While awaiting the peace negotiations, Naoki sat in the Mizukage’s office with furrowed brows, constantly calculating and pondering his strategies.
Bone Pulse: Not to be used as a trump card.
Sealing Techniques: Possibly viable.
Byakugan: Extremely crucial.
Ice Release: Continues to be pivotal.
Six-Tails: Neither here nor there.
As he scribbled away, Naoki carefully analyzed his current and future combat capabilities.
The target: Obito!
Ever since the Third Shinobi War neared its conclusion, Naoki had seen Obito as a future adversary.
Even though he had Rin as a trump card, mere appearance wouldn’t be enough for manipulation and cooperation. Obito had to understand that Naoki possessed the power to subdue him.
The current strategies might not guarantee victory, but they would prevent defeat. If he could add the Flying Thunder God Technique, then…
Naoki’s frown eased.
These should be sufficient. After all, it’s just Obito, although his power has grown significantly, making him a threat of Kage-level and beyond. Still, Obito’s biggest ace was his unknown Kamui.
But I know it, Naoki thought.
With the right preparation and techniques, countering Kamui wouldn’t be too difficult.
The real question was: when would Obito attack Konoha and unleash the Nine-Tails, and when would he assault the Hidden Mist?
Regardless, whether it’s the Nine-Tails incident or an attack on the Hidden Mist, Naoki had to be ready to confront Obito.
Ignoring the Hidden Mist for now, the Nine-Tails incident would be critical for gaining control over Naruto.
As he murmured softly, Mei’s voice pulled Naoki from his thoughts.
“Naoki.”
He turned to Mei.
“What is it, Mei?”
“Tomorrow, you’re heading to the Land of Iron for the peace talks. Have you considered who will oversee the Hidden Mist in your absence?”
Naoki looked puzzled.
“Of course, it’s you, Mei. Who else could I trust?”
Mei shook her head with a sigh.
“No, Naoki. It’s not like the military, where there are a few trustworthy seniors backing me. Without you, even if they don’t challenge me directly, they might create obstacles.”
She sighed again.
“No matter how great your reputation, there will always be dissenters, Naoki.”
“I understand.”
Convinced, Naoki nodded, also resolving to clear out some dissidents.
“Mei, are there others in the village capable of handling this responsibility?”
“Of course.”
Mei, having thought it over, smiled and revealed her plan.
“For instance, there’s the Elder.”
The Elder? Naoki nodded in thought but then recalled some recent intelligence, frowning.
“Isn’t he close to the Bloodline Limit clans? And didn’t I order a sweep that affected his subordinates recently? It seems unlikely he’d support me.”
“It’s our only option, Naoki.”
Mei sighed.
“With Tenzo and Fuguki still on the battlefield, the Elder is the best choice. If the village falls into chaos now, it could jeopardize the peace talks.”
“Very well.”
Naoki concluded the topic.
Despite reservations, it was just a few days. Even if the Elder acted, he couldn’t disrupt much.
Packing his things, Naoki visited the Elder’s residence and was greeted by the wrinkled, smiling elder.
“Who would’ve thought the future of the Hidden Mist lies with someone from the Kaguya clan.”
The Elder sighed.
“And who would’ve thought the Hidden Mist could defeat Konoha and be reborn in its weakest state.”
“But.”
The Elder’s demeanor turned serious.
“Fourth Mizukage, this is just the beginning. Take the peace talks seriously. The foundation for our future depends on it.”
The Elder droned on, advising caution and patience.
Naoki nodded in agreement, his wariness easing slightly. This was typical of elders—long-winded but well-meaning. Often, people didn’t listen and just humored them.
The Elder suddenly stopped and smiled.
“That’s enough for now, Fourth Mizukage.”
The Elder looked at Naoki with a satisfied smile.
“I won’t say more. After all, I’m just an old man filled with the past teachings of the First and Second Mizukage.”
“You, Fourth Mizukage, are a ninja with your own ideas, one who wants to bring change.”
“Don’t worry about me, I just wanted to ensure you remain steadfast and don’t lose your way.”
“Now, tell me what you need.”
Listening to the elder, Naoki took a deep breath and replied.
“You need to oversee the village, prevent any troublemakers from acting up, and maintain the supply lines to the front.”
“Leave it to me.”
The Elder’s face, though aged, seemed to regain some vitality.
“I can still serve for many more years.”
Straightening his back, the Elder’s demeanor turned fierce.
“Fourth Mizukage, after you leave, I’ll handle those within the Bloodline Limit clans who oppose you.”
“You won’t have to deal with bloodshed or ignorant criticisms. When you return, they will all pledge their loyalty to you.”
“I promise.”
Seeing the determined elder, Naoki wanted to speak but was interrupted.
“Don’t waste time speculating on my motives. I want to help you rebuild the Hidden Mist.”
“After all, you’re the first Mizukage to bring us victory.”
With that, the Elder turned away.
Naoki stood and bowed, watching until the elder disappeared into the shadows before leaving.
Stepping outside, Naoki smiled softly at the mist.
I can’t let them down with so many placing their hopes on me.
I’ll return with conditions that will make the Hidden Mist rejoice.
Together, we will build the future we desire.
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