As Hiruzen slowly unrolled the scroll filled with text, Yagura could not help but grip the stick-like weapon behind him tightly.
He didn’t know what the peace agreement contained or whether it would drive the Hokage mad.
But both the Mizukage and the Daimyo had decided on this strategy.
They intended to exploit Konoha’s current extreme weakness and urgent need for peace, using an uncompromisingly tough stance and threats of war to gain greater benefits.
Just imagining the Mizukage threatening Hiruzen made Yagura feel that a battle was inevitable.
He had to be ready for a fight. If his opponent was Kakashi, defeating him wouldn’t be difficult.
Yagura relaxed slightly until a voice boomed in his ears, causing him to grip his weapon tighter and look towards the source.
It was Hiruzen.
“No way!”
By this time, Hiruzen had quickly scanned the peace scroll. He lifted his head and glared fiercely at Naoki.
“I cannot agree to such harsh terms.”
Naoki met his murderous gaze without flinching, smiling as he spoke slowly.
“Hiruzen, don’t deceive yourself.”
“Konoha’s current weakness is obvious. You fought hard against three nations, barely holding on, but still with some pride.”
“But now, you were utterly defeated by us in the battle with the Mist. How can you even consider continuing to fight?”
He paused and pushed the scroll slightly forward.
“Moreover, the intense fighting spirit our village has, due to the Third Mizukage incident, should be clear to you all. To save time and to prevent our Mist troops from attacking out of revenge, let’s not waste time.”
“No way, these terms are impossible.”
Hiruzen remained resolute.
Hearing this, Naoki chuckled, his voice rising and echoing through the wide hall.
“For the sake of the fifty years of friendship between the Mist and Konoha, let’s change the demand of ceding five territories to ceding three and leasing the other two.”
“We don’t need to hand over Minato, but Konoha must provide compensation for those who died because of him, in the form of ninja training funds.”
“Free trade, open commerce, and establishing a platform for young ninjas to exchange knowledge—these three points are non-negotiable.”
With these words, Hiruzen’s expression remained fierce, while Jiraiya’s face darkened with killing intent, his white hair flowing. Kakashi drew his sword, his crimson eye fixed on Yagura, ready to strike.
Hiruzen raised his hands, summoning a giant water dragon, while Yagura brought his weapon in front of him, showing he wasn’t easily intimidated.
“So, Hiruzen, is this your decision?”
“Then let’s fight.”
Naoki stood up, ready to leave.
“Fourth Mizukage, you’re being too rash.”
Hiruzen spoke up just in time.
He couldn’t risk it. If Naoki truly turned back and prepared for war, it would be a harsher challenge for Konoha.
“No.”
Naoki shook his head.
“It’s not rashness, just a final ultimatum.”
“If you don’t accept these terms, there are none. Handle it as you see fit.”
BANG!
A teacup crashed onto the table, spinning from the impact. It was the Fire Daimyo who had thrown it.
“You made this man the Mizukage. With his arrogant attitude, he will lead his country to ruin.”
“This is our choice.”
Naoki was about to speak when the Water Daimyo intervened, suddenly firm and unyielding.
“Brother, today it’s you who wants peace, not us.”
“No matter how tight things get at home, we can continue fighting for another year.”
“Oh?”
The Fire Daimyo fanned himself, pondering.
“When did you become so assertive?”
“We’re just learning from you.”
The Water Daimyo reclined, feeling extremely satisfied.
“Let’s go, Hiruzen.”
Unable to maintain his composure, the Fire Daimyo’s face darkened as he stood to leave.
“Konoha, remember to see us tomorrow. Don’t let minor matters cause major losses.”
Naoki said, sipping a cup of hot tea.
“That bastard.”
Jiraiya clenched his fists.
Behind him, Naoki turned to Yagura with a helpless smile.
“Alright.”
“We decided to exploit Konoha’s weakness and my reputation for ruthless combat to gain greater benefits.”
“Why be so nervous?”
Yagura took a deep breath and apologized.
“Fourth Mizukage, I am still too weak. Not just Kakashi, but the pressure from Hiruzen and Jiraiya is overwhelming.”
“Don’t worry, we still have me and the Third Mizukage.”
“There won’t be a next time.”
Yagura assured, and Naoki nodded, heading towards the Daimyo.
Seeing the unusually flushed face of the Daimyo, Naoki glanced twice in curiosity.
Noticing Naoki’s gaze, the Daimyo sheepishly raised his hand, losing his usual composure.
“Fourth Mizukage, I lost my composure. Many years ago, at the age of my son, I watched the arrogant children of the Fire Nation.”
“Back then, I wished I could treat them the same way one day.”
The Daimyo reminisced, showing his age.
“It’s been over thirty years now.”
“Sadly, my father has passed and cannot see my success.”
Seeing the Daimyo’s expression, Naoki turned away, still offering polite words.
“This is just the beginning, Daimyo-sama.”
“Just the beginning?”
The Water Daimyo fanned himself, turning to his son, who looked anxious.
“Go, and let the Fourth Mizukage teach you.”
“I need to keep an eye on the Fire Daimyo to prevent any tricks.”
Seeing the sly smile on the Water Daimyo, Naoki shook his head slightly.
“Let’s go, Shingen.”
As Naoki’s shadow left, the Daimyo sipped his tea.
What an arrogant, domineering boy.
To treat Konoha like that.
With such a Mizukage, Shingen, you should stay under his shadow to ensure our clan’s survival.
Rising, the Daimyo adjusted his bulky frame, chuckling at himself.
I’m a coward. Let the others ensure the Daimyo’s legacy endures.
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