114 CH - 111 Akihiko: Sure, Why not?

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A little earlier, Akihiko, who had been immersed in his day's work at the base camp, was taking a brief break while contemplating the impending major battle between the Grass and Rain villages. Suddenly, a voice resonated in his ears:

"Do you desire to comprehend the meaning of life? Do you seek to uncover the truths of the ninja world? Are you yearning to truly exist within reality?"

Akihiko's eyebrows twitched upon hearing these profound questions. He promptly looked down and noticed a partially buried white figure on the ground. It was White Zetsu, appearing quite earnest.

However, Akihiko couldn't help but wonder why White Zetsu was here. Wasn't he supposed to be with Black Zetsu, discreetly guiding Obito toward darkness in the midst of the battle between the Mist and Leaf villages? That had been the plan, allowing them to patiently await Madara's departure and execute their world-altering scheme. So why had White Zetsu appeared here? And what was the purpose of recruiting him for something?

Akihiko remained uncertain as to why Uchiha Madara wished to meet him. Nevertheless, he considered it a small matter. After all, was it not within his capability to confront an elderly man teetering on the brink of life? Even if he couldn't triumph, surely he could disengage that life support tube from the shell?

Furthermore, instead of continuously dealing with these troublemakers, why not join forces with them? With this in mind, he reached a decision.

Akihiko regarded White Zetsu with a stern expression. "When are we departing? I'm eager to see our base. Is there a direct route? Can we expect to return tonight? We have a substantial amount of work awaiting us here."

Nevertheless, White Zetsu's query appeared somewhat peculiar. "Do you have a clear understanding of what we do?"

Akihiko nodded with enthusiasm. "I believe I do. From your words, I sense that this is an organization dedicated to harmony and cooperation. Everyone collaborates to establish peace. It must be a noble and grand ideal. This organization sounds truly remarkable."

White Zetsu blinked in confusion and hesitated before responding. Had he ever mentioned anything about an organization? In truth, there was no such organization.

However, Akihiko disregarded the confusion and continued, "So, if members of this organization encounter any difficulties, the organization will undoubtedly be eager and ready to provide assistance, without expecting any compensation, correct?"

White Zetsu raised an eyebrow. "What are you trying to imply?"

Akihiko waved his hand dismissively. "That's not important. So, when are we departing? I'm eager to join."

Then, with a hint of suspicion, he added, "By the way, if I happen to encounter any minor difficulties, everyone will surely lend a helping hand, won't they?"

White Zetsu hesitated for a moment before nodding, "Yes, they will."

White Zetsu couldn't help but wonder if this was the right decision. He had a nagging feeling that Akihiko might be taking advantage of the situation. Could it be that Black Zetsu was genuinely considering involving this guy?

However, This guy seems pretty strong anyway. Moreover, they're just ordinary White Zetsu toolmen, and their strength is very weak. So if Akihiko needs their help, They probably won't be of much assistance. At most, They can collect information. Besides, they can't always rely on Madara-sama, right? Afterall, Madara-sama even have difficulty walking.

As the conversation continued, Akihiko, now assured of support, nodded with satisfaction. "So, when should we depart? The sooner I join, the sooner you can start working in the factory."

Cough Akihiko quickly corrected himself, "I mean, I'm eager to join this organization that seeks peace."

White Zetsu suddenly became speechless and momentarily forgot to respond. However, he shook his head. Forget it, let's take the people back first. As for the rest, leave it to Madara-sama and Black Zetsu to deal with. This guy seems pretty strong anyway. With these thoughts in mind, White Zetsu sighed helplessly and said, "We can go..."

But his words were cut short when White Zetsu suddenly froze, sensing something. "Someone's coming!"

Before Akihiko could react, White Zetsu swiftly slipped underground. At that moment, a knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Startled, Akihiko called out, "Come in!"

The door swung open, revealing a figure in a state of panic. It was Aso, a Rain-nin. Aso addressed Akihiko urgently, "Leader Akihiko."

Akihiko, unfazed by Aso's apparent distress, calmly picked up a teacup from the side, took a sip, and casually inquired, "Why are you so flustered? Take a deep breath and tell me, what's the matter? Is there trouble in your village again?"

Aso took a moment to collect himself and replied, "No, it's the Konoha ninja. They've arrived."

Akihiko's teacup trembled slightly in his hand, and he quickly set it down. "They've already arrived?"

Aso nodded in confirmation. "Yes, and they've brought ten ROOT ninjas with them. The Rain ninjas are currently monitoring their movements, but I slipped away to inform you."

Akihiko raised an eyebrow and asked, "Where is your leader?" He was curious about Hanzo's whereabouts now, considering the current situation with Konoha's ninja and the presence of Danzo's ROOT.

"He hasn't returned yet," Aso replied, shaking his head. "But I've already sent someone to write a letter to inform the leader. I believe he will be back soon."

Aso wore a wry smile as he continued, looking at Akihiko, "Leader Akihiko, what should we do now?"

Akihiko sighed, feeling a bit exasperated at Hanzo's carelessness. It wasn't Akihiko's responsibility to deal with Rain Village affairs, but given Hanzo's recent attitude and the support they received from the Rain Village, he reluctantly said, "Well, what can we do? I'll take over for now."

Aso appeared puzzled by Akihiko's statement. "Leader Akihiko, what do you mean?"

Akihiko waved his hand dismissively and explained, "It's not a big deal. I'll handle things in the meantime. You did well to inform me. Now, go back and keep an eye on them. I believe your leader will return soon."

As Akihiko walked towards the door, he called out to Aso, "Hurry Up! We can't keep our guests waiting."

Aso, still puzzled about the situation and Akihiko's role, responded, "But... our leader hasn't returned yet."

Akihiko sighed, realizing that he needed to explain himself. He stopped and looked back at Aso, then performed a special ninjutsu in front of him. "Don't Worry, I can temporarily step in for him."

Aso watched in amazement as Akihiko's appearance transformed into that of their village leader, Hanzo. Suddenly, everything became clear to him. It was a clever and quick solution to the unexpected situation. 

Aso couldn't help but be impressed by Akihiko's sche.. *cough* Akihiko's quick thinking and adaptability. A sense of admiration filled Aso as he thought to himself, 'Leader Akihiko really is something else. I never would have thought of a solution like this. I have so much to learn.'

Meanwhile, White Zetsu had resurfaced from underground and observed the two figures departing. Especially when he witnessed Akihiko assuming the role of the Rain Village leader, he seemed to grasp the situation. The corners of his mouth twitched slightly as he muttered to himself, "Black Zetsu... this guy might be just as cunning as you!"

One was preparing to impersonate Uchiha Madara's will, while the other had already started impersonating the Rain Village leader. It was really an unexpected twist of events.

However, White Zetsu couldn't afford to be frustrated. If Akihiko had been so eager to join, why had he suddenly left? What should be the next course of action? Should he wait or inform Madara or maybe Black Zetsu? With a sigh, White Zetsu retreated underground, opting to adopt a wait-and-see approach.

…

Meanwhile, in another location, Akihiko and Aso had arrived at the Rain Village, where they were greeted by a middle-aged man. Akihiko immediately recognized him and couldn't help but chuckle. "I had a feeling something good was coming today, and here you are, esteemed guest!"

Simultaneously, Shimura Danzo, also known as the Konoha's Darkness, observed Hanzo's cheerful demeanor. As he looked at Hanzo, Danzo couldn't help but conclude inwardly that this elderly man's ambitions had indeed been shattered. However, he remained unaware that it was actually Akihiko in disguise.

Akihiko had developed a technique called the Paper Style: Wrap Transformation Technique, which involved creating a thin layer of paper on the body for transformation. This made it challenging for even experienced ninja like Danzo to discern the true identity of Hanzo before him.

Danzo responded with a polite laugh and a serious expression, "I have long admired the reputation of the demigod in the ninja world, and today, I see that it is well-deserved. Konoha has come to assist the Rain Ninja Village as requested. Rest assured," he continued with determination, "We will wholeheartedly support you, the demigod of the ninja world, in bringing peace to the Land of Rain."

Hanzo, who was actually Akihiko in disguise, smiled warmly as they shook hands. However, beneath the facade of smiles, their thoughts about each other couldn't have been more different.

'Idiot,' they both thought in unison.

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