wave.
There was no looting, no massacre, and not even much disturbance to civilians.
They simply requisitioned the largest inn in the port area and a few surrounding buildings, cleared the site, set up a barrier, and announced that the place would be used for an important diplomatic meeting, asking unrelated personnel to stay away.
The officials of the Land of Waves remained silent, not daring to even consider protesting, and could only cooperate quietly.
Some well-informed businessmen sensed something unusual and began quietly transferring assets, or simply stayed home and didn't go out.
The entire town of Namino was shrouded in a tense atmosphere, as if a storm was brewing.
"The Country of Waves?"
"Makoto, why did you choose this place?"
Inside the Mizukage's office, Yagura looked at Makoto Karatachi with some curiosity.
When the other elders and clan leaders, including the Third Mizukage, heard that Makoto Karatachi had chosen the Land of Waves as the location for the negotiations, they all showed expressions of confusion and doubt.
"What is it, you all, that you find something wrong with the Land of Waves?"
An elder of the Kaguya clan spoke first, his tone tinged with skepticism: "The Land of Waves is a tiny place, lacking any strategic depth or decent defensive facilities."
"If Konoha harbors ill intentions and sets a trap there, or even turns against us and attacks us, wouldn't it be dangerous for us to travel such a long distance?"
Another Jonin from the Snow Clan nodded in agreement: "That's right. Even though Konoha is at a disadvantage right now, with the Third Hokage present in person, there's no guarantee he won't fight to the death. In comparison, wouldn't it be safer and more secure to hold the negotiations at the border of the Land of Hot Springs, which is under our control, or even at our Kirigakure headquarters?"
-
Their concerns are not unfounded.
Choosing a neutral country as the negotiation location is theoretically fair to both sides. However, given Konoha's current completely passive situation, choosing a location with stronger control from Kirigakure would obviously allow them to gain more initiative and would be safer.
Upon hearing this, Gouju Cheng gently shook his head.
"What you all say is from a tactical security perspective, which is correct. But in this negotiation, we need more than just security."
What we need is "momentum."
"Momentum?"
Yagura raised an eyebrow slightly.
"Yes, momentum." Makoto Karatachi turned around, his gaze sweeping over everyone present: "We, Kirigakure, won this war, that's a fact. But we must not only win the war, but also the aftermath, and the future."
"Let the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, personally sign the surrender agreement in a small, neutral country—outside the traditional sphere of influence of Konoha—a country that symbolizes a buffer between water and fire."
Makoto Kuraki's eyes sharpened: "This in itself is a public and utter trampling on Konoha's prestige and the Land of Fire's dignity! It's a naked display of Konoha's weakness to the entire ninja world!"
"The symbolic significance of choosing the Land of Waves as the location far outweighs that of choosing a location within our Kirigakure-controlled area!"
"We want the entire ninja world to understand that the era of Konoha, at least in the East, is over. The future belongs to Kirigakure!"
His words caused everyone in the office to fall into deep thought.
Gouju Cheng is right.
With the war at this stage, simple military victories are no longer enough to satisfy the ambitions of the Hidden Mist Village; what they need is a comprehensive victory on the political and strategic levels.
By publicly humiliating Konoha, weakening its prestige, and deterring other observing nations and ninja villages, Kirigakure can secure more influence and benefits in the ninja world for the future.
These are things that are more important than gaining more territory on the battlefield.
"also."
Makoto Karatachi walked back to the map and slid his finger along the coastline of the Land of Waves: "Please take a look, everyone. Here is the geographical location of the Land of Waves."
.
"It is like a wedge, embedded between the Land of Fire and the Land of Water. Although small, it has a good natural deep-water port and is one of the closest sea springboards to the Land of Fire's mainland."
"Minister Cheng means—"
"What I mean is, after the war, the Land of Waves must be completely brought under the control of Kirigakure!"
Makoto Koji's voice was firm and unwavering, leaving no room for doubt.
"In the past, Kirigakure has always focused its attention on the vast lands of the Land of Earth or the Land of Fire, and has always overlooked this seemingly insignificant but actually crucial sea chokepoint."
"Gentlemen, what was Kirigakure's strategy in previous Shinobi World Wars?"
"The plan is to gather forces, cross the ocean, find landing points along the long coastlines of the Land of Fire and the Land of Earth, establish bridgeheads, and then make a difficult advance inland."
"This method is extremely costly, and the supply lines are long and fragile, making them vulnerable to being cut off or harassed by enemies with an advantage in the interior. Although we, the Hidden Mist Village, are strong in naval warfare and possess powerful Water Release and Hidden Mist techniques, our advantage will be greatly reduced on land far from the coast."
"Therefore, we often win amphibious landings, but it is difficult to turn the victory into a decisive strategic advantage. After a major battle, we may seem to have occupied some territory, but we often suffer heavy losses and it is difficult to maintain our position for long."
Makoto Karatachi's words plunged the Kirigakure high-ranking officials present into deeper thought. Most of them were veterans who had experienced more than one Shinobi World War, and they deeply empathized with the predicament Makoto Karatachi described.
The Hidden Mist Village is isolated overseas and has limited resources. Every cross-sea operation it undertakes to influence the situation on the mainland is like walking a tightrope.
"The Land of Waves is the key to changing all of this."
"Controlling the Land of Waves is like driving a nail from Kirigakure into the gates of the Land of Fire!"
"With this solid forward base and supply depot, our Kirigakure's naval and infiltration forces will be able to radiate across the entire eastern coast of the Land of Fire, and even further inland, with unprecedented efficiency!"
"We no longer need to launch long-distance expeditions and build out strongholds from scratch every time. We can use the Land of Waves as the core to create a permanent, solid, and defensible strategic stronghold!"
He surveyed the crowd, a sharp glint in his eyes.
"This place can be developed into our largest overseas naval port, a material storage center, an intelligence monitoring station, and even a trade and diplomatic outpost facing the mainland!"
"This negotiation is the perfect opportunity for us to officially take this step! Having Hiruzen Sarutobi sign the surrender document in the Land of Waves will, both legally and factually, confirm Kirigakure's undisputed influence over this region!"
"At that time, everything from post-war troop deployment, economic infiltration, to supporting the pro-Kigakure Land of Waves government will proceed naturally!"
Makoto Goji's words exploded like thunder in the office, shaking the minds of the high-ranking members of the Mist Village present, and then igniting flames of excitement and greed in their eyes.
Yup!
Why didn't they think of that before?
Past war strategies were indeed limited to the cycle of [landing - fighting - retreating], always thinking about taking a piece of the land of fire, but ignoring seemingly insignificant but actually excellent springboards like the Land of Waves.
Controlling the Land of Waves is tantamount to controlling the throat of the eastern sea gateway to the Land of Fire!
The ships, ninjas, and supplies of the Hidden Mist Village can continuously depart from here, allowing them to advance and harass any point along the long coastline of the Land of Fire, or retreat to rely on islands and ports for strict defense.
This is not just a military advantage, but a revolutionary shift in strategic initiative!
"Wonderful! Wonderful!"
An elder slammed his fist on the table in admiration, his beard trembling with excitement: "With a little expansion, the ports of the Land of Waves could accommodate large transport fleets. Using this as a hub, our supply lines to the front lines could be shortened by a third, while security would be greatly improved!"
"It's not just about military matters!"
"By controlling the Land of Waves, we will control a significant portion of the maritime trade routes along the eastern coast of the Land of Fire. The tolls and supply services alone will amount to an astronomical sum. Not to mention using this as a base to conduct clandestine trade with other countries on the continent—"
"This is especially true in the area of intelligence."
"By setting up an intelligence station here, in conjunction with our Mist Concealment Technique and infiltration forces, the movements of the eastern coast of the Land of Fire, and even parts of its inland areas, will be difficult to escape our notice."
The more they talked, the more excited they became, as if they could already see the Hidden Mist Village relying on the Land of Waves to seize huge profits in the future ninja world.
The Third Mizukage listened quietly, his eyes growing brighter with each word: "Makoto, your vision truly surpasses that of us old folks. It's not just about winning a war, but about winning an era."
"However, Konoha will not easily relinquish its influence over the Land of Waves. Other major powers, especially the Land of Lightning and the Land of Earth, may also become wary and intervene. Have you thought about how to deal with this?"
Makoto Koji bowed slightly, a confident smile on his face: "Third Hokage, rest assured, these juniors have been considered."
"Konoha is currently in dire straits. As long as we apply the right amount of pressure during negotiations, they will be neither able nor willing to confront us head-on on the Land of Waves issue in the short term."
"As for other major powers—"
"We, the Hidden Mist Village, won this war because of our strength! This strength is our greatest source of confidence!"
"The Land of Lightning suffered heavy losses in the war, and Iwagakure and Konoha are still locked in fierce battle in the Land of Grass. As long as we show a strong enough stance and the determination to station troops in the Land of Waves, none of them will dare to easily provoke us in the short term."
"That's exactly the time difference we need! By leveraging the initial post-war deterrent and Konoha's weakness, we can quickly establish de facto control and development in the Land of Waves, creating a fait accompli. By the time they realize what's happening, it'll be too late!"
"By then, our Kirigakure will have a deep-rooted presence in the Land of Waves, backed by the vast ocean and powerful ninjas. Anyone who wants us to spit out our power will have to think twice before they try!"
Domineering, confident, and with profound calculations!
The people in the office looked at Makoto Kojiro with more than just admiration; they looked at him with the solemnity and expectation one would have for a future leader.
This young man is not only incredibly strong in combat, but his strategy and courage are also top-notch!
Yagura was even more proud, and patted Makoto Karatachi's shoulder forcefully, everything was understood without words.
"good!"
The Third Mizukage finally made the decision.
"As Cheng has suggested, the negotiation venue will be the Land of Waves!"
"Makoto, this time, let's use the Konoha Hokage's surrender as the first milestone in Kirigakure's new era!"
"Hiruzen, you can actually do that?"
2
Inside the Hokage Building conference room in Konoha Village.
Danzo clenched his fists as he looked at the intelligence sent from the front lines.
-
He knew that the defeat in the Hidden Mist battlefield would put enormous pressure on other fronts, but he never expected that Hiruzen would make such a decisive move.
Surrender now!
As a long-time rival and former teammate, Danzo knew Hiruzen all too well. That man appeared gentle, but deep down he was more proud than anyone else, and valued the honor and responsibility that the title of Hokage carried more than anyone else.
To make him sign the surrender agreement would be tantamount to crushing his pride, his beliefs, and everything he had fought for his entire life.
This is crueler than killing him.
But Hiruzen still chose to accept it.
"For Konoha—"
Danzo repeated these words in a low voice, a complex light flashing in his single eye.
While Hiruzen's actions preserved Konoha's fighting force on the eastern front and prevented larger-scale bloodshed and collapse, their political cost was devastating.
The first Hokage in Konoha's history to surrender!
The authority and legitimacy of a Hokage who signed a surrender agreement will be questioned like never before. Regardless of the outcome after the war, Hiruzen Sarutobi's political career is likely over.
Danzo was shocked. He asked himself honestly, if their roles were reversed, he would never have been able to do what Hiruzen did.
"Teacher, is this perhaps why you chose Hiruzen instead of me?"
"Bang!"
Just as Danzo's emotions were churning and countless thoughts were racing through his mind, a soft sound was heard and a puff of white smoke exploded in the corner of the conference room.
As the white smoke dissipated, Hiruzen Sarutobi's figure appeared within it!
"Hiruzen?!"
Danzo was startled and abruptly stood up: "What are you doing—"
"I didn't expect to find you here. Since that's the case, I'll get straight to the point; time for reverse channeling is limited!"
"I have decided to accept the terms of Kirigakure and will personally travel to the Land of Waves in three days to sign the agreement and end the war on the eastern front."
"The outcome of this journey is uncertain. Whether Kirigakure will honor its promise to withdraw its troops after the agreement is signed, and whether I can return safely, are all unknown." Hiruzen Sarutobi stared at Danzo in front of him: "Therefore, during my absence, all affairs within Konoha will be handled by you, Shimura Danzo."
"I will grant you the authority of Temporary Hokage, overseeing all administrative, military, and diplomatic affairs within the village until my return or if new decisions are made."
Danzo's one eye widened suddenly, and his heart felt as if it had been struck by a heavy hammer!
Temporary Hokage!
Acting as Hokage in place of the Hokage!
"this!"
Even with Danzo's deep-seated cunning, his heart pounded like a drum when he heard Hiruzen Sarutobi personally say, "I hereby grant you the authority and responsibility of the temporary Hokage."
Naruto!
This was the position that Danzo Shimura had pursued his entire life, yet could never attain!
Even if it's only temporary, even if it's just acting in place, it's still the Hokage's authority!
"Hiruzen, are you sure you want to do this?"
Danzo was initially invigorated, but quickly regained his composure and said in a deep voice, "This matter is of utmost importance, you—"
"Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures."
Hiruzen Sarutobi interrupted Danzo, his tone resolute and unwavering: "The eastern front has collapsed, morale is low, and internal chaos is unacceptable. My mind is made up."
"Danzo, I'm temporarily entrusting the village to you in the hope that you can stabilize the situation and overcome this difficult time together. Do you understand what I mean?"
Danzo felt a chill run down his spine and instantly understood Hiruzen Sarutobi's intentions.
This is a warning, and also a deal.
I'm giving you power and the opportunity to realize your ambitions, but on the condition that you prioritize the overall interests of Konoha and not take the opportunity to eliminate dissidents or stir up trouble.
At least on the surface, it is essential to maintain the stability and unity of the village.
"I understand."
Danzo bowed slightly, his voice low and solemn: "At this critical moment, personal grudges should be set aside. I will do my utmost to stabilize the village, allocate resources, and support the front lines, awaiting your return!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi stared at him for a few seconds, seemingly trying to read something from his face, but in the end he just sighed wearily.
"I hope so."
"Old buddy, you're the only one I can rely on now."
Danzo was shaken again. Looking at Hiruzen Sarutobi in front of him, he took a deep breath and nodded heavily.
"Don't worry, I will absolutely not let anything happen to the village!"
"I trust you!"
"Hiruzen, who do you plan to take with you to the Land of Waves?" Danzo asked in a deep voice. "Makoto Karatachi is treacherous and cunning, with unpredictable strength. Although it's ostensibly a signing of an agreement, it could very well be a trap. Going alone is too risky!"
When the Land of Waves was mentioned, Hiruzen Sarutobi's eyes dimmed for a moment, but then returned to calm.
"I have my reasons. Too many people would make Konoha appear cowardly and give the other side ammunition. I will bring a small, elite guard team."
"No!"
Danzo's voice suddenly rose, filled with genuine anxiety: "Have you forgotten your teacher's lesson?!"
Upon hearing this, Hiruzen Sarutobi's expression changed slightly.
During the First Shinobi World War, Konoha and Kumogakure made peace talks. Kumogakure set a trap at the peace talks site and attacked Tobirama Senju. As a result, the Second Hokage, Tobirama Senju, fought alone to protect his subordinates and died in battle!
That was one of the most painful lessons in Konoha's history, and a pain and warning that will forever remain in Hiruzen Sarutobi's heart.
"Hiruzen, times have changed, but the wickedness of people's hearts remains the same! Makoto Karatachi is not Kinkaku or Ginkaku, but his level of danger is probably even greater! As Hokage, you bear the future of Konoha on your shoulders, and you must never repeat the mistakes of your teacher!"
"I suggest—Minato Namikaze go with you!"
"Watergate?"
Hiruzen Sarutobi was slightly taken aback.
"good!"
Danzo nodded: "Minato may be young, but his strength has already reached Kage level. His Flying Thunder God Technique is incredibly unpredictable, and his survival and adaptability are extremely strong. With him as your protector, even if Makoto Karatachi truly has ulterior motives, or if Kirigakure sets a trap, with Minato's speed and abilities, he can at least ensure your safe retreat!"
"Secondly, if the deal with Kirigakure is truly reached, Minato can accompany you directly to the Iwagakure battlefield or the Kumogakure battlefield to stabilize the situation!"
"this----"
Hiruzen Sarutobi remained silent for a moment, seemingly weighing his options.
Should we send Minato along?
Indeed, with a water gate, security would be greatly enhanced.
The Flying Thunder God's mobility is an unparalleled advantage in dealing with emergencies and evacuation.
But Kushina————
Several days have passed since the battle between Kazama and Tani ended, but Hiruzen Sarutobi has not allowed Minato Namikaze to return to the battlefield. The main reason is that he wants Minato to spend more time with Kushina.
The Jinchuriki had been controlled, and who knows what hidden dangers might remain? Putting aside everything else, Kushina couldn't sleep well with these two. For the safety of the Jinchuriki, Hiruzen Sarutobi always had Minato Namikaze accompany her.
But now...
"All right."
Hiruzen Sarutobi finally nodded.
"I will inform Minato and tell him to prepare to go to the Land of Waves with me."
"Danzo, the village is in your hands now."
Don't worry!